Venice Film Festival: Elite Viewing Spots
The Collector’s Eye: Why This Matters
In our pursuit of the exceptional, we’ve attended premier cultural gatherings globally, from Cannes to Sundance, always seeking experiences that transcend the ordinary. The Venice Film Festival stands out, not just for its cinematic premieres but for the unparalleled luxury viewing experiences it offers. Held annually at the Lido di Venezia since 1932, this is the world’s oldest film festival, where the magic of cinema meets the timeless elegance of La Serenissima. For the discerning collector of experiences, securing the right accommodation transforms a film festival visit into an unforgettable cultural immersion.
Provenance & Heritage
The Venice Film Festival was inaugurated in 1932 on the terrace of the Hotel Excelsior, forever linking the world of cinema with Venetian luxury hospitality. Over nine decades, the festival has attracted Hollywood royalty from Greta Garbo and Clark Gable to George Clooney and Cate Blanchett, all seeking refuge in the city’s most distinguished addresses. The Lido di Venezia, a slender barrier island between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, offers something unique: the glamour of a world-class film festival combined with golden beaches and the serenity that the bustling streets of Venice proper cannot provide. The palazzos and hotels that host festival guests carry centuries of history within their walls, from Renaissance frescoes to Murano glass chandeliers, creating a living museum of Italian artistry and hospitality.
The Curated Collection: Finest Luxury Hotels
1. Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort
Location & Lineage: Lido di Venezia | Est. 1908 | Architect Giovanni Sardi
The Acquisition Case: The undisputed epicenter of Venice Film Festival glamour, Hotel Excelsior is where the festival was born in 1932. This magnificent Moorish-style palazzo, commissioned by entrepreneur Nicolò Spada and designed by Giovanni Sardi, has hosted every major film star of the past century. The hotel’s distinctive architecture—featuring ornate crystal chandeliers, rich fabrics, and exotic Iberian-Moorish details—creates an atmosphere of theatrical grandeur. The legendary Sala degli Stucchi, featured in Sergio Leone’s “Once Upon a Time in America,” remains a highlight for cinephiles. With 196 spacious rooms overlooking the Adriatic Sea, the Moorish courtyard, or Venice itself, guests enjoy private beach access, a heated outdoor pool, and complimentary shuttle boats to St. Mark’s Square every 30 minutes.
Price: €450-1,200/night (Festival period: €800-2,500/night)
Best season: Late August – early September (Venice Film Festival), May – October
Insider tip: Request a sea-view room in the historic wing and book the Film Festival package, which includes cabana rental on the exclusive beach where celebrities are photographed. The Blue Bar recreates the atmosphere of classic Hollywood during festival season.
Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
2. Aman Venice
Location & Lineage: Grand Canal, San Polo | Est. 2013 | 16th-century Palazzo Papadopoli | Designer Jean-Michel Gathy
The Acquisition Case: Set within the magnificent Palazzo Papadopoli, one of only eight monumental palazzos on the Grand Canal, Aman Venice represents the pinnacle of discreet luxury. The 24-suite property features original frescoes by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, Rococo works of art, and interiors by celebrated designer Jean-Michel Gathy that blend contemporary restraint with historic opulence. Rare in this floating city, the hotel boasts two private gardens—a verdant sanctuary for al fresco dining. The intimate scale ensures an exclusive atmosphere where privacy is paramount, making it the preferred choice for celebrities seeking refuge from paparazzi during the festival. Every suite offers silk wall coverings, Murano chandeliers, and many feature direct Grand Canal views.
Price: €1,100-3,500/night (Suites from €2,500/night)
Best season: April – October, Venice Biennale and Film Festival periods
Insider tip: Book The Coccina’s Apartment on the fourth floor for complete privacy with a private lift access. Request an exclusive after-hours visit to Palazzo Ducale, arranged through the concierge.
Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
3. Belmond Hotel Cipriani
Location & Lineage: Giudecca Island | Est. 1958 | Founded by Giuseppe Cipriani (creator of the Bellini cocktail)
The Acquisition Case: The only luxury hotel in Venice with a full-sized swimming pool, Hotel Cipriani occupies a privileged position on Giudecca Island, commanding unrivalled views of the lagoon and Doge’s Palace. Founded in 1958 by Giuseppe Cipriani of Harry’s Bar fame, the hotel has been the secret retreat of Hollywood royalty including Elizabeth Taylor, Angelina Jolie, and George Clooney, who celebrated his wedding here in 2014. The property features 96 rooms decorated with Murano glass, antiques, and Venetian flooring, including suites in the adjacent 15th-century Palazzo Vendramin. The Michelin-starred Oro Restaurant, redesigned by Adam Tihany, and the legendary Cip’s Club with its wooden terrace overlooking St. Mark’s complete the experience. A complimentary 24-hour private launch service connects guests to San Marco in just 4 minutes.
Price: €1,700-4,500/night
Best season: April – October (Seasonal hotel, reopens April 2026)
Insider tip: Reserve a table at Cip’s Club during the Redentore festival in July for the best view of the spectacular fireworks display. The Alcova Tiepolo Suite features original ceiling frescoes by the Venetian master.
Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
4. The Gritti Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel
Location & Lineage: Grand Canal, San Marco | Est. 1475 as Palazzo Pisani, hotel since 1895
The Acquisition Case: Dating to 1475 and once the private residence of Doge Andrea Gritti, this Gothic palazzo represents the quintessence of Venetian grandeur. The Gritti Palace has hosted literary giants including Ernest Hemingway, Somerset Maugham, and John Ruskin, who wrote “The Stones of Venice” during his stay. The meticulous restoration preserves hand-painted frescoes, terrazzo floors, rare antique furnishings, and precious Rubelli fabrics. The 82 accommodations include ten signature suites—the Hemingway Suite and the John Ruskin Suite among the most coveted. The iconic Gritti Terrace restaurant, overlooking the Grand Canal and Santa Maria della Salute, offers one of Venice’s most romantic dining experiences. The Gritti SPA by Sisley Paris and the Gritti Epicurean School add contemporary refinement to this historic treasure.
Price: €900-2,800/night
Best season: Year-round, September for Film Festival
Insider tip: Reserve the Donghia Signature Suite, which features the largest private rooftop terrace in Venice and a plunge pool with panoramic views. Book a private cooking class at the Gritti Epicurean School with a view of the Grand Canal.
Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
5. The St. Regis Venice
Location & Lineage: Grand Canal, San Marco | Historic palazzo, contemporary renovation
The Acquisition Case: The St. Regis Venice merges striking contemporary design with its historic provenance as Venice’s best address. Flanked by the Grand Canal with views across to San Giorgio Maggiore and Santa Maria della Salute, the hotel has been reimagined with bespoke contemporary artworks, including pieces by French painter Olivier Masmonteil in the Presidential Suite. The 169 accommodations, including 39 suites, feature the signature St. Regis Butler Service—a hallmark of flawless, intuitive attention. Curved bed heads echo the silhouette of gondolas, while Murano glass and alabaster illuminate the refined spaces. The Ginori Terrace, in collaboration with Ginori 1735, presents an elegant outdoor dining venue, while Gio’s Restaurant celebrates Italy’s culinary heritage and the Valmont SPA offers bespoke treatments.
Price: €750-2,200/night
Best season: Year-round, September for Film Festival
Insider tip: Book a Grand Canal view suite and request the St. Regis Butler to arrange a sunset aperitivo on your terrace overlooking the Salute Church. Don’t miss the daily champagne sabering ceremony in the hotel’s private garden.
Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
6. JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa
Location & Lineage: Isola delle Rose (Island of Roses) | Contemporary design by Matteo Thun
The Acquisition Case: For those seeking space, gardens, and modern amenities, the JW Marriott Venice offers something unique: a private island resort just 20 minutes by boat from St. Mark’s Square. Set on the Isola delle Rose with vast parkland and two swimming pools, this contemporary property designed by Matteo Thun provides an escape from the dense historic center. The rooms are notably larger than typical Venetian accommodations, and some suites feature private plunge pools with lagoon views. The GOCO Spa offers comprehensive wellness programs, while multiple dining venues include rooftop options with 360-degree views. A complimentary shuttle boat provides frequent connections to San Marco, offering the best of both worlds.
