Ca' Nigra Lagoon Resort

Most properties in Venice have some kind of interesting history, but Ca’ Nigra’s is particularly illustrious. Once a palace frequented by the most important men and women of the day, it’s now an attractive hotel overlooking the Grand Canal. The architecture has remained largely unchanged since the time of the Venetian Republic and makes a spectacular first impression. Inside, there are lots of original features, like wrought-iron windows, marble friezes, and fantastic mosaics. What’s most unusual about this property, however, is the blending of Venetian and Asian styles. Traditional touches -- like Count Nigra’s crest on the floor -- complement Murano glass chandeliers, but you'll also spot Japanese tapestries, gold lanterns, and other Asian flourishes. The furniture belongs to the private collection of the Stea family, who currently own the property, and the floors and paintings are all original. The meshing of East and West, old and new, works surprisingly well. The vibe is relaxed, with water from the canal gently lapping against the lobby’s glass walls, and guests relaxing in the perfectly manicured rose garden. Guests are almost all leisure travelers, and this property particularly appeals to those with special occasions to celebrate.

Sitting pretty on the banks of the Grand Canal, with a quiet square to the rear and beautiful gardens at the front, this property has plenty of romantic appeal. The waters of the canal wash against the building, while the Scalzi Bridge, restaurants, and train station are all visible from the gardens. Campo S. Simeon Grande is three minutes away on foot, and is home to classic churches and Romanesque walkways. Santa Lucia Station -- which can connect leisure travelers to Rome -- is a five-minute walk away and the Piazzale Roma bus terminal takes 10 minutes reach on foot. It’s a five-minute walk to the Ferrovia water bus station, where boats cruise along the Grand Canal to St. Mark’s Square, a 20-minute journey.  Marco Polo Airport takes just over 30 minutes to get to from the hotel, via buses from Piazzale Roma.

Rooms are decorated in an eclectic style that ranges from more modern to antique. Expect to see the gamut of Venetian design details, including crystals, mosaics, and brocades all sitting harmoniously side-by-side. Most of the rooms are simple, with the amazing original furniture, ceilings, and floors taking center stage, but the suites have incredible views of the Grand Canal and the gardens. From standard to suites, all rooms include modern amenities, like seasonal air-conditioning, minibars, two telephones (one is in the bathroom), flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. There are large wardrobes holding safes, and at least two vintage chairs in all rooms. Premium rooms add Krups coffeemakers. Bathrooms are much more modern than most in Venice, with sleek showers or jetted bathtubs. Entry-level rooms have glass showers, whereas Deluxe Rooms have bathtubs with more decorative marble designs. Naturally, the glass-walled options don't feel quite as private. The most impressive room option here is the opulent Junior Suite, which has a terrace overlooking the Grand Canal, arched mosaics behind the bed, and a bathroom with a deep tub. 

The property has its own exclusive cavana, a type of watergate or water garage which isn't exactly common in the city any more. They’re typical of noble Venetian palaces and certainly add some pizzazz to arriving here. The hotel’s breakfast room doubles as a lounge area during the colder months. It’s a bright and airy space, thanks to the glass ceiling, and an extensive buffet is served here. The food is particularly good, with eggs made to order and bacon too. This breakfast area leads out onto the gardens with views overlooking the Grand Canal. It's a particularly popular area for happy hour cocktails. There’s one meeting room on the first floor just off the saloon, which is particularly grand and used to be the bedroom of Count Nigra. Finally, the hotel can arrange private excursions should you wish to tour Murano, the Grand Canal, or even go on a shopping trip.