A new chapter in ultra-luxury travel has arrived in Venice, as Orient Express unveils its latest flagship hotel inside the historic Palazzo Donà Giovannelli.
For the first time in nearly six centuries, the 15th-century architectural landmark has been transformed into a hotel, marking a significant expansion of the brand’s growing portfolio of high-end travel experiences.
Set in the quieter Cannaregio district, where canals intersect along Rio di Noale, the property repositions Venice as a gateway in the modern Orient Express journey – echoing its historic role on the legendary route between Paris and Istanbul.
A historic palazzo reimagined
The transformation has been led by architect and designer Aline Asmar d’Amman, known for blending heritage preservation with contemporary design. The result is a carefully layered space where centuries-old frescoes, sculptural details, and Venetian craftsmanship coexist with modern luxury.
The palazzo’s iconic elements – including its octagonal staircase and grand salons – have been restored with precision, while new interventions introduce Murano glass chandeliers, textured stone, and rich fabrics inspired by Venice’s “lost colours.”
A standout feature is the former inner courtyard, now reimagined as a dramatic lobby space, while a hidden garden at the heart of the building offers a rare sense of calm within the city.
47 rooms shaped by history
The hotel features 47 rooms, suites, and residences, each designed to reflect the building’s layered past. Restored murals, canal views, and sculptural ceilings create an immersive atmosphere that blends residential intimacy with theatrical elegance.
Six signature suites anchor the experience, with spaces reaching up to 145 square metres. These include historical frescoes, marble fireplaces, and large windows overlooking Venice’s canals – positioning each suite as a curated piece of living heritage.
Dining as a destination
The culinary offering is led by three-Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck, bringing a fine-dining concept to the palazzo’s historic orangerie.
Guests can also experience:
La Casati – an all-day restaurant inspired by avant-garde Venetian culture
Wagon Bar – an Art Deco space referencing the original Orient Express trains
Seasonal menus that blend local Venetian ingredients with global influences
Dining is positioned not just as a service, but as part of the hotel’s wider narrative-driven experience.
A theatrical approach to hospitality
Beyond architecture and design, the hotel introduces a storytelling concept where guests are guided through curated experiences. As day transitions into evening, lighting, atmosphere, and service evolve, turning the palazzo into what the brand describes as a “theatre of travel.”
Arrivals can even be made by boat through a Gothic water gate – reinforcing the sense of timeless, cinematic luxury.
A growing luxury network
The opening follows the launch of Orient Express La Minerva and the debut of the La Dolce Vita Orient Express train, signalling a broader strategy to build a connected luxury ecosystem across Italy and beyond.
For travellers, the new Venice property represents more than just accommodation – it is an attempt to merge destination, design, and narrative into a single immersive experience.
