A Venetian Dream

Venice is Marco’s backyard, but staying at the Hotel Danieli made it feel brand new. As Marco and Eleni, we were enchanted by this 14th-century palazzo, steps from St. Mark’s Square. For Marco, the planner, it was a chance to immerse in his homeland’s history and proximity to the Casino di Venezia. For Eleni, the vibe curator, it was the promise of gilded elegance and canal-side photo ops.

Our Palazzo Haven

The Hotel Danieli is a masterpiece, with Murano glass chandeliers and marble floors that whisper of Venice’s golden age. Our suite overlooked the lagoon, offering views of gondolas gliding by. Marco geeked out over the hotel’s past as a noble residence, while Eleni was smitten with the ornate decor—perfect for her camera. The welcome prosecco and pistachio macarons set the tone for a luxurious stay, and we toasted to adventure from our balcony.

Casino Nights

The Casino di Venezia, the world’s oldest casino, was a short gondola ride away. Housed in a Renaissance palace, its frescoed halls felt like stepping into a painting. We tried our luck at roulette, where Eleni’s bold bets paid off, and I (Marco) enjoyed the cerebral challenge of blackjack. The atmosphere was electric yet refined, with clinking glasses and soft chatter. We ended the night with cocktails at the casino’s bar, marveling at its 15th-century charm.

Dining and Exploring

Dinner at Restaurant Terrazza Danieli was a highlight, with Venetian dishes like sarde in saor (sweet-sour sardines) for Eleni and a hearty veal ossobuco for me, paired with a crisp Soave. The rooftop views of the Grand Canal were breathtaking. The next day, we wandered Venice’s alleys, visiting the Rialto Bridge and a tucked-away bacaro for cicchetti (Venetian tapas). Eleni photographed the city’s reflections, while Marco navigated us to a quiet café for espresso.

Why We Loved It

Hotel Danieli and the Casino di Venezia were a perfect blend of luxury and history. Venice’s magic, amplified by the hotel’s grandeur and the casino’s allure, made this trip unforgettable. It’s a must for romantics and adventurers seeking la dolce vita.

• Tip: Book a lagoon-view room for iconic Venice vistas.
• Don’t Miss: A gondola ride to the casino for a memorable evening.