Maximalist lagoon wonderland
Scented with black pepper, candlelit salons layer carmine velvet, Fortuny fixtures, and vitrines brimming with antique curiosities.
“As we arrive in the lobby, the effect is like falling face first into a lush pile of carmine velvet.”
Where it shines
Remarkable
Joseph Kosuth's neon installation meets crimson velvets and Murano glass chandeliers.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
Forbes Recommended
Forbes Travel Guide
2026
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and AFAR.
Even by Venetian standards, the Hotel Metropole is steeped in history — this was once an orphanage where Vivaldi gave music lessons.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Set directly on the Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront, the promenade links Piazza San Marco to the Giardini della Biennale.
The rooms
Venetian damasks and antique furnishings dress the interiors, while select suites feature private rooftop altane or personal hammams.
The hydrotherapy pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The indoor hydrotherapy pool is surrounded by gold leaf and carved columns, with massage jets and a waterfall.
The spa
The private spa circuit includes a candlelit Turkish steam hammam with canal views, chromotherapy showers, and an ice waterfall.
Dogs stay too.
Restaurant
The Citrus Garden
Citrus trees and jasmine fill this sixteenth-century courtyard, where tables sit beneath lanterns and carved wooden screens.
Today, the Metropole is undetectable as a former convent, and treasures may be discovered on every floor — the family who owns the hotel has stuffed it with innumerable artworks and endlessly quirky items.
Bar
Orientalbar & Bistrot
Guests gather on crimson velvet seating among antique armor for Venetian cicchetti, cocktails, and seasonal afternoon tea.
How it began

Antonio Vivaldi gave music lessons here when the building was an orphanage chapel, centuries before the Beggiato family took over.
“Escape from the tourist-packed lagoon-side Riva degli Schiavoni into the Metropole’s shadowy salon… There are burnished mirrors on the ceiling, crimson drapery, potted palms, and plush, deep sofas.”
Good to know
Stay here
Hotel Metropole
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.