Where to Stay in Italy:
A Comprehensive Guide to Hotels and Neighborhoods
Italy has twenty regions, each one is brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty, so it is hard to know where to start.
Yet, choosing the right place to stay can make or break your Italian experience. That's why I've handpicked some of the best options for you all across Italy, including most of the major cities, a selection of charming smaller towns, and famous areas like the Amalfi Coast and the Cinque Terre.
Still need help planning your visit to Italy? Check out my worry-free Italy option.
Rome: A Blend of Ancient and Modern
Let's start in Rome; it is the one city in Italy you absolutely must not miss. The starting point for most trips to Italy and the greatest of all Italian cities. Many of Italy's top 10 sights are located in Rome. So, where should you stay in Rome? Read on for my answer to that question.
Trastevere: Santa Maria in Trastevere
When in Rome, you can't go wrong with the Trastevere neighborhood. I love it here; it's an amazing blend of historic charm and vibrant local life, and whenever I visit, my first stop is to check-in at the Santa Maria.
Trastevere itself is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, bustling piazzas, and authentic Roman eateries. Staying here provides an immersive experience in one of Rome’s most charismatic neighborhoods.
After exploring the city, you can return to the hotel's cozy ambiance and enjoy a drink at the bar or a meal at one of the nearby restaurants. Oh, and breakfast under the orange trees is heavenly; it truly is like an oasis of calm in the hustle and bustle of Rome.
Centro Storico: Hotel De Russie
For a luxurious experience in the heart of Rome, Hotel De Russie in Centro Storico is an exceptional choice. This five-star hotel is located near the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo and features a stunning garden, elegant rooms, and a renowned spa, making it a perfect retreat after a long day of sightseeing and shopping.
The hotel’s central location ensures that you’re never far from Rome’s vibrant shopping and dining scenes. The restaurant offers a blend of traditional Italian and contemporary cuisine, and the outdoor terrace provides beautiful views of the city. For a more indulgent experience, the hotel’s spa offers a range of treatments to rejuvenate you. While the hotel restaurant is certainly high quality and the views are breathtaking, I generally prefer to eat at one of the many family-run trattorias that you will find outside of the touristy areas of Rome.
Florence: Art and Romance
Historical Center: Hotel Brunelleschi
Florence is the heart of the Renaissance, and the Hotel Brunelleschi is an ideal base for exploring its artistic and historical treasures. There's also that world-famous Florence shopping experience to be had as well, and it pretty much starts the moment you walk out the door, as the hotel is right in the historical center, close to the Florence Cathedral and Piazza della Signoria.
The hotel itself combines modern comfort with historical charm, offering elegantly furnished rooms and stunning views of the city’s iconic skyline. Dining options include a gourmet restaurant that serves a range of Italian and Tuscan specialties. Guests can also enjoy a workout in the fitness center or relax in the hotel’s luxurious spa.
Santa Croce: Hotel Palazzo Castri 1874
Hotel Palazzo Castri 1874 is another excellent choice in Florence, situated in the Santa Croce neighborhood. This boutique hotel offers a blend of contemporary design and traditional Florentine elements. Its central location allows you to easily walk to nearby attractions such as the Santa Croce Basilica, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Accademia Gallery (home to the famous Statue of David by Michelangelo).
For more of my favorites in Florence, click here.
Venice: Enchanting Canals and Historic Elegance
Everyone knows that Venice is famous for its unique charm and picturesque canals; however, many people don't realize just how much your choice of accommodation can influence your Venice experience. To really get the most out of Venice, choose a hotel where you'll continue experiencing the history and magic of Venice 24/7.
The Palazzo Stern, located in my favorite Cannaregio neighborhood, offers exactly that, plus stunning views of the Grand Canal. The centuries-old palace, features luxurious rooms decorated in classic Venetian style, while the hotel’s location in Cannaregio allows easy walking access to Venice’s main attractions, including the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Basilica.
The nearby area is also known for its vibrant local life, with charming cafes and restaurants lining the canals. Palazzo Stern’s central location and elegant ambiance make it a top choice for experiencing Venice’s enchanting beauty.
