Italy’s finest hotels provide far more than accommodation. They occupy Alpine chalets, historic palaces, former monasteries, coastal villas, vineyard estates and even ancient cave dwellings.
This guide recommends one outstanding hotel in each of Italy’s 20 regions. Selection factors include location, atmosphere, regional character, quality of service, facilities, guest experience and suitability for international travelers. Most importantly, every selected property has a verified Expedia listing.
Click the hotel name in each section to visit its Expedia page and check availability for your travel dates.
Affiliate disclosure: This article contains Expedia and Amazon affiliate links. Italia Mia may receive a commission from qualifying reservations or purchases at no additional cost to you.
1. Abruzzo: Hotel Rojan, Sulmona
Start planning with Italia Mia’s Region of Abruzzo travel guide.
Hotel Rojan – Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Rojan is an intimate four-star hotel in the historic center of Sulmona. Its location makes it an excellent base for exploring the city, Pacentro, the Majella National Park and the mountain landscapes of central Abruzzo.
The individually decorated rooms and personal hospitality make it particularly suitable for visitors who prefer authentic Italian towns to large international resorts.
Why we selected it: Central location, consistently strong guest feedback, personal service and excellent access to both culture and nature.
Best for: Couples, independent travelers and visitors touring Abruzzo by car.
Recommended Abruzzo book
Abruzzo travel guides on Amazon — Find guides covering Sulmona, Gran Sasso, the Majella, medieval villages and the Adriatic coast.
2. Aosta Valley: Bellevue Hotel & Spa, Cogne
Explore the Region of Aosta Valley.
Bellevue Hotel & Spa Relais & Châteaux – Check availability on Expedia
Facing the Gran Paradiso mountain range in Cogne, Bellevue Hotel & Spa is one of Italy’s most atmospheric Alpine retreats. Traditional wooden interiors, antiques, fireplaces and mountain views connect the hotel to the character of the Aosta Valley.
Its spa and restaurants make the hotel appealing even when the weather encourages guests to spend a quiet day indoors.
Why we selected it: Exceptional mountain setting, distinctive Alpine character, wellness facilities and proximity to Gran Paradiso National Park.
Best for: Hiking, skiing, wellness, nature and romantic escapes.
Recommended Aosta Valley book
Aosta Valley travel guides on Amazon — Look for books covering Cogne, Courmayeur, Gran Paradiso and the region’s castles and trails.
3. Puglia: Borgo Egnazia, Savelletri di Fasano
Plan your journey with the complete Region of Puglia travel guide.
Borgo Egnazia – Check availability on Expedia
Borgo Egnazia evokes a traditional Puglian village while providing the facilities of an internationally renowned luxury resort. White-stone buildings, courtyards, olive trees and Mediterranean gardens establish a strong sense of place.
Guests can enjoy restaurants, swimming pools, a spa, golf and access to the Adriatic coast. Alberobello, Locorotondo, Ostuni and Monopoli are within day-trip distance.
Why we selected it: Outstanding resort facilities, unmistakable Puglian design, family amenities and a convenient Valle d’Itria location.
Best for: Luxury vacations, families, couples and special occasions.
Recommended Puglia book
Puglia travel guides on Amazon — Choose a recent guide covering the Valle d’Itria, Salento, Gargano and Puglia’s beaches.
4. Basilicata: Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita, Matera
Read more about the fascinating Region of Basilicata.
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita – Check availability on Expedia
Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita offers one of Italy’s most unusual hotel experiences. Its rooms and suites occupy carefully restored caves in Matera’s ancient Sassi district.
Stone interiors, understated furnishings and atmospheric lighting preserve the identity of the original spaces while providing contemporary comfort.
Why we selected it: Extraordinary architecture, sensitive restoration and an experience inseparable from Matera’s history.
Best for: Architecture, culture, romance and memorable special-occasion stays.
Recommended Basilicata book
Matera and Basilicata travel books on Amazon — Helpful for understanding the Sassi and exploring destinations beyond Matera.
5. Calabria: Villa Paola, Tropea
Discover southern Italy through Italia Mia’s Region of Calabria guide.
