Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice

Located on its own secluded corner of the Giudecca island, Hotel Cipriani has been one of Venice’s most celebrated addresses since it opened in 1958. Founded by Giuseppe Cipriani with a dream of creating a discreet haven close to yet removed from St Mark’s Square, it quickly became a magnet for the international jet set.

Following a recent renovation, the hotel’s 67 rooms and suites shine with renewed elegance, their 270-degree views sweeping from the Doge’s Palace to San Giorgio Maggiore and the islands beyond.

The Michelin-starred Oro restaurant, the al fresco Cip’s Club overlooking the lagoon, and the legendary seawater pool remain the social heart of the property, alongside the Casanova Gardens, a rare oasis of greenery complete with a historic vineyard. A private shuttle boat connects the hotel to St Mark’s Square in five minutes, running around the clock.