For a more opulent experience, Hotel Danieli in the San Marco district is the best choice. Just steps from St. Mark’s Square, this luxury hotel offers lavish rooms, exquisite dining options, and unparalleled views of the city. The hotel’s rich history and opulent decor reflect Venice’s grandeur, making it a standout option for a luxurious stay in Venice, while the prime location ensures that you’re close to all the main attractions, including the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs.
It is rather expensive, but it is an experience, a memory that you will treasure forever.
How much are such memories worth? Well, I'll leave that for you to decide.
For Three and Four Star Options in Venice Click Here.
Milan: Fashion and Modernity
Hotel Berna offers a warm welcome and great value for your money. Just minutes from Milano Centrale, it’s ideal for sightseeing, shopping expeditions or business trips. Guests consistently praise the breakfast selection. As one reviewer said, "The breakfast alone is worth the stay – and the location can’t be beat!"
San Gimignano: Medieval Charm and Tranquility
San Gimignano is known for its medieval towers. They built so many towers they've nicknamed it the Italian medieval Manhattan. Anybody of importance built a "tower" with his name added before the word tower. It was a way of showing the world just how important you were. I guess not much has changed with rich folks in Manhattan and elsewhere still building towers and adding their names to them.
Towers or no towers, San Gimignano is a must-visit destination in Tuscany.
Hotel L'Antico Pozzo is a fantastic choice for experiencing the town’s historic ambiance. Located in a restored 14th-century building, this hotel combines historic charm with modern comfort. The rooms are beautifully decorated, and the hotel’s location provides easy access to San Gimignano’s main attractions, including those famous towers and local eateries. Guests can enjoy a cozy atmosphere and traditional Tuscan hospitality at this charming hotel.
Hotel San Michele is another lovely option in San Gimignano. Located just outside the town walls, this hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The hotel’s location allows for a peaceful stay while still being a short walk from the historic center.
The hotel features comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and a relaxing atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a pool and a restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine. The serene setting and convenient location make it an ideal choice for a relaxing stay.
Siena: Historic Elegance and Tuscan Charm
Siena, with its historic charm and beautiful architecture, is a must-visit destination in Tuscany, and Hotel Santa Caterina is my choice for where to stay in this enchanting city. Located just outside the city walls, this hotel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the historic city center. The hotel’s location allows you to easily explore Siena’s historic sites, including the Piazza del Campo and the Siena Cathedral, while enjoying a peaceful retreat.
For a more luxurious experience, the Grand Hotel Continental is an excellent option in Siena. This five-star hotel is located in the heart of the city, providing easy access to key attractions. The hotel’s opulent decor and elegant rooms reflect Siena’s historic grandeur.
The onsite restaurant offers gourmet dining options, and guests can enjoy the hotel’s spa and wellness facilities. The Grand Hotel Continental’s central location and luxurious amenities make it a top choice for a refined and comfortable stay. However, in my opinion, avoid the expensive and rather pretentious restaurant and eat at one of the family-run trattorias in town.
Other Notable Smaller Towns
Assisi
Assisi is the birthplace of St. Francis and is a UNESCO World Heritage town with a rich spiritual heritage.
Hotel Fontebella is a charming choice for staying in Assisi. Located near the Basilica of St. Francis, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the Umbrian countryside. The hotel’s location allows easy access to Assisi’s main attractions, including the Basilica of St. Clare and the medieval town center.
My Tip: To explore Umbria properly you will need a car.
Matera
MateraMatera: Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita
Matera, known for its ancient cave dwellings, is one of the most amazing towns in all of Italy. In fact, there is nothing like it in all of Italy, in all of Europe. It is almost biblical. It is something you absolutely must see. and Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita is the choice for staying in this UNESCO World Heritage site. The hotel is set in a series of restored cave dwellings, providing an experience you will not forget.
Lucca
Lucca, with its well-preserved Renaissance walls and charming streets, is a beautiful destination in Tuscany. Palazzo Dipinto is a stylish option for staying in Lucca.
For other destinations...
We've got lots of other "where to stay" recommendations elsewhere in Italy. These are some of the most popular:
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