Liassidi Palace Hotel in Venice

A lot mosquitoes in room.
Outdated hotel

We encountered a few issues during our stay at Liassidi Palace. The sink drained poorly, but we didn’t mind much as we were busy exploring Venice. We had booked an Executive Suite via TUI for 4 people, but were surprised to find one of the sleeping arrangements was a sofa bed, which wasn’t clearly mentioned during booking. Photos on the hotel’s website show two proper beds in the Exclusive Suite with canal view, which differed from what we received.

One receptionist, Sam, was helpful, but other staff were less accommodating. Particularly, Barbara, the breakfast attendant, appeared to treat us rudely. As dual nationals (Pakistani and British), we initially thought it was a cultural difference, but her tone improved once she learned we were British, which left us feeling uncomfortable.

At check-in, we received a standard paper stating, “Local city tax NOT included: EUROS 4.50 PPPN.” After two nights, Sam informed us the “access fee” was no longer applicable since it had ended in July. We confirmed this online and were reassured.

Since our return flight was late, we requested late check-out. Normal time is 11 AM, and we were allowed to stay until noon. We offered to pay for a later check-out, but were told it wasn’t possible.

At check-out, receptionist Daniele informed us that we owed city tax. I explained what we were told earlier, but she insisted it was due and said her colleague had made a mistake. I agreed to pay after collecting our luggage. However, when I returned, the invoice included an unexpected €20 charge for water, though we had only taken non-alcoholic items from the minibar and returned the alcohol. We weren’t informed water was chargeable.

When we questioned the charge, Daniele became defensive and rude, saying, “It’s just 20 euros.” She was dismissive and spoke over us, citing her 23 years of experience. We stressed that it wasn’t about the amount but about being treated fairly. She eventually tore up the invoice, waived the water charge, and accepted only the city tax. However, she continued speaking rudely in her language, which felt insulting. We paid the tax and left the hotel.

Outside, she followed us and sarcastically said we should mention in our review that she “gave us water for free and allowed late check-out for free.” This was inappropriate, especially since we had offered to pay for a late check-out and were never told it had a charge. Her behavior frightened our child and soured our last moments in Venice. She also claimed to be just a receptionist, not a manager, and gave us her full name.

It’s unfortunate that someone in her position would behave in such a manner and spoil what should have been a special holiday. Her conduct was unprofessional and unkind.