Orient Express has opened reservations for its upcoming Venice property, Orient Express Palazzo Dona Giovannelli, with guest arrivals scheduled to begin in April 2026. The hotel represents the brand's second Italian property following Orient Express La Minerva in Rome.
The 47-room property occupies a 15th-century Venetian palazzo in the Cannaregio district, positioned at the confluence of two canals. The historic building was constructed in 1436 under architect Filippo Calendario, who also designed the Doge's Palace.
The palazzo previously served as the private residence of the noble Dona and Giovannelli families before being gifted to the Duke of Urbino. The building features Neogothic and Baroque architectural elements, with a facade displaying seven carved Gothic windows overlooking the Rio de Noale.
Architect and interior designer Aline Asmar d'Amman led the restoration project, which preserved original frescoes by Italian masters and mosaic floors. The property includes an octagonal staircase added in the 19th century by Giovanni Battista Meduna, the architect behind Venice's Ca' d'Oro and La Fenice theatre.
"More than a hotel, Orient Express Palazzo Dona Giovannelli is a transformative voyage through centuries of splendour," said Gilda Perez-Alvarado, CEO of Orient Express. "Rooted in the poetic vision of Orient Express, this Venetian property embodies a heritage in motion where every stay becomes a passage through memory, art and emotion."
Architect and interior designer Aline Asmar d'Amman led the restoration project, which preserved original frescoes by Italian masters and mosaic floors.
Credit: 2025 Orient ExpressThe accommodation offering includes six signature suites located on the piano nobile and first floor, plus Orient Express apartments in an adjacent building with canal views. The piano nobile houses several restored spaces including the Vittoria Ballroom, originally created for Princess Vittoria Farnese's 1548 wedding, a Library of Cultures and a Music Room.
Guest access to the property includes arrival by private boat through a 15th-century Gothic portal on the canal, entry through Santa Fosca's garden, or via the Strada Nova into the courtyard.
The hotel's dining facilities will include a fine dining restaurant with private boat access, an all-day dining space overlooking the courtyard and garden and the Wagon Bar. The property is situated in Cannaregio, described as the first Venetian district where traditional life remains preserved.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Orient Express. It has been fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
