Where to Stay in Italy (2025 Guide): Best Cities, Regions & Hotels

Italy offers an incredible range of places to stay — from cliffside hotels on the Amalfi Coast and boutique B&Bs in Florence to luxury villas on Lake Como and family-friendly resorts in Sicily. With so many options, deciding where to stay can feel overwhelming, especially on a first trip.

I’ve learned over time that the right accommodation can completely change how you experience Italy. Staying in a small agriturismo in Tuscany meant waking up to homemade breakfasts with olive oil and wine produced on the farm. A night in a Venetian palazzo made exploring the canals feel like stepping back into history. These moments showed me that in Italy, where you stay is part of the journey itself.

This 2025 accommodation guide to Italy is here to help you make the best choice. Inside, you’ll find the top regions and cities to consider, practical tips on booking, and handpicked recommendations for budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels in every major destination.

Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a once-in-a-lifetime Italian adventure, this guide will help you find the perfect place to stay.

🧭 Travel Smarter: Before choosing hotels, check out our Ultimate Italy Travel Guide (2025). It’s packed with itineraries, insider tips, and practical advice to help you plan your dream trip.

Best Cities & Regions to Stay in Italy

Choosing the right city or region is the first step in planning your Italian trip. Each destination offers its own unique vibe, from bustling capitals to quiet seaside escapes. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular places to stay in Italy — and the types of accommodations you’ll find there.

Rome – Best Place to Stay in Italy for First-Time Visitors

There’s no city quite like Rome, and choosing the right area to stay can completely transform your trip. In the historic center of Rome, you’ll be surrounded by landmarks such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona — many within walking distance. Staying here is one of the most popular choices for travelers searching for where to stay in Italy for the first time.

For a more local vibe, Trastevere is a favorite: a bohemian neighborhood full of cobbled lanes, buzzing trattorias, and lively piazzas. Families often prefer Prati, near the Vatican, which feels calmer and more residential while still being close to Rome’s highlights. If you’re traveling by train, the Termini area is practical, offering affordable hotels and easy transport links across Italy.

I still remember staying in a tiny B&B just off Campo de’ Fiori — waking up to the smell of fresh bread from the nearby bakery made the city feel wonderfully alive.

Best areas to stay in Rome

• Historic Center (Centro Storico) – walkable, iconic landmarks
• Trastevere – charming, lively, authentic Roman atmosphere
• Prati – near the Vatican, quieter and family-friendly
• Termini – practical for transport, affordable hotels

Best Hotels in Rome

• Budget: Hotel Italia – central, comfortable, great value.
• Mid-range: Albergo del Senato – boutique elegance overlooking the Pantheon.
• Luxury: Hotel de Russie – iconic 5-star with gardens near Piazza del Popolo.

Naples – Best Place to Stay for Food, History & Day Trips

Naples is raw, energetic, and full of character. It’s the birthplace of pizza, home to incredible archaeological treasures, and the closest big city to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and Capri. Staying here is perfect if you want a mix of authentic Italian life with easy access to southern Italy’s most famous sites.

The city itself is packed with history. The historic center of Naples (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is full of narrow alleys, churches, and pizzerias where you can grab a slice of the original Neapolitan pizza. Chiaia and Posillipo are more upscale neighborhoods with sea views and luxury hotels. For convenience, the Central Station (Stazione Centrale) area offers affordable hotels and quick train access to Pompeii, Sorrento, and beyond.

I’ll never forget my first stay in Naples — sitting in a tiny trattoria eating pizza margherita straight from a wood-fired oven, with locals chatting loudly all around me. It’s chaotic, but in the best possible way.

Best areas to stay in Naples

• Historic Center (Centro Storico) – authentic, lively, packed with history
• Chiaia – stylish, upscale, nightlife, and shopping
• Posillipo – quiet, panoramic sea views
• Central Station area – budget-friendly, convenient for trains & day trips

Best Hotels in Naples

• Budget: Hotel Piazza Bellini – charming boutique in the historic center.
• Mid-range: Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo – rooftop terrace with views over the city.
• Luxury: Grand Hotel Vesuvio – iconic 5-star on the waterfront with classic elegance.

Florence & Tuscany – Best for Art & Countryside Charm

Florence is one of the best cities to stay in Italy if you love art, history, and food. The Florence historic center is compact, so staying near the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, or Ponte Vecchio puts you in the middle of Renaissance masterpieces. This is also one of the most searched spots for travelers looking for where to stay in Italy on a first trip.

