This stunning property was originally built as the palatial home of Venice's aristocratic Gritti family. In operation as a hotel since the late 1800s, The Gritti Palace targets a distinguished and upper-crust clientele. Famous guests through the years have included nobility, royalty, politicians, and celebrities, ranging from later generations of the Gritti themselves, to Winston Churchill, Ernest Hemingway, and Tom Cruise. These notable guests are commemorated in pictures along the corridor in the hotel's so-called Wall of Fame.

The hotel's original decor and style were updated in 2013. The meticulous renovation highlights the original wooden ceilings, glass chandeliers, terrazzo flooring, and an impressive collection of art and antiques throughout the building. From the moment one walks through the hotel's doors and is greeted by the carved marble reception area and decorative wooden columns, there's an inescapable feeling of quality, opulence, and grandeur. The atmosphere here has a matching esteem, with formal service, slightly less formal (but still very upscale) vibe among the guests, and surprisingly quiet public spaces and privacy in rooms. Guests are overwhelmingly couples, as common areas have an undeniable romance.

One of the many remarkable aspects to The Gritti Palace is its central location overlooking the Grand Canal. Located on Campo Santa Maria del Giglio, the property is easily accessible by boat while still being within comfortable walking distance to many local points of interest. The Doge's Palace, Piazza San Marco, and the Teatro La Fenice, are all within 10 minutes' walk. The neighborhood also has a few antique shops and art galleries, and the luxury shops just west of Piazza San Marco also take just a few minutes to reach on foot. The Santa Maria del Giglio water taxi stop is a three-minute walk from the hotel. The Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Santa Maria della Salute -- a striking white-stone church built in the 17th century -- are both just across the water. It's a 25-minute water taxi trip to the main train station and about an hour to the airport by a combination of boat and taxi or bus. 

All 82 of The Gritti Palace's rooms reflect more than five centuries of Venetian art, decor, and style through Rubelli fabrics, glass chandeliers, and large picture windows with beautiful canal views. It's hard not to be impressed by design features like hand-painted ceilings, damask patterns, parquet oak flooring, and Venetian stucco, though decor does vary a bit depending on the room category. The hotel has 12 different types of rooms, such as standard Deluxe Rooms with antiques and glass chandeliers, and Venetian Rooms with hand-painted walls. Giglio Prestige Rooms offer beautiful views of Santa Maria del Giglio Square and its neoclassical church through large picture windows. But for ultimate views of several famous landmarks and plazas, guests should upgrade to Landmark Grand Canal Rooms.

The collection of suites get even more luxe, showcasing furnishings from the hotel's private collection, original oil paintings and sketches, rare antiques, polished terrazzo floors, and a slightly less busy decor. Suites also feature separate living rooms, large windows, and balconies. The two-story Terrazza Redentore Suite even has a winding wrought-iron staircase and its own massive rooftop terrace with sprawling city views, a hot tub, and dining table and wet bar. 

Modern technology has not been neglected, as most rooms have 40-inch flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Higher category rooms have high-end Bang & Olufsen electronics, including MP3 players and larger TVs. Minibars that include sparkling water up the comfort level even more. All bathrooms have premium Aqua di Parma toiletries and are covered in marble and mirrors. Each has a separate bathtub and walk-in shower. 

Aside from the beautiful design and decor of the hotel and its privileged location, one of the The Gritti Palace's best features is its Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo Spa. Unlike most other public areas of the hotel, this large and luxe spa has a decidedly more modern look with solid-color furniture, white walls, wood or marble floors, and lots of minimalist square angles. The spa focuses on restorative treatments that incorporate breathing, scent, and touch. In addition to the treatment rooms, there are also two Turkish baths for spa-goers. There is also a small fitness rooms with modern Technogym equipment.

The Gritti Palace has a good reputation for gourmet food. It's home to the Gritti Epicurean School, where guests can learn to cook local dishes or book private dinners. For high-end dining, Club del Doge Restaurant serves Venetian dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This upscale spot is particularly popular in the summer, when guests dine on the terrace overlooking the canal. The Riva Lounge, a seasonal outdoor terrace inspired by the Riva Yacht, serves up cocktails with a view. The hotel's year-round Bar Longhi may not have the views, but is quite a sight itself. With sculpted mirrors, a carved marble bar, and colorful Victorian decor, the bar is a decadent setting for cocktails, beer, and wine. 

The hotel also has an Explorer's Library, which is a curated space that houses luxury items and antiques, all for sale. The hotel also provides babysitting services and an on-site business center with internet access. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. This hotel also allows pets at no extra charge. A dedicated concierge is on-hand to help with local recommendations.