Elegant rooms and voluptuous suites offer romantically refined Venetian design, while some have private balconies or terraces complete with sunbeds. Choose between Garden View and Lagoon View rooms in the main hotel or Palazzetto, connected to Palazzo Vendramin, where the suites have magnificent views of St. Marks Square. Our recommendation is to push the boat out as much as you can afford and book a room with a balcony and lagoon view or, if possible, for the ultimate experience, reserve the 18th century-inspired Dogaressa Suite adorned with exquisite art, fine fabrics, a pink marble bathroom and the most remarkable views across the lagoon to the Doge's Palace and St Mark’s Square.

Belmond Hotel Cipriani offers space and relaxation away from the hubub of Piazza San Marco and the Grand Canal, with a full-size swimming pool (the only hotel pool in Venice) and a tennis court. The Casanova Wellness Centre is probably the best spa in Venice, pampering guests in the gardens where Casanova once wooed his lovers, and a hair salon ensures girls don't have to fret about their locks.

Taste sensations

Belmond Hotel Cipriani offers several dining options. The jewel in the Cipriani crown is Michelin-starred Oro, overseen by chef Davide Bisetto, who creates imaginative dishes inspired by Italian tradition, using only the freshest ingredients. His love of abstract art is often featured in the presentation of his dishes. such as Seppia o Lardo, cuttlefish carpaccio with marinated daikon and clam sherbert. Cips Club is an informal Venetian institution, with a beautiful terrace and Enoteca offers traditional dishes. Porticcioli is the legendary poolside restaurant and the bars include Gabbiano by the pool and the San Giorgio Bar. Service throughout the hotel and restaurants is exemplary.

In our view, however, there's nothing better than sitting out on the terrace at Cip's Club and watching Venice sparkle at night.

We will be visiting again in 2018 to bring you an updated review!