We adore Venice. Of course, we call it by its proper name; Venezia.
Our passion for Venice is unwavering. For us, it will always be Venezia.
We return nearly every year, having experienced the city’s legendary hospitality at icons like The Gritti Palace, Belmond Hotel Cipriani, and The Danieli. These storied hotels offer peerless service and a sense of place, but for discerning travelers seeking privacy, nothing compares to living in your own palazzo.
Turning a Dream Into Reality For years, the idea of renting a Venetian palazzo seemed unattainable—an aspiration reserved for the pages of travel magazines. Yet, with attractive off-season rates now available in 2025, we finally seized the opportunity to immerse ourselves in this unique experience.
The difference was remarkable.
After extensive research into available historic properties, we discovered Imperiale Piano Nobile. Perfectly situated next to The Gritti Palace, this palazzo offers what we consider the ultimate Venetian address—just steps from the vibrant Piazza San Marco, with sunlit balconies overlooking the lively Grand Canal, where gondolas drift by in timeless rhythm.
While our typical Venetian escapes last two nights, we extended our stay to three, determined to fully absorb the authenticity and romance of palazzo living.
Stepping inside, we realized photos could never capture the true magnificence. The soaring ceilings, intricate moldings, antique furnishings, and sparkling chandeliers exceeded even the grandest hotel suite. This was a realm apart.
Historic Opulence Redefined
Venice’s great palazzos are steeped in history, and Palazzo Grimani is no exception. Once the residence of renowned psychoanalyst Cesare Musatti—dubbed Italy’s Sigmund Freud—it retains an air of cultivated intellect and refinement.
Yet the interiors radiate serenity, not introspection.
Musatti believed that our surroundings, from opera houses to salons, shape our inner worlds. Staying here, we felt as though we were cast in our own cinematic masterpiece. The pastel palette, curated antiques, and abundant art created a harmonious tableau, inviting quiet contemplation and discovery at every turn.
The principal suite, crowned by a dramatic four-poster bed and an exquisite frescoed ceiling, is a focal point. Still, it was the interconnected salons and formal dining room that truly set the stage for unforgettable moments.
Private Fine Dining: A Michelin-Caliber Affair
The dining room, with its gilded mirrors and Murano glass chandeliers, is arguably the most beautiful we’ve ever encountered. For three nights, it belonged exclusively to us. We elevated the experience by inviting acclaimed local chefs—one celebrated for seafood, another for expertly prepared meats. Both are highly recommended for gourmet travelers.
Each evening, we savored a bespoke four-course menu, crafted to rediscover authentic Venetian flavors. While not aiming to rival the likes of Osteria Francescana or Enoteca Pinchiorri, the intimate ambiance of our own historic setting made every meal extraordinary—an epicurean journey impossible to replicate elsewhere.
Gazing at the ornate chandeliers and original stucco work depicting musical instruments, we learned this was once the palazzo’s «sala di musica»—a space designed for musical performance and social gathering.
Music and Memories in the Salone
This musical heritage inspired us to transform the adjoining salon into our own private concert hall. Anchored by an elegant period Steinway grand piano, the room became the heart of our evenings, resonating with live performances.
On our first night, we invited renowned Venetian vocalist Sara Bardino, accompanied by pianist and violinist. Their intimate recital was a highlight, weaving classical and contemporary melodies into the Venetian night.
The final evening reached a crescendo with a private opera concert by celebrated artists Sara Pretegiani and Giovanni Battista Palmieri—known professionally as Sara and Gio—who have graced stages before audiences of 40,000. That night, their powerful arias filled the palazzo for an audience of just two. The emotion lingered long after the last note.
Departure: Reluctantly Saying Addio
All too soon, our time at this remarkable residence drew to a close, leaving us with indelible memories.
Our private water taxi collected us from the nearby Gritti Palace jetty—a seamless and elegant farewell. The hotel, by the way, remains an excellent choice for breakfast or lunch on the Riva terrace, overlooking the Grand Canal. Having such a renowned neighbor enhanced our stay immeasurably.
Watch our exclusive video tour of the suite.
Discover more details and availability for Imperiale Piano Nobile here.
By: Jason R. Eckhoff
