If you think you’ve seen every side of Venice, think again. Tucked away in the peaceful Cannaregio district, far from the selfie-sticks and gondola gridlock, lies one of the city’s best-kept secrets: the NH Collection Venezia Grand Hotel Palazzo dei Dogi.
Once a 17th-century monastery and later an embassy, this elegant palazzo has been lovingly restored into a five-star retreat that blends classic Venetian glamour with modern comfort. From Murano-glass chandeliers to marble hallways and water views from almost every window, the hotel is a masterclass in quiet luxury.
The Palazzo’s real magic lies beyond its walls. Step outside and you’ll find Venice’s oldest private botanical garden a serene green haven that feels worlds away from the bustle of St. Mark’s Square. The Secret Garden, stretching over 2,000 square metres, is home to rare trees, marble statues, and secret corners perfect for morning coffee or sunset cocktails. It’s no wonder the space doubles as one of the city’s most romantic wedding venues.
The 64 rooms and suites have been completely renovated, offering a warm, contemporary take on Venetian elegance. Expect neutral tones, soft fabrics, and those all-important views of the lagoon or garden. The Presidential Suite, with its private garden access, has hosted everyone from Sharon Stone to the Dalai Lama, proof that the Palazzo dei Dogi knows how to impress.
Days begin with a generous breakfast buffet of fresh fruit, pastries, and made-to-order dishes. Lunch and dinner flow naturally into Da Lorenzo – Al Giardino Segreto, the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred chef Paolo Airaudo. Expect beautifully simple Italian dishes served in an intimate, candlelit setting. After dinner, La Voga Bar is the place for a creative cocktail or a late-night glass of Champagne.
Elegant, tranquil, and wonderfully authentic, the NH Collection Venezia Grand Hotel Palazzo dei Dogi offers a side of Venice that’s all about calm sophistication. With its secret garden, world-class dining, and true sense of place, this is where Venice slows down – and you can, too.
