THERE are hotels in Venice that trade purely on location and others that lean heavily into nostalgia. The newly reopened Hotel Gabrielli manages the rare feat of delivering both while feeling unmistakably fresh.
Following an extensive renovation and reopening in August last year under the stewardship of Starhotels’ Collezione brand, this historic 14th-century palazzo has entered a confident new chapter, one that honours its heritage without becoming beholden to it.
Hotel Gabrielli
The lobby
Set on the prestigious Riva degli Schiavoni with stunning views of the lagoon, the hotel originated as a restaurant founded by Austrian soldier Andreas Perkhofer to provide food and refreshment to the large number of Austrian officers present during the time of the Austrian Empire’s control over Venice. Due to popular demand, lodgings were soon offered and the hotel was born. Today Hotel Gabrielli is still owned by Perkhofer family.
The hotel is the very image of a romantic pallazo with its distinct Venetian gothic windows and balconies. Inside Milanese designer Andrea Auletta has preserved the building’s architectural bones while layering in a refined contemporary elegance.
Original Murano chandeliers hang from hand-painted ceilings above restored parquet floors, while Istrian stone columns sit comfortably alongside clean-lined contemporary furnishings. The hotel has preserved countless artefacts that have survived several historical floods. The effect is sumptuous – a modern Venetian grandeur that does not tip into excess.
The breakfast room
My suite captured this balance perfectly. The bed was among the most comfortable I have encountered anywhere, the bathroom deeply luxurious, and a separate living room opened onto a private balcony that overlooked the lagoon. Early mornings were accompanied by shifting light across the water, evenings brought that unmistakable Venetian hush once the day-trippers had departed.The breakfast room with original historic font LR
Despite its tranquil atmosphere, the hotel is remarkably well positioned. St Mark’s Square is a gentle 15-minute walk away, close enough for spontaneity, far enough to avoid the constant swell of crowds. Vaporetto services deliver guests directly to the hotel’s private water entrance, a small but meaningful luxury that becomes increasingly appreciated after a long day navigating Venice’s labyrinthine calli.
Presidential suite terrace
The recent restoration has also reduced the room count from 105 to just 66, creating a noticeably more spacious and exclusive feel throughout. Public spaces are thoughtfully conceived: the reception resembles an elegant private salon, mirrored surfaces catching glimpses of the lagoon, while textiles crafted by historic Venetian makers such as Rubelli reinforce the hotel’s strong sense of place.
Dining here is equally impressive. At Caffè Gabrielli, classic Italian dishes are approached with imagination, resulting in plates that feel both rooted and quietly inventive. The presence of a Venetian chef lends the menu an authenticity that is difficult to fabricate. Cocktails at the K Lounge Bar are superb.
Lagoon view suite
One of Gabrielli’s most unexpected treasures is its private garden, a rarity in central Venice and a serene counterpoint to the city’s theatrical energy. Equally enticing is the rooftop terrace, where panoramic views stretch from the Lido to Punta della Dogana, a reminder that few cities reward upward perspective quite like this one.
What ultimately distinguishes Hotel Gabrielli, however, is its service. Impeccable without ever feeling rehearsed, the staff strike the perfect balance between attentiveness, professionalism and kindness.
Venice has no shortage of grand addresses, but Gabrielli feels particularly suited to the modern traveller seeking indulgence without ostentation. Plush yet restrained, historic yet forward-looking, it is, quite simply, an exceptional base for a high-end Venetian escape.
by Nicola Kavanagh
collezione.starhotels.com/en/our-hotels/hotel-gabrielli-venice