Gritti Palace

The grandest Dame of Venice’s classic hotels, the Gritti lords it over the Grand Canal from a superb spot across from the Salute church and just 10 minutes’ walk from Piazza San Marco.

A hotel since 1895, this 15th-century palazzo was once home of Doge Andrea Gritti; expect opulent interiors stuffed with antiques and grand master paintings, glittering Murano glass chandeliers and lots of polished wood and marble.

A major refurb in 2013 brought the hotel into the 21st century without compromising the old-world appeal and unmatched old-school service.

Breakfast or evening cocktails on the waterside terrace are memorable as is a dinner of taglierini with lobster at the shamelessly romantic Club dei Doge.