One of the questions, that you most often ask me is: “What checked accommodations are you recommending in (here is the name of the place), but only checked by you!” Exactly! This post should be created four years ago, so I hurry to catch it up. Here’s the base of the tested accommodation in Italy. All without exception I checked in person! I slept, ate, and relaxed there. There’s no fake and no hidden advertising here. There’s no recommendation “after acquaintance”. Besides, you will also find info about the places which were my bloomer and which I recommend to stay away from. Hotels from 2 to 4 stars, agritourism, B&B, camping sites. Sicily, Tuscany, Naples, Rome, and more. Moreover, this database will be updated by me after every trip. See for yourself!
Checked accommodation in Italy – preliminary information
This post should be one of the first on the blog. I had such an idea, but at some point I gave up, stating that I will describe each of these places in a separate post. Unfortunately, now I know that I won’t be able to do it, because interesting topics for articles come with each subsequent trip, and you are very interested in accommodation, which I had the opportunity to check personally and you keep asking about them. How many times have I received e-mails with thanks that you went to the place recommended by me and it was a bull’s-eye. How many small B&Bs and agritourism have written to me thanking me for the recommendation, because suddenly tourists from Poland start coming in large numbers and say: “Natalia recommended this place to us”. You ask me about different locations. I haven’t gone everywhere yet, so there are a lot of blank spots on this list that will gradually disappear. I grouped the accommodation by region, I also distinguished cities such as Rome and Naples, or the area of Lake Garda.
My rating of the accommodation
There are places that I wrote about earlier in one of the posts about the trip, and there are also places that, due to their uniqueness, I presented in a separate post. In such cases, under the name of the object, I paste a link to the post, where it is extensively reviewed. In addition, I provide information on when I stayed in a given place, and for how long and I use the following scoring for individual facilities:
4* revelation – a place I would like to return
3* good – really cool place but no fuss
2* decent – maybe for one, or two nights
1* bypass the wide berth – the place I left with relief
Note! Scoring is not related to the level of luxury the facility offers! Considering I took the location, the surroundings, the comfort of the room and the bathroom, the food, the ambiance, and the service.
Checked accommodation in Italy – that’s what you need to know
In this post, I describe my experiences starting in 2008. Something could have changed in a given hotel or agritourism, for better or for worse. In addition, if possible, I post my photos here, but I don’t have them from everywhere. The idea to create a blog appeared in my head in the second half of 2012 and only in subsequent trips did I start to pay attention to photographing accommodation. Besides – like everyone – I learn all my life and these photos from a few years ago (just like some posts from the beginning of blogging) sometimes make me embarrassed, it’s better not to post them. Nevertheless, I hope that the following list, which I have been trying to do for a long time and created in small steps over several months, will prove helpful to you.
Honest reviews
The second issue is honesty. Among the accommodation presented below, there are those for which I did not pay because I was a guest. I receive a lot of invitations from hotels and agritourism in Italy, asking me to come and review on the blog, offering a free stay. I describe such places on the blog, indicating each time that the post was created as a result of cooperation. My opinions are positive, but it is not because it is not proper for me to write otherwise, but because I select the invitations. If I open a booking and see poor reviews, I simply refuse. Somehow, so far I have not found myself in a situation where I would have to criticize the client’s offer, but I would not be reluctant to do so. Honesty towards the reader is the most important motto of this blog, and your trust is the most valuable asset. That is why I reject – and will reject – offers to include in the database “proven accommodation in Italy” places where I have not been, in exchange for financial gratification.
If you run a hotel / apartments / agritourism / guest house in Italy and you are interested in me testing and presenting your offer to my readers, I invite you to familiarize yourself with the COOPERATION tab
If you don’t find the right accommodation for you below, check also:
the largest website with accommodation offers
website specializing in holiday rentals of houses and flats
Map of proven accommodation in Italy
Since this post is very extensive, I have prepared the following map to make it easier. Of course, you can zoom and move it. I marked on it all the accommodations in Italy that I checked, and when you click on any location, the name, town, my rating, and a link to the facility will be displayed. However, under the map you will find a description of each place, starting from Tuscany, Sicily, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Basilicata, etc.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Tuscany
Florence and Northern Tuscany
Florence – Hotel Ariele
Was here – July 2010
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
© Hotel Ariele
First of all a very good location, almost in the center of Florence, moreover the parking lot! Although parking is extra paid and only three places, so requiring a prior reservation, a hotel in the historic center of the capital of Tuscany is still so luxurious. The hotel is in an old palace and its rooms are very ambiance. Breakfast did not impress me at the time, but maybe something has changed over the years.
Siena – agritourism La Torre alle Tolfe
I was here – May / June 2021
Number of nights: 14
My rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return
Check out the separate post about La Torre alle Tolfe.
Borgo a Mezzano (Garfagnana) – Hotel Ristorante Corona
Was there – May 2013
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 1* bypass the wide berth – the place I left with relief!
The biggest fuss in my Italian travel history! Okay, the price was wonderfully low, but I was looking for something cheaper, because for the previous night – absolutely phenomenal castle Fosdinovo – I spent much more than my daily limit on that trip. Nevertheless, such scandalous conditions I did not expect in anything that has the name of a hotel, and it is 3 *! The cracked and falling paint in the rooms was not the reason why we only once escaped from the hotel after the first night, although we paid for two. The wires came out of the dryer, which was very easy to get an electric shock, the shower was dirty, with the someone’s hair in the bottom of the shower tray, and breakfast? Old eggs cooked hard, at least from the previous day. Arthur almost vomited on the plate after the first bite, although he should have done so, probably would have avoided stomach upset. I did not eat anything. The only pros? Good location and a few parking places in front of the building, staff attentive. But I would not go back there for any reasons. Avoid with the wide berth!
Fosdinovo (Prowince Massa – Carrara) – Castello Fosdinovo
Was here – May 2013
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation – the place I would like to return!
Check out the article about the castle.
Chianti / Montevarchi – Agriturismo Podere Luisa
Was here – April / May 2013
Number of nights: 4
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
I described the agritourism in a separate post.
Chianti | San Sano – Agriturismo San Sano
I was here – September 2022
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4 * revelation!
