Edited by John O'Ceallaigh, The Daily Telegraph, June 10, 2013
Luxury hotels in Venice vary from some of the world's most opulent classic hotels to modern, trend-setting five-star properties and discreet, boutique boltholes. Here the Telegraph's travel experts give their verdicts on the most lavish Venetian accommodation options available.
The Gritti Palace hotel
The sumptuously refurbished Gritti Palace hotel is now reopen to the public and ready to re-establish itself as the most celebrated luxury hotel in Venice. On the Grand Canal and looking across the water to Santa Maria della Salute, one of Venice’s greatest churches, the property is awash with atmosphere and heritage. It occupies a palace that dates from 1475 and restored rooms include precious paintings and artefacts. Technological additions are modern but unobtrusive, service is courteous and charming and The Gritti’s Club de Doge restaurant has one of the most beautiful dining rooms you’re likely to find anywhere in the world.
Read Tim Jepson’s full The Gritti Palace, Venice hotel review
Hotel Cipriani
On the far eastern tip of Giudecca island, Hotel Cipriani attracts the famous, the glamorous and those who can afford the high price tag demanded for this kind of no-holds-barred luxury and exclusivity. The property is a mixture of modern and classic design, with plenty of Venetian touches – the service is reassuringly discreet and unfailingly courteous. Guests who want to have immediate access to the crowds and colour of central Venice may be put off by the island location, but it takes just five minutes to reach the centre by boat.
Read Anne Hanley’s full Hotel Cipriani, Venice review
Ca’ Maria Adele hotel
A boutique hotel that is popular with honeymooners, Ca’ Maria Adele hotel is tucked away behind the Salute, in the gallery-filled Dorsoduro sestiere. Intimate, stylish and welcoming, the property features just a smattering of rooms and two suites. Although the hotel lacks its own restaurant, hosts Alessio and Nicola Campa provide plenty of flexibility, allowing guests to breakfast in their rooms, on the terrace or in one of the hotel’s reception areas.
Read Anne Hanley’s full Ca’ Maria Adele, Venice hotel review
Palazzina G hotel
Palazzina G presents a more modern alternative to the grand and classic hotels that typify Venice. Ultra-contemporary and designed by Philippe Starck, the hotel is popular with the fashion crowd and the occasional film star. Although the guests may be exuberant, the hotel can be calm. It is located in a quiet neighbourhood west of St Mark's square, but the major sites aren't too far away. Some suites offer views of the Grand Canal, but regular rooms can be small and staff - perhaps influenced by the fashionability of their working environment - occasionally are less helpful than guests are likely to expect. Chefs change regularly at Palazzina G's restaurant, cumbersomely named PG's restaurant, but the quality of the Mediterranean cuisine remains high.
Read Anne Hanley's full Palazzina G, Venice hotel review
Centurion Palace hotel
The Centurion Palace is a favourite of art lovers - the Guggenheim, Accademia and Punta della Dogana are all short strolls away. First-time visitors may be surprised to discover that the imposing Gothic exterior conceals a very contemporary interior, but the property retains its charm. Service is similarly on point, with staff striking a good balance between being friendly and professional, and competency levels are high - the breakfast buffet is very generous, the minimalist Antinoo restaurant is satisfactory and rooms combine antique features with contemporary design. Be sure to specify that you want a Grand Canal-facing room when booking though - they don't all face the water.
Read Anne Hanley's full Centurion Palace, Venice hotel review
