Little Gem No. 111 | Venetian Art Retreat

 A radical reimagining of a Venetian palazzo

Some places preserve history — others challenge it. Set within one of the oldest palazzi on the Grand Canal, a 13th-century residence overlooking the Rialto Bridge, this hotel does both. The owners, founders of Golden Goose, have approached the space with a clear vision: to create something entirely contemporary within a deeply historic shell.

The result is a living dialogue between centuries. Original architecture meets bold interventions, with works from Fluxus and Arte Povera alongside pieces by Bruce Nauman, Arnulf Rainer, and Hanne Darboven. It’s not a traditional Venetian stay — it’s a place that invites curiosity, where art, space, and atmosphere constantly interact.

The Space

The building remains unmistakably Venetian on the outside; Byzantine arches, carved stone, a façade shaped by centuries. Inside, however, the atmosphere shifts. Original architecture has been preserved, but it now acts as a canvas for contemporary expression.

Exposed brick walls, restored frescoes, and centuries-old ceilings sit alongside site-specific artworks, metallic-thread tapestries, and unexpected design details. Nothing feels decorative for the sake of it — every space carries intention.

The ground floor opens onto a wide sotoportego passageway connecting the inner courtyard to a terrace directly on the canal. It’s here that the hotel gently blends into the rhythm of the city, with boats arriving, guests coming and going, and Venice unfolding just beyond the waterline.

The Rooms

There are 26 rooms and suites, each with its own personality. Some overlook the inner courtyard, others open directly onto the Grand Canal with views towards the Rialto Bridge.

High ceilings, soft natural materials, and carefully composed light define the spaces. Art is not an addition here, it’s part of the experience. Works by artists such as Bruce Nauman and Joseph Beuys appear throughout the rooms, alongside photography by Renato D’Agostin. Yet despite the calibre of the collection, nothing feels untouchable — the spaces remain warm, lived-in, personal.

Some suites open onto private terraces overlooking the canal, others unfold over split levels with mezzanines and freestanding bathtubs placed almost sculpturally within the room. A few feature private wellness elements such as steam rooms or indoor pools. On the ground floor, a rare apartment stretches across more than 200 square metres, with its own pontoon — a quiet, self-contained world within the palazzo.

Outdoor Area

The relationship with the water is constant. The terrace along the Grand Canal feels less like a designated hotel space and more like an extension of the city itself. Boats glide past, light reflects off the surface, and the atmosphere shifts subtly throughout the day.

For something more secluded, a private rooftop altana can be reserved — offering a more intimate perspective over the rooftops of Venice, especially towards sunset.

Location

Set in the historic centre of Venice, the palazzo sits directly on the Grand Canal, just beside the Rialto Bridge. From here, everything unfolds within walking distance — narrow alleys, small artisan shops, and the lively Rialto market just across the water.

Despite its central position, there are moments — early morning, late evening — where the city feels unexpectedly still.

Food & Drink

On the ground floor, the all-day restaurant and terrace move effortlessly from breakfast to late evening. Mornings begin slowly, with espresso and pastries as the canal wakes up.

Throughout the day, the menu blends Venetian classics with lighter, contemporary dishes — seasonal, colourful, and uncomplicated. A selection of cicchetti (Venetian small plates) is not to be missed.

In the afternoon, the atmosphere softens into aperitivo, often accompanied by the house vermouth infused with lagoon herbs. For guests, the Venice Bitter Club upstairs offers a more intimate setting for cocktails — slightly hidden, with a distinct, almost cinematic feel.

Additional Services

Beyond the rooms, the hotel offers a series of spaces that feel almost like separate worlds. A small spa — with treatments focused on touch and natural elements — includes a pool set at canal level, an unusual and quietly striking detail.

There is also a boutique within the sotoportego, centred around art, craft, and design objects, alongside a curated selection of in-house products.

Private dining experiences can be arranged, including on the rooftop terrace, and the team is discreet but highly attentive — present when needed, never intrusive.

Nearest Airport & Train Station

The closest airport is Venice Marco Polo Airport, approximately 20 minutes by water taxi.

The nearest train station is Venezia Santa Lucia, around 15–20 minutes on foot or a short vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal.

Price Indication

Prices start from approximately €810 per night, depending on the room type and season