Agriturismo San Sano, picturesquely situated among vineyards and Chianti hills, has 16 standard rooms from economy to superior, a large parking lot, a garden with romantic corners, and a swimming pool surrounded by olive trees. A really good, varied breakfast is served there every morning. In addition to sweets and homemade cakes, there is also country yogurt, several types of cold meats, and cheeses, including fresh sheep ricotta, tomatoes, breakfast cereals, boiled eggs, and salty tarts with vegetables and fruit. This is one of the best breakfasts I’ve had outside of four-star hotels. You can come here with your dog.
San Gimignano – Podere Bellavista
Was here – April 2013
Number of nights: 3
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Check out the article I posted below.
Volterra – Tuscany Forever
Was here – September 2017
Number of nights: 4
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
I described Tuscany Forever in a separate post.
Val di Merse / Chiusdino – Podere di Santa Maria
Attention! This place is closed until further notice.
I was here – September 2017
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4 * revelation!
A wonderful agriturismo located in the middle of a forest on the border of the Maremma, close to the Abbey of San Galgano and only half an hour’s drive from Val d’Orcia. The old, centuries-old buildings are renovated but still have the amazing atmosphere of classic Tuscany, and delicious breakfasts made of local products. On-site, it is possible to organize Tuscan cuisine workshops or take advantage of horseback trips through the forests of the Maremma. The main photo at the beginning of the entry is Casa Ada in Podere di Santa Maria.
Here you will find the whole post about Podere di Santa Maria.
Maremma/ Fonteblanda – Agriturismo Peretti
Was here – May 2013
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Check out the article I posted.
Val d’Orcia (Pienza) – Agriturismo Il Macchione
Was here – May 2013
Number of nights: 3
My Rating – 2* decent – maybe for one, or two nights
This beautiful agritourism is one of the two places in my Italian travel history, which aroused in me extremely conflicting emotions. Agriturismo Il Macchione is a beautiful place, ideally located just 2km up north of Pienza. Apartments in an old typical Tuscan farmhouse are very elegant and functional with a well-equipped kitchen, and a bottle of wine from the owner’s fattoria awaits the guests. If there was a nice atmosphere here, like Agrotirismo Perettis or Podere Luisa, I would give 4 * with a clear conscience. Exactly. Throughout my stay, I had the impression, that we were perceived as second-class guests. When the owner saw us in the driveway in our old Seat Leon mk I, an eleven-year-old, parked next to his Jeep and other expensive guest cars, he looked at us as if he had doubts about whether we would be able to pay for the stay, not cheap at all, because even though it was low season, it cost us only 102 euros, and we were 3 nights. I don’t like it much when someone evaluates others in such shallow categories. Some people prefer to be than to have. I prefer to go on vacation to Italy than to buy a new car from a dealer, my friend on the contrary would like to leave from a car dealer with a brand new car and go to the Baltic Sea. His choice. I wish everyone so rarely see mechanics workshop like me when our Leon was still in full strength and twice traveled the distance between Poland and Sicily, once he cross Sicily around, and the third time he watched the Sicilian coast from the edge of Calabria, not to mention shorter routes. But it’s not everything. Another element we didn’t like was the breakfast. Quite a large room, a few tiny, round tables, ideal for a cup of coffee and next to the buffet. Not very large, but quite cool, and varied, and quite a lot of homemade products, including cakes. But imagine the three “helpers” standing next to you and watching what you put on your plate and then trying to fit it on the micro table next to the plate of your travel companion. Massacre. We felt embarrassed there. The big final was at the time of payment. Just a few weeks earlier, the city of Pienza decided about a new city tax, which – like most Italian cities – has to pay for every night and every person. That time it was only 0.7 euros per person per night and it did not matter, but the owner did not hesitate to comment that he doesn’t understand this fee, because Pienza is a rich community. Cool, I agree. In further discussion asked us about our journeys, and we are the truthful answer, that we go mainly to the south of Italy, especially because we loved Sicily, etc. Then we heard that Italians in the southern regions are spivs, where honest people from the north have to work and such taxes need to be added. Massacre. We left mega disgusted. I really wanted to stay in this agritourism because watching it on the internet for me was unique, besides, it has excellent reviews. Well, everyone has the right to a subjective opinion, you know mine.
Val d’Orcia (Monticchiello) – Agriturismo Barbi
Was here – September 2014
Numbver of nights: 2
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Check out the article I posted below.
Val d’Orcia (Crete Senesi) – Staffolino
I was here – September 2022
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4 * revelation!
Typical Tuscan red brick house, beautifully situated in the rolling hills of Crete Senesi. This is not an agritourism, although it looks like it at first glance. The owners live outside the facility, and the whole is intended for guests. It is an old farmhouse on a hill, accessed by a private gravel road, offering beautiful views all around, a barbecue area, parking, and a communal swimming pool, overlooking Siena in the distance on a clear day. The winding panoramic road is only 12 km away, so the medieval gem of Tuscany is at your fingertips. The farm offers one detached house for up to six people and several apartments in a larger building. Each of them has a separate entrance from the garden, and in front of the door, there is a table, chairs, umbrella, and sun loungers.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Sicily
Trapani – B&B GranVeliero
Was here – May 2016
Number of nights: 4
My Rating 4* – revelation – a place I would like to return!
Check out the article I posted.
Trapani-Angelo Apartments
Was here – May 2018, April 2019, September 2021
Number of nights: 21 days in total
My rating – 4 * revelation!
The site of the facility and reservations, the password “Italia by Natalia” provided during the booking process will give you freebies!
Details and more information are in the post about Angelo Apartments..
Erice – Il Carmine
Was here – June 2012 & September 2014
Number of nights: in total 3
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Il Carmine is one of my two favorite places in Sicily. The old 15th-century monastery, which was made of small B&B (8 rooms), has an amazing ambiance and so thick walls, that even when it’s hot outside, the inside is pleasantly cool, despite the lack of air conditioning. When I’m at Il Carmine I feel great. Erice’s center is close by, but at the same time, it’s surrounded by greenery and total silence, a bit off the beaten track. Compared to what I wrote in the post, created at the beginning of blogging, and based on the experience of 2012, Il Carmine improved breakfast during our stay in 2014.
Check out the article I posted.
Custonaci – Residence delle Cave
Was here – September 2014
Number of nights: 3
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
New development with garage for guests on the first level, elevator, and several dozen elegant and well-furnished apartments with balconies or small gardens. The clean, cozy, airy, and very nice, young owner, who in addition runs a visitor’s information desk at his garage. I highly recommend this place, we felt great and would happily return. The garage is a great advantage because it not only gives you the opportunity to park your car but also protects it from sunlight. Superb!
