Hotel Review: A Venetian Escape at the Hilton Molino Stucky Venice

By Binita Shah-Patel on June 26, 2025

Venice might be known for its romantic gondolas and bustling piazzas, but hop across the lagoon to Giudecca Island, and you'll uncover a quieter, more refined side of the city. That's where the Hilton Molino Stucky Venice comes in – a former flour mill turned five-star sanctuary, where rich history meets contemporary comfort.

From the moment I stepped inside, I was struck by the hotel's understated grandeur. Exposed brickwork, vaulted ceilings, and carefully preserved architectural features tell the story of a time gone by.

One of my favourite corners? A gallery wall filled with vintage photographs and fascinating snippets about the mill's past – a heartfelt tribute to its industrial roots.

A Storied Past on Giudecca Island

Let's start with the setting and it's certainly a special one! Located on Giudecca Island, just a short boat ride from central Venice, the hotel offers a peaceful, almost secret hideaway, while still delivering postcard-perfect views across the water.

Originally designed by architect Ernst Wullekopf, the red-brick building was once the largest flour mill in Italy, founded by Swiss entrepreneur Giovanni Stucky. Today, it stands proudly restored, retaining its industrial soul while welcoming guests into a world of Venetian luxury.

A Modern Venetian Masterpiece

Now a listed building, the Hilton Molino Stucky Venice has undergone a series of elegant refurbishments. The deluxe rooms and elegant suites are designed with sophistication and space in mind, some offering unrivalled views of Venice's iconic skyline. The standout? The Presidential Suite – the highest and largest suite in Venice, with private access to the rooftop pool and Skyline Bar, which happens to be the city's highest bar.

With 379 rooms and suites, one of Venice's largest spas, an unrivalled conference centre, and a range of restaurants and bars, it's the kind of hotel you'll find hard to leave once you arrive by water taxi.

Rooms That Marry Classic and Contemporary

We stayed in a King Executive Room overlooking the Giudecca Canal, and waking up to soft light dancing on the water was the stuff of dreams. The room struck a lovely balance between old and new with Murano glass lamps, warm wood tones, and thoughtful touches that reflect Venetian craftsmanship.

One of my favourite details? The cupboard handles shaped like gondolas – a whimsical design feature that made me smile every time I opened the wardrobe!

The room ticked every box for comfort, and the space felt like a true retreat after a day exploring the city.

Top tip: If you can, book a room with Executive Lounge access. The light bites and drinks available throughout the day were a lovely perk.

Skyline Bar: Venice from Above

One of the standout features of Hilton Molino Stucky is the Skyline Rooftop Bar. Located on the 8th floor, it's the highest bar in Venice, offering sweeping views of the lagoon, domes, and rooftops that stretch out as far as the eye can see.

We arrived just before sunset and were treated to that golden-hour magic as the city glowed below. The cocktail menu is inventive and beautifully presented.

We tried two signature drinks:

Last Date: Jameson Black Barrel, date broth, lime juice – smooth, rich, and surprisingly refreshing.
Crimson Flame: Havana Rum 3 & 7, Passoã, orange juice, bell pepper syrup, lime juice. You can choose your garnish: candied bell pepper or orange candy. I went for the bell pepper – quirky but delicious!

With great music, beautifully presented drinks, and that epic view this bar is reason enough to visit.

Aromi Restaurant: Venetian Flavours with a Gourmet Twist

Dinner at Aromi was a real highlight of our stay. It offers a seasonal menu that reimagines Venetian flavours with a gourmet twist, and every dish was as beautiful as it was delicious.

Highlights included a rich, flavour-packed dish of Mushrooms, potato mousse and truffle full of warmth and depth. Amit opted for roasted lamb loin, served with fondant potato, asparagus, and just the right touch of truffle – cooked to perfection and elegantly plated.

And the showstopper dessert: Popcorn English cream, burnt milk panna cotta, corn caramel, and popcorn ice cream – playful, nostalgic, and unlike anything I've had before. It captured the creativity of the kitchen most joyfully.

The sommelier's wine suggestions paired perfectly with each course, and the service was impeccable, attentive yet relaxed, exactly how fine dining should feel.

Check out their menu here: https://aromirestaurantvenice.com/en/menu-aromi/

Excursions & Experiences: Discover More of Venice

The hotel offers a whole range of curated experiences to help you get beneath the surface of Venetian life. We visited a Murano glass-blowing workshop, where we watched masters at work transforming molten glass into intricate creations – it was absolutely mesmerising.

You can also book:

Venetian rowing experiences
Burano biscuit baking with the hotel's pastry chef
A private tour of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Perfume-making workshops with a local nose

Each activity is designed to connect guests with the rich artisan culture that makes Venice so unique.

Final Thoughts: Why I'd Stay Again in a Heartbeat

The Hilton Molino Stucky Venice isn't just a hotel – it's a destination in itself. With its storied history, thoughtful design, peaceful island setting, standout food and drink, and curated cultural experiences, it offers a side of Venice that feels both luxurious and authentic.

Whether it was sipping cocktails at sunset, wandering through its historic halls, or enjoying five-star comforts away from the crowds, every moment felt meaningful.

Would I stay again? In a heartbeat. And next time, I might just spend a day or two not leaving the island at all.

Why Stay on Giudecca?

There's something magical about this lesser-known part of Venice. Giudecca feels more local, more relaxed, and more authentic – a place where you can hear church bells instead of crowds.

The views back across the water to San Marco are stunning, and the hotel's regular shuttle boat makes exploring the main sights effortless. But truthfully? I often found myself wanting to return 'home' to Giudecca as soon as we'd left – a little slice of calm in one of the most captivating cities on Earth.