We arrived at Grand Hotel Dei Dogi via the Alialguna Aranicia (Orange) Line to Madonna dell’ Orto stop (commonly known as Orto.) It was a short walk from the stop to the hotel, easy for a 50+ couple with two carry-ons and two large tote bags. Note: the line for the Alilaguna was LONG at the airport, after waiting quite some time I really questioned my decision not to spring for a water taxi and get dropped right at the hotel’s back dock!
As a Marriott Platinum Premier Elite, I was warmly welcomed and had the amenities explained to me (free breakfast, plus choice of points, $10 Food and Beverage coupon or wine/cheese platter – which is what we took.)
Our room wasn’t ready, so we dropped our bags and freshened up in the lavatories off the lobby. We came back when they told us (about 1:30 PM) and were able to check in. There were things I loved at the hotel: the staff, the breakfast, the location (LOVED Cannaregio, so quaint and quiet.) I enjoyed our view of the canal, although we could see that other Panoramic (or maybe Junior Suite?) rooms had more direct views than ours (we were on the side of the hotel.)
However, there were definitely some issues while we were there: no Wifi for two days! I ended up having to use my phone as a Wifi hotspot (via International roaming…) in order to send a work document on my laptop. We also had issues with the shower – scalding hot one minute, chilly the next. And while it is never guaranteed, I was disappointed not to get an upgrade of any kind. It was a paid stay (not points) and had been made 10 months in advance.
Some other points, our room was very quiet and the bed was so comfortable which made for great sleep every night. The room was kept very clean, there were nice toiletries and fluffy towels in the bathroom. There were plenty of hangers, drawers for our clothes.
We loved Cannaregio, it was so delightful to wander back “home” each day after sight-seeing to the oasis of calm around the hotel. However, to be clear, there are tons of choices for dinner, drinks, etc. nearby. We are some great meals, all about a 5 to 10 minute walk away.
We fell in love with Venice and would love to come back. Would I return to the Dei Dogi? Maybe. The rooms could use a freshening, plus the Wifi and the shower temperature issues were disappointing given the expensive price of the hotel. But the knowledgeable, friendly staff; great location, and wonderful breakfast buffet were big pluses.
Next stop, the Sina Villa Medici in Florence!