The Gritti Palace
Campo Santa Maria del Giglio, San Marco 2467, 30124 Venice, Italy
The Story
A palazzo on the Grand Canal
The Gritti Palace is the most unlikely kind of hotel: a 15th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal that has been receiving illustrious guests since the Doge's day, though its Hollywood credentials were cemented in the 20th century. The building takes its name from Doge Andrea Gritti, and it began taking paying guests in the 19th century before becoming a hotel in 1895. The Venice Film Festival, held on the nearby Lido every September, has ensured a steady stream of film stars through the lobby since 1932 — generation after generation of festival attendees passing through the same gilded rooms.
Hemingway's writing table
Ernest Hemingway wrote Across the River and into the Trees here, working at a corner table overlooking the water with a bottle of Valpolicella for company. Greta Garbo stayed in her usual fashion: anonymously, unsuccessfully, and with great irritation at anyone who recognised her. Bogart, Chaplin and Elizabeth Taylor were among the other names who passed through, joining the festival crowd that has made the Gritti a fixture of cinematic Venice.
" Garbo stayed in her usual fashion: anonymously, unsuccessfully, and with great irritation at anyone who recognised her.
The terrace and the Bellini
The terrace restaurant overlooking Santa Maria della Salute is one of the most beautiful dining spots in Venice, and possibly the world. The hotel's Bellini — prosecco and white peach puree, invented at Harry's Bar just down the canal — is served with appropriate reverence.
Signature Experiences
The terrace restaurant
The terrace overlooking the church of Santa Maria della Salute is one of the most beautiful dining spots in Venice, and possibly the world. The hotel's Bellini — prosecco and white peach puree, invented at Harry's Bar just down the canal — is served with appropriate reverence.
Famous Connections
Who Came Here
Plan Your Visit
Good to Know
- How to Book: Book direct at marriott.com or by phone. The hotel is part of Marriott's Luxury Collection.
- Best Time: Open year-round, though Venice is best visited outside the peak summer months. September brings the Venice Film Festival and its film-star clientele.
- Accessibility: Contact the hotel directly to confirm access requirements.
- Tip: Even if you are not staying, the terrace restaurant overlooking Santa Maria della Salute is worth the visit — order a Bellini and watch the Grand Canal go by.
Nearby
Continue the tour