"This former Venetian palace dating back to 1272 is tucked away in the artsy Arsenale district overlooking a canal. The sophisticated Ca' di Dio, meaning house of God in the local dialect, has been reimagined by Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola, who also lent her knack for making traditional spaces feel modern to the Il Sereno in Como. Opening on August 1, expect all the pomp of a five-star address combined with the soulful craftsmanship of local artisans like wrought iron, stones, and Murano glass. Some of the 57 suites and 9 rooms look onto the San Giorgio Maggiore island, also the view for gourmand restaurant VERO, which sources its veggies straight from the courtyard garden. Following a neighborhood art crawl or a dip into Pura spa, practice your Italian over a Cobalt Blue cocktail at on-site Alchemia."