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A pristine 16th-century Grand Canal palace revamped into high-tech splendour by design guru Philippe Starck.
From rooms bouncing with light from back-lit mirrors and all-white fabrics to a cruise-cosy bar/restaurant – think cherrywood furniture, funky Murano chandeliers and leather upholstery.
It’s created with high design-conscious guests in mind, though loved-up couples will be thrilled by the views and the glamour, and gastronomes will drool over seeing the stellar chefs at work in the open kitchen.
It’s a stone’s throw from the art-stuffed Accademia gallery and 10 minutes’ walk from Piazza San Marco. An easy stroll across the Grand Canal is lively Campo Santa Margherita, a good stop-off for cappuccino, a light lunch or an evening Spritz.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.3 miles]
From Titian to Tiepolo, the Accademia’s world-class collection represents the Golden Age of Venetian painting. A dazzling collection of masterpieces but also a voyage through the history of Venice itself.
Best for ages: 18+ | £15
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.4 miles]
American millionairess collector Peggy Guggenheim’s glittering display of avant-garde art is housed in her own 18th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal.
Best for ages: 18+ | £12
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.8 miles]
It’s huge, and often crowded, but St. Mark’s square is one of the most emblematic spots in the city and is lined with over-priced cafés that offer live music. But out of season, on a foggy winter’s evening or at dawn, it’s undeniably atmospheric.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.9 miles]
Surely the most exquisite, beguiling and opulent place of worship in Italy, St Mark’s cathedral was built to satisfy the wildest dreams of the Doges and is rich in glittering Byzantine mosaics, Gothic carvings and sumptuous treasures.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.2 miles]
Although Carnevale falls in February/March, you can learn to make your own Venetian Carnival masks year-round at one of several workshops in the city. Experienced artisans teach the art of papier-maché mask making and decorating in traditional Venetian style. Great for kids and adults alike.
Best for ages: 6+ | £42 | 1 hour
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.4 miles]
Of all Venice’s many churches, the huge, Franciscan barn-like Frari (1338-1469) is one of the most art-packed. It boasts the second-highest bell tower in the city and a severe exterior, but once inside, the quality of the art is extraordinary.
Best for ages: 18+ | £2
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.4 miles]
Venice’s magnificent opera house was all-but-destroyed by fire in 1774, 1836 and 1996 and is all faux Baroque opulence. The programme of excellent opera productions and symphonic concerts offers a chance to put on your glad rags. You can also take a behind-the-scenes tour.
Best for ages: 18+ | £50 | 3-4 hours
Venice, Veneto, Italy[0.5 miles]
One of Venice’s more curious sights lies near Campo San Manin. Signs lead to a small courtyard and Giovanni Candi’s exuberant spiral staircase (ca. 1500) stuck onto its relatively plain palazzo. Climb to the top of this eccentric confection for delightful views over the city.
Best for ages: 6+ | £5
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Veneto, Italy
Crammed with picturesque canals, Renaissance palazzos and artistic masterpieces, this unique and alluring city is heaven-on-earth for art lovers and romantics.
