12 Top Places & Hotels in 2024

Ready to discover this country’s most incredible destinations? Then let’s start this guide on where to stay in Italy!

I lived in Italy a while ago and since then I have kept returning to visit all the glorious cities and islands! In this post, you’ll find the best towns and regions in the country for tourists along with a list of hotels for each place. 

In short, Rome is the best place to stay in Italy for first-timers as the capital offers a fab cultural introduction, stunning sites and some amazing hotels. But definitely check all the other places, too. 

Italy is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, so I’d recommend booking your hotels and attraction tickets in advance when planning your trip.

NOTE: The place you pick as your destination will depend a lot on what type of holiday you’re looking for (eg: beach trip, hiking or a city break), so definitely keep that in mind as you’re going over and checking all the areas. 

Quick Picks for Your Stay

If you just need to book your accommodation quickly, check out this list of the best hotels in Italy, in Rome, sorted by budget:

Check out this map that will help you visualize all the best cities to stay in Italy that I’ll talk about in this post: 

1. Rome – where to stay in Italy for first timers

If you’re traveling for the first time to Italy, then there’s no better place than Rome, to start your adventures!

I lived in Rome, Italy for a while and got to know all the ins and outs of the city, which I included in this 3 day itinerary, which I recommend checking before going there!

Rome offers everything you might want and need during your holiday: historical attractions for sightseeing, beautiful architecture and art, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene!

Some unmissable spots that you should definitely include on your list are the Colosseum (here’s a post on how to get tickets), the iconic Trevi Fountain (save some coins to make a wish!), the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican (definitely check how you can get tickets in this post) and Saint Peter’s Basilica (map).

As the capital city, Rome offers all kinds of options when it comes to public transport. Buses, metro, trams, scooters, you can use any of these to get around the city! If you’re set on a scooter, then check our post on renting a scooter in Rome, and you’ll find all the details there. 

Besides exploring its iconic streets and visiting all the incredible attractions, you’ll want to indulge in all the mouth-watering Italian food! If you need help finding good restaurants, have a look at our post with the best restaurants in Rome.

Now let’s go check out all the hotels in Rome! I’ve included a short list below but if you want to learn more about the main areas for tourists, then you might want to check our post on where to stay in Rome! You’ll find all the details you need there. 

Other accommodation options in Rome

Things to do in Rome

• Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain (map) and make your wish come true!
• Grab dinner in the Monti area 
• Visit the Colosseum (map), the Palatine Hill (map), and the Roman Forum (map)
• Admire the art at Galleria Borghese (map)
• Snap a pic on the Spanish Steps (map)
• Explore the Trastevere area
• Spend a day exploring Vatican City (map)

2. Florence – coolest place to stay in Tuscany

Welcome to the birthplace of the Renaissance!

A city bathed in history, art and stunning architecture! Florence is the capital of the famous Tuscany region, which is known for its lush rolling hills, vineyards and medieval hilltop villages. 

You can start your adventures in Piazza del Duomo (map) where you’ll find some of the most important attractions like the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (map), the Baptistery of St. John and Giotto’s Tower. 

But these are just some of the city’s incredible sites. You should also check out Uffizi Gallery (here’s a post on how to buy tickets), Palazzo Vecchio, Galleria dell’Accademia and Palazzo Pitti. 

If you’re looking for more attractions in the city, make sure you read our post on things to do in Florence. 

The best way to get around Florence is to just walk! You’ll definitely not need a car here as everything is within reach. Plus only the residents and those with a special permit are allowed to drive inside the Old Town area, where most of the attractions are.

However, if you want to visit other cities in the region, like Siena and Pisa you can totally rent a car (here’s a post on how to rent a car in Italy that will help you out). And definitely read my Tuscany itinerary if you’re wondering which other places you should visit.

Now back to Florence! If you’re up for some shopping, head to Ponte Vecchio (map) that has countless shops from where you can get some amazing souvenirs. Plus the bridge is super old so you’ll also get to admire its unique beauty!  considering it as well, check out the amazing hotels right below:

Other accommodation options in Florence

Things to do in Florence

• Cross the beautiful Ponte Vecchio bridge
• Visit the Uffizi Gallery and see the masterpieces by Botticelli and Michelangelo
• Climb up Brunelleschi’s Dome
• Admire the art at Galleria dell’Accademia 
• Check out Palazzo Pitti
• Eat some yummy food in Mercato Centrale (map)

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3. Venice – best place to stay in Italy for couples

Oh, Venice!