Castellammare del Golfo – Locanda Scirocco
Was here – June 2012
Number of nights: 2
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
More information in the posts about the town of Scopello and the Zingaro nature reserve.
Sciacca – B&B Conte Luna
Was here – June 2012
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
Check out the post about Marsala and Sciacca.
Agrigento – B&B La Dolce Vita – Luxury House
Was here – June 2012
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return
Beds in the style of Louis XIV I will never forget! Greet Dario if you go there. This is the most positively twisted Sicilian I have ever met. I hope someday I will return to La Dolce Vita.
Check out the posts about the Turkish Steps and Agrigento and the post about the city of Enna.
Palermo – Torre dei Federico
Was here – September 2014
Number of nights: 2
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Have you read or seen Lampedusa’s ” Il gattopardo”? Are you fascinated by those times? Would you like to take a trip in time and live in the Sicilian palace of that era? Here you are! Situated right next to Ballaro Palazzo Conte Federico, one of the oldest places of this type in Palermo, is inhabited by an authentic couple of Counts. Part of the palace – the tower, so-called Torre dei Federico, inhabits the brother of Count – Don Francesco and his wife Vittoria. There just created a small, but so ambiance B&B. The location is excellent, and you can park your car in the palace courtyard, which in the center of Palermo is quite a luxury. We felt perfectly at this beautiful place where the spirit of history is exiting from every corner. Breakfasts served on the roof, at one table for all the guests, are very tasty and include pastries personally prepared by Vittoria. We had the opportunity to tase one-morning cannoli. All dogs are welcome. I gave 4 *, although Vittoria was a little disappointed to me at the end. Once we paid for the room and the butler (yes, it’s not a joke, a butler in a white tie and a black bow tie) took our luggage to the car, the phone rang in the courtyard, after which the butler asked us to pay 30 euros for the parking fee for two days. Apparently, Vittoria forgot, but somehow I don’t believe it.
Palermo – Hotel Garibaldi
Was here – June 2012
Number of nights: 2
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
Check out the article I posted.
Palermo – Apartments of Kasia Strycharska
Was here – December 2017, May 2018, October 2020
Number of nights: 12 in total
My rating – 4 * revelation!
No website, photos, descriptions and contact details for booking can be found in the posts When you are looking for something more and How to visit Palermo?
Favignana – Residence Favignana
Was here- May 2016
Number of nights: 2
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Great place in Favignana. Close to the city center, but relatively on the outskirts. Apartments are very well equipped, elegant, and cozy, each with a balcony or patio. What’s more, you can rent a bike or scooter in the complex, so popular here to explore the island.
Favignana – Favignana Home
Was here – May 2018
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4 * revelation!
A beautiful apartment on the outskirts of the city, well-equipped, with a charming terrace and a functional kitchen. A very nice owner allows you to rent a scooter from a friendly rental company, from which the scooter is delivered to the apartments in the morning, of course, at the customer’s prior request.
Marettimo – B&B Mare e Timo
Was here – May 2016
Number of nights: 4
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
A lovely and well-organized B&B at Marettimo. There are no apartments with a kitchen, but there’s one communal kitchen and a roof terrace where you can lie on a sun lounger or dine. Everywhere is close, but it’s the domain of this small village, the only one on the Island.
Eraclea Minoa / Montallegro – Camping Eraclea Minoa Village
Was here – September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Check out the article I posted.
Piazza Armerina – Villa Trigona
Was here – June 2012
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
Check out the posts about Enna and Piazza Armerina.
Modica – I Tetti di Siciliando
Was here – September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
Very cool place to stay in Modica. Old buildings, but you get quite a big rooms, a bathroom of standard size (which in the hundreds of years old townhouses aren’t obvious at all), a wonderful view from the public terrace in the dining room, and also free parking on the main street under the building. You have to get a bit tired – especially with a lot of luggage – to climb the stairs that are at the same time street, but really worth it. Why didn’t I give 4 *? Two things. Firstly the breakfast was miserly, but I would give it a go because the view from the terrace allows me to feed the senses as much as possible. Service pissed me off asking for a high fee for a dog stay. The fees for such a service of course in many places are in part, in part aren’t ant for me it’s not a problem. The point is when someone is trying on a cheap B&B to charge a fee for a small dog that weighs probably 10 kg as much as for a third person, it has a star lower in my rating.
Ragusa – B&B Giardino di Pietra
Was here – June 2012
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Check out the posts about the cities of Ragusa and Modica.
Ragusa – La Dimora di Angela
Was here – September 2021
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4 * revelation!
Great apartments and houses in the center of Ragusa, but not on Ibla, but with an amazing view of Ibla (photo at the beginning of the entry). My apartment was a duplex and very well equipped, not only with a kitchen but also with a utility room. There, in turn, there was a washing machine, tools for self-cleaning, washing liquids, fabric softeners, stain remover, ironing board, and iron. The included breakfast is delivered to the apartment at the time agreed the day before and includes some fruit, yogurt, fruit juice made by the owner, rusks, and a choice of cornetto or cannolo. I ordered the cannoli, it was delicious. A young boy – the owner’s son – speaks English. As I arrived by bus and the bus station is about 2.5 km from the apartments, the owner’s husband picked me up and drove me to the train station two days later at no extra charge. I highly recommend it!
More about this place will be coming soon in an update of the post about the city of Ragusa.
Scicli – Canton delle Rose
Was here – September 2021
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 2* decent – maybe for one, or two nights
If someone is looking for really cheap accommodation in Scicli, and at the same time has a hard sleep and no noise is not afraid of him, I recommend it. I chose this place because of the low cost and unfortunately, I partially melted. The equipment is very good (apartment on the first floor), but behind a thin wall, there is an apartment of people who have no idea about culture. I understand that in the middle of the night, a child can start crying and even scream as if they were skinning them. It happens. But to turn on wild music at full volume at three in the morning and mutter each other’s mouths is already an exaggeration. In addition, the facility is in a really good location, unless you come to Scicli only for one night, but for several and want to explore by public transport. Then you can walk to the train station in five minutes, and to the heart of the old town in ten minutes. The car can be parked free of charge in front of the apartment or on the neighboring streets.
