From the Amalfi Coast to the shores of Lake Como, from Portofino to Tuscany, Italy boasts a collection of dream hotels. Suspended terraces above the sea, Renaissance villas, fragrant gardens: here is our selection of the most beautiful hotels in Italy for an exceptional stay in 2026.
- The Idea: Italy’s most beautiful addresses, from seaside icons to historic villas, for an unforgettable journey.
- Where: Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, Portofino, Tuscany, Venice, Rome, Puglia.
- When: May to October for the sea and lakes · spring and autumn for art cities, milder and less crowded.
- Budget: Italian icons come at a high price (often €800 and well beyond per night in high season), but some addresses in Tuscany or Puglia remain more accessible.
Le Sirenuse, Positano · the icon of the Amalfi Coast
Clinging to the cliff in Positano, this former summer residence of the Sersale family is one of Italy’s most photographed addresses, with its red facades, ceramics, and sweeping views over the bay. A sea-facing pool, and the Michelin-starred La Sponda restaurant lit by candlelight, Le Sirenuse embodies Amalfi romance in its most chic version.
Passalacqua, Lake Como · the villa voted best hotel in the world
In Moltrasio, this 18th-century villa nestled in terraced gardens was crowned the best hotel in the world by The World’s 50 Best Hotels ranking. Frescoes, period furniture, bespoke service, and a sumptuous view of Lake Como, Passalacqua offers only about twenty rooms, for an experience as intimate as it is exclusive.
Splendido, A Belmond Hotel · Portofino’s balcony
A former monastery overlooking Portofino harbour, the Splendido is a legend of the dolce vita, frequented for decades by the most discerning travellers. Its suspended pool and flower-filled gardens overlook one of the most beautiful villages on the Italian Riviera. A Belmond address with timeless charm, nestled between umbrella pines and yachts.
Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco · Tuscany in its natural grandeur
In the heart of the UNESCO-listed Val d’Orcia, this estate of over 2,000 hectares combines a historic villa, Brunello di Montalcino vineyard, and private golf course. Suites and villas scattered across the hills offer total immersion in the Tuscan countryside, amidst cypress trees, olive groves, and golden light. Rural Italy in its most luxurious form.
Belmond Hotel Cipriani, Venice · the jewel on the lagoon
On Giudecca island, just a few minutes by boat from St Mark’s Square, the Cipriani offers what Venice has most rarely, space, a garden, and a huge pool facing the lagoon. Far from the crowds, one can savour the calm and luxury of a legendary address there. The perfect retreat to discover the Serenissima without enduring its crowds.
Hotel de Russie, Rome · the Eternal City’s secret garden
Between Piazza del Popolo and Villa Borghese, this Rocco Forte address hides one of Rome’s most beautiful gardens, a terraced green haven right in the historic centre. Discreet elegance, a renowned spa, and an ideal location for exploring the capital on foot, the Hotel de Russie is the Roman pied-à-terre for connoisseurs.
Borgo Egnazia, Puglia · the white village facing the Adriatic
In Puglia, Borgo Egnazia recreates an authentic white village from the South, with its narrow streets, squares, and stone houses. Golf, a huge spa, a private beach, and generous cuisine, the resort has won over travellers seeking a more secret, sunny, and friendly Italy. One of the most sought-after addresses in the heel of the Boot.
Which region of Italy to choose
For sea and romance, head to the Amalfi Coast or Portofino · for gentle landscapes and charm, Lake Como and Tuscany · for culture, Venice and Rome · for sun and conviviality, Puglia. Book early for summer, as the best Italian addresses are fully booked months in advance. And consider spring or autumn to enjoy the art cities in the best conditions.
