Best Luxury Hotels In Italy

Offering the most spectacular view over Rome from its elevated position on Monte Mario, the Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Resort will exceed your expectations in so many ways. From its Michelin-star dining room, to its luxury palatial spa and resort style pool, through to its 15 acres of lush parkland and world-class art collection the Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Resort offers an elegant refuge away from the hustle and bustle of the city that will satisfy the most discerning of luxury travellers. At the hotel all rooms are designed with sleeping and living areas and come with a range of stylish features like their indulgent marble bathrooms and spacious balconies for an al fresco breakfast or evening aperitifs. For all-out luxury choose a room on the Imperial floor which includes access to their club lounge and for over the top luxury choose the Planetarium suite which includes masterpieces throughout and a vast private roof terrace and jacuzzi.

Known as Rome’s first luxury hotel, has been in business since 1894 when Swiss hotelier, César Ritz, welcomed the first guests. The hotel epitomises world-class accommodation and is situated in the city centre, overlooking one of the city’s most impressive palazzos Piazza della Repubblica. The hotel is conveniently located next to Termini Train Station, as well as the Baths of Diocletian and offers easy access to many of the city’s major landmarks. Old world grandeur blends effortlessly in a sophisticated and distinctive style to bring a contemporary vibe to this historic address. And it’s not just the interiors and amenities that are detailed and intricate, the level of service and attention provided by highly-trained staff is second to none. Guests can enjoy classic Italian and Roman dishes and cocktails and beverages in a relaxed atmosphere at Lumen, the onsite restaurant. The hotel is pet and child friendly. It is clear to see why The St. Regis Rome is regarded as one of the world’s finest hotels.

Housed in a 17th-century residence and named after Count Goffredo Manfredi – one of Rome’s most influential public figures – Palazzo Manfredi is the ultimate luxury getaway in the heart of the city. This five-star boutique hotel is so close to the world’s most famous amphitheatre that you can practically hear the gladiators of old from within your suite. Not only does the hotel offer spectacular views over Rome’s ancient sites, it is only a two-minute walk from Colosseo Metro Station, making travelling to and from the hotel a breeze. Inside, first-class hospitality, elegance and impeccable service combine and are evident throughout its palatial suites and rooms, bar and restaurant including the Michelin Starred Aroma led by Chef Giuseppe Di Iorio. Check in to the Palazzo Manfredi for a truly unforgettable experience. Palazzo Manifred is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group.

Stay in grand, empiric style in this 14th-century palazzo. Comprising three adjoining palatial premises (previously homes for nobility), the Marriott Collection hotel contains 210 bedrooms – some overlooking the Venetian Lagoon. High-value artworks and antiques are around every corner, reflecting the city’s rich heritage. Its jewel of a restaurant – Terrazza Danieli – lies on the hotel’s sun-soaked rooftop, proffering direct waterside views (of both the lagoon and Grand Canal). Gourmet multiple-course or tasting menus feature fruits of the lagoon and oriental spices. But breakfast and light lunches can be enjoyed here too.

Found close to Venice’s most famous square – St Mark’s – the Bauer Venezia also offers a spectacular lagoonside location. Established as a grand dame in 1880, the elegant palazzo underwent a renovation just before the millennium. A VIP wing with individually decorated suites and a private launch makes it popular with celebrities seeking exclusivity. A blend of regional and international dishes is served at De Pisis, plus there are two drinking establishments; Bar Canale overlooks the Grand Canal, with live music in the summer months, and there’s B-Bar cocktail lounge with live tunes and tipples during the winter.

The Gritti Palace dates back to 1475, although didn’t become a hotel until just before the turn of the 20th century. Opening right up onto the Grand Canal, with its own private jetty, the Luxury Collection property has 82 bedrooms. Inside, guests can enjoy the Sisley Paris spa, hammam and hairdressing services, or take cookery classes at the Gritti Epicurean School. Its Club del Doge restaurant serves an award-winning Venetian heritage-themed menu. These dishes are (in part) crafted using vegetables from the hotel’s private garden, which is hidden on an island in the lagoon. The resulting gourmet meals can be taken in the sumptuous dining room, or on the candlelit waterside terrace. And the Gritti Palace’s Riva Lounge – styled to reflect the mid-century design of the Monaco Yacht Club – is one of the most glamorous spots in town for late-night cocktails.

If you’d rather avoid the bustle of central Venice, escape to the olive groves of a private island resort – Isola Delle Rose. Accessed only via water shuttle, its 40 acres includes an extensive spa with a view, three pools, a kitchen garden, five places to eat and drink, an on-site deli and a culinary academy. Made up of 19 art-deco-era buildings, architect Matteo Thun has brought a contemporary edge to its sleek, airy interiors, setting it apart from the more traditional five-star hotels that dominate the Venetian skyline. It’s ideal for families and is pet friendly too.

This enchanting hotel commands an impressive position on a hilltop in Ravello and guests are treated to stunning views across the Bay of Salerno. This magnificent building was established in the 11th century palazzo and offers guests a romantic atmosphere complete with traditional Italian décor and plenty of charm. The hotel pool with its infinity edge is world class, while guests are also treated to a number of excellent bars and restaurants to choose from, a luxurious spa and fifty different spacious rooms and suites, while walking along the coast as the sun slowly sinks behind the horizon is a popular activity among couples. This family run hotel takes pride in providing guests with personal touches to help make their stay truly special.

A Michelin-starred restaurant and freshwater infinity pool set right on the lake are just two standout features of this luxury hotel in the village of Torno. Offering luxury accommodation (suites only) decorated by a Wallpaper Magazine Designer of The Year, Il Sereno has Lake Como lapping at its foundations. Panoramic views are complemented by high style and classic Italian design and guests can enjoy excellent facilities including a spa (in the original century-old boathouse) with sauna and steam room, beautifully kept gardens, on-site cooking lessons, and fishing.

Palazzo Gattini is located on the highest point of Matera and provides a breathtaking view of the Sassi towns. The palace-like hotel enables you to enjoy a five-star experience in an incredibly historical location. The hotel is known for its attention to detail and serves cuisines from around the world. It has a roof garden with pool to relax in too. All rooms are cave rooms with incredible stone backrooms too. You can also take part in the hotel’s outdoor events package to enjoy the best of the surrounding historical town. It is an excellent place for a stay in Matera.

Close to the beach and port, rooms here provide air-conditioning, tiled flooring, mosaic-decorated marble bathrooms, free WiFi, and flat-screen satellite TVs. A spa, hot tub and wellness centre with sauna, Turkish bath and gym, together with a tennis court and outdoor pool, ensure guests’ well-being. The JKitchen Restaurant serves regional cooking with organic produce, catering for special diets, and meals can be eaten on the terrace with its panoramic vistas.