It’s no surprise that the beautiful “City of Canals” features an abundance of fabulous accommodations. Eschew the chain hotels for more intimate and artistic options with this list of the city’s best boutique offerings that balance Venetian glitz with a contemporary design inspired by everything from classic watches to the Byzantines.
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Splendid Venice: A Venetian Jewel
Although it proudly carries the banner of the larger Starhotels group, the Splendid Venice distinguishes itself by offering a truly boutique-style experience, catering to the discerning tastes of a diverse range of travelers. Its enviable location on the bustling Strada Delle Mercerie places guests within easy reach of an array of shops, tantalizing restaurants, and the most iconic attractions that Venice has to offer. For those seeking a uniquely Venetian mode of transport, a short and scenic gondola ride is readily available, with the hotel boasting its own convenient water entrance. Imagine gliding along the canals, arriving in style directly at your hotel – a quintessential Venetian experience!
The history of the property is rich and fascinating, dating all the way back to the 16th century when it was known as the Black Hat Inn, a name that evokes images of a bygone era. Today, the hotel is housed within two beautifully connected townhouses, each exuding a cozy and historic charm. Step inside and be transported to a world of elegance and refinement. The 165 rooms are meticulously decorated in a style that strikes a perfect balance between sleek modernity and the stylized Venetian gilt, featuring a sophisticated palette of silver, brown, and lilac shades. The result is an atmosphere that is both luxurious and inviting, a true reflection of the Venetian spirit. Indulge your senses with a delightful culinary experience at Le Maschere restaurant, where you can dine alongside captivating carnival masks and exquisite bronze sculptures. Alternatively, lose yourself in the mesmerizing views of the canals through the expansive picture windows of the Lounge Bar. For the ultimate panoramic experience, ascend to the rooftop terrace and soak in the sweeping vistas of Venice’s breathtaking skyline. The Splendid Venice provides an unforgettable stay, immersing you in the heart of the city’s charm and allure.
Hotel L’Orologio: Where Time Meets Luxury
The strikingly modern Hotel L’Orologio enjoys a prime location right on the iconic Grand Canal, placing guests just a stone’s throw away from the world-famous Rialto Bridge. The hotel’s unique and captivating theme is inspired by collectible watches, a concept that is beautifully reflected in its contemporary decor and the sophisticated color scheme of gold-accented black and brown leather and wood. Even the art adorning the walls is meticulously crafted from intricate watch parts, adding a touch of whimsical elegance to the overall ambiance. Prepare to be captivated by the hotel’s distinctive charm and attention to detail.
The plush L’O Bar offers breathtaking views of the canal, inviting guests to relax and unwind in its luxurious setting. Sink into the comfortable leather armchairs and admire the elegant stone counter as you sip on your favorite beverage. The bar is the perfect place to start your day with a delicious breakfast, or to enjoy refreshing drinks and delectable snacks in the evening. For those who prefer to soak in the Venetian atmosphere al fresco, the fourth-floor terrace offers an idyllic setting for enjoying your drinks and snacks while taking in the stunning views of the city. The Hotel L’Orologio promises a unique and unforgettable experience, where time truly stands still.
Hotel Cà Zusto Venezia: A Family-Friendly Retreat
Families seeking a delightful and vibrant accommodation will find themselves enchanted by the colorful style of Hotel Cà Zusto. Housed within a beautifully restored 14th-century patrician palace, this charming hotel offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The property boasts 22 rooms, each decorated in a bright and distinctive style, drawing inspiration from Venice’s rich and fascinating past, including Byzantine traditions and modern designer touches. Every corner of the hotel exudes a sense of elegance and sophistication, making it a perfect retreat for families looking to immerse themselves in the Venetian culture.
Each room at Hotel Cà Zusto is thoughtfully named after a Turkish princess who may have once graced the property with her presence. The rooms vary in size, ranging from cozy singles to spacious family suites, ensuring that parties of any size can find the perfect accommodation to suit their needs. After a long day of exploring the enchanting city of Venice, a stop in the hotel’s inviting lounge bar is the perfect way to unwind and recharge. Sip on a refreshing beverage and reminisce about the day’s adventures, creating lasting memories with your loved ones. The Hotel Cà Zusto is a true gem, offering a family-friendly atmosphere and a unique glimpse into Venice’s captivating history.
