6 of the best luxury hotels in Italy you should know

Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world with as much as 48.6 million travelers visiting the country. From 2015, Italian tourism was estimated to be up 5 percent in Venice, 5.6 percent in Florence, 9 percent in Capri, and 20 percent in Cinque Terre.

It’s no wonder why those numbers are still expected to come up. The country is home to picturesque vineyards, art masterpieces, historical sights and a lot more. The top picks for sightseeing around Italy include the Colosseum, the Venice Canals, Pompeii, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Lake Como, and the Amalfi Coast.

After a full day of exploring what the country has to offer, it’s a welcome break to put one’s foot up to relax in one of these luxury hotels.

1. Belmond Hotel Caruso, Amalfi Coast

Considered to be one of the most spectacular cliffside luxury hotels, the Belmond Hotel Caruso is situated in a former medieval palace in the quiet part of Ravello. It overlooks rocks and cliffs of the Amalfi Coast and the Mediterranean Sea. The luxury abode features fresco salons, arched stone vaults, and 50 individual rooms and suites. The hotel is also well known for its infinity pool, which is also considered to be one of the world’s most stunning hotel pools.

2. Il Sereno, Lake Como

Enjoy your personal furnished terrace with a commanding view of Lake Como at the Il Sereno. Designed by Milan-based designer Patricia Urquiola, the luxury hotel features 30 large suites, a vertical botanical garden by Patrick Blanc and the Ristorante Berton Al Lago run by Michelin-star chef Andrea Barton, who created a menu inspired by the region.

3. Four Seasons Hotel Milano

The Four Seasons Hotel Milano is housed in a building steeped in rich history. The site was once a 15th-century monastery and then changed hands as the residence of the governor of northern Italy in the 1850s. On the outside, the hotel has a medieval facade, frescoes, and columns. On the inside, the hotel has details like Murano chandeliers and Fortuny fabrics. Meanwhile, guest rooms have a cool, sleek and spacious design, and are equipped with modern bathrooms.

4. St. Regis Florence

Formerly a 15th-century palace on the Piazza Ognissanti, the St. Regis Florence has grand guest rooms that feature artwork, frescoes, antiques and crystal chandeliers. Guests can also choose to dine at the hotel’s restaurant, which showcases the flavors of Tuscany. Those with a penchant for fine wine can enjoy tasting sessions that take place in the hotel’s wine cellar created from an actual cave. In addition to this, there’s also a full butler service that includes round-the-clock electronic butler feature.

5. Castello di Casole

Formerly a 10th-century castle, the Castello di Casole topped Conde Nast Traveller’s list of the best hotels in Italy. Situated on a 4,200-acre property in Tuscany, the luxury hotel offers just 41 rooms, which are ideal for intimate gatherings. Guests can enjoy design features such as Murano glass fixtures, terracotta tiles, and beamed ceilings. The hotel offers amenities such as a spa that is located in a former wine cellar.

6. Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo

Located in Taormina, Sicily, the Belmond Grand Hotel sits right next to the Greek Theatre. The hotel features 71 suites and bedrooms that come with a beautiful view of the clustered terracotta rooftops of Taormina, natural coves and a view of the active Mount Etna. The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle trip to its sister hotel, the Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea, a 19th-century private residence that comes with its own beach.