Price: €500-1,500/night
Best season: May – October, September for Film Festival
Insider tip: Book a Plunge Pool Room for a private terrace with pool overlooking the lagoon—perfect for recovering after long festival days. The rooftop restaurant at sunset offers one of Venice’s most spectacular panoramas.
Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
7. Ca’ Sagredo Hotel
Location & Lineage: Grand Canal, Cannaregio | 15th-century palazzo, declared a National Monument
The Acquisition Case: More than a hotel, Ca’ Sagredo is a living museum where guests sleep surrounded by Renaissance masterpieces. This 15th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal, declared a National Monument, houses original frescoes by Giambattista Tiepolo, Sebastiano Ricci, and Pietro Longhi. The grand staircase, gilded ceilings, and ornate stucco work make every corridor a gallery of Venetian artistry. Located near the Rialto Bridge and Ca’ d’Oro, the 42 rooms and suites vary dramatically—from cozy chambers to palatial Grand Canal suites with museum-quality artwork overhead. For culturally-minded collectors, staying here represents an acquisition of heritage itself.
Price: €450-1,800/night
Best season: Year-round, September for Film Festival
Insider tip: Request the Music Ballroom Suite to sleep beneath original Tiepolo frescoes. Book early for Grand Canal view rooms—they’re limited and highly sought after during festival season.
Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
Emerging Acquisitions: Rising Stars
Hotel Danieli, Venezia, A Four Seasons Hotel reopened in 2025 after an extensive renovation, bringing Four Seasons’ legendary service to one of Venice’s most iconic addresses. Steps from St. Mark’s Square, the Gothic palazzo features a breathtaking lobby that has been photographed millions of times. The rooftop terrace offers extraordinary lagoon views. Expect rates from €1,200/night and an experience that merges historic grandeur with contemporary luxury.
San Clemente Palace Kempinski offers another island escape on its own private island, just 10 minutes from San Marco. With a secluded pool, historic chapel, and 190 rooms in converted monastery buildings, it represents excellent value in the ultra-luxury category, with rates from €400/night during shoulder season.
The Cultural Collection
Beyond the screenings, the Venice Film Festival period coincides with the final weeks of the Venice Biennale, offering an extraordinary convergence of cinematic and contemporary art. Arrange private after-hours tours of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, home to masterworks by Pollock, Dalí, and Kandinsky. The Palazzo Grassi and Punta della Dogana, both François Pinault’s contemporary art venues, host major exhibitions. For a deeper dive into Venetian artistry, commission a private visit to a Murano glassblowing atelier—master craftsmen like Lino Tagliapietra’s studio can arrange demonstrations of techniques unchanged since the 13th century. The Scuola Grande di San Rocco houses Tintoretto’s magnificent cycle of paintings, often overlooked by tourists but considered among the greatest artistic achievements of the Renaissance.
Acquisition Strategy: The Collector’s Playbook
Securing premium accommodations during the Venice Film Festival requires strategic planning. Book 6-12 months in advance for the Hotel Excelsior and other Lido properties during festival dates (late August – early September). For Grand Canal hotels, 4-6 months is typically sufficient, though the most coveted suites—Hemingway at the Gritti, Grand Canal apartments at Aman—may require earlier commitment. Consider Virtuoso or American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts for complimentary upgrades, daily breakfast, and property credits. Arrive via private water taxi from Marco Polo Airport (approximately €130-150) for the quintessential Venetian entrance. During festival season, the Hotel Excelsior offers the most seamless experience for screenings at the Palazzo del Cinema, while Grand Canal hotels provide easier access to evening events and parties in central Venice.
Curatorial Conclusion
The Venice Film Festival represents more than an annual celebration of cinema—it is an invitation to experience one of the world’s most extraordinary cities at its most glamorous. The hotels that have hosted nearly a century of film legends offer something beyond luxury accommodations: they provide passage into a living history where every palazzo tells a story, every canal reflects centuries of artistry, and every evening promises the possibility of crossing paths with cinematic royalty. For the discerning collector of experiences, securing a place among these storied addresses during the festival is not merely booking a room—it is acquiring a chapter in one of culture’s most enduring narratives. In our experience, the convergence of cinematic art, Venetian heritage, and world-class hospitality makes this an experience without parallel in the cultural calendar.
