FAQ's
Everything you need to know about Hotel Excelsior
General FAQs
What is the history of Hotel Excelsior?
Since opening its doors in 1908, Hotel Excelsior has stood as a symbol of Venetian elegance and timeless glamour. With its distinctive Moorish architecture and prime location on the Venice Lido, the hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, and film stars for over a century — especially during the Venice Film Festival, where it remains a prestigious hub of activity.
When was Hotel Excelsior built ?
Hotel Excelsior was built in 1908, marking the beginning of its legacy as one of Venice’s most prestigious seaside resorts. Today, it remains the only luxury five-star hotel located directly on the beach in Venice, offering a rare blend of historic grandeur and seaside elegance.
Who designed Hotel Excelsior?
The hotel was designed by architect Giovanni Sardi, who incorporated distinctive Moorish influences to reflect the exotic elegance of the Belle Époque era.
What group is Hotel Excelsior currently part of?
Hotel Excelsior is proudly part of the Iconic Luxury Hotels collection — a curated portfolio of exceptional properties, each celebrated for its distinctive character, heritage, and sense of place.
Can guests experience the Venice Film Festival at Hotel Excelsior ?
Yes! Hotel Excelsior Venice is one of the central venues of the Venice Film Festival, and staying with us during that time places you right in the heart of the glamour. The hotel hosts press conferences, private events, and celebrity arrivals, and becomes a meeting point for filmmakers, actors, and media from around the world.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in time is from 3:00 PM, and check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Is Hotel Excelsior family-friendly?
Absolutely. Families are very welcome at Hotel Excelsior. We offer spacious accommodations, child-friendly menus, a dedicated kids’ club, and a seasonal sports academy — perfect for keeping young guests entertained and active during their stay.
Is Hotel Excelsior pet-friendly?
We are delighted to welcome your four-legged companions to Hotel Excelsior. Small dogs up to 10 kg are welcome, with an additional nightly fee of € 50 to ensure their comfort and the highest standards of room cleanliness.
Pets are permitted in select areas, such as our outdoor dining venues and shuttle service (with leash and muzzle). For the well-being of all guests, pets are not allowed in the pool area, beach, indoor restaurants, or seafront gardens.
We allow one pet per room, and ask that they are leashed, held, or comfortably secured in a carrier in public areas. For your comfort and peace of mind, housekeeping will attend to your room only when one of the following conditions is met: your pet is not in the room, you are present and able to supervise, or your pet is safely secured in a travel carrier or crate.
Do you have Wi-Fi ?
Visitors and guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the Hotel Excelsior.
How many rooms and suites do Hotel Excelsior have ?
Hotel Excelsior offers 198 rooms and suites, many with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea or the Venetian Lagoon.
Is there a concierge service available?
Yes, our concierge team is available daily to assist with reservations, experiences, transportation, and insider tips to make the most of your stay in Venice.
What kind of activities can I book through the Concierge at Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort?
At Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort, our Concierge is at your service to arrange a wide variety of activities, from private boat trips around the Venetian lagoon and visits to Murano and Burano, to guided tours of Venice and wellness experiences on the Lido. Whether you're looking for cultural exploration or seaside relaxation, we’ll tailor the experience to your preferences.
Does the hotel have a swimming pool?
Yes, Hotel Excelsior features a large seasonal outdoor swimming pool, just steps from the beach — the perfect place to unwind in style beneath the Venetian sun. Surrounded by elegant loungers and attentive service, it’s an ideal retreat after a day of exploring.
Does Hotel Excelsior have a Spa?
While Hotel Excelsior does not have a dedicated spa facility, we offer private in-room massage experiences upon request. To book a massage or inquire about available treatments, simply contact our concierge team who will be delighted to assist.
Can non-residents visit the restaurants and bars at Hotel Excelsior?
Yes, non-resident guests are welcome to enjoy the restaurants, beach bar, Iconic Blue Bar, and outdoor dining venues at Hotel Excelsior Venice. Whether you're joining us for a relaxed lunch by the sea or an elegant evening cocktail, our outlets are open to external visitors.
Please note, however, that the swimming pool and pool bar are reserved exclusively for hotel guests, to ensure a private and relaxing experience.