Villa Paola – Check availability on Expedia
Set in a former convent above Tropea, Villa Paola combines historic architecture, landscaped Mediterranean gardens and views over the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The peaceful surroundings feel secluded, yet Tropea’s historic center and coastline remain close. Capo Vaticano, Pizzo and several traditional villages can also be visited from here.
Why we selected it: Historic character, attractive gardens, coastal views and an intimate alternative to Calabria’s large seaside resorts.
Best for: Couples, coastal scenery, tranquility and boutique luxury.
Recommended Calabria book
Calabria travel guides on Amazon — Look for coverage of Tropea, Capo Vaticano, Scilla and the Ionian Coast.
6. Campania: Maison La Minervetta, Sorrento
Explore Naples, the islands and the Amalfi Coast in the Region of Campania guide.
Maison La Minervetta – Check availability on Expedia
Maison La Minervetta occupies a commanding position above Marina Grande in Sorrento. Its colorful nautical interiors, terraces and views across the Bay of Naples give it a personality quite different from that of a conventional luxury hotel.
Sorrento offers useful connections to Capri, Pompeii, Naples and the Amalfi Coast.
Why we selected it: Exceptional views, original interior design, intimate scale and a convenient Sorrento location.
Best for: Couples, design lovers, coastal scenery and excursions around the Bay of Naples.
Recommended Campania book
Naples, Capri and Amalfi Coast travel guides on Amazon — Useful for coordinating ferries, archaeological sites and coastal itineraries.
7. Emilia-Romagna: Grand Hotel Majestic “già Baglioni,” Bologna
Discover the region’s food cities and artistic heritage with the Emilia-Romagna travel guide.
Grand Hotel Majestic “già Baglioni” – Check availability on Expedia
Located in central Bologna, the Grand Hotel Majestic offers historic elegance within walking distance of Piazza Maggiore, the porticoes, markets and many celebrated restaurants.
Bologna’s excellent railway connections make it possible to visit Modena, Parma, Ferrara and Ravenna without changing hotels.
Why we selected it: Historic prestige, central location, elegant interiors and Bologna’s usefulness as a railway base.
Best for: Gastronomy, art, rail travel and traditional city luxury.
Recommended Emilia-Romagna book
Bologna and Emilia-Romagna travel guides on Amazon — Ideal for travelers interested in food, historic cities and day trips by train.
8. Friuli-Venezia Giulia: Savoia Excelsior Palace, Trieste
Explore Italy’s northeastern frontier with the Region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia guide.
Savoia Excelsior Palace Trieste – Check availability on Expedia
The Savoia Excelsior Palace faces Trieste’s waterfront close to Piazza Unità d’Italia. Its architecture and interiors recall the city’s Habsburg past, while many rooms overlook the harbor.
The location is convenient for exploring Trieste on foot and making excursions to Miramare Castle and the Carso plateau.
Why we selected it: Waterfront position, historic grandeur, strong service and easy access to central Trieste.
Best for: Architecture, waterfront views, history and sophisticated city breaks.
Recommended Friuli-Venezia Giulia book
Trieste and Friuli travel books on Amazon — Find guides to Trieste and books covering the region’s vineyards, mountains and coast.
9. Lazio: Rocco Forte Hotel de Russie, Rome
Prepare for Rome and its surroundings with Italia Mia’s Region of Lazio guide.
Rocco Forte Hotel de Russie – Check availability on Expedia
Hotel de Russie enjoys a prestigious location between Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps. Its terraced garden provides an unexpectedly peaceful retreat in central Rome.
The position is particularly suitable for first-time visitors who want to reach many important attractions on foot.
Why we selected it: Prime location, historic reputation, beautiful garden and consistently polished luxury experience.
Best for: First-time Rome visitors, culture, shopping and refined city stays.
Recommended Lazio book
Rome and Lazio travel guides on Amazon — Choose a current guide with neighborhood maps, museum information and day trips outside Rome.
10. Liguria: Grand Hotel Miramare, Santa Margherita Ligure
Discover the Italian Riviera through the Region of Liguria guide.