Beyond the city, the Tuscan countryside offers a completely different experience. Agriturismi (farm stays) let you wake up among vineyards and olive groves, often with homemade breakfasts and wine tastings on-site. Towns like Siena, San Gimignano, and Montepulciano provide rustic charm and rolling landscapes.

I’ll never forget my first stay in a Tuscan villa — sipping Chianti as the sun set over the hills was one of those “this is Italy” moments that stay with you forever.

Best areas to stay in Florence & Tuscany

• Florence Historic Center – walkable, near all landmarks
• Oltrarno – artisan district, authentic and quieter
• Tuscan Countryside (Chianti, Val d’Orcia, Siena) – villas, farm stays, romance

Best Hotels in Florence & Tuscany

• Budget: Hotel Alessandra, Florence – family-run, charming, steps from Ponte Vecchio.
• Mid-range: Hotel Brunelleschi, Florence – boutique stay in a medieval tower.
• Luxury: Castello Banfi Wine Resort, Tuscany – castle hotel surrounded by vineyards.

Venice – Where to Stay in Italy for Romance

Venice is unlike any other city in the world. Staying here means waking up to gondolas gliding along canals, exploring quiet piazzas before the crowds, and ending the day with a spritz on the Grand Canal. For travelers wondering where to stay in Italy for a honeymoon, Venice is often the top choice.

For first-timers, San Marco is the heart of Venice — home to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. For a more authentic atmosphere, Cannaregio is local and full of trattorias. Dorsoduro is artsy and near museums, while Giudecca and the Lido offer luxury resorts and waterfront views.

One of my favorite stays was in Cannaregio, where evenings felt quiet and authentic, but the Rialto Bridge was just a short vaporetto ride away.

Best areas to stay in Venice

• San Marco – central, iconic, near attractions
• Cannaregio – authentic, less crowded
• Dorsoduro – artsy, quiet, museums
• Giudecca & Lido – luxury, waterfront

Best Hotels in Venice

• Budget: Hotel Antiche Figure – across from Santa Lucia station.
• Mid-range: Ca’ Sagredo Hotel – palace hotel with frescoes and canal views.
• Luxury: The Gritti Palace – world-famous 5-star hotel on the Grand Canal.

Milan – Where to Stay in Italy for Style & Design

Milan is Italy’s fashion and design capital, but it’s also a great base for exploring northern Italy. Staying in the Milan city center means you’re steps away from the Duomo, La Scala, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It’s also one of the best hubs for day trips to Lake Como, Verona, and Turin.

If you want luxury and nightlife, stay near the Duomo or Brera. For a more local vibe, Navigli offers trendy bars along canals, while Porta Nuova shows Milan’s sleek, modern side. Budget travelers often choose the Central Station area, which has affordable hotels and easy train links.

I once stayed just off Piazza del Duomo, and walking out to see the cathedral lit up at night was a moment that made Milan feel truly unforgettable.

Best areas to stay in Milan

• Duomo & Brera – central, stylish, walkable
• Navigli – trendy, lively, canalside nightlife
• Porta Nuova – modern, upscale
• Central Station – budget-friendly, transport hub

Best Hotels in Milan

• Budget: Hotel Garda – simple, near Milano Centrale.
• Mid-range: Room Mate Giulia – boutique, steps from the Duomo.
• Luxury: Bulgari Hotel Milan – elegant 5-star with private gardens.

Amalfi Coast – Best Places to Stay for Romance & Views

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most iconic places to stay in Italy, famous for its pastel-colored towns clinging to dramatic cliffs, winding coastal roads, and breathtaking sea views. This is the perfect region if you’re looking for romance, luxury, and unforgettable scenery.

Each town has its own personality. Positano is glamorous, with boutique hotels and picture-perfect views. Amalfi offers a mix of history and convenience, with ferries connecting you to nearby towns. Ravello, perched high above the coast, is quieter and renowned for its gardens and luxury villas. Smaller villages like Praiano and Atrani provide a more local feel while still being close to the action.

The first time I stayed here, I chose a family-run B&B in Praiano. I’ll never forget sitting on the terrace at sunset, watching the coastline glow while church bells rang in the distance — it felt like living inside an Italian postcard.

Best areas to stay on the Amalfi Coast

• Positano – glamorous, boutique hotels, stunning views
• Amalfi town – central, historic, great for first-timers
• Ravello – quiet, romantic, luxury villas & gardens
• Praiano & Atrani – authentic, charming, less crowded

Best Hotels on the Amalfi Coast

• Budget: Hotel Savoia, Positano – family-run, classic charm in central Positano.
• Mid-range: Hotel Marina Riviera, Amalfi – stylish rooms with balconies over the sea.
• Luxury: Belmond Hotel Caruso, Ravello – legendary 5-star hotel with infinity pool views.

