JOURNAL

The Venice Travel Guide

As though you are stepping inside a Renaissance painting, the city of Venice is one that steeped in rich history and culture. Cobblestone laneways and theatrical-like Venetian architecture intertwine with their infamous canals and gondolas. Below, discover a curated guide to visiting the Italian city, also the inspiration for our Spring 2026 collection, Venezia.

Where to stay

Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel

Exuding old Italian glamour and elegance, the Hotel Ciprani stands privately on Giudecca island with its own private dock and access. First created by Giuseppe Cipriani (of Harry’s Bar) in 1958, it is one of the most beloved hotels today, also for its Michelin star restaurant, Oro.

The Gritti Palace, A Luxury Hotel Collection

Perhaps one of the most legendary hotels around the world, the Gritti Palace is renowned for its 15th century grand allure and gilded Venetian decor and was once coveted by Elizabeth Taylor and Grace Kelly.

Hotel de Russie, A Rocco Forte Hotel

A stone’s throw from the Piazza del Popolo, Hotel de Russie is often considered to be a jewel of the city. Charming yet luxurious, it is the perfect marriage of timeless Italian design and modern comfort, with the 17th century building undergoing a refresh in 2000. Once a spot loved by artist Pablo Picasso, composer Igor Stravinsky and poet Jean Cocteau.

Il Palazzo Experimental

Taking a slightly more modernist approach, the French hotel group ‘Experimental’ has blended the warm colours and textures of the Venetian city with clean lines, marble accents and stylish contemporary furniture.

The Venice Venice

Decadent with its glistening chandeliers and outstretched views of the Grand Canal, the Venice Venice also plays with rustic accents and traditional Italian charm – bringing in exposed brick, charcoal detailing and delicate embroidery. They also recently opened a state-of-the art spa and wellness space.

Violino d’Oro

With the feeling of stepping into an art collector’s own home, each space within Violino d’Oro has been specifically designed to pay tribute to local artisans. From large-scale Italian paintings to unique sculptures, vintage furnishings and cosy velour accents.

Hotel Flora

For a more quaint experience with a ‘locals-only’ touch, Hotel Flora is a family-run hotel tucked in the heart of the city, that is adorned with charming antiques, bespoke floral wallpapers and classic wooden bed frames.

Where to spend an Italian morning

Caffè Florian

The oldest coffeehouse in Italy, dating back to 1720, this spot is not only worth a visit for its classic Italian breakfasts but for a taste of culture. They are known to host a contemporary art exhibition with the Biennale every two years, and have since 1988.

Pasticceria Da Bonifacio

While somewhat unassuming on the outside, once you step into the Italian bakery, you'll be greeted with the waft of fresh, traditional pastries – frittelle, Dogaressa.

Where to spend an aperitivo hour

Harry’s Bar

This legendary bar perched right in the heart of the city, is known for inventing the iconic Bellini cocktail as well as serving the original Carpaccio. It's also been known to play host to writers, artists, and royalty alike, including Ernest Hemingway, over the years.

Cips Club

A beloved staple of the historic Hotel Cipriani, this waterside bar offers legendary views of St Mark’s Square and a menu of what they self-describe as "contemporary spins on local classics."

Bar Longhi

Belonging to the beloved Gritti Palace, this waterfront bar is best known for its bespoke, and tableside-prepared martini cocktails.

St Regis Bar

For a luxurious moment inside the St Regis Hotel or in their private courtyard, the hotel's bar offers a modern twist on classic Italian. Most recommend a visit for their Santa Maria, a contemporary take on the Bloody Mary – designed to reflect Venetian flavours.

Where to dine

Ristorante Riviera

Slightly rustic but ever so charming, this authentic Italian restaurant sits alongside the canal with clear views of the ocean. Best known for their fresh market fish, it’s best recommended to order the ‘fish of the day.’

Ristorante Da Ivo

An old school Italian restaurant only steps away from San Marco Square and first opened in the 1970s, turns out classic Tuscan and Venetian plates. While simple, each dish on the menu flavoured and seasoned to true Italian style – like the caprese salad.

Gelateria Paolin

Finish the evening with a scoop of gelato from this famous location, known to Venice since 1760. Also serving drinks and light snacks, you might even swap your gelato for a piece of their homemade tiramisu.

Antica Locanda Montin

Set in a relaxed garden courtyard, this Venetian-style restaurant is akin to the Gallery of the Accademy of Venice, and offers a menu of delicious homemade dishes including a baked pasta which is not to be missed.

Trattoria Da Arturo

While most restaurants in Venice offer a variety of fish dishes, Trattoria Da Arturo is one that does not, instead heroing flavourful meat and vegetarian recipes.

Moro

While a delightful cafe year round, over the summer months Moro also opens into a waterside restaurant and bar, adorned with their famous green umbrellas. Enjoy an indulgent evening as they marry traditional Venetian flavours with nods to French cuisine.