Grand Hotel Miramare – Check availability on Expedia
The Grand Hotel Miramare is an elegant waterfront property in Santa Margherita Ligure, one of the most practical bases on the Italian Riviera.
Guests can reach Portofino, Camogli, Rapallo and other coastal destinations by boat, train or road. Santa Margherita is lively enough for an extended stay but generally more convenient than Portofino.
Why we selected it: Seafront setting, historic elegance, convenient transportation and an excellent position for exploring the Riviera.
Best for: Coastal excursions, couples, sea views and classic Italian style.
Recommended Liguria book
Liguria and Italian Riviera travel guides on Amazon — Helpful for planning visits to Portofino, Genoa and Cinque Terre.
11. Lombardy: Passalacqua, Lake Como
Explore Milan, the lakes and historic cities in the Region of Lombardy guide.
Passalacqua – Check availability on Expedia
Passalacqua occupies a historic villa overlooking Lake Como in Moltrasio. Terraced gardens, richly decorated interiors, lake views and an intimate atmosphere have earned the property international recognition.
This is a destination hotel rather than simply a base for sightseeing. Guests can still visit Como and other lakeside communities, but the property itself encourages a slower pace.
Why we selected it: Exceptional design, intimate service, historic surroundings and one of Lake Como’s finest settings.
Best for: Romance, celebrations, privacy and exceptional luxury.
Recommended Lombardy book
Milan and Lake Como travel guides on Amazon — Combine Milan and Lake Como with Bergamo, Mantua and other Lombard destinations.
12. Marche: Fortino Napoleonico, Portonovo
Discover Adriatic beaches and Renaissance towns in the Region of Marche guide.
Fortino Napoleonico – Check availability on Expedia
Fortino Napoleonico occupies a historic coastal fort at Portonovo beneath Monte Conero. The architecture and location near the beaches of the Conero Riviera create a hotel experience closely connected to its surroundings.
A car is useful for exploring Ancona, Sirolo, Numana, Loreto and the inland hill towns.
Why we selected it: Unusual historic building, beachside location, regional cuisine and access to the Conero Riviera.
Best for: History, seaside scenery, seafood and romantic coastal stays.
Recommended Marche book
Marche travel guides on Amazon — Look for coverage of Urbino, Ascoli Piceno, the Conero Riviera and the region’s hill towns.
13. Molise: Fonte del Benessere Resort, Castelpetroso
Get to know one of Italy’s least-visited regions with the Region of Molise guide.
Fonte del Benessere Resort Castelpetroso – Check availability on Expedia
Fonte del Benessere Resort is a wellness-focused hotel near the striking Sanctuary of Castelpetroso. Its extensive spa facilities and tranquil setting make it a comfortable base for discovering Molise.
Nearby attractions include Isernia, archaeological sites, mountain landscapes and traditional villages rarely encountered on standard Italian itineraries.
Why we selected it: Strong wellness facilities, quiet setting and a convenient position for exploring inland Molise.
Best for: Relaxation, wellness, road trips and discovering lesser-known Italy.
Recommended Molise book
Molise travel books on Amazon — English-language coverage is limited, so also consider Italian regional guides.
14. Piedmont: Relais San Maurizio, Santo Stefano Belbo
Explore Turin, the Alps and wine country in the Region of Piedmont guide.
Relais San Maurizio – Check availability on Expedia
Relais San Maurizio occupies a former monastery among the vineyards of the Langhe. Historic architecture, countryside views, a spa and gastronomic experiences make it especially attractive to wine and food travelers.
A car is strongly recommended for visiting Barolo, Barbaresco, Alba and La Morra.
Why we selected it: Historic character, acclaimed gastronomy, wellness facilities and a privileged Langhe setting.
Best for: Wine, food, countryside, wellness and romantic escapes.
Recommended Piedmont book
Piedmont and Turin travel guides on Amazon — Select a guide covering both Turin and the Langhe wine country.
15. Sardinia: Cala di Volpe, Costa Smeralda
Plan an island vacation with the Region of Sardinia guide.