Siracusa – Hotel Casa Mia
Was here – June 2012
Number of night: 3
My Rating – 1* bypass the wide berth – the place I left with relief!
I’ve no idea what the hell this place has a high average rating on the Booking and sensational reviews. Maybe from my stay there, something changed for the better, but in June 2012 we were definitely not laughing. Describing my stay in Syracuse at that time, I skipped this unpleasant experience, and today I can’t even remember why. Booking also doesn’t store such old reviews, so I just have to use my memory. The room was terrible. This picture on the website has at least tables on the sides of the bed, we had one table and nothing else. Neither chests nor shelves, the same in the bathroom. On this unfortunate table layed all our cosmetics, telephones, chargers, and other small things needed on the trip. Also – although there was a balcony – no one even came up with the idea to stretch a piece of string on which a wet towel could be thrown. The air conditioner was, but when turned it on, the smell of mold came through, and we let go and preferred the heat in the room. The bathroom was a real drama. The broken and hollow filling of the shower door caused the water to flood on the floor, and the first thing we saw in the shower we saw someone else’s hairs. Breakfast would be OK, but was a small detail. The service didn’t refill the dishes, so if you did not show up at 8 am, then you could eat leftovers. Serving to the guests what was left on the previous day was also the norm, though it is the practice of many hotels.
Syrakuzy – Una Hotel One Siracusa
Was here – November 2018
Number of night: 4
My rating – 4 * revelation!
A hotel for people who like a minimalist style in design, and at the same time several amenities are available only in high-class facilities. An avant-garde, unusual place, not for everyone. Black walls and dim lighting are supposed to give a sense of relaxation and relaxation, but at first, it is difficult to get used to this style. The gym offers top-class equipment, and the hotel restaurant will satisfy both gourmands looking for Italian pastries and good coffee for breakfast, lovers of specifics (omelets, scrambled eggs, toasts on request), as well as amateurs of a healthy lifestyle. The buffet offers the possibility of squeezing orange juice, as well as a slow juicer for preparing juices from fresh vegetables, previously peeled, cut, and ready to throw. Cheeses and cold cuts are available on request, freshly cut upon ordering. This is the chef’s philosophy: food must always be fresh. The hotel also offers parking at no extra charge. The location requires having your own means of transport.
Syrakuzy – B&B Maison Ortigia
Was here – November 2018
Number of night: 1
My rating – 4 * revelation!
First of all, a fantastic view of the roofs of Ortigia and the sea. The building has an elevator, the B&B consists of two very large apartments with separate rooms with bathrooms for guests and a common area. I could fault the soundproofing – unfortunately, in my room I could hear everything that was going on in the neighbors and in the corridor. The shower wasn’t the best quality either, but that’s about it. The view from the balcony is amazing, I remember very well the moments when I was sitting there drinking coffee. What else has stolen my heart? Breakfast. It wasn’t a luxury hotel buffet, but I found mini cannoli and a jar of pistachio cream. Pride! I will add that to have such a view from the balcony as I do, you need to book a room with a balcony and a sea view. Not all rooms have a nice view.
Syrakuzy – Dream Holiday Ortigia
Was here – September 2021
Number of night: 4
My rating – 4 * revelation!
The property is located on the first floor of an old tenement house in the heart of the island of Ortigia, right next to Piazza Minerva, which is practically next to the cathedral. There is a room and a room / studio available, designed for three people and having a tiny kitchenette. It is not suitable for self-cooking, rather for preparing tea or cheese and cold cuts. Anyway, there are so many great gastronomy nearby that you can pick and choose. You can find a fresh guide in the post Where to eat in Syracuse? If there are no more vacancies, I suggest that just behind the wall there are rooms and apartments called Il Salotto di Maria Pia with the same view and excellent reviews. I highly recommend!
Taormina – Hotel Condor
Was here – August 2008
Number of nights: 6
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
© Hotel Condor
This inconspicuous hotel has a special place in my heart. We got there in August 2008 for a week as a part of our honeymoon. Earlier I had booked a Villa Giannina, which is on the road to Castelmola. Her owner cheated on me. I paid 100 euros as a deposit (in 2008 the cost of transferring 100 euros from Poland to Italy was over 20 euros) and I had confirmation from the bank that everything was fine but supposedly the money never reached the owner. When I wrote a courtesy email a week before asking Is everything ok and does the reservation was confirmed, I was left holding the bag. Our stay included ferragosto, or August 15th – the absolute peak of the high season. That time while looking for another accommodation, but without having to pay another deposit, we hit the 2-star Hotel Condor. This is the place where I ate my first breakfast with a view because the panorama extending from the dining room terrace is breathtaking. Although the breakfast itself – at least then – was very modest, we waited for the mornings. The hotel itself from the street looks like a small house, but only because its construction falls sharply down the slope, and the size of the building can only be seen from the other side, from the bottom. There are also the best rooms with balloons and sea views. Our room, unfortunately, belonged to the “Basic” category, because when we made the reservation, it was the only one available. Of course, those with views are more expensive but I assure you that it is worth it. Another advantage of Hotel Condor is the private car park, located about 100 m from the property. However, the biggest advantage of this place is in my opinion absolutely excellent location. On a quiet street, away from the crowds at Corso Umberto and events until late at night, but at the same time very close to the old town, and it’s on the better side. Why better? The old town of Taormina begins (or finishes) at the city gate of Porta Messina, and on the other side of Porta Catania. However, the location of Porta Messina is far better because as we say here in Poland the distance is like a potato throw to the cable car which connects the city and the beach. And one more detail. At the beginning (counting from the old town), the street of Dietro Cappuccini, where Condor is located, sticks out of the nasone wall, which is a water fountain ready to drink, always cold and tasty. Taking money in this popular resort of Taormina, the possibility of drinking water and filling bottles is important for anyone who has to count cash on holiday. And not in every room is a refrigerator to buy cool water.
Check out the article I posted.
Taormina – Bed and Breakfast Sorriso
Was here – September 2021
Number of night: 3
My rating – 4 * revelation!
Perfect location in the heart of Taormina, not on Corso Umberto, but on the parallel road leading to Castelmola. Small and modest but clean rooms with a beautiful view of the city and the sea at the same time. The owner is very nice and helpful but only speaks Italian. If there are no vacancies, I suggest that Cielo di Taormina is located right next to it, with the same view and excellent opinions.