We recommend making a reservation in advance, especially during the summer season or special events.
Do guests have access to the private beach?
Yes, all guests enjoy access to the hotel's exclusive private beach, featuring iconic cabanas (capanni), beach service, and a stunning view of the Adriatic.
What are the opening hours of the beach and pool facilities?
The beach and pool are typically open from late May to mid-September, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, depending on weather conditions.
How do I get to Hotel Excelsior from the airport or Venice city center?
From Venice Marco Polo Airport:
Private Transfer
Available 24 hours with a minimum of 24 hours’ advance booking through our Concierge. This seamless service includes a personal greeting outside the luggage claim area, porter assistance (extra fee), private car transfer to the airport boat pier, and a pre-arranged private water taxi to the hotel (without hostess). Approximate travel time: 50 minutes. Charges are added to your hotel bill. Full flight details are required.
Water Taxi
Available 24 hours. You may arrange this in advance (minimum 24 hours) or go directly to the Water Taxi Desk in the arrivals hall for assistance.
Public Transport
The Alilaguna boat company runs regular service from the airport boat pier (approximately 900 meters from the terminal) to Lido Santa Maria Elisabetta. Approximate travel time: 90 minutes. Tickets are available at the Alilaguna desk in the arrivals hall.From
Venice City Center:
Private Water Taxi
A fast and comfortable option, taking approximately 15–20 minutes directly to the hotel dock. Available 24 hours, with booking through your concierge or directly at any water taxi stand.
Public Vaporetto (Water Bus)
Take Line 1 (scenic), Line 5.1, or Line 6 to Lido Santa Maria Elisabetta.
Does Hotel Excelsior airport or water taxi transfers?
Yes, we offer private transfer services on request, including luxury car and water taxi options. Advance booking is recommended via our concierge.
Is there a parking available at or near the hotel?
Hotel Excelsior offers a covered garage and valet parking service, available daily from 8:00 AM to midnight. Charges are added to your hotel bill, and advance reservation is required.
How do I get to Hotel Excelsior by car ?
Lido is often called the Golden Island, and reaching Hotel Excelsior by car is easy thanks to the public ferry boat service. We recommend booking your spot in advance at www.actv.it
How can I get to St. Mark’s Square from Hotel Excelsior?
Getting to St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) from Hotel Excelsior is both easy and scenic. The hotel offers a complimentary boat shuttle exclusively for guests, which departs regularly and drops you off just steps from the square.
The journey takes approximately 15–20 minutes and offers beautiful views of the lagoon and the city. Our concierge will be happy to provide the current schedule and assist with any special transfer arrangements or private water taxis if preferred.
Does Hotel Excelsior host weddings or private events?
Yes, the hotel is a dream destination for weddings and private events, with grand ballrooms, beachfront settings, and bespoke planning services available.
Is Hotel Excelsior available for exclusive hire?
Yes, the hotel can be reserved for exclusive use for large-scale events, corporate buyouts, or destination weddings, offering complete privacy and tailored experiences.
Does Hotel Excelsior offer venue hire for photo shoots or film productions?
Yes, the hotel's iconic architecture and beachfront setting make it a popular location for photo shoots, fashion campaigns, and film productions. Venue hire is available on request.
What types of private events or celebrations can be hosted at Hotel Excelsior ?
Hotel Excelsior is an exceptional setting for all kinds of private events and celebrations. From intimate anniversary dinners and engagement parties to birthday gatherings, vow renewals, and exclusive cocktail receptions, our elegant indoor and outdoor spaces offer the perfect backdrop.
Whether you're planning a small, stylish soirée or a larger beachfront celebration, our team is on hand to assist with every detail — from bespoke menus to curated entertainment.
Can I book a venue at Hotel Excelsior for a corporate or incentive event?
Yes, Hotel Excelsior offers a selection of elegant meeting rooms and unique outdoor spaces that are ideal for corporate gatherings, incentive trips, brand activations, and business retreats.
Whether you're planning a seaside welcome reception, a product launch, or a high-end executive meeting, our events team will tailor the experience to your group’s goals — combining refined service with the charm of the Lido.