Hotel Danieli

Doge Dandolo built his glorious Venetian Gothic palace three doors down from the Palazzo Ducale in the 14th century, and it's been one of the most sumptuous hotels in Venice since 1822. It vies with the Gritti Palace (which is now in the same family) as the most desirable address in Venice proper and has been host to innumerable kings, celebrities, and other noted guests as far back as Dickens. The tone of this palatial hotel is set by the astounding four-story lobby of balustraded open balconies and stairwells, Venice's Oriental-tinged Gothic arches, and palm fronds. It's ornately decorated throughout, and the rooms vary in decor, size, and style but are all opulently done. Rooms in the original structure have the most atmosphere but are smaller than the accommodations in the 19th-century wing. Either is far preferable to the recently refurbished (in 2008) 1940s wing next door -- the rooms are fine there but lack that genteel, vintage touch.

Facilities:
Roof terrace Italian restaurant; 2 bars (1 w/piano music); babysitting; bikes; children’s center; concierge; exercise room; golf course; room service; sauna; smoke-free rooms; tennis court; watersports equipment/rentals. In room: A/C, TV w/pay movies, fax (in suite), hair dryer (in most), minibar, Wi-Fi.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.