Cala di Volpe, a Luxury Collection Hotel – Check availability on Expedia
Cala di Volpe is one of the emblematic hotels of the Costa Smeralda. Its architecture evokes a Mediterranean village, while its position provides access to the translucent water and sculpted coastline of northeastern Sardinia.
A rental car allows visitors to explore Gallura, archaeological sites and beaches beyond the immediate resort area.
Why we selected it: Iconic architecture, exceptional coastal setting, resort facilities and international reputation.
Best for: Beaches, luxury, boating and special occasions.
Recommended Sardinia book
Sardinia travel guides on Amazon — Look for detailed beach maps and driving itineraries covering both northern and southern Sardinia.
16. Sicily: San Domenico Palace, Taormina
Explore the island with Italia Mia’s Region of Sicily guide.
San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a Four Seasons Hotel – Check availability on Expedia
Occupying a former convent, San Domenico Palace combines historic architecture with views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna.
Its gardens, terraces and central position place guests close to Taormina’s pedestrian streets and ancient theater. Late spring and early autumn generally provide a calmer experience than the busiest summer weeks.
Why we selected it: Historic architecture, celebrated sea views, exceptional facilities and one of Sicily’s most prestigious locations.
Best for: History, views, luxury and first visits to eastern Sicily.
Recommended Sicily book
Sicily travel guides on Amazon — A comprehensive guide is valuable because Sicily’s principal destinations are widely dispersed.
17. Tuscany: Castiglion del Bosco, a Rosewood Hotel
Prepare your itinerary with Italia Mia’s comprehensive Region of Tuscany guide.
Castiglion del Bosco, a Rosewood Hotel – Check availability on Expedia
Castiglion del Bosco is a restored country estate surrounded by vineyards, woodland and the rolling scenery near Montalcino.
The property offers spacious accommodations, restaurants, wine experiences and outdoor activities in a secluded rural environment. A rental car is essential for visiting Montalcino, Pienza, Montepulciano and Siena.
Why we selected it: Beautiful Val d’Orcia setting, extensive estate experiences, wine culture, privacy and refined hospitality.
Best for: Countryside luxury, wine, extended stays and special celebrations.
Recommended Tuscany book
Tuscany travel guides on Amazon — Choose a guide containing driving routes, town maps and coverage beyond Florence.
Travelers who prefer public transportation should also read Tuscany Without a Car and Where to Stay in Tuscany.
18. Trentino-Alto Adige: Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti, Pinzolo
Discover the mountains through Italia Mia’s Region of Trentino-Alto Adige guide.
Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti – Check availability on Expedia
Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti is a contemporary mountain resort in Pinzolo, close to the Brenta Dolomites and the Madonna di Campiglio ski area.
Natural materials, mountain views, spacious wellness facilities and convenient access to outdoor activities make it attractive throughout the year.
Why we selected it: Extensive spa facilities, modern Alpine design and access to both hiking and skiing.
Best for: Wellness, winter sports, hiking and contemporary mountain luxury.
Recommended Trentino-Alto Adige book
Dolomites and South Tyrol travel guides on Amazon — Choose according to your plans: general touring, hiking, skiing or scenic driving.
19. Umbria: Nun Assisi Relais & Spa Museum
Experience Italy’s green heart through the Region of Umbria guide.
Nun Assisi Relais & Spa Museum – Check availability on Expedia
Nun Assisi Relais & Spa Museum combines contemporary hospitality with the stone architecture of a former monastery. Its spa incorporates ancient Roman remains, creating a memorable relationship between wellness and archaeology.
The hotel is well positioned for exploring Assisi, while a car provides access to Spello, Bevagna, Montefalco, Spoleto and Gubbio.
Why we selected it: Unique archaeological spa, historic setting, intimate atmosphere and convenient Assisi location.
Best for: History, wellness, couples and exploring Umbrian hill towns.
Recommended Umbria book
Umbria travel guides on Amazon — Look for coverage of Assisi, Perugia, Orvieto, Spoleto and the smaller hill towns.
20. Veneto: Hotel Moresco, Venice
Explore Venice, Verona and the Dolomites with the Region of Veneto guide.
