Photography: Cipriani Venice Hotel
Hotel Cipriani Venice, A Belmond Hotel
Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop
Set the scene
When walking into the grandiose Cipriani Hotel in Venice, you're immediately transported to another world. And the opulence of the Cipriani Hotel doesn't end at the front lobby. As you stroll through the property, you move past elegant marble columns, ornate chandeliers, intricate Murano glass fixtures, and beautifully maintained private gardens that whisper the stories of a bygone era.
The scene is an impeccable mix of lavish Venetian charm and contemporary comfort, making it feel as if you’ve time-traveled to an era of classic Italian elegance. Every corner of the hotel teems with an air of timeless allure, each opulently furnished interior and meticulously manicured outdoor space promising an incredible stay.
What can we expect in our room at the Cipriani Hotel?
Spacious and airy, each room features unique Venetian-style decor, silk brocade fabric, fine wood, plush rugs and Murano glass chandeliers. A blend of comfort and tradition, the rooms also come with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, mini-bars, and Wi-Fi to keep you connected with the world.
The palatial bathrooms in Carrara and Verona marble add the final touch of opulence, outfitted with deep soaking tubs, luxury toiletries and soft bathrobes.
How about the food and drinks?
The main restaurant, Cip's Club, claims to serve the best risotto in Venice, while the Michelin-starred Oro Restaurant offers a menu that is an innovative interpretation of traditional dishes from Venice and the Veneto region.
The hotel houses three upscale bars— the Gabbiano Bar, the Pool Bar and the Porticciolo bar, each with their own distinctive themes and cocktail menus. The Gabbiano Bar is a great place to sip on Prosecco while watching the sun set over the Venetian lagoon. The Pool Bar is perfect for grabbing a quick snack or refreshment without moving away from the private pool’s inviting waters. Lastly, Porticciolo, known for its spectacular view, serves an impressive selection of local wines and the hotel's signature Bellini cocktail.
What about the service
The staff, known for their warm Italian charm and professional demeanor, are committed to providing guests with an extraordinarily comfortable and immersive experience. Each member is trained intensively to anticipate and respond promptly to your needs, going to great lengths to ensure that every detail of your stay is just as you imagined.
The level of service offered at the Cipriani is nothing but exceptional. Complimentary boat transfers to and from the heart of the city are run smoothly, making the exploration of Venice an absolute pleasure rather than a hassle. The concierge service is available around the clock, proficient in several languages, and eager to assist with booking your sightseeing tours, answering your queries, or planning your itinerary.
What’s the neighbourhood scene like?
Located on the tip of Giudecca Island, the Cipriani offers an enviously tranquil neighborhood scene, much different from the bustling streets of mainland Venice. You will find yourself lost in the pristine beauty of expansive vineyards, lush gardens, and hand-carved canals running through the heart of the island.
Just a stone's throw away from the hotel is the famous Church of the Redentore, a priceless piece of Renaissance architecture. In the evening, you might want to take a pleasant stroll along the island's promenade, enjoying the enchanting views across the water to St Mark's Square. Shops selling local crafts, rustic cafes, and authentic Venetian restaurants further add to the vibrant neighborhood tapestry that surrounds the Cipriani Hotel.
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What’s the backstory?
Constructed in the 15th century by the Doge of Venice, Leonardo Giustinian, the historical allure and grandeur of the building has always been an inherent part of its charm. Largely considered to be a favorite not just among the European aristocracy but also world-renowned artists, it became an oasis of luxury, refinement, and artistic flavor.
However, the story of the Cipriani Hotel truly springs into vitality in the glamorous 1950s when Giuseppe Cipriani, the founder of the world-famous Harry’s Bar, laid claim to it. His passion gave birth to a legendary hotel, christened with his own name. The hotel has hosted a grand array of illustrious guests, including Ernest Hemingway and George Clooney, further enriching its vibrant heritage.
Price Range
The nightly rates tend to run from 800 euros for the least expensive rooms and rise substantially to 8000 euros for the lavish suites or private villas during the high season. Just remember, maintaining a flexible travel schedule can help you take advantage of lower rates during Venice's off-peak season, where hotel rates drop significantly. The Cipriani's rates mirror these fluctuations and you could secure a stay at this coveted hotel for significantly less than the regular price.
Amenities & Facilities
This is a place where you can enjoy a leisurely swim in the Olympic-sized, seawater pool while soaking in breathtaking views of the lagoon. If you're a fitness enthusiast, the well-equipped gym and tennis court provide excellent outlets for maintaining your workout routine.
On the other hand, if relaxation is what you're looking for, venture into the hotel's inviting wellness centre, complete with saunas, treatment rooms, and a skilled team of masseurs. The onsite boutique ensures you have access to the latest fashion collections while the hair salon offers chic styles to complement your grand evening outs.
How to get to the Cipriani hotel in Venice
From Venice Marco Polo Airport, hop on the Blue Line towards San Marco, disembark at the Zaccaria Pier, then prepare yourself for an enchanting gondola ride. This short, immersive journey takes you across the Giudecca Canal, right to the doors of the Cipriani Hotel.
For those seeking a more direct route, private water taxis offer an elegant, albeit slightly more expensive choice. Most providers offer fixed rates. The 30-minute aquatic sprint from the airport immerses you in the Venetian lifestyle while ensuring comfort and convenience.
What Customers Have To Say
FOR GLAMOUR, ROOMS, SERVICE, LOCATION
Absolute EXCELLENCE.❤️
RARE PRECLARA rare
All staff very friendly and competent.
Sublime breakfast
We recommend ❤️
It's one of my favourites in Venice
For rooms, service, location, glamour,
Absolute EXCELLENCE.
RARE PRECLARA rare
All staff very friendly and competent.
Sublime breakfast
It is recommended💓
The hotel reminds me a bit of The Belmond Mount Nelson in Cape Town a few years ago before Tiago Sarmento took over as GM. Its trying to cater for too many peoples tastes. Some areas like rooms and gardens are just retaining their olde worlde charm and other bits like the silly glitzy, almost shopping mall area, are out of place.
There is a lacking attention to detail. We had dirty cups left in our room after turn down, Cip’s and poolside service was not up to scratch. We had to top up our own wine repeatedly and constantly ask for more water. The pool bar in the evening was empty while we were there, as its has no ambience. There is no historic original hotel bar. That being said, breakfast service was excellent and a nice part of the hotel.
So all in all we would probably seek out a different hotel for our next stay. We hope that Cipriani can regain its original glamour in the future.
Contact:
Address: Giudecca 10, 30133 Venezia VE, Italy
Phone: +39 02 8295 5789
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
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