Best Urban Hotels in Italy

So named as it’s housed in a perfume factory, Magna Pars L’Hotel à Parfum features olfactory motifs throughout its spaces. As such, each of its 60 subtly decorated suites takes on a floral, fruity, aromatic, woody or resinous theme. Some bedrooms have their own bars, libraries, seating areas with chaise longue, jacuzzi baths and outdoor terraces with sun loungers; all have paintings by up-and-coming Milanese artists. The alfresco dining room has two fireplaces and a state-of-the-art open kitchen. And, when you fancy a beverage, enter the secret door (made from copper, by artists at the Academy of Fine Arts of Brera) to Liquidambar.

So many of the city’s buildings have a story to tell. And while many of them were once grand palaces, this one used to be a flour mill. But the Neo-Gothic landmark creation was later reimagined for far more sophisticated purposes – now it’s the largest hotel in the area, retaining some of the original industrial features. Found on the island of Giudecca, it’s a way from the heart of the action, providing a tranquil space to house 379 bedrooms. Its rooftop pool, adjacent to the expansive spa is a highlight, offering panoramic views. There’s also a 24-hour fitness centre, three eateries, a bar and plenty to keep children occupied.

Located in Naples’s iconic city centre and historical centre the Renaissance Naples is the perfect place for guests on a romantic getaway or guests on business trips who want to relax in luxury. The hotel’s rooms and suites feature wood accents and luxurious king-size beds which make them extremely comfortable and welcoming. The hotel has its own fitness centre, hot tub, meeting space, laundry service and dry-cleaning service. The hotel has two restaurants; The Roof Garden Angio, which serves a diverse breakfast to guests whilst they gaze out over Naples, and the O’Break restaurant which serves a range of international and local dishes. The hotel is also home to the O’Koffi Bar which is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a drink.

L’Hotel in Pietra is your luxurious boutique hotel in Sassi Matera. It is housed in a building that was a 1300’s church. You will feel a sense of deep spirituality with the historical charm in any of their en-suite rooms and restaurant. The hotel offers the very best of Italian and European cuisine, a Middle Ages like library and a terrace where you can have your lunch in the warm midday sun or dinner in the golden oars of the setting sun.

Rome Glam Hotel sits right on the edge of the cool, boho Monti neighbourhood where young and local designers are dotted throughout. Its location makes it great for shopping and exploring this area as well as quick access to many of the museums in the centre including Palazzo delle Esposizioni and the Scuderie del Quirinale. Designer and boutique interiors plus a rooftop terrace is a bonus.

In the buzzing Navigli district of Milan lies the modern and luxurious Aethos Milan with 32 vintage Italian-style rooms, suites and an apartment featuring original décor. The Aethos Dependance apartment is located mere steps from the main hotel building and offers charming views of the Darsena. Guests can opt to dine in the divine ZAÏA restaurant with its Mediterranean menu which has influences from all over Italy and the countries that influenced their cuisine. Be sure to stop by the The Doping Bar for an expertly crafted cocktail by one of the inventive mixologists or take part in any of the exciting events. Aethos offers a private member’s club offering benefits in their hotels and restaurants with a club location in this hotel. The hotel also boasts a fully equipped fitness centre and diverse private event space options.

Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi Firenze Hotel is located in the historical centre of Florence and is within easy walking distance to the main cultural attractions, including the Duomo complex, the Piazzale Michelangelo, the Medici Chapel and the San Lorenzo market. The hotel is also just a few minutes’ walk from Santa Maria Novella railway station and a 20-minute drive from Amerigo Vespucci Airport. This boutique hotel comprises 86 guest rooms, including eight suites with The presidential suite boasting a panoramic terrace with breath-taking views over the city´s skyline. Originally made up of two historical buildings belonging to two aristocratic Florentine families – the Gaddis and the Arrighettis, Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi showcases its noble past with unique historical and artistic treasures, such as frescoed rooms, artist’s paintings and art objects, many dating back to the 16th century. Guests can enjoy a range of culinary experiences including Tuscan and Italian fine dining at Terrae, a cosy meal at The Secret Garden, cocktails, snacks and sunsets at Aria Rooftop bar and pre-dinner drinks or cheese and wine at the Milton Bar. The hotel also offers a range of experiences to the guests, from the romantic dining delight dinner by candlelight in a frescoed ballroom, to a cooking class with Chef Iside de Cesare, a Michelin-starred chef (who also leads the restaurant offering at the hotel) to discover the art of homemade pasta or an unforgettable Tuscan meal in the private winery of the hotel.

A boutique hotel housed in a restored 14th-century palace, the H10 Palazzo Galla is steeped in history. Built in a classic Roman style, with modern amenities and elegant decor, the property is within walking distance of the city’s iconic attractions (the Trevi Fountain and Roman Forum are fewer than 500 metres away and can be seen from the rooftop). 43 bedrooms have a vintage flair and are equipped with coffee machines and bathrobes. The best views can be enjoyed from the sunny terrace, but there’s also a bar and lounge area and a restaurant that serves traditional Italian cuisine.

A National Monument, Ca’ Sagredo is housed in a 15the century pink palazzo. With incredible original frescoes, grand staircases, antiques, Murano glass, marble cherubs and sculptures, its detail is sufficient to rival many a museum. The very opposite of minimalism, its 42 rooms are plush and embellished in traditional Venetian style. Dishes at the hotel’s L’Alcova Restaurant are also traditionally Italian, with a selection of regional delicacies on the menu – and guests can join the executive chef in cooking classes. The hotel boasts a convenient location for sightseeing, right beside a Grand Canal Vaporetti stop.

The boutique Hotel Villa Brunella Capri boasts one of the most scenic views of the iconic Marina Piccola. It is located on the Via Tragara which makes it the perfect place for those wishing to be near the town centre whilst remaining away from the crowds. Villa Brunella’s rooms and suites are light and spacious, with many of them featuring private terraces which gaze out at the glistening Mediterranean. Villa Brunella is also home to a panoramic pool, fitness centre and has its own in-room spa service. Located on the top floor of the hotel, L’Agave restaurant gazes out over the towns, cliffs and sea of Capri. L’Agave is regarded as one of the best restaurants on the island as it serves deliciously fresh Italian classics and seafood.

You don’t get any more boutique or high end on Via del Corso than Corso 281 Luxury Suites. Located on the main thoroughfare of the city right in the heart of high street brand shopping, this 12 room property is positioned perfectly. With stunning designer interiors, Nespresso machines, and luxurious Bulgari amenities, each of the architecturally appointed rooms boasts views of Roman rooftops or the grand Piazza Venezia. An added comfort and touch is the smart device in each room to help you navigate the city like a true local.

Nhow Milano, a pioneering design disrupter, is the hotel that helped shape modern-day Zona Tortona, the sought-after fashion and design district of Milan. The hotel has 246 rooms and suites and some of the best meeting spaces in the area. Set above the bold and playful nhow Milano is Vertigo Milano by Purobeach, the rooftop destination for people in the know. With its glass-bottom pool, stylish sun decks, circular plunge pools, and cocktail bar, this is no hideaway, it’s the place to be. Sunbathe, swim, sip Franciacorta, dine under the stars or dance into the night, this is Milan’s summer playground in the sky.