Image courtesy of Therasia Resort
A trip to Italy will have you marveling at picturesque landscapes, stunning architecture and one of the world’s best culinary scenes. From the imposing fortresses of Rome to the rolling hills of Tuscany, Italy astounds with its variety. Below, we break down the best places to stay in Italy, with hotel recommendations supplied by our network of expert Fora travel advisors.
If a destination (or several) inspires your wanderlust, reach out to a Fora Advisor. They’ll help you decide where to stay in Italy and tailor your trip to your budget and preferences — not to mention score you complimentary VIP perks at the top hotels across the country.
Rome
Image courtesy of Chapter Roma
Walking the streets of Rome is like walking through time. The “Eternal City” was the seat of Western civilization for nearly 1,000 years before the Roman Empire fell. Even then, the city remained a dominant force through the Medieval and Renaissance periods. Such history has had a profound influence on the Rome of today. It’s why the city isn’t just one of the best places to stay in Italy, but anywhere in the world — especially for first-time visitors. Culture, architecture, food: Rome has it all.
The ancient part of the city will especially appeal to history enthusiasts. Even millennia after its construction, the Colosseum is a sight to behold. But it’s not the only site in this part of Rome worth visiting. The area around Via del Corso, in the ancient heart of Rome, for example, is one of the city's main shopping thoroughfares. Here, you'll find a mix of international brands, designer boutiques, department stores and souvenir shops.
The best hotels in Rome, Italy
There’s no shortage of world-class hotels in Rome. Palazzo Talìa is a boutique hotel that combines timeless elegance with contemporary design, offering luxurious accommodations in Rome’s historic center. Elizabeth Unique Hotel is a refined boutique hotel near Piazza di Spagna that showcases modern art and an upscale ambiance. Meanwhile, Chapter Roma, our top-booked hotel in Italy, blends industrial design with Roman flair in a hip package in the Regola district. All three are Fora Reserve Partners.
There’s also The Hoxton Rome, another one of our top-booked hotels in Rome, and Six Senses. The former is a trendy and vibrant hotel in Salario that offers a stylish base with buzzing communal spaces. The latter is a sanctuary of wellness and sustainability, with serene accommodations and a rooftop with views of the city.
Check out our full article on where to stay in Rome for additional accommodation options in Italy’s capital. Your Fora Advisor can also matchmake you to one that’s right for your style.
Fora Perks at Palazzo Talìa:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Elizabeth Unique Hotel:
$25 hotel / resort credit, complimentary aperitif at DonnaE Bar and Bistro, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Chapter Roma:
Welcome amenity and an upgrade whenever possible.
Fora Perks at The Hoxton Rome:
Welcome amenity, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Six Senses Rome:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Milan
Image courtesy of Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milan
Milan is sometimes overlooked among the best places to stay in Italy. But fashion-lovers especially should add the northern city to their itinerary. From Gucci to Versace to Armani to Dolce & Gabbana, Milan is home to an impressive array of upscale designer brands. But there’s more to this city than fashion (and business — Milan is also Italy’s economic hub). Few cities in Italy offer a better exhibition of historical and contemporary architecture than Milan. Moreover, the city boasts a cosmopolitan vibe, manifesting in everything from its exceptional international dining to its vibrant arts scene (here’s what to do in Milan).
The best hotels in Milan, Italy
Some of Italy’s best hotels are found in Milan. Portrait Milano is an ultra-luxe retreat that honors both Milan’s historical heritage and its contemporary fashion scene.
“Portrait Milano is where Milan’s energy meets this laid-back sophistication — you'll never want to leave,” Fora Advisor Marisa Schwab said.
Grand Hotel et de Milan is iconic and storied. This landmark hotel exudes old-world charm and sophistication. Casa Baglioni is a boutique gem in Milan’s Brera district; this design-focused hotel blends contemporary style with artistic flair in an exclusive location. Palazzo Parigi is opulent and grand, combining Parisian elegance with Italian charm in Milan's chic Porta Nuova district. And Four Seasons Hotel Milano, housed in a converted 15th-century convent, offers the brand’s trademark service and proximity to Milan’s fashion district. Each hotel ranks among Fora’s top-booked hotels across Italy.
For a deeper dive, check out our article on where to stay in Milan, which breaks down the city’s top neighborhoods with additional hotel recommendations.
Fora Perks at Portrait Milano:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Grand Hotel et de Milan:
VIP status, breakfast daily and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Casa Baglioni:
Complimentary air and concierge services.