Masks, romantic gondola rides, art everywhere and stunning architecture!

This is a great destination for those of you planning a romantic getaway and not only! Art lovers will also have a blast here, exploring all the galleries and museums.

Some iconic attractions that you should check out while you’re here are Saint Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs (map), Museo Correr and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection Museum.

These are just some of the attractions, if you’re looking for a more extensive list then check out our post on things to do in Venice, you’ll find many other places and activities there.

I’m sure you’ll also want to go on a gondola ride! But I highly recommend reading this guide on how to buy tickets, before buying them online, as you’ll learn lots of tips! 

PRO TIP: I recommend buying all the attraction tickets for Venice in advance, online, especially in places like the Doge’s Palace and Saint Mark’s Basilica. If you don’t then you risk waiting in a line to get your tickets which at times can be super long.

Another MUST do in Venice is having the typical Italian aperitif at the traditional bars called Cicchetti: have either Aperol or Campari spritz accompanied with appetizers and finger foods!

Other accommodation options in Venice

Top things to do in Venice

• Go on a gondola ride in Venice
• Check out Museo Correr 
• Admire all the art at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection Museum
• Cross the Bridge of Sighs
• Visit Saint Mark’s Basilica
• Learn new things at the Doge’s Palace

4. Milan – where to stay in Italy for the urban vibe

Looking for that city rush? Then Milan might be just the place for you!

Known as the fashion capital, this city in Northern Italy is super exciting and it’s the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy the urban atmosphere, go shopping, party in true Italian style and eat some yummy food!

This is a pretty big city, so there are tons of areas that you can explore and where you can find some amazing hotels. I talk about them extensively in this post on where to stay in Milan. 

Of course, the best spot where you can start your explorations is Centro Storico! That’s where you’ll find some of Milan’s famous attractions like the Duomo, Gallerie d’Italia art museum and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (map), where you can shop until you drop in some of the most luxurious stores!

There are plenty of other incredible attractions outside the Old Town, like Pinacoteca di Brera, Sforzesco Castle and Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio (map), among many others.

If you’re wondering how to get around, you can easily use the metro and buses. Since it’s such a big and popular city I wouldn’t recommend renting a car to get around. 

What’s cool about Milan is that it will not only keep you entertained during the day but also at night! You’ll find plenty of bars where you can enjoy some drinks with your travel buddies! 

Other accommodation options in Milan

Things to do in Milan

• Visit the Duomo of Milan
• Admire the art at Gallerie d’Italia 
• Shop until you drop at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
• See more art at Pinacoteca di Brera
• Learn some history at Sforzesco Castle

5. Naples – the nicest city in Italy for foodies

Naples is one of the most unique and charming cities in Southern Italy! 

With Roman ruins, a stunning Old Town, and restaurants that serve some of the most delicious food in the whole country, this town should definitely be included on your Italy itinerary. 

In fact, this is the home of the traditional Italian pizza, but there are also so many different types of street food you need to try here, from panzerotti, to sfogliatelle and cuoppo napoletano! You just won’t be able to say no!

But it’s not just the food that brings people here. If you love history, you’ll also have a blast!

There are tons of unique attractions that you can check out in Naples, like the famous Royal Palace, the National Archaeological Museum, Castel Sant’Elmo (map) and Sansevero Chapel Museum.

Not too far from the city (around a 30 min drive away) you’ll also find the famous ruins of Pompeii! You can easily get there by public transport or you can take a tour from Naples (here’s a post where you can find lots of amazing ones).

Naples also gives access to natural wonders! Like the smoking craters of Mount Etna and some still relatively undiscovered beaches in the close surroundings.

Other accommodation options in Naples

Things to do in Naples

• Visit the Royal Palace
• Go on a day trip tour to visit Pompeii’s Roman ruins
• Try the best pizza at Pizzeria Dal Presidente (map)
• Admire the views from Castel Sant’Elmo
• Check out ancient Roman artifacts at the National Archaeological Museum
• Snap a pic at the Duomo di Napoli (map)

6. Sardinia – best place to stay in Italy for nature lovers

A much loved Italian island, that is actually one of the biggest islands in the Mediterranean!

