One way to really get under Italy's skin is to swap the run-of-the-mill hotel experience for something more unusual. Drift off in a "floated" in Venice, sleep troglodyte-style in the "Sassi" (cave dwellings) of Matera, cuddle up in an igloo in the Alps, or stay in a monastery on the fringes of Rome—we've got you covered with this list.
Rome is a city where you can fully embrace la dolce vita, especially if you opt to stay in style and intimacy in one of its boutique hotels. Whether it's a chic and central escape near the Spanish Steps or a historic palace overlooking the Fountain of the Four Rivers, we've sought out places that skillfully bring together history, design, entrancing views, and tempting food.
While George Clooney's villa isn't open for guests, you can still live the luxe life on Lake Como at one of these hotels. Choose how close you want to be to town and settle in for a stay packed with sweeping views, savory cuisine, spa treatments, and more.
Hang your hat in the birthplace of the Renaissance, where history's influence can be found in the most unexpected places. Whether you're eating breakfast or sipping a spritz while overlooking the Duomo, or relaxing in a garden where a young Michelangelo once practiced his carving, these hotels will put you in touch with the city's past in style.
Nothing makes you feel like you're living la dolce vita quite like a sun-drenched hotel terrace. These hotels are distinguished by terraced restaurants and impressive ocean views that will allow you to take in the multicolored architecture of Amalfi and Positano on your own private balcony, a glass of sparkling wine in hand.
Sorrento's best hotels are distinguished by their sea view and sleek settings. Take in the panorama of the Gulf of Naples with Mount Vesuvius and the Sorrentine coastline from a historic building, sprawling terrace, or cascading five-tier swimming pool at these spots.
It's no surprise that the beautiful "City of Canals" features an abundance of fabulous accommodations. Eschew the chain hotels for more intimate and artistic options with this list of the city's best boutique offerings that balance Venetian glitz with a contemporary design inspired by everything from classic watches to the Byzantines.
