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His boutique on the Rialto Bridge just opened, and he shares a few tips for exploring the Lagoon off the beaten path

by Redazione Living

"In my childhood memories, the colors of Venice were very different. It was more decadent, moody, dramatic, deeply romantic. Beautiful. The light didn't filter in the way it does now, the atmosphere was hypnotic." Giberto Arrivabene Valenti Gonzaga's life is deeply rooted in Venice, where he grew up at Palazzo Papadopoli, surrounded by his large family and by Tiepolo's frescoes. His love for exquisite heirlooms has stayed with him always, and it finds expression in the collections he has designed with passion since 2005, working alongside Italy's most skilled artisans, glassblowers, silversmiths and experts in the lost-wax technique.

Today, with the first Giberto Venezia boutique recently opened on the Rialto Bridge, a small, meticulously curated space designed by architect Giovanni Rubin de Cervin Albrizzi, Giberto pays tribute to tradition, showcasing his refined blown-glass collections, ranging from vases and glasses to busts and lamps. In a Q&A worth bookmarking, he shared a few precious tips for visiting Venice.

Where to stay in the city?

For a special occasion, and if the budget allows, a night at the Aman will make the trip unforgettable. The hotel occupies the rooms of Palazzo Papadopoli, where I was born and raised among Tiepolo paintings and a quiet, completely private garden. A simpler but equally charming alternative is Oltre il Giardino, once the home of the artist Whistler, a very special place where you feel right at home.

Hidden Venice: bars, restaurants, galleries… Any lesser-known spots you'd like to share?

Alla Madonna, a restaurant right near the Rialto Bridge. One of my favorites, it holds on to that Venetian authenticity, and the atmosphere makes me feel at home. I used to go there all the time with my father, which makes it even dearer to me. It's also just steps from the fish market, which guarantees freshness and quality. And then Harry's Bar, of course, which is a real institution. It has always kept its spirit intact over time, and I find that admirable. Strolling on the Lido in spring also remains one of my favorite things to do.

Your favorite spot for an aperitivo?

For wine and cicchetti, the historic Schiavi near the Accademia, and La Naranzaria at Rialto.

The best nightcap?

At the bar of the Gritti Palace.

The museum not to be missed?

Fondazione Giorgio Cini, located on the island of San Giorgio, which can be visited by booking through visitcini. A visit there, followed by lunch nearby at Caffè San Giorgio, is the perfect recipe for a wonderful day away from the crowds!

Any Biennale exhibitions not to be missed?

The show at Fondazione Prada is truly striking.

Two "hidden gem" addresses you'd suggest?

Legatoria Polliero, where you'll find the most beautiful papers for the most beautiful frames, photo albums (which should still be made, again and again!) and much more. And then the Ellemme print shop in Campo Santa Maria Mater Domini,  Luca and Michele print and bind using an antique machine, and their work is wonderful!