Sardinia is the perfect spot for nature lovers who want to relax on the most beautiful beaches, go hiking (if it’s not too hot) and eat delicious food!

There are countless towns where you can set base in Sardinia and either stay there or explore the island! If you want to visit more spots I’d recommend renting a car, as it’d be much easier to get around. Or you could use the buses but know that the routes are limited to the main cities. 

The island has 3 airports, so depending on which place you want to see first or set base, you can land on Olbia Airport (map) which is set on the North Coast, Cagliari Airport (map) for the Southern Coast and Alghero Airport (map) for the North Western coast.

Sardinia is a paradise for anyone who likes going on outdoor adventures and finding stunning beaches! Stintino, a town on the Northwest coast of the island offers stunning beaches. And generally, the North coast has some of the most gorgeous sandy shores in Sardinia. 

For those who want to do a bit of hiking, the towns Tonara, Seiu and Orgosolo offer access to some fab trails (just make sure you grab a hat and proper equipment if you’re going).

Other accommodation options in Sardinia

Things to do in Sardinia

• Explore the Orto Botanico di Cagliari (map)
• Admire the architecture of the Bastione di Saint Remy (map)
• Visit the unique Neptune’s Grotto (map)
• Swim all day long at Cala Grotta (map)
• Visit the archeological sites at Altare Monte d’Accoddi (map)
• Spot the pink flamingos on Spiaggia di Porto Giunco (map)

7. Amalfi Coast – where to stay in Italy for luxury

Ahh, the glitz and glamor of the Amalfi Coast!

If you’re looking for a fancy place to spend your Italian holiday then the towns on this iconic coastline will definitely become your favorite spots.

Just imagine driving on Italy’s Southern coast while enjoying breathtaking sea views with the rolling hills as a backdrop, and then stopping at any of the quaint coastal towns, like Positano (which is home to countless luxury hotels), Sorrento or Amalfi.

Although renting a car is the best way to explore the Amalfi Coast, you can also do without a car, by staying in a town like Amalfi, which has lots of public transport connections with the other towns. 

If you’re wondering which town to pick, then check out this post on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast, where you’ll find information about all the amazing towns and more hotels.

Each town is charming in its own way but all share the same incredible architecture, stunning beaches and fab dining spots (here’s a post on some of the best restaurants on the Amalfi Coast).

Other accommodation options in Amalfi Coast

Things to do in Amalfi Coast

• Admire the old buildings in Positano 
• Relax and soak up some sun at Marina Grande beach (map)
• Visit the beautiful Amalfi Cathedral (map)
• Explore the streets in Praiano 
• Enjoy the stunning views in Ravello 

8. Bologna – best place to stay in Italy for history lovers 

Welcome to one of the most amazing cities in Northern Italy!

Known for its cuisine, rich history and fascinating culture, Bologna is one of those cities that you’ll fall in love with, the minute you arrive there.

Its Centro Storico is the best place to start your adventures! 

You can just walk around, explore the streets, and admire the stunning architecture. You’ll also find lots of attractions there like the city’s main square Piazza Maggiore (map), Basilica di San Petronio (map), Fontana del Nettuno (map), and Palazzo d’Accursio, a 14th-century palace that is now Bologna’s city hall. 

These are just some of the main sites, if you’re looking for more spots to visit, make sure you check this post with things to do in Bologna.

Like most Italian cities, Bologna is an absolute heaven for foodies! There are tons of restaurants where you can try the famous pasta bolognese and other yummy dishes, such as Ristorante da Nello al Montegrappa (map).

Contrary to popular belief, the famous dish pasta bolognese is originally from Imola, a town just West of Bologna. 

If you’re wondering how to get around the city, you’ll be happy to know that Bologna is a super walkable city, but you can also rely on buses and trains to get around.

Other accommodation options in Bologna 

Things to do in Bologna 

• Stroll around Piazza Maggiore 
• Visit the beautiful Basilica di San Petronio 
• Snap a pic of the Fontana del Nettuno 
• Check out the amazing Palazzo d’Accursio
• Take a day trip to Rimini in the Emilia-Romagna region
• Climb up the Santuario di Madonna di San Luca

9. Lake Como – nice place to stay in Italy for families

If you are going on a holiday with your kids and you are looking for a tranquil spot offering a lot of activities for all the family at the same time, Lake Como is for you!

