Fondaco dei Tedeschi, the cultural hot spot of Venice

If the cliché of gondolas and Venetian museums leave you stone cold, this historical building will bring back the taste to rediscover the treasures of the Serenissima. Amongst the buildings of this lacustrian landmark, there is the Fondaco dei Tedeschi (warehouse of the Germans). The 13th-century palace, near Piazza San-Marco, has suddenly found a new commercial and artistic vocation.

Venice reinvents the Fondaco dei Tedeschi

Behind discreet facades, its 8000 m² are divided around a spectacular four-level atrium designed as an indoor courtyard. With the complicity of architect urbanist Rem Koolhaas, this edifice in the Venetian-Byzantine style, property of the DFS, an affiliate of LVMH, is much more than a department store with deluxe display-windows —it is also a cultural institution.

Behind the arcades, leading fashion labels, jewelry and perfumes showcase their collections. © DR

For clients, the red carpet is unrolled in order to reach the stands of their favorite brands. © DR

A cultural rendezvous on the terrace

On the last level, the terrace benefits from a 360° view on the island of Murano, and is dedicated to hosting prestigious events. Superb exhibitions of confirmed or budding artists take place here, as well as concerts, international conferences, book signings and fashion shows. Everything is organized to take advantage of the very best Venice has to offer—far from the crowds.

Music events with great music, jazz or variety, the selection is very eclectic. © DR

Tables serving the taste of Venise

Restaurant Al Colombo

Behind the Goldoni theater, specialized in Italian comedy, the gourmet hideaway of Domenico Stanziani attracts all the personalities of Venice. Filled with works by known artists, who have become friends of the house, this institution opens up its terrace when the nice weather settles in to serve grilled langoustines, risotto with truffle and Venetian style calf's liver. Count €70 . www.alcolombo.com

As the perfect host, Domenico takes care of each one of his clients as though they were a personal friend. © DR

Ostaria da Rioba

Forget everything you ever heard about Venetian cuisine! Considered as the best in town, this tavern, bordering a small quiet canal, attracts battalions of gourmets from the 4 continents. Here, the creativity of the graphic plates and the imposing wine list make all the difference, while the tasting menus are a delightful occasion to share. Count  €100. www.darobia.com

While the room may not look like much, the cuisine is quite amazing. © DR

Hostaria Al Buso

On the waterfront, this picturesque establishment delights the tastebuds of Venetians and tourists since 1949. It is literally stuck to the steps of the Rialto Bridge from where the clients can observe the gondolas and vaporettos cruising along the Grand Canal while tasting the catch of the day, cod fish with cream, spaghetti alle vongole and a pistacchio parfait ice cream. Count €50. albusovenice.com

Make sure to reserve by asking the concierge of your hotel to obtain a table by the water. © DR

Caffè Florian

Impossible not to make a pilgrimage to the most famous caffè in Venise! Piazza San-Marco, the Hall of Mirrors, the Chinese and Senate rooms of the artists and poets favourite meeting point are a must to order a Ristretto or sip a Spritz between 2 visits. www.caffeflorian.com

The superb reception rooms of Caffe Florian are registered as Historical Monuments. © DR

Riva Longa, at the Hyatt Centric Hotel in Murano

If you want to escape from the non-stop animation of Venice and visit Murano, the neighboring island that has made blown-glass its claim to fame, take a break at the tables of this low key 4 star venue. They serve tartare of octopus, a baked daily catch of the day, risotto with peas, small artichoke raviolis or a fritto misto to share, and nibble on with your fingertips. Count €60. www.hyatt.com

In this comfortable dining room, chef Alessandro Sandrolini whips up some of his signature recipes under your eyes. © DR

Staying in Venice

At Heureka, a charming boutique hotel in the district of Carneggio, along a small canal. The unusual design of its 10 precious suites, with the complicity of Christian Lacroix, its secret garden and its very courteous service will put Venice at your feet. www.hotel-heureka.com/fr/

Doric columns bordering the bed, precious drapes, spectacular bathrooms, the decoration of the suites is quite amazing. © DR

Going to Venice

Vueling Airlines offers departures from the airports of Nantes, Paris, Lyon and Marseille to Venice. The low-cost company has several daily flights into the airport of Marco Polo, and offers flights starting at €59,99 departing from Paris Orly, and €49,99 from Paris Charles de Gaulle. Offers that make you feel like rediscovering La Serenissima in all seasons. www.vueling.com

Since 10 years, the Spanish airline has been flying to 400 destinations, in Europe, in Africa and the Middle-East. © DR