A new chapter of unparalleled luxury is dawning on the Venetian lagoon as one of its most storied landmarks, the legendary Hotel Danieli, prepares to relaunch under the prestigious Four Seasons banner. Now accepting reservations ahead of its grand unveiling, the newly christened “Danieli, A Four Seasons Hotel, Venice” is poised to meticulously blend its profound historical legacy with the world-class service and contemporary elegance synonymous with the brand. Situated on the prime waterfront of Riva degli Schiavoni, a location that has captivated travelers for centuries and is just steps from the bustling Piazza San Marco, the hotel’s transformation marks a significant moment for the city. This ambitious project promises to offer discerning guests an unparalleled gateway to the heart of Venetian culture, reimagining a celebrated icon while honoring its irreplaceable soul and architectural grandeur for a new generation of sophisticated travelers seeking an authentic and unforgettable Italian experience.
A Legacy Reimagined Through Modern Artistry
The hotel’s architectural soul is deeply rooted in a magnificent complex of three interconnected palaces, each representing a distinct era of Venetian history. The heart of the property is the 15th-century Palazzo Dandolo, a former noble residence that first opened its doors as a hotel in 1822, establishing a legacy of hospitality that has endured for over two centuries. This original structure was later seamlessly joined by the 19th-century Palazzo Casa Nuova and, subsequently, the 1950s Palazzo Danieli Excelsior. This rich heritage is being meticulously preserved throughout the current restoration. Standout features, such as the original palace’s breathtaking four-story atrium, are being carefully honored. This central court, adorned with soaring pink marble columns, a grand golden staircase, and exquisite chandeliers crafted from locally made Murano glass, remains a testament to the opulence and artistic mastery of the Venetian Republic and will continue to be a centerpiece of the guest experience.
The comprehensive redesign is expertly guided by the acclaimed French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, a long-time and trusted collaborator with Four Seasons who has shaped the aesthetic of their properties in Paris, Florence, and Milan. Rochon’s vision for the Danieli is to honor the hotel’s storied past while creating a contemporary expression of luxury that feels both timeless and fresh. His design masterfully utilizes light, which is amplified through the strategic placement of glass and mirrors to illuminate the opulent interiors and create an airy, luminous atmosphere. The color palette is distinctly Venetian, drawing inspiration from the city’s unique light and landscape with a sophisticated mix of celadon blues and greens, soft pinks, warm golden yellows, and rich terracotta. The redesign is also a magnificent showcase of the city’s finest craftsmanship, incorporating premium local materials such as world-renowned Rubelli fabrics, traditional Venetian terrazzo flooring, and fine Italian marbles to ensure every detail reflects the artistic heritage of its location.
A New Era of Hospitality and Accommodations
This landmark project represents the fulfillment of a long-held dream for Four Seasons, a sentiment expressed by Adrian Messerli, the company’s President of Hotel Operations for Europe, Middle East, and Africa. He highlighted the brand’s deeply respectful approach to the property’s history and praised the strong, collaborative partnership with the owner, Gruppo Statuto, with whom Four Seasons also partners on celebrated properties in Milan and Taormina. At the helm of the hotel’s day-to-day operations is General Manager Christian Zandonella, whose extensive international expertise will be instrumental in shaping a world-class guest experience. Zandonella’s forward-thinking vision is to transform the hotel into more than just a place to stay; he aims for it to be a conduit for authentic Venetian cultural connections, fostering collaborations with local artisans and celebrating the city’s unique and vibrant lifestyle to offer guests a truly immersive and meaningful visit.
Upon its initial opening, the Danieli will feature 120 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, many of which will offer highly sought-after, unobstructed views of the Venetian Lagoon and its enchanting islands. The accommodations have been designed with modern versatility in mind, offering numerous connecting options that are perfect for families and groups traveling together. This debut is just the beginning of a carefully phased expansion, with an additional 56 rooms and suites planned for addition in the near future, which will bring the hotel’s total inventory to 176 accommodations. Looking further ahead, another expansion is slated for 2027. A key future enhancement that will elevate the guest experience is the much-anticipated debut of the Danieli Spa, scheduled to open its doors in late 2026. This serene sanctuary will feature three private treatment rooms, including a dedicated suite for couples, along with a sauna and a traditional hammam for ultimate relaxation.
Curated Venetian Indulgence and Immersion
Dining at the Danieli is set to be a destination in itself, promising culinary experiences that are as memorable as the views. The hotel’s premier venue, Restaurant Terrazza Danieli, is perfectly positioned on the top floor, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city’s iconic skyline and the shimmering Laguna from both its elegant indoor dining room and its expansive outdoor terrace. Helmed by the talented Executive Chef Adriano Rausa, the restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a menu that focuses on fresh, innovative interpretations of regional cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, including produce from Venice’s own agricultural heartland, the island of Sant’Erasmo. For drinks and socializing, guests can choose between two distinct and sophisticated settings: the intimate and historic Bar Dandolo, located just off the lobby, or the stunning al fresco bar at Terrazza Danieli, providing the perfect spot for enjoying a classic sunset aperitivo. The hotel is also well-equipped to host exclusive gatherings, featuring over 9,125 square feet of elegant and versatile event space.
Beyond its physical splendor and luxurious amenities, the new Four Seasons experience at the Danieli will be defined by a series of unique, immersive activities designed to connect guests to the very soul of Venice. The hotel will offer a portfolio of curated opportunities that go far beyond typical tourism, such as learning the traditional art of Venetian rowing, known as Voga Veneta, at a historic local club where guests can meet the artisans who craft the specialized oars. Visitors will also have the chance to explore the city’s hidden “secret gardens,” lush private oases that are normally closed to the public, or gain fascinating insight into the innovative MOSE tidal floodgate system, a marvel of modern engineering. For a truly unique glimpse into contemporary Venetian society, the hotel can arrange a private visit with a celebrated local hostess, ensuring a stay that is not only supremely luxurious but also deeply and authentically connected to the magic of the city.
