Few cities are as charming and historic as Venice. And hardly any other hotel carries as much of this history with it as the iconic Gritti Palace, which was built in the 15th century for Doge Andrea Gritti and served as a home to numerous noble families before it was transformed into a luxury hotel in 1895. Pretty much every celebrity who has ever visited Venice has stayed at this legendary abode. In addition to Ernest Hemingway (who a suite was named after), the Gritti counts politicians such as Winston Churchill and Hollywood legends such as Elizabeth Taylor and Grace Kelly among its most prominent guests. Even today, global icons such as Tom Cruise and Angelina Jolie regularly stay here. The day before I arrived, reality TV star and beauty mogul Kylie Jenner stopped by with her kids in tow to enjoy lunch amid the incomparable atmosphere of the Grand Canal – and the absolute discretion of the team.

The Gritti Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice
Campo Santa Maria Del Giglio, 2467, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
+39 041 794611 - marriott.com
Doubles from €910

Hotel highlight: the terrace on the Grand Canal, including the Riva Lounge © Marriott

Why book?

There's no shortage of outstanding hotels in Venice, but the Gritti is the grande dame of traditional luxury and has been at the forefront for over 100 years. From the moment you enter the hotel, you'll be at a loss for words, as every inch is adorned with ornate elements and historical art. Fine fabrics, heavy marble and wood paneling on the walls ... it doesn't get more classic than this. And yet the welcome is so warm and down-to-earth that you feel as though you're staying with friends. The location is unbeatable and the rooms are as elegant and comfortable as you would expect from a hotel of this class. 

The hotel's ornate interior © Marriott

Location

Right at the Grand Canal, the location couldn't be more perfect. From the jetty, you can see the Peggy Guggenheim Collection across the canal to your right and the dome of the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute to your left. The heavy foot traffic outside the door is absolutely unnoticeable on the inside and the city's most important sights are just a short walk away.

Rooms & Suites

The hotel counts 61 cozy guest rooms and 21 spectacular suites, among which no two are alike. The rare antique furniture, high-quality fabrics, Murano glass lights and ornate walls tell the story of the hotel's 500-year history. On top of the decor, I was greeted by a bowl of the most delicious apricots I've ever had upon entering my room, which was decorated entirely in soft green tones.

The hotel is the epitome of classic elegance. © Marriott

Although the accommodations have all been extensively updated, the new features are by no means conspicuous and don't detract from the old-world elegance of the hotel. Many of the rooms offer a direct view of the Grand Canal. The suites are all inspired by famous personalities such as Ernest Hemingway and Somerset Maugham, who have left their indelible mark on the hotel and the city, or named after the city's emblematic institutions, such as La Fenice and Punta della Dogana, which symbolize the artistic and cultural roots of Venice and Palazzo Gritti. The unique two-story Redentore Terrazza Suite features a spectacular 250 square meter rooftop terrace that offers a spa pool, relaxing entertainment spaces and exceptional panoramic views of the lagoon and the city.

The terrace atop the Redentore Terrazza suite © Marriott

Dining

At the Club del Doge restaurant, Executive Chef Alberto Fol has free range to express his culinary genius and presents a menu that artfully showcases Venetian classics with a sense of regionality and sustainability. Don't miss the typical castraure (traditional Venetian artichoke sprouts grown especially for the hotel in a private vegetable garden on the island of Mazzorbetto), Hemingway's favorite risotto with scampi and Fol's version of the dessert classic tiramisu, which is more akin to high French patisserie. Bar Longhi and the Riva Lounge (in collaboration with the luxury yacht manufacturer) serve excellent drinks – including the best Bellini I've had the pleasure of tasting so far, which is only served during peach season.

Inside Club del Doge © Marriott

For foodies, The Gritti Epicurean School is a special highlight, where you can learn the art of Italian cuisine from professional chefs and take a taste of Venice home with you.

The Gritti Epicurean School © Marriott

Experiences

In keeping with its commitment to tradition, the hotel organizes personal experiences that will stay with you forever. For example, you can take a guided tour of the city with the concierge or enjoy the Riva Yacht Experience. I had the pleasure of being given a tour of the La Fenice Opera, visiting the Orsoni mosaic factory with the last furnace in Venice and witnessing restoration work at the Palazzo Ducale up close. The Gritti Palace is a sponsor of the Save Venice initiative, which is actively working to preserve the city. At the historic Palazzo Ducale, the hotel is financing the restoration of the Senate Door and the ceiling in the Room of the Four Doors. Looking over the shoulders of the restorers and seeing the ceiling of this architectural masterpiece up close was an unforgettable experience. For relaxation, the hotel offers The Gritti SPA - Sisley Paris and a modern fitness suite.

The hotel collaborates with luxury yacht manufacturer Riva. © Marriott

In conclusion

This is Venice at its very best. The Gritti is rightfully a legend among hotels and manages to maintain the balance between old-world standards and modern comfort with great skill. Visually, you're transported back in time and thanks to the loving and attentive team, you'll wish for nothing. I have rarely experienced such approachable service at a hotel. In addition, the restaurant and bar are not to be missed (truly no easy task in Venice). The unbeatable location and the terrace right on the water are the icing on the cake of a perfect stay in the timeless lagoon city.

A Bellini in a league of its own. © Marriott

The Gritti Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice
Campo Santa Maria Del Giglio, 2467, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
+39 041 794611 - marriott.com
Doubles from €910

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