Experience Dan Brown’s thriller in the real locations where the film was shot
Mystery becomes real among the alleys and crypts of Venice: Inferno, the film directed by Ron Howard and based on Dan Brown’s novel, brings the famous professor Robert Langdon into a tense and fascinating Venetian setting. But this isn’t just a reconstruction—many key scenes from the film were actually shot in Venice, in some of the city’s most iconic (and secret) locations.
In this article, we’ll take you through the Venetian filming spots and show you why the Arcadia Boutique Hotel is the perfect base to experience art, mystery, and literature.
Venice, the city of the finale: real filming locations
After Florence and Istanbul, Venice is the third great protagonist of Inferno, chosen for its deep connection with history, symbolism, and mystery. Director Ron Howard insisted on shooting real scenes in Venice, making it the setting for the film’s most critical moment.
Here are the main locations featured:
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St. Mark’s Basilica: the final scene takes place in the evocative flooded crypt of the basilica, a real setting accessible only on special occasions. The dim light and water create the perfect atmosphere for the film’s climax.
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Crypt of St. Mark’s: filmed with minimal scenic effects. The water, shadows, and sacred atmosphere heighten the suspense.
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Ponte della Paglia: from here, Langdon observes the basilica while trying to anticipate the villain’s next move.
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Doge’s Palace: the exterior was used for several nighttime shots.
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Grand Canal: the boat scenes toward the basilica were actually filmed along Venice’s most iconic waterway.
Where to stay to live Inferno: Arcadia Boutique Hotel
The Arcadia Boutique Hotel is located in the Cannaregio district, less than a 20-minute walk from St. Mark’s Square and just a few minutes from the main vaporetto stops. It’s the perfect starting point for those wishing to visit the real filming locations of Inferno, away from the crowds yet immersed in the true Venice.
What makes a stay at Arcadia special:
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Elegant, quiet rooms decorated in a refined contemporary Venetian style.
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A movie-worthy breakfast hall, with a Murano glass chandelier to start your day with inspiration.
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The Skyfall Bar, ideal for an evening drink after a day of exploring art and mystery.
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Discreet yet attentive hospitality, for those who love to discover the city slowly and authentically.
A must-do itinerary for fans of the film
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Morning: depart from the hotel and take a vaporetto to St. Mark’s.
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Visit the Basilica and crypt, with an audio guide to uncover their symbolism.
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Walk to Ponte della Paglia and take a photo with a view of the basilica.
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Afternoon: explore the courtyards of the Doge’s Palace and relax in the square.
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Evening: return to the hotel and enjoy an aperitif at the Skyfall Bar.
A stay between art and suspense
Inferno shows us a different Venice: not only romantic, but filled with history, riddles, and secret passages. If you want to explore the city through Robert Langdon’s eyes, you don’t need to follow a treasure hunt—just book your stay at the Arcadia Boutique Hotel, steps away from the heart of the mystery.