Cinque Terre – Best Villages & Hotels on the Ligurian Coast

The Cinque Terre is one of the most unique places to stay in Italy, with five colorful fishing villages perched along the rugged Ligurian coast. Each village has its own character, and choosing the right one can enhance your entire experience.

Monterosso al Mare is the largest village and the only one with a long sandy beach — perfect for families and travelers who want both seaside relaxation and easy train access. Vernazza is small but picturesque, with a lovely harbor and pastel houses stacked along the cliffs.

Manarola is perhaps the most photographed, with iconic sunset views. Riomaggiore is lively and full of restaurants, while Corniglia sits higher up, offering peace and quiet away from the crowds.

I still remember staying in a small guesthouse in Manarola and walking out each evening to watch the sunset over the harbor — it felt like living in a postcard. If you want to combine charm, scenery, and convenience, Monterosso and Vernazza are often the best bases.

Best villages to stay in Cinque Terre

• Monterosso al Mare – family-friendly, sandy beach, more hotels
• Vernazza – charming harbor, iconic views
• Manarola – best sunsets, romantic stays
• Riomaggiore – lively, restaurants, good for nightlife
• Corniglia – quiet, off the beaten path

Best Hotels in Cinque Terre

• Budget: Hotel Souvenir, Monterosso – simple, welcoming, close to the beach.
• Mid-range: Vernazza Sea View, Vernazza – affordable rooms with harbor views.
• Luxury: Hotel Porto Roca, Monterosso

Lake Como – Luxury Hotels & Charming Towns in Northern Italy

When it comes to elegance and breathtaking scenery, Lake Como is one of the best places to stay in northern Italy. Surrounded by the Alps, the lake is famous for its glamorous villas, serene waterfront towns, and luxury hotels that have hosted celebrities for decades.

Each town offers a different experience. Como itself is lively, with shops, restaurants, and easy train access from Milan. Bellagio or the “Pearl of Lake Como,” is romantic, with cobbled lanes, gardens, and panoramic lake views. Varenna is smaller and quieter, perfect for couples looking for a slower pace. Menaggio combines charm with outdoor activities like hiking and boat trips.

I’ll never forget my first stay in Bellagio — waking up to see the lake shimmering at sunrise, framed by snow-dusted mountains, felt like pure magic. Whether you’re after five-star luxury or a quiet lakeside inn, Lake Como accommodation delivers unforgettable stays.

Best towns to stay on Lake Como

• Como – lively, practical, great for transport links
• Bellagio – romantic, iconic, gardens & villas
• Varenna – quiet, charming, ideal for couples
• Menaggio – balanced, family-friendly, activities

Best Hotels on Lake Como

• Budget: Albergo Milano, Varenna – charming hotel with lake-view balconies.
• Mid-range: Hotel Belvedere, Bellagio – boutique stay with gardens and spa.
• Luxury: Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Tremezzo – legendary 5-star hotel with an infinity pool on the lake.

Sicily – Best Places to Stay for Beaches, Culture & Island Charm

The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily, is a destination where history, food, and stunning coastlines come together. It’s one of the best places to stay in Italy if you want variety: ancient ruins, lively cities, and beaches that rival the Caribbean.

Each area of Sicily has its own flavor. Palermo, the capital, is vibrant and full of markets, street food, and grand architecture. Taormina is the island’s most glamorous spot, with luxury hotels, Greek ruins, and views of Mount Etna. On the western side, Trapani and San Vito Lo Capo offer some of the best beaches in Sicily. For culture and baroque architecture, Noto, Ragusa, and Modica in the southeast are unforgettable.

I once stayed in a family-run B&B in Palermo’s old town and spent the mornings wandering through Ballarò Market, tasting panelle and arancini before heading off to explore churches and palaces. Sicily has this rare balance of history and seaside relaxation that makes it unique in Italy.

Best areas to stay in Sicily

• Palermo – lively capital, markets, architecture
• Taormina – luxury, romantic, views of Etna
• San Vito Lo Capo – family-friendly, long sandy beaches
• Southeast towns (Noto, Ragusa, Modica) – baroque charm, food culture

Best Hotels in Sicily

• Budget: Hotel Porta Felice, Palermo – comfortable stay with a rooftop terrace.
• Mid-range: Hotel Villa Belvedere, Taormina – boutique hotel with sea views.
• Luxury: Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, Taormina – iconic 5-star hotel overlooking Mount Etna and the Greek Theater.

