History
A story of elegance and glamour
On July 21st, 1908, the clock struck 11pm and Hotel Excelsior opened with a bang – throwing a lavish beachfront party for 3,000 sophisticated and influential guests. A masterpiece of Venetian design with Moorish influence, the hotel was an overnight sensation. It’s been a landmark on the Lido ever since.
Home of the Venice Film Festival
The iconic celebration of world cinema debuted in 1932, with a screening of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde to a rapt audience. A grand and colourful ball followed, hosted in the hotel and on our famous beachfront terrace.
We are proud to host A-list celebrities every year, including blockbuster actors like George Clooney, Sandra Bullock and Johnny Depp. Historic festival guests included actress Ingrid Bergman and world leader Winston Churchill.
Striking, Timeless Design
Created by architectural genius Giovanni Sardi at the behest of entrepreneur Nicolò Spada, Hotel Excelsior transformed the Venice Lido into the must-visit destination it is today.
A triumph of Belle Époque and Moorish architecture, the Hotel Excelsior defies comparison and captures the hearts and imaginations of every guest, more than a century after opening its doors.
Beach History
A symbol of sophisticated leisure
From its lavish launch party in 1908 to hosting Venice Film Festival, our beach has become a synonym for exclusivity and luxury, steeped in glamorous history. Our private cabanas and Blue Flag waters have drawn visitors to our serene sands for decades. This is the beating heart of Hotel Excelsior.