Castelmola – Villa Regina
Was here – June 2012 & September 2014
Number of nights: In total 5
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Because in the posts describing the stay in Castelmola, I didn’t pay much attention to this object, let me say a few things. I love this place! The view from the balcony, while looking at Taormina down below, the coast of Calabria, and the sea is one of the most magnificent views across Italy. The hotel is modest, the rooms are modest, clean, and with a decent bathroom but I don’t know what, I will be coming back here again and again! I love Castelmola, I love sitting on this balcony in the afternoons, I love the sun rising over Calabria, which wakes me up looking out the window, and in the evening I love to close the door behind “my” room (I have my favorite one) and go out for dinner to Taverna dell’Etna overlooking the volcano, then (or alternatively, if I’m not too hungry) to Bar Turrisi, where everything from the door handle to the lamp, the bathroom faucet, the fountain, the wine bottle and the menu are penis shaped to honor the five sons who at that time were beget by the founder of the bar. Note, post only for gloopers, if disgusting you an overview of the Kama Sutra painted on a wall or on a stone table tops, then do not read 😉 And here still a view from the balcony, which I love so much. And here also the view from the balcony that I love so much.
Check out the post about the town of Castelmola.
Cefalu – Apartament Balcone sul Mare
Was here – November 2018
Number of nights: 2
My Rating – 4* revelation!
Next to Villa Regina in Castelmola, it is the greatest balcony I have ever had at my disposal in a rented apartment or hotel room. It is suspended over the famous Cefalu beach offering a stunning view. Not only that, the apartment is located in an old building in the very center of Cefalu, so everything is close. For some, the downside of this place may be the need to climb steep and very narrow stairs, but on the other hand, this is normal in old tenement houses. For me, the bathroom could be better, but that’s the only small minus.
Cefalu / S.Ambrogio – Case Saponara
Was here – June 2012
Number of night: 1
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
Check out the article I posted.
Catania – Hotel Centrale Europa
Was here – August / September 2021
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation!
Excellent location in the heart of Catania, on the corner of Piazza del Duomo. Most of the rooms offer a view of the square and the cathedral, you can buy breakfast in the bar, but you can also eat on your own because there are plenty of places around. I am very happy that I chose this hotel for another short stay in Catania this time.
Read about what I wrote in the post Where to sleep in Catania in the context of the convenient location of accommodation and more about the Centrale Europa Hotel.
Catania – B&B Centro Storico
Was here – November 2018
Number of nights: 6
Moja ocena – 4* rewelacja!
Zajrzyjcie do postu, do którego link zamieściłam poniżej.
Catania – Camping Jonio
Was here – September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
Check out the article I posted.
Ustica – B&B Caserta
Was here – September 2021
Number of nights: 6
My Rating – 3*/4* A revelation, as long as you focus on the atmosphere instead of luxury
This is the first rating in this database where I had such a problem with choosing between 3 and 4 stars and where I decided to break the rating and add an annotation. B&B Caserta is a cheap and modest place, the cheapest accommodation I found on the island in September 2021. It is also very highly rated and I’m not surprised at all, but I advise against lovers of luxury and those for whom the right level is more important than people and the climate of the place. Why? My tiny studio had a small and well-equipped kitchenette, a clean and decent bathroom with a toilet cleaned daily, and even an electric kettle – rare on this island almost on par with UFOs – was provided at my request. In addition, a table on the terrace in front of the house, a pity that it overlooks the yard, not the sea, which is now available from the garden above. However, in my room, you could often hear water flowing somewhere under the floor, and at times it smelled bad. This is the only significant downside that made me break the rating. The rest is real dolce vita. The owner of this place – Carmela – is a man institution on the island. Where are you staying? At B&B Caserta. Hmm… At Carmela’s. And at Carmela! Everything is already known. Everyone knows Carmela, you stay with her here, not at B&B Caserta, it’s just a trading name. Carmela serves breakfast on the terrace of her house and everyone chooses what they want, you just have to tell them in advance. At the same time, Carmela hosted an Italian woman traveling alone. Especially for her, she went to the city for warm cornetti, while I asked for something specific and vegetables. Carmela cut cheese, salami, and tomatoes for me, and even made a fried eggplant salad seasoned with olive oil and fresh herbs. Finger licking! Of course, not everything every day, alternately. She was also slicing fresh melon, the best I’ve ever eaten. If I ever get to go back to Ustica, it’s probably only to Carmela. Looking at the map, you might think it’s far inland, but taxis run here for 2 euros per person. Ustica Island will be the subject of a separate blog post, in which I will describe everything that I experienced there, and there will be a lot of it. Patience.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Campania
Proven accommodation in Amalfi Coast
Ravello – Hotel Bonadies
Was here – March 2016 & March 2017
Number of nights: in total 10
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Check out the article I posted about the Hotel Bonadies.
Amalfi – Hotel Il Nido
Was here – July 2010
Number of nights: 2
My Rating 4* – revelation – a place I would like to return!
My first stay on the Amalfi Coast. I was looking for something with a good location and a car park, which is in this beautiful corner of Italy very valuable. Il Nido offers a garage, elevator, nice rooms with balconies, which after sunset have a beautiful view, and a dining room with large windows overlooking the sea and – at least then – a very good breakfast.
Santa Maria di Castellabate – Grand Hotel Santa Maria
Was here – March 2016
Number of nights: 3
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
I give four stars, although the rooms a year and a half ago I assessed as demanding renewal. Besides this place is great. Located on the outskirts of Santa Maria di Castellabate, but on the seafront, with its own beach, where guests will find deck chairs for the season and fine dining both in the morning and in the evening. The dining room terrace allows you to eat and hear the sound of the waves.
Peastum – Savoy Beach Hotel
Was here – Marchc 2017
Number of nights: 2
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Phenomenal place. The luxurious hotel and restaurant at the highest level, the garden, and the outdoor pool are real showpieces of architectural craftsmanship. Excellent service and proximity to the beautiful, long, and sandy beach where the hotel also offers its club. I highly recommend lovers of luxury vacations.
San Marco di Castellabate – Hotel Hermitage
Was here – March 2017
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 2* decent – maybe for one, or two nights
This hotel is not my style, although it’s nicely located in the mid of greenery and overlooks the famous “Welcome to the South” of Castellabate, located on a hill. Breakfast is good here, but the room I received was worse than in the 2 * hotels, and it’s 4 *! The bathroom door did not close and I had to hold it still with the trash bin. An embarrassing thing, the entrance door to the courtyard room is glass. Allegedly, the hotel also offers rooms of a higher standard.