Fora Perks at Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milan:
$100 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Four Seasons Hotel Milan:
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
Florence and Tuscany
Image courtesy of Collegio alla Querce - Auberge Resorts
Another contender among the best places to visit in Italy for the first time: Florence. Once the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence has maintained its artistic and cultural prominence with some of the most prestigious museums and sites in Europe. Examples include the Uffizi Gallery and the Historic Center of Florence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As the capital of Tuscany, there are numerous opportunities for foodies and oenophiles. Savor authentic Florentine cuisine, sampling iconic dishes such as bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine T-bone steak) and pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup), accompanied by fine wines from the surrounding region. Tuscany’s rolling hills, vineyards and medieval villages are the quintessential Italian backdrop for couples’ trips and solo adventures alike.
The best hotels in Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany hosts many of Italy’s best places to stay, including The Place Firenze, a sophisticated boutique hotel in the heart of Florence, with luxe rooms and exceptional hospitality just steps from iconic landmarks. (It’s also a favorite of Fora cofounder Henley Vazquez’s.) There’s also Collegio alla Querce, a new Auberge Resorts property, that’s now accepting reservations for March 2025 and onward. Meanwhile, Lupaia is a romantic hideaway in the Tuscan countryside. This charming Fora Reserve partner — and Fora community favorite — has a rustic elegance, along with farm-to-table dining and stunning views of rolling hills and vineyards.
Check out our articles on where to stay in Florence and where to stay in Tuscany for in-depth looks at some of our favorite neighborhoods, towns and hotels in the region.
Fora Perks at The Place Firenze:
$100 food / beverage credit, welcome drink, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Collegio alla Querce - Auberge Resorts:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Lupaia:
Welcome amenity, breakfast daily and an upgrade whenever possible.
Venice
Image courtesy of Aman Venice
If you love architecture, you’ll love Venice. Highlights include St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace, with their respective Italo-Byzantine and Gothic façades and grandiose interiors. You’ll also love the city’s romantic canals and narrow, labyrinthian streets. The same can be said of Venetian cuisine. The local gastronomy is a blend of fresh seafood, delicate risottos, flavorful cicchetti (small snacks) and other traditional dishes infused with the rich culinary heritage of the Veneto region. With three days in Venice, you can hop from island to island by gondola or water taxi, taking in the various sights along the way.
The best hotels in Venice, Italy
Aman Venice tops many discerning travelers’ bucket lists. It’s located in a historic palazzo on the Grand Canal. Expect a refined, tastefully ornate Venetian experience melded with Aman’s hushed, discreet elegance. If you’re interested in Aman properties in a wildly different setting, check out more of our favorite Aman hotels.) Also consider Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel. This exclusive hotel on Giudecca Island boasts lavish accommodations, world-class dining and sweeping lagoon views, all just a private boat ride away from St. Mark's Square. Or choose Il Palazzo Experimental, a chic boutique hotel that combines contemporary design with Venetian charm on the Zattere promenade. It’s also one of our top-booked hotels in Venice. You can also check out our article on where to stay in Venice for more hotel recommendations.
Fora Perks at Aman Venice:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Cipriani Belmond:
$90 hotel / resort credit, welcome treat, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Il Palazzo Experimental:
Welcome amenity and drink, breakfast daily and an upgrade whenever possible.
Amalfi Coast
Image courtesy of Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast, south of Naples on Italy’s western coast, is one of Europe’s best honeymoon destinations. Calm, clear waters provide an idyllic setting for leisurely swimming and snorkeling, while charming Italian towns offer opportunities for authentic cultural exploration. The Amalfi Coast is also an excellent choice if you love hiking. (Check out the scenic Path of the Gods trail.) .
The best hotels on the Amalfi Coast, Italy
There are excellent hotels and resorts all along the Amalfi Coast. Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, is perched above the shoreline of Ravello. This restored 11th-century palace offers timeless luxury, clifftop views and an iconic infinity pool. Also in Ravello, Palazzo Avino is a refined retreat with elegantly feminine décor, exceptional service, a vibrant pink façade (it’s lovingly referred to as the Pink Palace) and a keen eye for fashion. (Check out our interview with Palazzo Avino’s owner, Mariella Avino.) To the west, in Positano, Le Sirenuse is a glamorous family-owned hotel that blends vibrant Mediterranean charm and wellness.
Fora Perks at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast:
$90 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Palazzo Avino:
$100 spa credit, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Le Sirenuse:
$100 spa credit, complimentary welcome bottle of Italian spumante, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Sardinia
Image courtesy of Petra Segreta Resort & Spa
Sardinia is a Mediterranean island off Italy’s west coast known for its luxe beach resorts and vibrant scenery. Hidden grottos, sapphire-water beaches and rocky hills contribute to one of the country’s most diverse regions, and make Sardinia one of its most fun places to explore. Like the Amalfi Coast, there are a ton of beautiful coastal villages to check out here.