Sardinia – Best Resorts & Hidden Coves in Italy

Famous for turquoise waters and Caribbean-like beaches, Sardinia is one of the best places to stay in Italy if you’re dreaming of a seaside escape. The island combines wild, untouched coves with glamorous resorts, making it perfect for both adventurers and luxury travelers.

Each part of Sardinia offers something different. The Costa Smeralda in the north is world-famous for luxury hotels, yachts, and celebrity sightings. Stintino, home to La Pelosa beach, has shallow turquoise waters ideal for families. The eastern coast, especially around Cala Gonone, is adventurous, with boat trips to hidden beaches like Cala Luna and Cala Goloritzé. In the south, near Cagliari and Villasimius, you’ll find a more relaxed vibe with wide sandy beaches.

When I first visited Sardinia, I stayed in a small guesthouse near Cala Gonone and took a boat out to Cala Luna. Swimming into the caves along the shoreline was one of those unforgettable travel moments that made me realize why Sardinia is so beloved.

Best areas to stay in Sardinia

• Costa Smeralda – luxury, nightlife, glamorous resorts
• Stintino (La Pelosa) – shallow beaches, family-friendly
• Cala Gonone & East Coast – adventure, hidden coves, hiking + boat trips
• South Sardinia (Cagliari, Villasimius) – relaxed, wide sandy beaches

Best Hotels in Sardinia

• Budget: Hotel Cala Luna, Cala Gonone – simple, perfect for exploring caves and coves.
• Mid-range: Hotel Cala Caterina, Villasimius – beachfront boutique with Mediterranean charm.
• Luxury: Hotel Cala di Volpe, Costa Smeralda – world-famous 5-star resort, classic Sardinian luxury.

Types of Accommodation in Italy

One of the things that makes traveling in Italy so special is the variety of places you can stay. From simple family-run B&Bs to five-star luxury resorts, there’s something for every travel style and budget. Here are the main types of accommodation in Italy:

Hotels in Italy

Hotels range from budget 2–3 star properties to world-class 5-star icons in cities like Rome, Venice, and Lake Como. Italian hotels often include breakfast (colazione), and many have rooftop terraces or courtyards. For those looking for where to stay in Italy with comfort and convenience, hotels remain the most popular option.

👉 Browse the best hotels in Italy here.

Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

Family-run B&Bs are one of the most authentic ways to stay in Italy. Expect a warm welcome, homemade breakfasts, and a more personal experience compared to big hotels. They’re often found in city centers (like Florence or Bologna) or in smaller towns. Perfect for travelers who want local charm at affordable prices.

👉 Find B&Bs in Italy with great reviews.

Agriturismi (Farm Stays)

An agriturismo is a working farm that provides guest rooms or apartments. Popular in Tuscany, Umbria, and Sicily, these stays let you enjoy homegrown food, wine tastings, and peaceful countryside views. They’re a wonderful choice if you’re wondering where to stay in Italy for a romantic countryside escape.

👉 Discover authentic agriturismi in Italy.

Boutique & Unique Hotels

Italy excels at boutique hotels and unique stays. From converted monasteries in Umbria to cave hotels in Matera and trulli houses in Puglia, these options turn accommodation into part of the adventure. If you want something unforgettable, a boutique or themed stay is the way to go.

👉 Explore unique hotels in Italy.

Vacation Rentals & Villas

For families and groups, vacation rentals (apartments, villas, Airbnbs) are ideal. They give you more space, kitchens for self-catering, and often better value for longer stays. Tuscany and Lake Como are famous for villas, while cities like Rome and Milan have stylish apartments.

👉 Check Italy vacation rentals for your trip.

Luxury Resorts & 5-Star Hotels in Italy

From the Amalfi Coast to Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda and Lake Como, Italy has some of the most luxurious resorts in the world. Infinity pools, Michelin-starred dining, and private beach access are common. If you’re planning a honeymoon or once-in-a-lifetime trip, these are the ultimate choice.

👉Book luxury hotels in Italy.

Not sure which type of stay is right for you? Here’s a quick comparison of the major types of accommodation in Italy to help you decide. Whether you want the convenience of a hotel, the authenticity of a B&B, or the luxury of a resort, this table shows what you can expect from each option.

Where to Stay in Italy by Travel Style

Italy has something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a luxury escape, the right accommodation can make your experience even more memorable. Here are some of the best options:

Romantic Getaways in Italy

Perfect for honeymoons or couple escapes, Italy’s most romantic stays are found along the Amalfi Coast, Venice, and Lake Como. Imagine infinity pools overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, palazzos on the Grand Canal, or villas surrounded by vineyards.