The Gritti Palace: A Legacy of Luxury and Elegance
The Gritti Palace, once a noble residence in the 16th century, has evolved into one of the most renowned and sought-after lodging options in all of Venice, and perhaps even beyond. While boasting a relatively large size for a boutique hotel (with approximately 82 rooms), the Gritti Palace remains steadfast in its commitment to providing exceptional and personalized service. The rooms are a true embodiment of Venetian Baroque style, featuring opulent decor characterized by rich Rubeli silks and damasks, exquisite terrazzo floors, captivating oil paintings adorning the walls, luxurious marble bathrooms, and breathtaking canal views. The hotel’s prime location in the heart of the San Marco neighborhood places guests in an ideally central location, just a short stroll from the iconic Saint Mark’s Square and a mere five-minute walk from the renowned La Fenice Opera House. The Gritti Palace offers a truly unparalleled experience, immersing you in the rich history and culture of Venice.
The culinary offerings at the Gritti Palace are as exquisite as the hotel itself. Guests can begin their day with a lavish breakfast in an opulent dining hall, illuminated by the sparkling glow of crystal chandeliers. In the evening, indulge in a romantic Venetian dinner at the hotel’s acclaimed Club del Doge restaurant. Situated right on the Grand Canal, the restaurant offers a menu of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, carefully selected daily from the famous Rialto Market. For those seeking to delve deeper into the world of Venetian cuisine, the hotel even hosts a cooking class at the Gritti Epicurean School, where you can learn the secrets to preparing delectable Venetian dishes from expert chefs. The Gritti Palace is more than just a hotel; it’s an experience that will tantalize your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories.
Hotel Ai Reali Di Venezia: Where Elegance Meets Comfort
Once a magnificent palatial home for Venetian aristocrats, the Hotel Ai Reali Di Venezia has meticulously preserved all the grandeur and elegance of its past within its beautifully refurbished 17th-century walls. Nestled on the canal, in the perfect location between the Rialto Bridge and the Piazza San Marco, the hotel offers a variety of room classes to cater to every guest’s needs. Even the standard rooms are adorned with smart and luxurious Venetian decor, complete with opulent marble bathrooms, some of which even offer breathtaking canal views. The hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, Alle Corone, is another compelling selling point. Here, guests can indulge in a sophisticated dining experience, surrounded by white-tablecloth elegance and savoring seasonal menu items such as creamy burrata cheese and delicate broccoli cream ravioli, succulent rack of lamb, and the rich flavors of crown of Iberian pork. The Hotel Ai Reali Di Venezia provides a truly immersive and unforgettable Venetian experience.
The Ai Reali proudly claims to have the largest wellness spa in the city center, and the Reali Wellness Spa certainly lives up to the hype. Guests can choose from a vast array of massage, body care, facial, and wedding-ritual treatments, all designed to rejuvenate and revitalize the mind, body, and soul. The hotel also features a private boat dock on site, allowing guests to easily explore the city’s waterways. The attentive staff is always on hand to arrange classic canal trips for you and your partner, complete with a professional photographer on board to capture those unforgettable moments. Not only is the Hotel Ai Reali Di Venezia arguably the best four-star option on this list, but it’s also an excellent choice for couples seeking a truly memorable honeymoon experience. Prepare to be pampered and enchanted by the hotel’s exceptional service and unparalleled ambiance.
Hotel Moresco: A Stylish and Welcoming Retreat
The Hotel Moresco, a relatively new four-star boutique hotel (built in 2012), offers a stylish and welcoming retreat with its 23 rooms spread across three floors. Each room is individually decorated with its own unique theme, ensuring a diverse and captivating experience for every guest. All rooms feature warm colors, luxurious Venetian textiles, and modern conveniences such as coffee makers and flat-screen TVs. The bathrooms are elegantly designed, featuring intricate glass mosaics on the walls and utilizing modern chromotherapy lighting to create a relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere. The Hotel Moresco seamlessly blends style, comfort, and convenience to provide an unforgettable Venetian experience.
The hotel’s facilities include a lovely walled garden with a sun deck and comfortable leather armchairs, providing the perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment. It’s the ideal spot to sip on a happy hour cocktail and soak in the Venetian sunshine. The garden also serves as a delightful location to enjoy the hotel’s ample buffet breakfast, offering a wide variety of delicious options to start your day off right. The friendly and attentive staff is always at the ready to assist you with a welcome aperitif, provide a handy map of the city, offer booking assistance, or share valuable local tips to enhance your Venetian adventure. While the Hotel Moresco‘s eastern location may not be exactly central, it is conveniently located close to public transport options and is an easy walk to the Santa Lucia train station. Overall, the hotel offers excellent value for money, and the attentive service makes it a crowd favorite. The Hotel Moresco is a hidden gem, offering a memorable and enjoyable stay in the heart of Venice.
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