Fodor's Expert Review Metropole

Entering the Metropole’s candlelit, red velvet-bedecked lobby feels like you’ve stepped back in time, to when Venice was a major trading port with the Orient. The dark, moody atmosphere is incredibly romantic and utterly different than anything else in Venice, with a fabulously convenient location on the lagoon just steps from St. Mark’s.

YOU SHOULD KNOW You have to like quirk to like this hotel--and we do. The owners have put their eccentric collections, from corkscrews and nutcrackers to hundreds of fans to the largest collection of crucifixes in Italy, on display throughout the hotel, which will either charm you or drive you bonkers.

room

The 67 rooms are wonderfully plush, featuring 18^th-century furniture mixed with unique Oriental and Art Deco pieces, along with rich silks and velvets in reds and greens. The feel is moody and decadent, almost like you’ve stepped into an Old Hollywood movie set (though which movie is up to you).

Splurge on a suite—especially one with a private roof terrace—if you can. Not only are they gorgeous, but they all offer splendid water views out to San Giorgio island.

bathroom

Decked out in marble or sparkly mosaics, the good-sized bathrooms feature Gilchrist and Soames products and sunken bathtubs.

lobby

Though on the small side, the lobby is dark and delicious, with splendid red velvet and striped couches, lots of candles, and a number of connected sitting rooms in which to linger.

dining

The one Michelin star MET Restaurant has lavish Fortuny fabrics on the walls, Murano glass chandeliers, and tasty (albeit pricey) Italian food with international touches.

drinking

Grab a drink in the incredibly pretty and ultra-relaxing hidden garden, filled with citrus trees and low-slung wicker armchairs; you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Los Angeles as you sip your cocktail and people-watch. Or on days when you’d rather stay inside, the atmospheric Oriental Bar lets you sip in style.