Venetian Glamour at The St. Regis

Boasting a prime Grand Canal position, some travellers zip past in water taxis, while others take in the sights from a gondola. Inside, the property is a design-lover’s dream. Housing an impressive art collection and beautifully curated rooms, the attention to detail is impeccable. Staff cater to every whim with a genuine sense of joy, making it easy to slip past into carefree holiday mode. Order a drink, sit back and relax. You’re in good hands here.

Quiet Luxury

Venice’s regal sophistication is matched by the St Regis, without being overly ostentatious. It has that immediate wow-factor with unrivalled views of celebrated landmarks, including the Basilica Santa Maria della Salute, directly opposite the hotel.

Built across five historic palazzi, about half the 130 rooms and 39 suites offer canal views. Many have private terraces or Juliet balconies, perfect for people-watching (which is a favoured activity of many hotel guests). For wellness fans, there’s an onsite gym and spa catering to mind and body. It’s not the main focus of the hotel, but nor should it be in a city like Venice.

Culinary Excellence

Venetian cuisine is a seafood lover's dream, whether you venture away from the hotel to one of the city’s many restaurants or prefer to stay in. Gio’s Restaurant serves food throughout the day. With a terrace overlooking the canal, meals are often accompanied by a friendly wave from passing gondoliers. If there was ever a “pinch me, I’m in Venice” moment, this would be it.

Come nighttime, the same space becomes an opulent setting for a memorable meal. Offering a refreshed take on Venetian cuisine, Executive Chef Giuseppe Ricci excels in his interpretations. Holidays allow you to indulge in long dinners and Gio’s is best enjoyed over several hours. There arethree tasting menus that brilliantly showcase Chef Ricci’s skills. We enjoyed the Harmony Between Veneto and Puglia menu. Five spectacular courses, each unique in presentation and flavour profile, made for a memorable experience.

The homemade pasta with pheasant was perfectly al dente, while the grilled octopus with apple salmoriglio was equal parts charred and tart. The jazzy ambiance of Arts Bar may lure you in on the way back to your room. As the name suggests, the drinking den honours the hotel’s love of art in its decor and drinks list. The Worldwide Icons Of Art menu captures the spirit of various renowned artists and their work.

Each cocktail is presented in custom-made Murano glassware, made in collaboration with local artists from Berengo Studio. Be sure to try the Silver Dreams concoction, which draws inspiration from Andy Warhol’s famous 1964 Shots Marilyns series. In homage to Miss Monroe’s enduring allure, the tipple contains vodka, St. Germain, popcorn syrup and a splash of Champagne.

Artistic Flair

Much like Venice itself, the St Regis doesn’t hide its love of Murano glass. A longstanding symbol of luxury and artistry, glass is an important part of Venetian tradition, dating back to the 13th century. Stunning examples are displayed throughout the hotel, particularly in the Gran Salone chandelier, a gift to the hotel from Chinese artist Ai Weiwei. Cut in dramatic baroque design with eye-catching motifs, the piece is a true visual spectacle.

Along with housing famous works, the hotel has equally inspired it. French impressionist painter Claude Monet famously visited the hotel in the 1900s, drawing inspiration from the view outside his room.

Departures, while sad, have an air of elegance in Venice to keep the post-holiday blues at bay. Like a scene from a movie, you’ll step off the pontoon into a private water taxi and give the city one last glance. And even as the landmarks slip away from view, the magic of the city will always leave a lasting impression.

marriott.com/en-us/hotels/vcexr-the-st-regis-venice/overview/