Goethe, Dickens, Onassis, Callas and even James Bond – they have all been in and out of the legendary Danieli in Venice. The luxury hotel is considered the oldest in the lagoon city and is probably one of the most famous hotels in the world. Now it is changing hands, with the Corriere della Sera reporting Microsoft founder Bill Gates' majority controlled Four Seasons Group is taking over the Danieli. The group operates more than 120 exclusive hotels and resorts around the globe and has been trying to gain a foothold in Venice for some time, according to the newspaper.

€30 million renovation

There are also plans to extensively renovate the Danieli in the coming years. The rumoured price tag for the work, which will be completed in 2024, is €30 million. According to the Corriere report, French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon has been entrusted with the renovation work and the Danieli will have 200 rooms after the renovation.

Historic Palazzo

The Danieli is considered a hotel legend and has been in continuous operation for around 200 years. It is named after its founder, Giuseppe Dal Niel, who was only called "Danieli" by everyone. He acquired floors of the Palazzo Dondolo and opened the Albergo Reale there in 1822. Today, the luxury hotel extends over three historic palazzi from the 14th, 17th and 19th centuries.  

• Palazzo Dondolo: In the Venetian Gothic style, it was once owned by the noble Dondolo family.
• Palazzo Casa Nuova: This was originally Venice's treasury
• Palazzo Danieli Excelsior: This is where the luxurious guest rooms with balconies overlooking the lagoon are located.

The exclusive property is located a few minutes away from sights such as St. Mark's Square, the Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. In addition to the unique ambience amidst historic architecture, art and antiques, it also offers the multi-award-winning restaurant Terrazza Danieli.