The lagoon-facing riva degli Schiavoni promenade can get pretty congested, with tour groups negotiating waterside souvenir stalls. But this is easily forgotten once you step off the Riva and into the Metropole’s deliciously dark and decadent interior. St Mark’s square is a short stroll away. There’s a private water entrance if you’re arriving by taxi, but there’s one bridge to cross if you’re using public transport.

Wonderfully decadent and very quirky, the Metropole has been in the Beggiato family for generations, and the museum-standard family collections — of antique corkscrews, fans and nutcrackers among other items — are displayed in halls and corridors. Décor harks back to Venice’s historic trading relations with the east, especially in the tenebrous ground-floor lounge with its comfortable corners and smoky mirrored ceiling. Out back, there’s a delightful garden with citrus trees.

The Metropole’s very professional staff will help organise excursions and experiences, consulting with guest even before their arrival if they wish, to ensure everything is in place for their visit. In-room massage treatments can be arranged. Conference and event facilities for up to a maximum 300 people are available.

Though the 67 rooms all offer beautiful brocade soft furnishings and antiques — from 18th century pieces to Art Deco and Eastern items — each has its own very particular look and feel. The exotic Suite Damasco has a mosaic-clad fountain in the room and a Turkish bath; the rooftop suite has its own private ‘altana’ roof terrace. The 18 rooms looking across to the lagoon can be noisy if you prefer open windows to the very efficient air conditioning. Gorgeous bathrooms are decorated in marble or glittering mosaics, and have Gilchrist & Soames toiletries. Some of the Classic rooms can be small and a little dark.

A good buffet breakfast is served in the leafy garden courtyard when the weather permits. The Oriental bar is open throughout the day, serving light meals and snacks dreamed up in the kitchens of the Metropole’s Michelin-starred MET restaurant, as well as some truly excellent cocktails. In MET itself, the special two-person Tra’Contemporanea menu created by chef Luca Veritti is an excellent juxtaposition of classic and innovative takes on Italian favourites; there’s an interesting à la carte menu too. Restaurant staff are charming and professional.

Double rooms from €225 (£188) in low season; rising to €850 (£712) in high. Breakfast included for guests who book directly with the hotel; otherwise it costs €35 (£29). Free Wi-Fi.

There are no adapted rooms.

Yes, there are three family rooms accommodating up to four people.