The legendary Belmond Hotel Cipriani is a pastel colored 15th century palazzo, situated on the leafy Giudecca Island. The extraordinary setting was not lost on the city’s greatest romantic, Giacomo Casanova, who is said to have had secret trysts in the gardens. The hotel’s opulent interiors feature silk brocade furnishings, fresco ceilings and intricate murals. After a major refurbishment, the new decor captures the essence of Venice with Murano glass, antique mirrors, fabrics by Fortuny and Rubelli as well as handmade artifacts by local craftsmen. The best views overlook the Venetian skyline, though due to the gorgeous garden setting, there are no bad views.