Hotel Danieli is a five-star landmark hotel at Riva degli Schiavoni 4196, 30122 Venezia, on the Castello waterfront a short stroll from St. Mark’s Square. Its core is the Gothic Palazzo Dandolo, built in the late 14th century for the Dandolo family. Giuseppe Dal Niel converted it into a hotel in 1822. Travelers come for lagoon views across to San Giorgio Maggiore, opulent Venetian interiors and a front-row position on the city’s most famous promenade.
What to Expect at Hotel Danieli
The hotel spans three connected buildings. The first is the original Palazzo Dandolo, whose pointed-arch facade fronts the Riva. The second is the 19th-century Palazzo Casa Nuova. The third is the Palazzo Danieli Excelsior, added in 1948. The showpiece is the multi-storey Gothic atrium, with a gilded staircase, Murano glass chandeliers, marble columns and loggias overlooking the lobby. Over two centuries the guest list has included Charles Dickens, Richard Wagner, Honoré de Balzac and George Sand.
Rooms range from classic doubles to signature lagoon-view suites. The Dandolo palazzo has damask walls, antique furnishings and gilt mirrors that suit honeymooners. The Excelsior wing offers lighter, more contemporary layouts that work well for business travelers. Dining centers on the rooftop Terrazza Danieli, which serves refined Venetian and Mediterranean cooking such as lagoon seafood and risotto. Its terrace frames the Basin of St. Mark. The lobby Bar Dandolo pours aperitivi and classic cocktails, often with live piano music in the evening.
- Gothic Atrium: A soaring courtyard lobby with a gilded staircase, carved balustrades and Murano chandeliers.
- Terrazza Danieli: Rooftop dining with panoramic views to San Giorgio Maggiore and the Giudecca.
- Bar Dandolo: A lobby bar known for spritz, Bellini and evening piano music.
- Lagoon-View Suites: Historic suites with antique furnishings facing the Riva degli Schiavoni.
- Events & Weddings: Palatial salons for meetings, receptions and Venetian weddings.
Hotel Danieli at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Riva degli Schiavoni 4196, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy |
| Neighborhood / Area | Castello, beside San Marco |
| Operating Hours | Reception 24 hours; check-in typically from 3 pm, check-out by noon |
| Admission / Price Range | Five-star, $$$$; rates vary by season |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 2 to 4 nights; 1.5 to 2 hours for dinner or drinks |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | San Zaccaria vaporetto stop (ACTV lines 1, 2, 4.1, 5.1); water taxis dock nearby; car parking at Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto |
| Official Website & Phone | hoteldanieli.com, +39 041 522 6480 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Book lagoon-view rooms well ahead for Carnival, the Biennale and September. Reserve Terrazza Danieli for sunset, especially between May and October. From Santa Lucia station or Piazzale Roma, take ACTV line 1 or 2 to San Zaccaria, which is steps from the entrance. Arriving by private water taxi from Marco Polo Airport is the most comfortable option when you have luggage.
The Riva is flat, and the hotel has elevators. However, the bridges toward San Marco, including Ponte della Paglia, have steps, so wheelchair users should contact the concierge about the best routes. The Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs are two minutes away on foot. St. Mark’s Basilica is about five minutes away. The Gothic church of San Zaccaria and the Via Garibaldi dining street are within 10 to 15 minutes’ walk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can non-guests visit Hotel Danieli?
Yes. Non-guests can enjoy the atrium through Bar Dandolo or a meal at Terrazza Danieli. Evening aperitivo is the most atmospheric time to go.
How expensive is Hotel Danieli?
It is firmly in the $$$$ tier, and suites command premium rates. Book directly via the official website for current offers.
How long should I stay?
Two to four nights covers San Marco and Castello comfortably. Allow about two hours for a rooftop dinner.
Is there a dress code?
Smart casual is expected at Terrazza Danieli and Bar Dandolo in the evening. The hotel welcomes families, and the concierge can arrange childcare and gondola outings.
When planning your Venice travel guide or comparing verified hotels and wedding venue in Venice, pair this stop with standout local spots including Hostaria Venexiana, Fried Land, H10 Palazzo Canova, and Monument to Victor Emmanuel II (nearby).
