New Opening: Orient Express Venezia at Palazzo Donà Giovannelli
by Briana Bonfiglio
Orient Express Venezia Lobby. Photo: Giulio Ghirardi
Accor is continuing to roll out the Orient Express brand relaunch with the opening of Orient Express Venezia at Palazzo Donà Giovannelli. After a grand, eight-year renovation of the 15th century palazzo, the restored building now opens as a 47-key hotel along Rio di Noale in Venice.
Gilda Perez-Alvarado, CEO of Orient Express, said the property “has been revived with extraordinary craftsmanship and deep respect for its six centuries of history, becoming a place where the art of travel meets the soul of the city.”
Guests can arrive at the hotel via boat through the Gothic water gate, relax in the secret garden, and discover the preservation of art and architecture throughout the property. They can also enjoy an all-day restaurant, a fine dining venue, and the Art Deco-inspired Wagon Bar, which pays homage to Orient Express train lounge cars.
“This hotel embodies the essence of Orient Express: a constellation of rare experiences, each rooted in heritage yet reimagined for a new generation of discerning travelers,” Perez-Alvarado said. “Venice now stands as a luminous cornerstone of our vision, bridging past and future, and inviting guests into a world of timeless elegance and discovery.”
Orient Express Venezia’s guest rooms and suites feature restored murals, sculptural ceilings, and gardens and canal views. There are also six Signature Suites for more elevated experiences.
The new hotel follows last year’s opening of Orient Express La Minerva in Rome and the launch of La Dolce Vita Orient Express train journeys.





