The splendor of the Hotel Palazzo Priuli - where 14th-century Venice comes to life!

Stepping into the Hotel Palazzo Priuli is like stepping back in time to the Venice of the 14th century. Spectacular architecture and splendid period decor fill this historic boutique hotel in the quiet sestiere of Costello in Venice, Italy. Art enthusiasts will revel in the collections that adorn the guest rooms and halls of this magnificent palace and historians will delight in the 14th-century architectural extravagance throughout the palazzo. It's hard to imagine that this building is more than 600 years old, but time has taken its toll, and it's especially evident along the staircase in the lobby climbing up to the Piano Nobile. Extremely worn down and leaning slightly to the right, which is a little discomforting at first, these very steps have been traversed by residents and guests for more than half a millennium!

Standing proudly alongside two picturesque canals in the heart of the quiet Castello sestiere of Venice, the Hotel Palazzo Priuli surrounds you with spectacular architecture, art and elegant furnishings that span 600 years of Venetian history. Although this 14th century palazzo lies just beyond Saint Mark’s Square or Piazza San Marco, it seems a world away. Just outside the hotel doors, you’ll discover quiet canals, narrow “calli” or alleyways, “campi” or squares, and those irresistible cozy canal-side cafés. Yet, you remain close enough to the major sights of the city centre including St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, Santa Maria del Salute, not to mention countless museums and churches throughout the city. Location is everything so when you’re looking for accommodations in Venice, be sure it’s in a convenient area of the city because it will make ALL the difference in your Venetian experience. With that said, the Hotel Palazzo Priuli is just such a place and definitely worth "checking into." Be sure to see video and slide show at end of article.

Located on Fondamenta de l’Osmarin, a quiet canal-side street, the Hotel Palazzo Priuli is actually comprised of three separate hotels – the Hotel Palazzo Priuli, the oldest of the three and designated a Venice 4-Star Hotel. This is where you’ll find the lobby, a glorious ballroom and some of the nicest Venetians you’ll meet who go to the ends of the earth to make your experience delightful and comfortable! Across the calle or alleyway, you’ll find the other two guest houses - Ca Priuli and Casa Nicolo Priuli designated officially as Venetian First-Class Guest Houses. Collectively, they share the dining and living room, a breakfast garden room, the ballroom, and a terrace with spectacular views of the campanile in Piazza San Marco.

Stylish and elegantly furnished rooms await the guests of the Hotel Palazzo Priuli. You'll find you’re surrounded by Renaissance masterpieces, antique furnishings and Murano glass chandeliers. Combine this with the magnificent architecture of the historic palazzo, and suddenly, you’re transported back in time to the 18th and 19th centuries. How’s that for la dolce vita? There are 39 Superior and Classic rooms plus three Junior Suites named after notable Doges of Italy. Check out the hotel's website photo gallery for spectacular snapshots of these elegantly appointed rooms. You won't believe your eyes! If it’s not too cost prohibitive, let me suggest a room with a private terrace overlooking the canals for the complete Venetian experience. Sit back with your glass of wine and watch the gondoliers serenade their passengers as they traverse the quiet waterways. Ah, Venice!

Having stayed at the Hotel Palazzo Priuli in Venice for five glorious days, I found the value and the experience exceeded every expectation including the price I paid, for these elegant accommodations overlooking the quiet canal and Fondamenta de l'Osmarin (Room 304 if you’re interested). Plus, daily breakfast is included in the price of your room. At the time I stayed here, since I booked a room with a terrace, I had the option of having breakfast delivered to my room every morning. I am not sure this is still the case but it’s definitely worth asking about when you book. Rest assured, breakfast is a short walk away.

For more information about the Hotel Palazzo Priuli and to check availability and pricing, visit HotelPriuli.com. For package tours and pricing from the Orlando area, visit Priceline.com for some great deals. Check out LonelyPlanet.com for great resources to help you plan your Venetian escape!

Fun Fact about the Hotel Palazzo Priuli:

Upon checking in the hotel’s lobby, glance over to the right where you’ll find a stone stairway leading upstairs. Don’t be surprised as you ascend the stairs and find yourself leaning slightly to the right. The gentle slope is the product of more than 600 years of history and it’s an extraordinary experience to say the least. Once you reach the ballroom on the second floor, you’ll find all kinds of helpful brochures about local attractions, tours and concerts.

Arrivederci!