Palazzina Grassi Review: A Distinctive Stay for Design-Savvy Travelers in Venice
Palazzina Grazzi is an intimate Philippe Starck-designed hideaway on the Grand Canal, where Venetian history meets bold design and personalized service.
A Signature Grand Canal suite. Photos: Courtesy of Palazzina Grassi
In a city as unique as Venice, it would be a sin to settle for an average hotel. When visiting the world’s most coveted floating city—and one of the most romantic destinations anywhere—you want to stay somewhere truly meaningful. Palazzina Grassi is precisely that: not just a hotel, but a statement. An establishment that could only exist in Venice, designed to move you in countless ways. A true masterpiece, it is a member of Design Hotels and the visionary creation of celebrity designer Philippe Starck.
Though the hotel is grand, it remains intimate in spirit. With just 25 rooms and five suites, guests are welcomed with attentive, highly personalized service. Art and design are prominent throughout, yet Palazzina Grassi is also a place where history and tradition are honored. Its exceptional location makes it the perfect base for those who want to see and experience the very best of Venice.
Read on for our full review of this Venetian stunner.
Why Book It
- The hotel is located directly on the Grand Canal, in the heart of Venice.
- Private transportation is available from Marco Polo Airport to Palazzina Grassi’s private dock.
- The arrival lounge, designed by Philippe Starck, has hosted many Venice Mostra after-parties.
- Select suites feature Grand Canal views or private terraces.
- The hotel boasts a sumptuous rooftop terrace, a rare gem in Venice.
- À-la-carte and all-you-can-eat breakfast are included.
Rooms & Suites
This hotel offers 25 rooms and five suites, all sharing a distinctive style: an all-white, backlit mirror aesthetic, playful design touches (the Venetian carnival mask appears throughout the property), and abundant character. Every detail has been carefully considered, from the custom bright-yellow Nespresso machines to hot-pink Dyson hairdryers.
Each room features mirrored headboards, alabaster tables, Fornasetti-designed chairs, lamps adorned with the signature Palazzina masks, pristine white floors, and travertine marble bathrooms. Guests will also appreciate the curated amenities and bath products from the Toiletpaper beauty brand, including facial soap, body and hand cream, face cream, shampoo, and conditioner. Plush bathrobes and slippers, a coffee station, a minibar stocked with signature snacks and essentials, and mirrored closets complete the experience.
The five suites each offer either a Grand Canal view or a private terrace. The Penthouse Grand Canal Suite spans two levels, with sweeping, breathtaking views over the Grand Canal. The Signature Grand Canal Suite and the Attic Suite also overlook the Grand Canal, while the Rooftop Suite boasts two private terraces. Finally, the Family Suite, arranged across two levels, includes a private outdoor space.
It is particularly pleasant to be able to enjoy your morning coffee on your private terrace overlooking the Venetian rooftops and order in-room breakfast (a 10 euros surcharge), as it’s not possible at most hotels in the city.
Food & Drink
The culinary experience at Palazzina Grassi is just as impressive as its design. The restaurant itself is a masterpiece, with striking décor and food that is as picture-perfect as it is delicious. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, The Restaurant features Venice’s only open kitchen. The menu highlights a raw bar selection, homemade pasta, and locally sourced meats, complemented by a curated selection of premium wines, cocktails, and spirits chosen by the expert in-house sommelier.
Breakfast, complimentary for all guests, is served à la carte in the guest-exclusive lounge. Guests are welcome to order freely, with every dish prepared fresh daily.
Located on the ground floor of the hotel’s 16th-century wing, The Lounge offers a stunning setting for an afternoon drink with views of the Grand Canal. Guests can enjoy small bites and cocktails here, or reserve the space for an intimate private dinner for up to 18 guests. For a more open-air experience, The Terrace, with seating for 35, allows guests to savor the restaurant’s menu while taking in the Venetian rooftops. The hotel also offers 24-hour room service.
Experiences & Amenities
In Venice, many hotels are not equipped with on-site facilities such as fitness centers or spas, both due to strict city regulations and the historic nature of the buildings. Palazzina Grassi itself occupies a storied Venetian palazzo rich in history. Yet it sets itself apart by offering guests exclusive, tailor-made experiences—from private boat tours with aperitivo (a curated selection of appetizers paired with champagne) to intimate dinners staged against the unforgettable backdrop of the Grand Canal.
Location & Access
The hotel is housed in a 16th-century palazzo directly on the Grand Canal, perfectly situated between St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. With its own private dock, guests can arrive in style, either aboard the hotel’s private boat or by water taxi, stepping right to the door. The property is also within walking distance of Venice’s most celebrated attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.
How to Book Smart
Palazzina Grassi is a proud member of Serandipians by Traveller Made and Fora Reserved. Bookings can be made directly via the GDS platform. The entire property may also be privatized for groups of up to 180 guests by contacting Francesco Scarpa.