Hotel Moresco – Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Moresco is an elegant boutique hotel in Venice’s Dorsoduro district. Its location offers convenient access to Piazzale Roma and Santa Lucia railway station while retaining a quieter atmosphere than the busiest streets surrounding St. Mark’s Square.
Richly decorated interiors, welcoming common areas and a private garden give the property a romantic Venetian identity.
Why we selected it: Excellent location, distinctive interiors, intimate service and consistently enthusiastic guest response.
Best for: Couples, train travelers, boutique style and quieter Venice stays.
Recommended Veneto book
Venice and Veneto travel guides on Amazon — A regional guide can help you venture beyond Venice to Verona, Padua, Vicenza and the Prosecco Hills.
How the Hotels Were Selected
Calling any property the single “best hotel” in an entire Italian region is inevitably subjective. These selections balance several factors:
- Quality and consistency of the guest experience
- Distinctive architecture or historic character
- Connection to the culture and landscape of the region
- Desirability of the location
- Facilities and services
- Usefulness as a base for regional exploration
- Suitability for international visitors
- Availability through Expedia at the time of verification
The selected hotel may not be the least expensive—or even the most expensive—in its region. It represents an outstanding overall experience rather than a simple price or rating comparison.
Before Booking an Italian Hotel
Consider the following before confirming a reservation:
- Check your exact dates: Seasonal hotels may not operate throughout the year.
- Read the room description: Room size, view and facilities can vary considerably within the same hotel.
- Review cancellation rules: Less expensive rates may be nonrefundable.
- Confirm breakfast conditions: Breakfast is common but not included in every rate.
- Investigate transportation: Rural estates and coastal resorts may require a rental car.
- Ask about parking: Historic centers frequently have limited parking and restricted-traffic zones.
- Check accessibility: Ancient buildings, cave hotels and former monasteries may contain steps or irregular layouts.
- Look at the total price: Local taxes, parking and optional services may not appear in the first advertised rate.
When Should You Reserve?
For Rome, Venice, Florence, Lake Como, the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, Sicily and Sardinia, reserving several months ahead is advisable for travel between May and September.
Alpine hotels can fill quickly during ski season, Christmas, New Year and the peak summer hiking period. Early booking is also prudent around Easter, major festivals, trade fairs and international events.
Spring and autumn frequently offer an appealing combination of pleasant weather, greater availability and more moderate prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can every hotel in this guide be booked on Expedia?
Each property had a live Expedia listing when this guide was researched. Availability depends on the selected dates, and an individual hotel may occasionally have no rooms allocated to Expedia.
Why does Expedia sometimes show no available rooms?
The hotel may be closed seasonally, sold out, enforcing a minimum stay or selling its remaining inventory through another channel. Try different dates or contact the hotel directly.
Are these all five-star hotels?
Most are luxury properties, but the selection is based on the complete experience rather than star classification alone. Location, history, service and regional authenticity also matter.
Do I need a rental car?
A car is valuable in rural Tuscany, Piedmont’s wine country, Molise, Basilicata and many parts of Sardinia, Sicily and Calabria. It is usually unnecessary—and often inconvenient—in central Rome, Venice, Florence, Bologna and Milan.
What is a ZTL?
A Zona a Traffico Limitato is a restricted-traffic area found in many historic Italian cities. Cameras can record unauthorized vehicles automatically. Ask the hotel about parking and vehicle registration before driving into a historic center.
Is booking through Expedia less expensive than booking directly?
Prices, packages and cancellation conditions vary. Compare the complete rate, room category, included services and cancellation terms before deciding.
Final Thoughts
Italy’s regional diversity is reflected in its hotels. A cave suite in Matera, a waterfront palace in Trieste, a monastery in Piedmont and an ancient coastal fort in Marche provide entirely different experiences.
Use these recommendations as a carefully researched starting point rather than an inflexible ranking. Check availability for your dates, read recent guest reviews and choose the property that best matches your itinerary, transportation needs and preferred style of travel.
For additional planning, read Italy for First-Time Visitors, Best Time to Visit Italy and Italy North to South.