The best hotels in Sardinia, Italy
The best properties in Sardinia take advantage of the island’s picturesque views. Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, is tucked away on Costa Smeralda. This world-class beachfront retreat is renowned for its pristine waters, lush gardens and service. Forte Village is a sprawling resort on Sardinia’s southern coast. Accommodations here are diverse, and there’s also a wide range of activities available, from sports programs to spa experiences. Lastly, Petra Segreta, a Fora Reserve partner, is set in the hills of Sardinia’s Gallura region. This quiet haven features a rustic-chic design, a Michelin-Starred restaurant and views of the Maddalena Archipelago.
Fora Perks at Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda:
$90 hotel / resort credit, welcome treat, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Forte Village Resort Sardinia:
$100 food / beverage credit, complimentary spa access, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Petra Segreta Resort & Spa:
$100 food / beverage credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Sicily
Image courtesy of Therasia Resort
As Italy’s largest island, Sicily offers a distinct experience from Sardinia — both from a contemporary development perspective and in an archeological sense, with some sites dating back thousands of years. You’ll see elements of the ancient Greeks, Romans, Arabs and even the Norman Vikings evident in Sicily’s architecture and culture. There’s more to Sicily than history, though. Taking in the scenery of the neighboring Aeolian Islands and sampling the main island’s rich gastronomy are only a couple of the more luxurious things to do in Sicily.
The best hotels in Sicily, Italy
Sicily has a range of hotels and villas to choose from. Villa Sant’Andrea is situated on a private beach in Mazzarò Bay, offering timeless Sicilian elegance with sea views. Therasia Resort — a Fora Reserve partner — has a renowned spa and panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean from its perch on the island of Vulcanello. San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons hotel (also the setting for season two of “The White Lotus”), blends historic grandeur with modern luxury. It boasts views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. And Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte property in Palermo, is housed in a meticulously restored Art Nouveau villa.
Fora Perks at Villa Sant ’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare:
$90 hotel / resort credit, welcome treat, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Therasia Resort:
€90 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel:
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
Fora Perks at Villa Igiea, A Rocco Forte Hotel:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily and an upgrade whenever possible.
Lake Como and Lake Garda
Image courtesy of Passalacqua
The Italian Lakes region includes several destinations, each offering a distinct experience. Lake Como and Lake Garda are the most popular (by far), and home to extravagant villas, prominent museums and wineries. The former caters almost exclusively to luxury travelers, while the latter offers more variety, especially for families and travelers seeking more of a casual experience. A trip to Lake Como is also frequently paired with a trip to Milan, as they’re only about an hour apart.
The best hotels in Lake Como, Italy
The lake regions are filled with magnificent, villa-type resorts such as Lake Como’s Passalacqua and Grand Hotel Tremezzo, both owned by Valentina De Santis. The sister properties celebrate the best of Lake Como’s atmosphere, while pampering guests with élite amenities, including luxury spas and excellent restaurants. Grand Hotel Victoria is another luxurious retreat in Menaggio that pairs Belle Époque charm with modern sophistication. It’s also a Fora Reserve partner. And Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como is a five-star sanctuary with Michelin-Starred dining and a waterfront promenade space to take in the views. Check out our article on where to stay in Lake Como for a deeper dive on all four hotels (and more).
Fora Perks at Passalacqua:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Grand Hotel Tremezzo:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Grand Hotel Victoria Concept & Spa:
$100 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily and an upgrade whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como:
$100 food / beverage credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily and an upgrade whenever possible.
Hotels to stay at in Lake Garda, Italy
Image courtesy of Grand Hotel Fasano
Grand Hotel Fasano is where to stay in Lake Garda if you’re looking for luxe accommodations. Expect classic elegance, an upscale spa and tranquil lakeside gardens. Its location in Gardone Riviera provides an excellent base for exploring the lake.
Fora Perks at Grand Hotel Fasano:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a gorgeous coastal region in Northern Italy characterized by a string of five colorful, historic villages interspersed with lively harbors and vineyards. It’s an amazing destination for culture junkies eager for a (literal and figurative) taste of Italian life and cuisine outside of the big cities. The area is also rather low-key compared to destinations like Amalfi and the Italian Lakes. Hiking trails connect all five villages, but if you want something faster, the train is your best bet to move from village to village — unless you have a boat rental for the day, of course. A Fora Advisor can recommend accommodations in Cinque Terre, including private villas.