Palinuro – B&B Ecco del Mare
Was here – March 2017
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return!
Check out the article I posted.
Palinuro – Hotel La Torre
Was here – September 2017
Number of nights: 4
My Rating – 4* revelation!
Checked accommodation in Italy – Naples
(Mercure) Ibis Styles Napoli Garibaldi
Was here – June 2012
Number of nights: 2
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
This hotel, when I stayed in it, belonged to the Mercure branch, now it’s an Ibis, so it could change almost everything. Surely there was a good location on the side street of Piazza Garibaldi, right by the train station. I remember that the previous owner of the hotel served a great and very varied breakfast, while the rooms needed urgent renovation and replacement of furniture.
Best Western Hotel Plaza
Was here – December 2013
Number of nights: 4
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
The rooms are pretty cool, though without the frills, the bathroom was decent, and the breakfast served on the roof was great. The location of the hotel is good, close to centro storico and Piazza Garibaldi.
Hotel Napolit’amo
Was here – June 2012
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
Breakfast is good, great location, a great room (we got better for a cheaper price), location is very good for exploring Naples and the Gulf of Naples as it is easy to get there by foot to the Pier of Beverollo Pier.
Check out the article I posted.
Hotel Nuvo (district Fuorigrotta)
Was here – September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return
If you want to drive to Naples by car, Hotel Nuovo is a good option. Located a bit from the center, it has private parking, and next to it is a suburban train station Cumana, which will take you both to the center and Pozzuoli (Solfatara volcano). The rooms are nice, comfortable, and spacious, breakfast buffet is very varied and tasty.
Hotel Cineholiday (Piazza Garibaldi)
Was here – March 2016
number of nights: 1
My Rating – 2* decent – maybe for one, or two nights
Good and cheap place for one, two nights at Piazza Garibaldi. The room itself was poor, the bathroom without any revelations but the location was good, and the breakfast for such a low standard was really cool. Great coffee and very nice service.
Nel Cuore di Parthenope (centro storico)
Was here – March 2017
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 2* decent – maybe for one, two nights
Please see the article I posted.
Napoli Retro (centro storico)
Was here – March 2017
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return
Please see the article I posted about Napoli Retro.
Maison Arena al Corso
Was here – June 2021
Number of nights: 4
Moja ocena – 3* naprawdę fajne miejsce, ale bez szału
Affordable rooms in the center of Naples, about halfway along Corso Umberto I. Ten to fifteen-minute walk to the train station, the same to the harbor for the hydrofoils to the islands, and a bit faster to the ferry terminal. It is an apartment converted into rooms for rent, you enter the common hall, then to the individual rooms. My room was clean and very nice, with a kettle and cups, and the bathroom reasonably functional, although – if I’m not mistaken for another place, but rather not – I was only given one towel, which was problematic. Breakfast was served downstairs in the bar, coffee, and cornetto, very tasty. However, I am lowering the rating for the dishonesty of the owner. It was my business trip and I needed an invoice, which I have not received to this day (no receipt either), although I reported the need for it before my arrival. I would have waved my hand if the owner had honestly told me it was a problem for her, but she deceived me with made-up stories for two months until I gave up. I paid in advance, luckily with a credit card, so I could prove it. I would also like to add that for the lack of a receipt or invoice in Italy, you can get a fine from the financial police.
Ischia – Regina del Mare
Was here – June 2021
Number of nights: 6
My Rating – 4* revelation!
Więcej informacji oraz zdjęcia znajdziecie w osobnym poście o miasteczku Sant’Angelo d’Ischia.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Lazio
Vitorchiano – Il panorama di Vitorchiano
Was here – September 2017
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation!
More information and photos of the apartment can be found in the post about Vitorchiano
Checked accommodation in Italy – Rome
Residenza In Farnese
Was here – August 2011
Number of nights: 6
My rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return
© Residenza In Farnese
A phenomenal location in the heart of Rome, just off Campo de ‘Fiori and on the cross from Via Giulia. I thoroughly thought of this location while heading for a week’s trip to Rome and it was a bull’s-eye. Everywhere is near to here, although to the Vatican I advise you to take a bus, because the reserve of leg strength is invaluable, especially if you are going to visit the Vatican Museums. Back to the hotel. The rooms aren’t as nice as in this photo, the photographer is a good magician. They are darker and smaller, although the equipment is the same as in the picture. Breakfast was excellent and very varied, communal areas also impress me.
Navona First Rooms
Was here – September 2013
Number of nights: 1
My – Rating – 4* – revelation – a place I would like to return
Somehow it came out that I do not have pictures from the inside. These very nice rooms are scattered in several places in the very center of Rome, in the old palace of Corso Vittorio Emanuele II street, and overlooking the street are the pictures above. The room and bathroom are pretty cool, though without frenzy, an elevator (at least in this building), and beautiful staircase, that’s the palace! Of course, the location was excellent, very close to the aforementioned Hotel Residenza In Farnese.
Maison Giulia
Was here – March 2016
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation – a place I would like to return
The location is virtually identical to the two facilities mentioned above. It should also be emphasized that there are several buildings. The main offering rooms are located on via Giulia, and our mini-suite with a micro kitchenette hidden in the closet was two streets away. Importantly, after being accommodated in the main building we were transported (and brought back the next day) with an electric vehicle. This is called caring for the guest. Our apartment was lovely and very stylish. The photo above shows it, although it comes from the website of the object. To the left was the bathroom door and the mentioned kitchenette, and to the right were the table, chairs, and TV cabinet. Super stay, we wished we had so short.
Hotel Teatro Pace
Was here – July 2022
Number of nights: 5
My Rating – 4* revelation!
Brilliant location right next to Piazza Navona, and at the same time close to the bus stop on Via Vittorio Emanuele II, from where bus number 64 runs on the section Termini station – Vatican. The hotel itself is set in a 16th-century palace. There is a reception on the ground floor and rooms on the upper floors. Unfortunately, there is no elevator in the building, but the receptionist helps you to carry your luggage. Up to the height of the second floor, the steps of the stairs are low and comfortable, in ancient times they were climbed on horseback. My single room was modest but had everything I needed, including a desk with tea-making facilities. There are of course much better hotels nearby, but this one offers affordable prices for such a prestigious location. I would also like to add that the Junior Suite with Terrace available at this hotel has its own small terrace overlooking the rooftops of the neighboring buildings and the dome of St. Agates in Piazza Navona.
