Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, historic cities, world-famous art and cuisine, Italy has something to offer every type of traveler. When visiting Italy, where you stay can greatly impact your experience. The country is home to a variety of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxurious five-star hotels. Here are some of the top popular hotels in Italy to consider when planning your Italian getaway.
Boutique Hotels
If you want an intimate, unique hotel with charming character, consider staying at one of Italy's boutique hotels. These smaller, independently owned hotels are located in historic palazzos and villas throughout the country. Many boutique hotels have excellent locations, lovely design, and top-notch amenities. Here are some top picks for boutique hotels in popular Italian cities:
Hotel San Francesco al Monte, Naples: Set in a restored 15th-century monastery with beautiful cloisters and gardens. It offers views of the Bay of Naples.
Hotel Londra Palace, Venice: A restored palace dating back to 1860 on the Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront promenade. It's known for its white-glove service and rooftop restaurant.
JK Place Roma, Rome: Located just off the Spanish Steps, this elegant townhouse hotel has contemporary-classic décor and a Michelin-starred rooftop restaurant.
Agriturismo Lodging
For accommodation surrounded by the beauty of rural Italy, consider an agriturismo (farm stay). These countryside inns and bed & breakfasts are often part of working farms, vineyards or olive groves. They offer a charming rustic setting, home-cooked meals, and activities like wine tasting, cooking classes or horseback riding. Recommended agriturismi include:
Agriturismo San Francesco, Tuscany: A sprawling farm stay amidst vineyards and olive groves in Montalcino. Enjoy their homemade wine and olive oil.
La Fattoria di Tirrenia, Chianti: Provides accommodations inside a medieval village with panoramic views of vineyards and rolling hills. Offers wine tours and tastings.
Agriturismo Testone, Piedmont: Set on a small farm producing wine, hazelnuts and fruit, with cottages to rent on-site. Serves daily breakfast and multi-course dinners.
Beach Resorts
With its extensive coastline, Italy has no shortage of seaside resorts. Beach hotels range from modern high-rises to historic grand hotels. Top beach resorts in Italy include:
Hotel Excelsior, Venice Lido: A historic Belle Époque-style hotel on Venice's beach island getaway, offering cabanas, pools, restaurants and a spa.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como: This opulent art nouveau palace is set on the western shore of Lake Como, with sweeping lake views, vast gardens and three pools.
Il San Pietro di Positano, Amalfi Coast: Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, this ultra-luxurious hotel has tiered terraces, infinity pools, and a private beach club.
Spa Hotels
To indulge in rest and relaxation on your Italian holiday, book a stay at a hotel with spa treatments and facilities. These spa hotels allow you to experience the curative mineral waters found throughout the country:
Fonteverde Natural Spa Resort, Tuscany: Immerse yourself in the thermal pools, hydrotherapy circuits, and lush gardens at this Tuscan spa sanctuary near San Casciano dei Bagni.
Adler Spa Resort, Dolomites: High in the mountains, this luxury spa hotel offers mineral pools, saunas, steam rooms and personalized wellness programs. Enjoy Alpine views.
Rome Cavalieri, Rome: This Waldorf Astoria hotel in Rome has a 6,000 sq ft spa with Roman-style baths, pools and comprehensive spa treatments.
Historic Hotels
Immerse yourself in antiquity by staying at one of Italy's historic hotels situated in converted castles, palaces, villas and monasteries. Top historic hotel picks include:
Villa San Michele, Florence: Housed in a Renaissance-era monastery in the hills above Florence, with gardens landscaped on Roman foundations. Offers convent-turned-luxury rooms.
Hotel de Russie, Rome: Originally built in the 19th century, this elegant hotel between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo has terraced gardens and courtyard restaurants.
Castello di Casole, Tuscany: A restored 10th century castle turned boutique hotel located in the Tuscan countryside, with suites, vineyards, olive groves, restaurants and a spa.
Conclusion
With its endless variety of accommodations, Italy offers unique and memorable places to stay for every budget and travel style. Boutique hotels, agriturismi, beach resorts, spa hotels and historic hotels are just some of the appealing lodging choices for your Italian escape. Wherever you decide to stay, booking the right hotel can elevate your Italian holiday into an unforgettable experience. Just be sure to plan ahead, as the most charming and popular hotels often book up far in advance. Buon viaggio!