Located in Northern Italy, Lake Como is one of the most beautiful Italian lakes, along with Lake Garda and it’s surrounded by lush green vegetation and the Alp Mountains.

I got to visit Lake Como, along with my family and loved every minute of it! We saw some incredible places like Villa Balbianello, Villa Monastero, explored towns like Bellagio and ate so much yummy food in the restaurants.

If you’re looking for some fab dining spots, make sure you check our post with the best restaurants in Lake Como. 

Those are just some of the things you can do here though! The list is long and it includes lake-kayaking, going on the Brunate funicular (map) and admiring the stunning views, or exploring other charming places like Cernobbio.

Romans actually built their luxury holiday villas with Baroque gardens in Como and Garda lakes in the southern foothills of the Alps because it was one of the most magical spots in Europe. Even if modern tourism has transformed the towns, the views of the lakes and mountains are the same as 2,000 years ago… so you cannot miss it!

Below, you will find all the best lakeside hotels for different budgets, but if you want more options, check out all the amazing places to stay in Lake Como!

Other accommodation options in Lake Como

Things to do in Lake Como

• Go on a kayak tour of Lake Como from Bellagio
• Visit the beautiful Villa Balbianello and Villa Monastero
• Check out the Como Duomo (map)
• Stop by Castello di Vezio (map) in Como Lake
• Take a trip to Lake Maggiore and admire the views of the Alps

10. Sicily – where to stay in Italy for culture

Want to dive deep into Italian culture, eat traditional dishes and desserts all day long and relax on some of the most beautiful beaches in the country?

Then book a plane ticket to Sicily and get ready to remain in awe of its beauty!

Set just off the “toe” from Italy’s “boot”, this island is definitely one you shouldn’t miss out on.

Its capital city is Palermo, an amazing place where you can start your adventures as there are lots of attractions there from Palazzo dei Normanni in the Old Town and the Palermo Cathedral (map) to the Zisa Palace (map). 

With a car you’ll get to easily explore all the major towns in Sicily such as Catania which is known for its historic sites, Cefalu where the beaches are simply magical, Taormina and Syracuse, plus you’ll easily get to the more remote beaches and spots. 

PRO TIP: If you’re planning to rent a car to get around Sicily, then it’d be a good idea to do it from here, since it’s possible that you’ll touch down at Palermo Airport (map), or at the airport in Catania (map) which is the largest one on the island. 

However, you can also use trains or buses which connect the major cities. 

If you’re in Taormina, make sure you head to Forza d’Agro, a hilltop village, just a 30 min drive away from the city, where many scenes from The Godfather were filmed. 

Other accommodation options in Sicily

Things to do in Sicily

• Visit the spectacular Royal Palace of Palermo
• Check out the Basilica Cattedrale Sant’Agata (map) in Catania
• Relax on Spiaggia di Cefalù (map)
• Travel back in time at the Neapolis Archaeological Park (map)
• Learn history at Agrigento Regional Archaeological Museum

11. Cinque Terre – trendiest place in Italy

Colorful towns perched among cliffs, cute boats and scenic beaches! Yep, I’m talking about one of the most popular areas in Italy: Cinque Terre!

Literally translated to “Five Lands”, this region in Northwest Italy is so stylish that you’ll catch yourself taking pictures at every corner. 

Cinque Terre is made of the following towns: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare. All are just as beautiful, offering fab attractions, incredible views and a wide range of restaurants where you can indulge in all the delicious food. 

You’ll spend hours exploring sites like the Old Town in Riomaggiore and catching sunsets around the marina in Manarola! As well as hiking around in Corniglia and enjoying its tranquil atmosphere and visiting all the historical sites in Vernazza. 

Honestly, there’s never a dull moment here!

NOTE: The villages in Cinque Terre are car free zones and parking within the village is reserved for residents. However you can travel from one city to another by car and then find a car park outside the village (there usually are a few nearby) and leave your car there.

Alternatively you could also travel between the villages by train (it’s usually the quickest way)!

Other accommodation options in Cinque Terre

Things to do in Cinque Terre

• Hike up to Castello di Riomaggiore (map) and enjoy the views
• Relax on Monterosso Beach (map)
• Go for a swim at Riomaggiore Beach (map)
• Climb the stairs at Scalinata Lardarina (map)
• Hike the Blue Path (map) from Corniglia to Vernazza

12. The Dolomites – for outdoor adventures

Ready to go on an unforgettable adventure? 