TrastEver Holiday
Was here – July 2022
Number of nights: 2
My Rating – 4* revelation!
bedrooms rented separately, comfortably furnished, and quite large by Roman standards. The room has a fridge, inside there are two small bottles of water waiting for guests. In the common area, there is a kitchenette with a kettle and a capsule coffee machine, as well as, among others, a coffee machine. glasses, but there is no possibility of cooking, at most putting on plates the takeaway food bought elsewhere. The apartment is located on the fifth floor of a building from the second half of the 20th century, it has an elevator. Right next to it, there is a well-stocked bakery Il Fornaretto di Trastevere, where you can buy, among others, pizza slices, fried snacks, and ready meals. The center of Trastevere (Piazza di Santa Marina in Trastevere) is approx. 450 meters away. There are shops and restaurants nearby with prices lower than in the center of Rome and the historic part of Trastevere. There is also a small playground for children.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Puglia
Bari – B&B S.Antonio
Was here – September 2017
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation!
Modest, but with atmosphere, in old buildings in the old town. Check out the blog guide to Bari.
Bari – Dona Maria
Was here – October 2022
Number of nights: 5
My Rating – 4* revelation!
A beautiful apartment – or rather a house – located in the middle of the maze of narrow streets of the old part of Bari Vecchia. It is a place of a very high standard, ideal for people who appreciate the comfort of a four-star hotel combined with the freedom and independence of an independent structure. Dona Maria is a narrow, modern tenement house with a jacuzzi on the roof, squeezed between old buildings. This very comfortable house, located in the characteristic backyard of Bari Vecchia, has four levels. More photos and detailed information can be found in the Bari guide.
Alberobello / Noci – Podere Papilio
Was here – September 2013
Number of nights: 3
My Rating 4* revelation! – a place I would like to return
Check out a separate post I wrote about Podere Papilio.
Alberobello (centrum, zona trulli) – I Trulli di Ottavio
Was here – September 2017
Number of nights: 1
My Rating 4* revelation!
More information about it and photos of the interior can be found in the blog guide to Alberobello.
Castro Marina | półwysep Salento – Sun & Sea terrace
Was here – October 2022
Number of nights: 7
My Rating 4* revelation!
Object website and booking or second apartment one floor above
The 100 m² apartment in Castro Marina has a large living room with a kitchen and access to the terrace, which offers a beautiful view of the Adriatic Sea and in the distance the white town of Castro, perched on a high hill. The sea is so close that sitting on the terrace you can clearly hear the sound of the waves while seeing the water surface from a height of several dozen meters. In addition to the living room, there are two bedrooms and two bathrooms, one of which is assigned to a smaller bedroom with single beds. There is a washing machine in the main bathroom. The apartment is furnished with attention to every detail. The owner has only two apartments and you can see that she takes care of them herself.
Peschici | półwysep Gargano – Apartamenti Castello
Was here – October 2022
Number of nights: 5
My Rating 4* revelation!
Apartments in the castle and in the annex, in the center of Peschici. Modest, but with a stunning view of the sea and the beach.
Polignano a Mare – A sud Holiday House
Was here – December 2022
Number of nights: 3
My Rating 4* revelation!
Beautiful, comfortable and very well equipped apartment in the historic center of Polignano a Mare. On the roof there is a sun terrace with sun loungers and a table, shared with another apartment.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Calabria
Praia a Mare – Hotel Garden
Was here – July 2010
Number of nights: 2
My Rating – 4* revelation! – a place I would like to return
Very nice rooms and a decent bathroom, a private car park closed for the night behind the gate, a great location by the beach, and a beautiful view from the balcony. The breakfasts were modest, as was late turned out, you had to ask. Somewhat embarrassing, but maybe somebody has tamed and corrected this mistake. The coffee was great. I like to stay at the Garden Hotel.
Tropea – Accomodation Libertino
Was here – September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* revelation! – a place I would like to return
Modest, outside the centro storico, within walking distance, nice owner. Check out the blog guide to the town of Tropea.
Capo Vaticano – Hotel Marinella
Was here – July 2010
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 1* – bypss wide berth – the place I left with relief
© Hotel Marinella
Look at this picture from the website of the hotel. This is called shooting art because the pool turned out to be much smaller than the photo suggests. But not the swimming pool is the reason why Hotel Marinella on Capo Vaticano is rated at 1* as one of the three worst facilities on this list. The room at the parking level is a drama, because either you sit in a dark room with closed shutters, or you risk peering into the room by people passing by. The towels were in the form of a thin cloth that did not completely absorb water. Breakfast is another drama, very poor and not very tasty. But embarrassing was the hotel service, at least then. We felt as if guests of the travel agency who came for two weeks were treated better, but those for four days were in our opinion guests of the second category. Imagine a receptionist at the front desk, telling her that the next morning you will go for a trip in the morning – at 7 am travel to the Aeolian Islands and ask to prepare a takeaway breakfast (that was told to us at the time of booking), and the girl is chewing gum and replying to someone a text and ignore us. Was the breakfast waiting for us? Of course, no one knew that we had asked for it, so we went to the Islands with hunger, and by the way from Capo Vaticano to Vulcano is almost three hours one way.
Sant’Elia (Palmi) – Villaggio Camping S.Elia
Was here – August / September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My Rating 2* decent – maybe for one, or two nights
I do not have pictures of this camp, because we got there unexpectedly after the incident, which was the theft of Arthur’s phone just outside, on the panoramic terrace, where you can admire the amazing sunset over the Aeolian Islands, an article and photos you can see here. After the sunset, we had to go to sleep in Scilia but it was different. In general, camping has nice lots to break the camp, but the bathroom is a real drama. I don’t even mean the level of their aesthetics, and the usual stench. I would not go back to this camp.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Basilicata
Matera – Fra I Sassi Residence
Was here – September 2013
Number of nights: 2
My Rating – 4* revelation! – a place I would like to return
Amazing little hotel in the grottos of the Sassi, in the heart of Sasso Barisano. Check out a separate post in which I described Fra I Sassi Residence.