Verona
Image courtesy of Due Torri Hotel
Best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” Verona is also a city for architecture and history enthusiasts. The well-preserved Arena di Verona, for example, was built almost 2,000 years ago yet still hosts events. Brutal gladiatorial combat has been replaced with operatic performances, festivals and other concerts. Beyond the ancient Romans, elements from every era of Verona’s past — from the Gothic façade of The Verona Cathedral to the Neoclassical styles of Verona’s town hall — are evident in the city’s design.
The best hotels in Verona, Italy
Verona’s best hotels include Hotel Due Torri, Butterfly Vernoa and Hotel Indigo Verona (a.k.a. Grand Hotel Des Arts). The first is a luxe hotel in the city’s historic downtown, offering a prime location near Piazza delle Erbe and Juliet's Balcony. Butterfly Verona is a chic and modern hideaway. The hotel charms with its stylish design and, while set in a quieter part of the city, is still only steps away from Verona's top attractions. Hotel Indigo Verona has the façade of a historic building, but the character and style of contemporary Italy. The hotel is located on Corso Porta Nuova, one of Verona’s busiest (and most elegant) streets.
Fora Perks at Hotel Due Torri:
100% hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Butterfly Boutique Rooms:
Welcome amenities and an upgrade whenever possible.
Fora Perks Hotel Indigo Verona - Grand Hotel Des Arts:
$50 hotel / resort credit, welcome gift, an upgrade and extended check-out whenever possible.
Naples and the Ruins of Pompeii
Image courtesy of Grand Hotel Parker’s
Naples is a spirited city with a rich historical and cultural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Historic Centre of Naples and nearby archaeological ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. But the city’s biggest draw is its seaside ambiance. While discovering Naples, you’ll encounter delicious cuisine (Naples is the birthplace of pizza), bustling markets and the coastline of the Bay of Naples, where you can take scenic boat trips to nearby islands.
The best hotels in Naples, Italy
Our article on where to stay in Naples, Italy has the lowdown on the city’s top hotels and resorts. But Grand Hotel Parker’s, Romeo Hotel and Grand Hotel Vesuvio are among our favorite properties. Grand Hotel Parker's fits well in Naples’ upscale Vomero district, and offers sweeping views of the bay. Romeo Hotel is a design-forward property with sleek interiors and a rooftop pool. And Grand Hotel Vesuvio, an iconic luxury property on the waterfront, boasts stunning vistas of Mount Vesuvius — the volcano responsible for the destruction of Pompeii — and Capri, along with old-world charm and a Michelin-Starred restaurant.
Fora Perks at Grand Hotel Parker’s:
Hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Romeo Hotel:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Grand Hotel Vesuvio:
Breakfast daily, VIP status and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Sorrento
Image courtesy of Parco dei Principi Sorrento
Sorrento is a coastal town in southwestern Italy renowned for its views of the Bay of Naples (the city of Naples is on the other side) and its proximity to the Amalfi Coast. In fact, staying in one generally warrants visiting at least one of the other two. Sorrento’s picturesque cliffside villas, narrow cobblestone streets and fragrant citrus groves provide an idyllic Mediterranean experience. You can explore historical sites such as the 14th-century Chiesa di San Francesco and the Roman ruins of Villa Pollio. Sorrento’s laid-back atmosphere, fresh seafood and warm hospitality make it one of the best places to stay in Italy for travelers seeking a taste of upscale Italian culture and natural beauty.
The best hotels in Sorrento, Italy
The best places to stay in Sorrento, Italy include Parco dei Principi Sorrento and Grand Hotel Cocumella — both Fora Reserve properties — along with Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria. Parco dei Principi Sorrento is a seaside retreat with a modernist aesthetic. Nearby Grand Hotel Cocumella is set further from the ocean, but offers immediate access to Sorrento’s best streets for sightseeing. It’s an upscale property that takes a contemporary approach to classic décor. And Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is a landmark in Sorrento. This family-run luxury hotel boasts a private elevator to the marina, stunning bay views and timeless Italian sophistication.
Fora Perks at Parco dei Principi Sorrento:
Welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Grand Hotel Cocumella:
Complimentary gym and spa access, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Book your stay in Italy’s best places with a Fora Advisor
Connect with a Fora Advisor to start planning your Italy getaway today. Your advisor can help you decide which destinations to visit, plan as little or as much of your itinerary as you like and book all your accommodations (earning you complimentary VIP hotel perks at properties across the country).
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