Some people complain about old age but I don't....not when you consider the alternative.
Some people complain about old age but I don't....not when you consider the alternative.
Member since:09.01.2003
Reviews:94
Members who trust:45
The Londra Palace is one of the oldest hotels in Venice, having first opened its doors in 1860. Perhaps its most famous visitor, at least in terms of what he did there, was the Russian composer Tchaikovsky who actually wrote his Fourth Symphony there. Having just heard a rendition of this work by the London Philharmonic Orchestra in Torino it somehow seemed appropriate to stay there.
An initial word of caution. If you ever arrive in Venice in the middle of a storm, maybe it is best to avoid a water taxi. Quite apart from the prohibitive fares (a typical two mile or so ride from the railway station to Piazza San Marco will set you back over £40) it can be DANGEROUS! The boat lurches like a bobcat when it moors beside a jetty and as the driver hols you have to jump onto a rather narrow and possibly slippery pier....
one step wrong and you're in the lagoon. The receptionist confirmed accidents do happen and she has personally witnessed two. So, I'm afraid, I have to recommend the vaporetto (water-bus) whether you arrive via Marco Poloairport or the railway station.
Location
The hotel is on the Riva degli Schiavoni, facing the lagoon, a stone's throw from the Bridge of Sighs and the Piazza San Marco. The nearest vaporetto stop is San Marco, literally outside the hotel. It will take you about twenty minutes by vaporetto to reach the hotel from Venice's only railway station, or the adjacent car-parks. I estimate a similar travel time from the airport.
Reception
The receptionists were prompt and efficient in effecting the registration although there was some vagueness about the type of room until it was entered. Checkout was smooth and there were no hidden extras or surprises in the final invoice.
Accommodation
The room was a good size for Venice, where rooms tend to be rather small. The pressure on space is such that even luxury hotels rarely have many very large rooms. Tastefully decorated in silks and brocades with an ultra-modern tv system, good air-conditioning and heating and an above average sized bathroom. Although there was no great view here, the room faced onto one of the back-alleys and you had a sort of view of part of a square, the rooms at the front - for which you pay a premium must have excellent views of the lagoon all the way to the Giudecca.
The housekeeping was discreet yet impeccable.
Concierge
Any requests for information were met by a Signor Alvise who was easily the most competent person in the hotel and the main reason for recommending it. If all the other staff learn from him this will be one of the best hotels in the world.
Restaurant/Bar
The hotel restaurant "Do Leoni" is smart and recommended in various guides. It is located on the ground floor of the hotel and has seating outside on the Riva degli Schiavoni. Prices are what you would expect for a restaurant of the type in Venice. The décor is fairly smart, all green tables and pink tablecloths etc.
The service is quite good and friendly but I did notice all the staff, including the friendly maitre, were very young. At times some of the waiters did give the impression the place was being run for their benefit rather than the customers. A bit tighter discipline and warmth of reactions (even though some punters deserve to be throttled) and the restaurant would improve.
There are no particular specialties that I noted. Fish and meat dishes and several types of pasta were on the menu - this is NOT a pizza joint! I had a decent terrine with rabbit and vegetables which was tasty and interesting.
Italian hotels tend to have a lot of sweet stuff for breakfast (cakes, biscuits etc) in addition to a spread of cold cuts and cereals. The Londra Palace is no different although, as you would expect, the quality is higher than average.
Other facilities
Well, pretty standard really. No fitness or spa facilities (these come at a real premium in Venice). Reception/concierge will give you information about events, travel etc. but will not actually book for you. Laundry on Monday to Friday and there was room service although the size of Venetian rooms tends to make this even more of a balancing act than usual if you choose to order any. The usual standard facilities offered by any 4 or 5 star hotel are also offered.
My verdict is that this hotel is a good mid-to-high price bet for staying in Venice. Its strongest points are the undoubted charm of the building and the tasteful way in which it has been refurbished, its location and, as mentioned, its super-efficient concierge.
Bear in mind that hotel prices in Venice, especially at peak season, are amongst the highest in the world. The Londra's rack rate starts from 275 euros per night during the low season (around £190 at current exchange rates) although it is possible to get significant discounts on rack rates on the net and through some travel agents.
Pictures of Hotel Londra Palace, Venice
Standard room
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Romantic waterfront hotel near Piazza San Marco This five story hotel has 53 air ... more
conditioned guestrooms. The high ceilinged rooms are appointed with silk covered walls, 19th century Biedermeier furniture, and gilt framed original oil paintings. Each ro...
Information:
Price is per double room per night and may vary depending on date booked...
Romantic waterfront hotel near Piazza San Marco This five story hotel has 53 air ... more
conditioned guestrooms. The high ceilinged rooms are appointed with silk covered walls, 19th century Biedermeier furniture, and gilt framed original oil paintings. Each ro...
Information:
Price is per double room per night and may vary depending on date booked...
Conveniently located on the Riva degli Schiavoni, just a few steps away from St. Mark's ... more
Square and Doge's Palace, the hotel is within easy reach of all the major historical sites of Venice. An incomparable view out of its 100 windows allows you to enjo...
Information:
Price is per double room per night and may vary depending on date booked...
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