The Danieli

THIS LAVISH GOTHIC VENETIAN LANDMARK – a former 14th century doge’s palace – glows with Venice’s golden past. Sitting in plum position by the lagoon, the Danieli is hard to beat for sheer old-time glamour.

Its palatial tone is set by a soaring, statement-making lobby clad in marble, complete with palm fronds, gothic arches and balustrades. There’s also a sumptuous lounge area with glittering chandeliers and gold leaf marble columns. The visual wow factor is not confined to the ground floor, either – head up to the Danieli's rooftop bar and you can quaff a prosecco while watching fabulous Venetian sunsets.

Scores of stars have swept in from the hotel's private landing stage (Liz Taylor reputedly spent at least two of her honeymoons here) and vintage rooms invite you to sleep amid rich fabrics, frescoes, oil paintings and antiques. Like the grandest grande dame, the Danieli shows her age at times – and following in the footsteps of the doges naturally comes at a price.

White-gloved waiters

More contemporary quarters can be found in the newer wings – but for the atmosphere quota you can't beat those in the original palazzo. Be lavish and splurge on a decent room with that lagoon view.

Don’t miss lunch in the Danieli's rooftop restaurant. Be fussed over by white-gloved waiters while you make the most of the photo opportunities. To cool off later, you can go and swim at a sister hotel on the Lido.

© Room for Romance