Visiting this mountain range in Northeastern Italy, should definitely be on your bucket list if you’re into outdoor activities like hiking, skiing and mountain biking! 

There are lots of towns where you can set base and then explore the mountains. It definitely depends which attractions you want on your trip, how long you’re staying and if you’re thinking of renting a car to get around. 

Definitely give our post on where to stay in the Dolomites, a read as you’ll find so much info there on which are the top towns, and main attractions that you should check out.

It’s not necessary to rent a car, you can also use buses to get from one town to the next one, but just know that it’ll probably take you longer to get around by public transport.

When it comes to things to see, the list could go on and on, however some main key spots that I think you’ll want to see are Lago di Braies (map), Val Fiscalina (map), Alpe di Siusi (map), Armentara Meadows (map) and Baita Segantini (map). 

Other accommodation options in the Dolomites

Things to do in the Dolomites

• Explore Selva di Val Gardena town
• Walk around the beautiful Val Fiscalina 
• Hike to the Cascata Waterfall (map)
• Hit the slopes in Alpe di Siusi
• Go hiking around the Sella Massif (map)
• Snap a pic of the Lago di Braies

Other great places to stay in Italy

This country is packed with incredible places and although above you’ll find the main spots, I wanted to make a shorter list with a couple more destinations that you should add to your bucket list:

• Puglia – Set in Southern Italy, this region is packed with charming villages and bigger towns too like Bari (here’s a post on the top areas in Bari). Perfect for a relaxing holiday Puglia offers amazing weather, beaches and yummy food! If you’re headed there check our post with the best things to do in Puglia to get some inspo 
• Verona – Visit Romeo and Juliet’s “hometown” and get lost on the artsy streets of this city! Check out our post on where to stay in Verona and be ready to remain in awe of its magic 
• Ischia – Perfect for an island getaway, this place offers tranquil beaches, gorgeous towns (which you can check in this post on where to stay in Ischia) and historical sites 
• Lake Garda – Located in Northern Italy, this lake is so beautiful and it’s surrounded by some amazing towns (learn more about each one in this post)! A great location for nature lovers and people who like outdoor adventures 

FAQs about lodging in Italy

🏛️ Which is the best city where to stay in Italy?

Rome is the best city to stay in Italy, especially if it’s your first time in the country! You’ll find countless attractions there and great hotels like Baglioni Hotel Regina or Hotel Grifo.

🌊 Which are the best places to stay in Italy by the sea?

👪 Which are the best places where to stay in Italy for families?

Some of the best places to stay in Italy for families are Lake Como, Sardinia and the Dolomites.

💸 Where to stay in Italy on a budget?

Consider staying in Southern Italy in regions like Puglia, if you’re traveling on a budget. 

🤔 What is the best way of getting around Italy?

If you’re traveling to big cities I’d say the train is the easiest way to get around, but if you’re visiting remote towns and islands I’d recommend renting a car. 

📅 Which month is best for Italy?

Spring (April-May) or early Fall (September-October) are some of the best times to visit Italy, as the weather is perfect during those months. 

📍 Where is a good place to base yourself in Italy?

It depends which parts of the country you want to explore. You could set base in a big city that has lots of train connections to other towns that you want to visit, or stay somewhere more remotely if you’re renting a car. 

💑 What are the best places to stay in Italy for couples?

Amalfi Coast, Venice and Florence are some of the best places to stay in Italy for couples. All places offer an artsy, romantic vibe that I’m sure you’ll love.

Final thoughts on where to stay in Italy

What a magical country! I love coming back to Italy and visiting more and more places!

I hope that this guide on where to stay in Italy, helped you decide which towns, islands or areas you want to visit on your next trip or add to your bucket list.

I highly recommend booking your hotels in Italy, as well as attractions tickets in big cities like Rome and Florence in advance. Especially if you’re traveling during the high season (June to early September). 

If you’re still undecided on where to stay during your holiday, here are my 2 favorite Italy hotels, both located in Rome:

• Baglioni Hotel Regina – a stunning hotels with rooms that have Murano glass chandeliers and silk tapestry
• Otivm Hotel – you’ll love this place that offers a terrace and a delicious daily breakfast

If you have any questions about Italy, don’t hesitate to drop me a message below! I’d be happy to help you out in any way I can. 

Have the best holiday,

Yulia

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