We (2 couples) stayed one night at San Carlo recently. I have stayed in Venice before, and found the rates exorbitant for a mediocre hotel in town. We decided to stay in Mestre this time, the savings helped defray our food and souvenir costs. After all we only use the hotel to shower and sleep. The San Carlo was a pleasant surprise, a nice and affordable hotel with free parking in a quiet and safe part of Mestre. Although the hotel's small lot was full, we had no problem parking on the street. It took less than 5 min. to walk to the bus stop for the 15 min ride Venice (1 euro), buses run every 15 min. Tip: While in Venice, get the tourist pass that covers the vaporetto and the buses, this took care of our return fare.

The hotel appeared to have been recently rennovated, the rooms looked fresh, clean and new, our double room had pretty floral wallpaper, closet, small couch, desk, tv with cnn news, adequate bathroom (shower was tiny though). Only complaint we had were the hard pillows. The breakfast was basic but adequate: fresh croissants, rolls, cereals, yoghurt, juice and coffee, We found the staff friendly and helpful. For a 2-star hotel, the San Carlo more than met our expectations.