• Amalfi Coast: Belmond Hotel Caruso, Ravello – luxury with iconic views.
• Venice: The Gritti Palace – historic romance on the Grand Canal.
• Lake Como: Grand Hotel Tremezzo – glamorous 5-star with infinity pool.

Family-Friendly Stays

For families, Italy offers hotels and resorts with space, pools, and easy access to beaches. Top choices include San Vito Lo Capo in Sicily, Tuscany’s countryside villas, and Lido di Jesolo near Venice.

• Tuscany: Castello di Velona Resort, Montalcino – countryside with pools and family suites.
• Sicily: VOI Arenella Resort, Syracuse – family resort with activities for kids.
• Veneto: Falkensteiner Hotel Jesolo – beachfront, kids club, modern design.

Budget-Friendly Hotels

If you’re traveling on a budget, Italy has countless affordable B&Bs, guesthouses, and smaller hotels in central locations. Cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan offer budget stays near train stations, while smaller towns provide even better value.

• Rome: Hotel Italia – central and great value.
• Florence: Hotel Alessandra – budget-friendly in the historic center.
• Milan: Hotel Garda – practical and close to Milano Centrale.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts

For once-in-a-lifetime trips, Italy is unmatched. The Amalfi Coast, Capri, Sardinia, and Lake Como host some of the most exclusive hotels in the world. Expect Michelin-starred dining, private beaches, and infinity pools.

• Capri: JK Place Capri – 5-star elegance with sea views.
• Sardinia: Hotel Cala di Volpe, Costa Smeralda – iconic luxury resort.
• Venice: Ca’ Sagredo Hotel – boutique luxury in a Venetian palace.

Adventure & Unique Stays

For active travelers, Italy offers mountain lodges in the Dolomites, agriturismi in Umbria and Tuscany, and unique stays like trulli houses in Puglia or cave hotels in Matera. These options combine adventure with authentic experiences.

• Dolomites: Rifugio Lagazuoi – mountain hut with panoramic views.
• Puglia: Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso, Alberobello – stay in a traditional trullo.
• Matera: Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita – cave hotel carved into rock.

Practical Tips for Booking Hotels in Italy

Booking accommodation in Italy is usually straightforward, but there are a few things worth knowing before you reserve. These essential tips will help you save money, avoid surprises, and choose the best place to stay for your trip.

When to Book

High season (May–September): Hotels in Rome, Florence, Venice, and the Amalfi Coast fill up fast. Book at least 3–6 months ahead.

Shoulder seasons (April, October): Great balance of price and availability.

Low season (November–March): Best deals in big cities, though some coastal resorts close.

Where to Book

• Hotels.com – the most popular option, with free cancellation on many hotels.
• Airbnb & Vrbo – best for apartments, villas, and longer stays.
• Agriturismo.it – dedicated platform for farm stays in Italy.
• Direct websites – some boutique hotels and B&Bs offer lower prices if you book directly.

👉 Compare prices and reviews on Hotels.com before deciding.

Average Hotel Prices (per night)

• Budget hotels / B&Bs: €60–120
• Mid-range hotels: €120–250
• Luxury hotels: €300+ (can reach €1,000+ in Capri, Amalfi, or Sardinia)

City Taxes (Tassa di Soggiorno)

Most Italian cities charge a nightly tax (usually €2–7 per person). It’s paid directly to the hotel, in cash, at check-out. Keep this in mind when budgeting.

Location Tips & ZTL Zones

Many Italian cities have ZTL zones (restricted traffic areas) where cars are not allowed without a permit. Always check before driving to your hotel.

If you’re traveling by train, staying near Termini (Rome), Santa Maria Novella (Florence), or Milano Centrale (Milan) makes arrivals and departures easier.

In historic centers, expect narrow streets and limited parking — consider booking hotels with shuttle services or garages.

❓ FAQs About Hotels in Italy

Final Words

Italy has a place to stay for every type of traveler — from charming B&Bs in Florence to luxury villas overlooking Lake Como, from family-friendly beach resorts in Sicily to romantic cliffside hotels on the Amalfi Coast. The key is choosing accommodation that matches your travel style, budget, and itinerary.

This guide to where to stay in Italy has covered the best cities, regions, and hotel types to help you plan smarter. Whether you’re booking a budget-friendly guesthouse or splurging on a once-in-a-lifetime luxury resort, the right stay will make your Italian adventure unforgettable.

👉 Ready to book? Compare prices and reviews on Hotels.com to find the best hotels in Italy for your trip.

Get our FREE Italy
Travel Guide
E-Book

This printable guide is your ultimate companion for exploring Italy, with insider tips, detailed itineraries, transportation advice, must-see attractions, and more.

Name*

Email*

Sign up