With its awe-inspiring architecture, exceptional cuisine and glamorous clientele, Aman Venice is a Venetian gem on the banks of the Grand Canal
George and Amal Clooney tied the knot here at a star-studded ceremony which included the likes of Anna Wintour, Cindy Crawford and Matt Damon, while Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom recently checked in during a relaxing Italian break earlier this year. We are of course talking about Aman Venice. Formerly the late-Renaissance Palazzo Papadopoli, the grand building was home to the Arrivabene Valenti Gonzaga family for almost a decade until the luxe hotel brand persuaded them to allow Jean-Michel Gathy to convert it into a luxury hotel. A mere eight years later and Aman Venice is now well known as the city’s most outrageously opulent abode thanks to its elaborate architecture and design, featuring centuries-old chandeliers, silk wall coverings, gilded mirrors and antique artworks. Most guests also arrive by boat, docking at the palazzo’s private landing that leads directly into the regal reception hall—need we say more?
Home to only 24 opulent rooms and suites, the ambiance at Aman is nothing less than exclusive and lavish, and there’s no better way to start your day than by waking up and drawing open the curtains to be greeted with expansive views across the Grand Canal—simply grab a fresh cup of coffee and watch the rush hour of rivas and gondolas go by. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, be sure to check out the breathtaking Alcova Tiepolo Suite. A place where some of the world’s biggest names have laid their heads (it was the suite of choice for the Clooney’s wedding night abode), it is accessible by a hidden doorway, and is highly lauded for its gilded stucco reliefs, Chinoiserie paintings and Tiepolo’s cherub-packed ceiling. Alternatively, the Palazzo Stanza room has great canal views, while more minimalist all-white bedrooms boast incredible loft-style bathrooms and views of the hotel’s lush back garden.
When it comes to cuisine, expect a true Italian foodie adventure from start to finish. Take lunch in the wisteria-wrapped garden overlooking the canal, while dinner should be enjoyed in the former ballroom, adorned with mirrors, romantic lighting and original frescoes (three of which are Tiepolos). A love letter to Italy’s culinary heritage, executive chef Dario Ossola and creative consultant Davide Oldani have spent years forging relationships with local farmers, fishermen and market traders, resulting in dishes cooked from the finest Adriatic fish, single-source oils and artisanal pasta. Highlights include the handmade bigoli with clams and red chili, salt crusted sea bass and fresh vegetables from Rialto Market. Savour a moment of calm in the library before tucking in.
No seven-star hotel (yes, seven) is complete without a luxury spa, and you’ll stumble upon Aman’s tucked away on the third level of the garden-building. Here, therapies are offered in three low-lit rooms, one which comes with soaking tub, and include everything from indulgent body scrubs, wraps and facials to chakra-balancing massage and other holistic rituals that will hypnotise you into a state of Zen you’ll struggle to experience again.
Those heading out for the evening should speak to the sensational Concierge team, who can assist in a last-minute table at Antiche Carampane for lunch, one of the city’s oldest trattorias popular with the likes of Natalie Portman and Salma Hayek, or a spot on the terrace of De Pisis for dinner and drinks. On your return be sure to enjoy a night at Aman’s intimate rooftop bar, to be enjoyed along with sweeping views of the Alps. It’s true what they say—Aman Venice is the stuff of fairytales. Book now
