"At the luxurious Londra Palace, by the Riva degli Schiavoni, huge windows in many of the 52 rooms look straight out over the watery expanse of the Venetian lagoon. The hotel—under a succession of names—has been welcoming guests since 1853. Tchaikovsky stayed in 1877, and wrote his fourth symphony as he surveyed San Giorgio Maggiore across the water. Part of a small Italian hospitality group, the property is now a member of the Relais & Chateaux association. If Venetian classic is what you’re after, the Londra Palace is perfect; plus, it comes with a price tag that's lower than many other of the city’s other top-tier hotels." - CNT Editors