Venice is a city of dreams, romance, and timeless elegance. The idea of staying in a historic Venetian palazzo, right on the Grand Canal, is something that feels almost unreal. But for those lucky enough to experience it, it’s an unforgettable journey into the heart of Italian luxury.
During my most recent visit to Venice, I wanted to experience the ultimate in Venetian elegance. That’s how I found myself at Aman Venice, one of the most exclusive hotels in the city. I’ll share my personal experience staying in this magnificent hotel and also recommend five other spectacular hotels that offer a taste of Venetian grandeur.
A Dream Stay at Aman Venice: My Personal Experience
Why Aman Venice?
I’ve always dreamed of staying in a real Venetian palace, and Aman Venice was at the top of my list. Located in a 16th-century palazzo, this hotel perfectly blends historic charm with modern luxury. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by breathtaking frescoes, chandeliers, and grand staircases, making me feel like I had stepped into a Venetian fairytale.
Booking & Price
I booked my stay through Booking.com, where I found a 15% discount for early reservations. Standard rooms start at €1,500 per night, but for a truly luxurious experience, suites can cost up to €5,000 per night. If you plan to book, I highly recommend checking Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts or Virtuoso, as they often include perks like complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, and spa credits.
The Room: A Royal Retreat
I stayed in a Palazzo Bedroom, and the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for an extraordinary experience. My suite had:
✔ Original 16th-century frescoes on the ceiling
✔ Massive windows overlooking the Grand Canal
✔ A deep marble soaking tub with luxurious bath products
✔ A private butler service
At night, I could hear the soft sounds of gondolas passing by, and in the morning, I was greeted with fresh cappuccino and Venetian pastries delivered to my room.
Dining: Michelin-Starred Perfection
The hotel’s restaurant is run by Michelin-starred Chef Norbert Niederkofler, and the food was absolutely divine. Some of my favorite dishes included:
✔ Lobster risotto – Creamy and rich with saffron-infused flavors
✔ Handmade black truffle pasta – An indulgent treat
✔ Tiramisu made tableside – The best I’ve ever had!
The rooftop terrace was my favorite spot to enjoy breakfast with a panoramic view of Venice.
Facilities & Entertainment
Aman Venice goes beyond just offering a luxury stay. Some exclusive experiences include:
✔ Private boat tours – I took a sunset cruise on the Grand Canal
✔ Personalized spa treatments – The Venetian Essence massage was heavenly
✔ Gondola rides arranged by the hotel – A romantic touch
Location & Nearby Attractions
📍 Located in San Polo, this hotel is just:
✔ 8-minute walk from Rialto Bridge
✔ 12-minute walk from Teatro La Fenice
✔ 15-minute walk from St. Mark’s Basilica
Tips for Staying at Aman Venice
💡 Book early – The hotel has limited rooms, and they fill up quickly.
💡 Request a canal-facing room – The views are worth the extra price.
💡 Try the spa – The signature Venetian Essence treatment is fantastic.
Five Other Stunning Hotels in Venice
If Aman Venice is out of your budget or fully booked, here are five incredible alternatives that offer luxury, charm, and unforgettable experiences.
1. Gritti Palace – A Historic Grand Canal Retreat
📍 Location: Grand Canal, near Piazza San Marco
💰 Price: From €1,200 per night
Why Stay Here?
- Authentic Venetian Experience: Gritti Palace is housed in a 15th-century palace, blending Venetian history with luxurious modern comfort. The interior features original Murano glass chandeliers and hand-painted Venetian silk-covered walls, which transport you to the golden age of Venice.
- Stunning Views: Located along the Grand Canal, the hotel offers unrivaled views of the canal, making it one of the most sought-after locations in Venice.
- Exclusive Riva Yacht Experience: For an extraordinary experience, guests can book a private yacht tour on a luxury Riva boat, which is a signature Venetian experience. The hotel’s dock is conveniently located right by the Grand Canal, making it easy to hop on and off your boat.
Dining
- Club del Doge Restaurant: Known for its Venetian seafood specialties, it’s one of the best places in Venice for a romantic meal. The outdoor terrace is especially magical, offering breathtaking views of the Grand Canal, perfect for a sunset dinner. Signature dishes include seafood risotto, squid ink pasta, and the iconic Venetian-style crab.
- Drinks and Cocktails: The hotel also offers a charming bar with artisan cocktails, perfect for a pre-dinner drink or late-night sip.
Accommodation Tips
💡 Book a “Grand Canal View” Suite for an unforgettable view of Venice’s iconic waterways. The extra cost is totally worth it for the picture-perfect view. 💡 Dining at Club del Doge is a must. The traditional Venetian dishes paired with the view make for an unforgettable evening. Make sure to reserve ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot on the canal-side terrace.
2. Ca’ Sagredo Hotel – Stay in a UNESCO-Protected Palace
📍 Location: Grand Canal, near Rialto Market
💰 Price: From €700 per night
Why Stay Here?
- UNESCO Heritage Building: Ca’ Sagredo is a 16th-century noble palace that’s been carefully restored to preserve its original character. This gives it an authenticity that other hotels lack. The hotel is also a UNESCO-protected building, so staying here feels like you’re part of Venice’s cultural heritage.
- Incredible Artworks: The hotel features original frescoes, paintings, and murals by famous Venetian artists. The famous grand marble staircase was used in the film “The Tourist”, adding a touch of glamour to your stay.
