Venetian Serenity
Venice has no shortage of showstoppers. Between its glittering canals, ornate bridges, and timeworn palazzi, it’s easy to feel that everything here has a story to tell. But tucked away in the quiet Cannaregio district where the tourist tide softens and local life takes over, there’s a rare kind of calm. It’s here that you’ll find the NH Collection Venezia Grand Hotel Palazzo dei Dogi, a five-star hotel that perfectly balances heritage, elegance, and the effortless charm of Venetian living.
Once a monastery, later an embassy, and now a destination, this 17th-century palazzo has been carefully restored to combine grandeur with warmth. The hotel recently completed a full renovation, revealing a space that feels both authentic and contemporary. Marble floors glimmer beneath Murano-glass chandeliers, high ceilings ooze character, and every corridor hints of centuries past. Yet the atmosphere is distinctly modern, light, and welcoming.
The Palazzo dei Dogi’s transformation aligns with the NH Collection’s signature style of sleek, sophisticated, and timeless. Each of its 64 rooms and suites has been reimagined to highlight the palazzo’s original architectural details while introducing soft tones, plush fabrics, and subtle nods to Venetian artistry.
Whether you choose a Superior, Premium, or one of the lavish suites, expect spaces filled with natural light, warm neutrals, and elegant textures. Many rooms overlook tranquil waterways or the lush hotel gardens, a rarity in Venice. The Presidential Suite, with its private access to the garden, has welcomed a starry guest list – from Sharon Stone and Priscilla Presley to the Dalai Lama – though you’d never guess it from the quiet serenity it exudes.
Step outside, and you’ll discover one of Venice’s best-kept secrets. The hotel’s private botanical garden, said to be the oldest in the city, stretches over 2,000 square metres. It’s a rare patch of peace in a city built on water, where ancient trees sway above marble statues and you get glimpses of the lagoon through the greenery. This “Secret Garden,” open to both guests and locals, feels almost enchanted. You’ll find an old icehouse once used to store food, a footbridge, and a statue of the Virgin Mary nestled among flowers. From here, you can spot the islands of Murano and San Michele in the distance.
It’s easy to see why this garden has become a beloved wedding venue. It is romantic, private, and quintessentially Venetian, with the lagoon as a backdrop. Even if you’re not getting married, it’s worth wandering through at golden hour, when the garden seems to glow. Days at Palazzo dei Dogi start unhurriedly, with a breakfast buffet that’s as fresh and vibrant as the setting. Think colourful fruit platters, flaky pastries, artisan cheeses, and made-to-order hot dishes, all served in a sunlit dining space that opens onto the garden. If you fancy a light bite between excursions, the All-Day Dining menu runs from late morning until evening. You can enjoy it indoors or outdoors, perhaps in the gazebo, or even by the private pier overlooking the Venetian Lagoon.
As night falls, Da Lorenzo – Al Giardino Segreto sets the scene for something special. The restaurant, led by Michelin-starred chef Paolo Airaudo, celebrates Italian tradition through seasonal ingredients and elegant simplicity. Expect beautifully plated dishes that showcase local produce, and a wine list to match. Dinner here feels intimate, romantic, and indulgent.
Afterwards, head to La Voga Bar for a nightcap. Its cocktails are inspired by the region – creative yet classic, just like Venice itself. For those who love a touch of adventure, the hotel even offers guests a chance to learn how to row like a gondolier, followed by an authentic nautical aperitif on the water so you can fully immerse yourself in the Venetian way of life. Part of the hotel’s magic lies in its location. The Cannaregio district offers a quieter, more authentic experience than the bustle around St. Mark’s Square. Here, narrow canals wind past local bakeries, family-run trattorias, and artisan shops – perfect for exploring on foot before retreating to the calm of the palazzo. Should you wish to venture further, the hotel’s private shuttle can whisk you to St. Mark’s Square in no time, or you can set off from the private pier for a boat ride across the lagoon, taking in views of Murano Island along the way.
From the outside, the hotel appears understated, a refined façade that blends seamlessly into the neighbourhood’s historic fabric. Step inside, however, and it’s pure Venetian opulence. The interiors are lavish without being ostentatious: gleaming marble floors, soft lighting, Murano-glass details, and an air of quiet luxury. It’s the kind of place where every corner feels Instagram-worthy but never overdone.
Our room was a perfect blend of romance and refinement with high ceilings, silk drapes, and a view of the garden that seemed to frame the morning light. There’s a real sense of space here, something hard to come by in Venice, and an ease that makes you instantly feel at home.
If you’re looking for a Venetian experience that feels exclusive yet effortlessly relaxed, the NH Collection Venezia Grand Hotel Palazzo dei Dogi ticks every box. It’s where timeless beauty meets contemporary comfort, where you can sip an espresso in a centuries-old garden, dine under the stars, and still feel miles away from the crowds.
This is Venice at its most authentic and most serene – a place to slow down, reconnect, and indulge in la dolce vita, one gondola ride at a time.
nhcollectionpalazzodeidogi@nh-hotels.com
By Beverley Uddin-Khandakar
