Hotel
Hotel Danieli
A grand hotel on the Riva degli Schiavoni, a few steps from the Doge's Palace, set in the Gothic Palazzo Dandolo and welcoming guests since 1822.
The Gritti Palace
A Grand Canal palace that became the residence of Doge Andrea Gritti in 1525, now a luxury hotel with a canal-side terrace, Bar Longhi and a Sisley spa.
At a glance
- Type
- Grand Canal palace hotel
- Area
- San Marco, Venice, Italy
- Price
- $$$$ · Luxury
- Official site
- marriott.com
Good to know
- Club del Doge restaurant
- Bar Longhi
- Riva Lounge terrace
- Sisley spa
- Fitness centre
- 24-hour room service
Why we recommend it
The Gritti Palace is one of the grandest hotels in Venice, set in a Gothic palace on the Grand Canal facing the church of Santa Maria della Salute. In 1525 the building became the private residence of Andrea Gritti, Doge of Venice, and it was converted into a hotel in the early nineteenth century. Today it belongs to Marriott's Luxury Collection, and its interiors are full of antiques, Murano glass, fabrics and paintings that make it feel more like a private palazzo than a hotel.
Rooms and suites are individually decorated, and the most sought-after face the Grand Canal. The hotel's social life revolves around the water. The Riva Lounge, an outdoor terrace overlooking the Grand Canal, is one of the most pleasant places in the city for a drink or a light meal, and the Club del Doge restaurant serves Venetian cooking with water views. Bar Longhi is known for its elegant décor, classic and craft cocktails and well-drilled barmen, and it also has an outdoor terrace.
The Gritti SPA, run with Sisley Paris, has three treatment suites, and there is a complimentary fitness centre. Other services include 24-hour room service, concierge, laundry and turndown. Staff can arrange water taxis, private boats and visits across the city.
The Gritti suits couples, honeymooners and travellers who want a classic, old-world Venetian stay with the Grand Canal on the doorstep. Its location in the San Marco sestiere is central but slightly removed from the crowds of the piazza: St Mark's Square is about five minutes' walk east, and the Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection are a short walk or traghetto crossing away. Prices are at the top of the Venetian market, so it is a hotel for a special occasion rather than a casual stay.
The hotel is beside the Santa Maria del Giglio vaporetto stop on Line 1, and water taxis can pull up at its own landing on the Grand Canal. Teatro La Fenice is a few minutes' walk away, which makes the Gritti a natural base for an evening at the opera followed by a drink at Bar Longhi.
For a first visit, a canal-view room is worth the extra cost, as watching the Grand Canal from your window is a large part of the experience. Ask the concierge to book restaurants and opera tickets early in high season.
The Gritti Palace FAQs
What is the history of The Gritti Palace?
In 1525 the palace became the private residence of Doge Andrea Gritti; it was converted into a hotel in the early nineteenth century.
Does the hotel have a spa?
Yes. The Gritti SPA, run with Sisley Paris, has three treatment suites.
Can non-guests visit the bar?
Bar Longhi and the Riva Lounge terrace on the Grand Canal are popular with non-residents; booking is wise at busy times.
Where is The Gritti Palace?
On Campo Santa Maria del Giglio in San Marco, on the Grand Canal opposite Santa Maria della Salute.
How far is St Mark's Square?
About five minutes' walk.
How do I get there?
Take vaporetto Line 1 to Santa Maria del Giglio, or a water taxi to the hotel's own landing.
What dining options are there?
The Club del Doge restaurant, the Riva Lounge terrace and Bar Longhi.