- Cultural Immersion: Guests can participate in Venetian cooking classes, learning how to make traditional dishes such as risotto and cicchetti (Venetian tapas-style snacks). It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Dining
- Ca’ Sagredo Restaurant: Situated along the Grand Canal, this restaurant specializes in Venetian seafood, offering dishes like grilled octopus and baked fish. The restaurant is well-known for serving traditional Venetian cicchetti, which are small plates of local specialties perfect for sharing.
- Café and Terrace: For lighter fare, enjoy a coffee on the hotel’s terrace with a view of the Grand Canal. It’s a lovely place to relax after exploring the city.
Accommodation Tips
💡 Book a Suite with Frescoed Ceilings to truly embrace the artistic atmosphere of the hotel. These rooms are adorned with 18th-century paintings, offering a luxurious and artistic experience. 💡 Don’t miss the traditional Venetian cicchetti at the restaurant. These small bites offer a variety of local flavors and are perfect for a light, flavorful meal. You can also ask the staff for recommendations on the best wines to pair.
3. Bauer Palazzo – A Blend of Classic and Modern Luxury
📍 Location: Close to St. Mark’s Square
💰 Price: From €600 per night
Why Stay Here?
- Classic Meets Modern: Bauer Palazzo offers a perfect blend of classic Venetian style with modern luxury. The interiors are a combination of classic Venetian charm (like the elegant use of Murano glass chandeliers) and modern design elements that give the hotel a fresh, airy feel.
- Iconic Rooftop Bar: The rooftop bar is a must-visit spot. It offers panoramic views of Venice including the Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Lagoon. It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset over the city while sipping a cocktail.
- Evening Jazz: Every evening, the hotel hosts live jazz performances in the lounge, which creates a relaxing and elegant ambiance. It’s a fantastic way to wind down after a day of sightseeing.
Dining
- De Pisis Restaurant: The restaurant here serves a mix of Venetian and international cuisine. Specialties include squid ink pasta and risotto with prawns. It’s a great place for a romantic dinner with stunning views of the Grand Canal.
- Rooftop Terrace Dining: The rooftop bar serves light bites and cocktails, perfect for a casual yet stylish meal in a stunning setting.
Accommodation Tips
💡 Visit the rooftop bar at sunset for spectacular photos. It’s an iconic spot, so make sure to arrive early to secure a seat. 💡 If you’re traveling as a couple, opt for a suite with a balcony for a romantic stay. The view from the balcony is perfect for a quiet moment with your partner.
4. Hotel Danieli – A Fairytale Experience
📍 Location: 2-minute walk from Doge’s Palace
💰 Price: From €1,000 per night
Why Stay Here?
- Iconic Luxury: Hotel Danieli is one of the most famous hotels in Venice. It’s been a symbol of luxury for over 100 years, and has been featured in films like “The Tourist”. It’s a place where you truly feel like royalty.
- The Grand Staircase: The moment you step into the lobby, you’re greeted by the grand three-story staircase, which is one of the hotel’s most iconic features. It’s opulent and a beautiful spot for photos.
- Regal Interiors: Gold-accented interiors and luxurious fabrics adorn the rooms, creating an authentic Venetian palace atmosphere. Every room is a masterpiece of classic Venetian design.
Dining
- Terrazza Danieli Restaurant: Located on the rooftop, this restaurant offers fine dining with panoramic views of the Lagoon and St. Mark’s Square. Signature dishes include lobster risotto, Venetian-style fried fish, and decadent tiramisu.
- Café Danieli: The café offers a relaxed atmosphere for afternoon tea or coffee, with the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful view of the Venetian canals.
Accommodation Tips
💡 Book a Lagoon-facing Suite to enjoy the stunning views of the Lagoon and sunrises over Venice. The views are breathtaking! 💡 After a day of sightseeing, head up to the rooftop bar to enjoy a cocktail and take in the panoramic views of the city.
5. Londra Palace – A Romantic Boutique Hotel
📍 Location: Near Riva degli Schiavoni
💰 Price: From €500 per night
Why Stay Here?
- Charming Boutique Experience: Londra Palace is a romantic boutique hotel with only 53 individually decorated rooms, which makes it feel intimate and personalized.
- Private Balconies: Many of the rooms have private balconies overlooking the Venetian Lagoon, offering romantic views that are perfect for couples.
- Great Location: Located near Riva degli Schiavoni, the hotel is close to major attractions like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, making it the perfect home base for your Venice exploration.
Dining
- Do Leoni Restaurant: Serving gourmet Italian meals, Do Leoni is a great choice for lunch or dinner. The chef prepares dishes with locally sourced ingredients, like fresh seafood and Venetian-style pasta.
- Lounge and Bar: The hotel also offers a cozy lounge bar, where guests can enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine while relaxing after a busy day of sightseeing.
Accommodation Tips
💡 Opt for a Deluxe Suite with a Terrace for a private and romantic escape. You’ll enjoy the best views of the Venetian Lagoon from your room. 💡 Book directly on the hotel’s website for exclusive perks like free breakfast or room upgrades.
These five hotels are perfect choices for those looking for luxury, comfort, and authentic Venetian experiences. Whether you want to stay in a historical palace, enjoy stunning views, or indulge in gourmet dining, you’ll find the perfect fit in Venice. Happy travels!
Living the Venetian Dream
Spending a night in a Venetian palace hotel is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you choose Aman Venice for pure luxury, Gritti Palace for historic charm, or Londra Palace for boutique romance, you’re in for an unforgettable journey into the magic of Venice. If you’re planning a special getaway to Venice, investing in a luxurious palazzo stay is worth every penny.
