Site Tour at Gritti Palace in Venice, Italy

Overlooking the Santa Maria della Salute Basilica on the Grand Canal, the Gritti Palace is the former private residence of Doge Andrea Gritti, whose portrait can be seen in the library as soon as you enter from the hotel's private dock. Dimly lit and sumptuously decorated with antique furnishings, the lobby is reminiscent of old Venetia. The Bar Longhi is found right by the concierge (where the old fashioned key box system is still used), where we had a delicious espresso martini before visiting the Club del Doge restaurant.

Flanking the private dock are the two canal-side terraces, the Gritti Terrace offers seasonal dining from April to October and the Riva Lounge, designed around the materials of the iconic Italian Riva Yacht, is open daily from 11am to 1am for coffee or after-dinner cocktails. An exceptional bonus? The Gritti Epicurean School housed beyond the Club del Doge, which offers hands-on cooking classes - i.e. six hour adventures where you can go to the local market to shop for ingredients before cooking and eating alongside the Executive Chef.

Like most historical residences, the accommodations are all unique while still providing typical Luxury Collection amenities. With a wide range of room layouts, the Gritti Palace offers guests a variety of choices across price-point and space. For those seeking the spectacular, I recommend the two-bedroom suite on the top floor, which comes with a stunning (and massive) roof terrace - which can also be used for private events.

The Gritti Palace is perfect for those looking for a unique Venetian hotel experience, where luxury and antique opulence go hand in hand. This property would also suit those spending a few days in Venice as part of a larger Italian trip, who would like to fully experience the city in a shorter time period. It would also be a beautiful spot for private corporate events, particularly on the terraces or rooftop balcony (for example, Cartier uses the space for a private event each year).

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Venice. In need of further inspiration? Check out Nicola Mancini’s guide, Venice for the Luxury Traveler: A First-Timer's Guide.