What do Greta Garbo, Sophia Loren, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Marcello Mastroianni, and even George Clooney, Sandra Bullock, and Nicole Kidman have in common? That their stories are connected to Venice? Yes, that too. That they’re all among the brightest stars in the world of cinema? Of course, obviously. But there’s another answer as well: each of them has stayed at one of the iconic venues of the Venice Film Festival. We’re talking about the Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido, one of the most iconic venues in the hospitality industry—but above all, in the world of cinema. Because while Venice lights up every year, awaiting the festival’s brightest stars, the hotel has been doing the same for over ninety years.
Opened in 1908 on the shores of the Adriatic Sea at the Lido di Venezia, the Excelsior is synonymous with glamour, luxury, and cinema. It was there, on its terrace, that the Film Festival took place for the first time in 1932, and it is still there that the biggest stars love to stay or at least make a stop before stepping onto the red carpet or heading to the Festival venues. But behind the iconic pier, there is more to discover. It is a masterpiece of early 20th-century Venetian architecture in the Moorish style, recently restored and renovated while preserving its heritage and character. The sea laps right up against the building. There are 196 rooms and suites, offering views of the Adriatic Sea, the lagoon, Venice, or the elegant and distinctive inner courtyard.
@whoopsee.it They’ve been to Venice before, but this visit might be more special than the others. Tim Burton and Monica Bellucci would probably agree. The golden couple of the film world—both on the big screen and in real life—walk the red carpet at the 81st Venice International Film Festival. It’s a particularly special occasion, as the prestigious festival opens with “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” directed by Burton, in which the Italian actress also appears. Here they are arriving at the Lido and then on the red carpet. Monica is wearing a Vivienne Westwood gown with a corset featuring a sensual neckline, from which two voluminous sleeves emerge—almost like a cape—gently draping the Italian actress’s shoulders. The look is completed by a Cartier necklace with contrasting turquoise stones and the ever-present diva-style sunglasses by Dolce & Gabbana. Tim is sporting a black suit with a tone-on-tone shirt and tie, along with smoked-glass sunglasses in the same color. Can we say that, already on the first day, they’re contenders for best couple of the festival? #whoopsee #venice81 #monicabellucci #timburton #beetlejuicebeetlejuice ♬ gimme more slayyyter remix – DJ
Most of these have been reimagined this year with a design inspired by Mediterranean elegance, while preserving their original charm. This renovation is evident in the Palm Court: the original lobby has been restored to its role as the hotel’s lounge, enriched with archival materials and historical photographs. Much of this is evident from the iconic pier that has welcomed—and will continue to welcome—the boats of the stars. Or from the Private Beach, its cabanas, its panoramic terraces, or its Stucco Hall. These are places that speak for themselves, but which, given their connection to the city and the Film Festival, take on even greater significance when you consider the incredible figures who have passed through them.
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