Baglioni Hotel Luna

"In terms of location, Baglioni hotel can’t be beaten—tucked literally around the corner from Piazza San Marco, and with a private canal for water taxi arrivals and a gondola ride stop, literally on its doorstep. It’s also the oldest hotel in Venice, dating all the way back to 1118, and one of the most Venetian—as can be only expected from the Italian hotel brand. Inside is suitably resplendent with original Murano chandeliers, antique furniture, and silk brocade walls. Breakfast is served in a grandiose room with a fresco ceiling. In the rooms, ornate gilt bed frames are flanked with tasseled pendant lights, bathrooms are generously sized and all marble. It’s a feast for the eyes, but if that’s not enough, lagoon views are also an appealing option. In the evenings, head to the downstairs bar for aperitivo hour—the alla moda order is a glass of Cantine Ferrari—followed by a very special supper at The Canover. You’re in good hands here with Chef Claudio Sadler, who received a Michelin Star in 2021 when helming the Gusto by Sadler restaurant at Baglioni’s Sardinia property. Now in Venice and working with executive chef Gennaro Balice, Sadler is making new waves with a traditional yet unexpected approach—dishes like Venetian-style ox meat or Cappellacci stuffed with shrimp from the lagoon. Whatever the order, everything is delicately plated to look like a whimsical work of art. It’s only a matter of time before the Michelin guide comes calling. —Lauren Burvill" - Sarah James, Anne Hanley

"A private canal makes for "a remarkable arrival and departure experience" at this hotel, the oldest in Venice and the closest to St. Mark’s Square. "Ideally located," it is also near "all the shopping and strolling hot spots." "Rooms are breathtaking and comfortable," with marble baths, Italian and French silks, wool carpeting, and Murano glass chandeliers. Staff are "accommodating in every way and welcoming at all times." Three white-tableclothed restaurants await: Breakfast is served in the Salone Marco Polo, entirely frescoed by pupils of Tiepolo; at Canova, sample Venetian specialties with seasonal ingredients; Caffè Baglioni has views of the Giardini Reali, or Royal Gardens."

"An understated, private landing stage for gondolas and water taxis on a side canal of the lagoon marks the entrance to the lovely Baglioni Hotel Luna in San Marco. Steeped in history, the palazzo, with lagoon-facing windows and charming Juliet balconettes, dates to the 12 th century and is said to have given refuge to the Crusade-era Knights Templar. Interiors are more in keeping with noble 18 th -century fashions. There’s a sleek marble lobby, sparkling crystal chandeliers, antique furnishings, and a healthy showing of brocade fabrics. The standout room is the pristinely preserved Salone Marco Polo, filled with18 th -century frescoes painted by pupils of influential Venetian painter and printmaker Giambattista Tiepolo. Conveniently located just steps from bustling and culture-packed St. Mark’s Square, this hotel, with its award-winning restaurant, relaxed lounge, and rooms full of delightful period details, makes for an elegant home base in Venice ."

"An understated, private landing stage for gondolas and water taxis on a side canal of the lagoon marks the entrance to the lovely Baglioni Hotel Luna in San Marco. Steeped in history, the palazzo, with lagoon-facing windows and charming Juliet balconettes, dates to the 12 th century and is said to have given refuge to the Crusade-era Knights Templar. Interiors are more in keeping with noble 18 th -century fashions. There’s a sleek marble lobby, sparkling crystal chandeliers, antique furnishings, and a healthy showing of brocade fabrics. The standout room is the pristinely preserved Salone Marco Polo, filled with18 th -century frescoes painted by pupils of influential Venetian painter and printmaker Giambattista Tiepolo. Conveniently located just steps from bustling and culture-packed St. Mark’s Square, this hotel, with its award-winning restaurant, relaxed lounge, and rooms full of delightful period details, makes for an elegant home base in Venice ."

"Sometimes we'd swim at the fancy hotel near our house, where I would fraternize with the children of movie stars and wealthy Europeans."