Hotel Gabrielli Venezia - Starhotels Collezione

We recommend the Gabrielli to couples seeking an authentic Venetian palace without the Grand Canal bustle, with the rare advantage of a garden for peaceful breakfasts. The address suits travellers aged 35 and over, honeymoons, anniversaries, romantic retreats, who prioritise history and views over ostentatious service. Families find their place here thanks to family rooms and the garden, but the clientele remains predominantly adult.

The Gabrielli occupies a 14th-century Gothic palace, enlarged in the 18th century with a neoclassical wing overlooking the garden. Istrian stone facade typical of Venetian architecture, pointed arch portal, mullioned windows. Interiors restored in 2018: painted coffered ceilings, Venetian terrazzo floors, gilded stucco, period furniture mixed with contemporary Cassina pieces. The rooms vary between 22 and 45 m², all different, some with exposed beams and direct views of San Giorgio Maggiore.

The Riva Lounge restaurant serves contemporary Venetian cuisine in the columned room or on the garden terrace, facing the magnolias. Buffet breakfast with house pastries, Friulian charcuterie, lagoon fruits, served until 11am. The bar offers spritz and cicchetti in late afternoon, Veneto and Friuli wine list. 24/7 room service, simplified menu after 10pm.

The Gabrielli stands on Riva degli Schiavoni, 300 metres from St Mark's Square, between the Ponte della Paglia and the Arsenal. Vaporetto lines 1 and 2 at the San Zaccaria stop right in front of the hotel, Santa Lucia 25 minutes away, Marco Polo airport 45 minutes by water taxi. The Castello district is less touristy than San Marco, with authentic bacari (Al Covo, Corte Sconta 5 minutes away), the Biennale and Giardini 10 minutes on foot. The Riva remains busy by day, quiet after 8pm.