Agriturismo Grotta Dell’Eremita
Was here – September 2013
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
Check out a separate post in which I described the town of Castelmezzano and the Flight of the Angel.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Umbria
Narni – La Rocca
Was here – July 2010
Number of nights: 1
My Rating 3* – good – really cool place, but no fuss
This friendly hotel off the beaten track, surrounded by greenery was a very nice stop for one night, but it could be a stay for longer there. The rooms are modest and not distinguished, but the food in the hotel restaurant is very tasty. We didn’t have the opportunity to see the area, because a terrible storm broke out and we had to wait a few hours in the room.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Lombardy
Jezioro Garda | Limone sul Garda – Casa Albergo Sorriso Only Adults
Was here – July 2010
Number of nights: 2
My Rating 3* – good – really cool place, but no fuss
Yes, this hotel does not accept children. When I was there seven years ago, it was called Casa Albergo Sorriso, and after a while, it disappeared from the booking to return under a slightly altered name and maybe with the new owner. There are not many such establishments in Italy, because Italians generally love children, but the decision of management should be respected. The hotel itself is very nice. When I was there in 2010 the rooms did not have air conditioning, the breakfast was tasty, but poor, hence 3*. Aircondition is already there, for breakfast I will not say anything but if it is better I would highly recommend this place to travelers of course without children. Firstly, the location, practically in the center of Limone, a beautiful view of the Lake and mountains (I had a corner room) and little parking for guests, which in a town such popular as Limone is extremely valuable.
Jezioro Garda | Gargnano – Hotel Meandro
Was here – July 2021
Number of nights: 3
My Rating – 4* revelation!
Photos and more information about this place can be found in the post about the town of Gargnano. On the other hand, I would like to take this opportunity to recommend another hotel, by way of exception, one in which I did not sleep, but I had a reservation for spring 2020. As a last resort, I decided not to book a stay there next time, focusing on the center of the town of Gargnano due to my busy sightseeing plans. The views from the windows of Hotel La Terrazzina are delightful.
Bergamo (lotnisko) – CENTRALE
Was here – May / June 2022
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation!
Great place to stay near Bergamo airport. You need to walk 1.8 km (counting from the arrivals terminal door) on a comfortable, asphalt walking and cycling path, bypassing the airport, so with additional attractions in the form of the possibility of watching the planes taking off from the perspective of the end of the runway. The facility itself is well organized. If you arrived at night and the owner couldn’t check in personally, you can do it online, and pick up the keys in a locker in front of the entrance. Our room was very comfortable with a comfy bed, electric kettle, cups and selection of teas, a large bathroom, and balcony. We were sorry that we arrived in the evening and left the room at night. Right next door is La Rustica, a brilliant eatery with cheap pizza to go.
Mediolan – Hotel Berna
Was here – December 2022
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 4* revelation!
The hotel is located right next to the main railway station and at the same time a metro station, from which you can get directly to, among others, Piazza del Duomo. My choice was dictated mainly by the proximity of the train station, as well as the price because it was comparable to guesthouses and hotels of a lower standard, located in the very center. Here the price also included a very good and varied buffet breakfast, served from 7:00. My single room on the second floor was very comfortable. A comfortable bed and a large, functional bathroom met my expectations. A nice gentleman at the reception accommodated me already at 9:40 in the morning, although of course, this possibility depends on the availability of already prepared rooms. I highly recommend it!
Jezioro Como | Gravedona – Locazione Turistica Pieve
Was here – June 2023
Number of nights: 7
My Rating – 4* revelation!
Object website and booking, while the stone house of the same owner right next to it can be found here.
Great location, ideal for discovering the charms of Lake Como. First of all, the town of Gravedona itself is a very good base for exploring the northern and central parts of the lake. In addition, the apartment and the neighboring detached house for rent are located close to the marina from which boats plying on the lake depart, thus close to the center of the village, and at the same time a short distance from the main road running along the west shore of Como. With all this, there is peace and quiet. In addition, a great advantage of this structure is the private parking. The apartment itself is well equipped, incl. with a washing machine and dishwasher, it also offers two balconies – one accessible from the living room (photo above), the other from the master bedroom.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Trentino – Alto Adige (Dolomites)
Pardel, Val di Funes – agroturistic Tschampertonhof
Was here – September 2012
Number of nights: 5
My Rating 4* – revelation! – a place I would like to return
Beautiful farm in the wonderful Val di Funes. Typical Alpine buildings, three intimate and well-equipped apartments, lovely location of the property. Next to it was a large meadow covered with clover, on which our Gucia passionately ran. There were many cats in the yard, sometimes even ponies. The whole valley is one great miracle of nature. I’m putting a link to the post, because although there is nothing about this agritourism, I want to draw your attention to this part of Italy, usually visited in winter for ideal ski conditions, but in summer there are no less attractions. From here is very close to the A22 motorway Brennero, which is the one that is going to Italy through the German ninth through Munich. If you are looking for a stop, then definitely go to Val di Funes.
Valdaora, Alta Pusteria – Hotel Fameli (Aparthotel Pircher)
Was here – September 2012
Number of nights: 2
My rating 4* revelation! – a place I would like to return
This luminous hotel has changed its name and is probably owner. It is located in the town of Valdaora in the heart of the Alta Pusteria valley, the second of my favorite valleys in South Tyrol, where the fabulous Lake Braies is located. Valdaora itself is pretty and the grounds around are wonderful. In 2012 the hotel provided free bikes which we took on a great trip. Breakfasts were sensational here, and in the evening every guest could relax in the spa area, including an indoor swimming pool and saunas, free of charge.
Madonna di Campiglio – Hotel Campiglio Bellavista
Was here – September 2018
Number of nights: 3
My rating 4* revelation!
A large and comfortable hotel in the center of Madonna di Campiglio, with an extensive garage in the basement, as well as a large spa, indoor pool, and wellness area. The rooms are very comfortable, those with a balcony also have a beautiful view of the city and the mountains. The price of the room includes a bathrobe and flip-flops for the spa. There is an elevator in the building, which can be taken with luggage from the parking lot in the basement. The restaurant serves both a very good breakfast and dinner. The staff is friendly and helpful, in the lobby, there is a fireplace and a bar, and you can also get information about attractions in the area and brochures. A bit behind the hotel there is a bus stop. The hotel is dog-friendly.
Tamion, Val di Fassa – Agritur Weiss
Was here – September 2018
Number of nights: 3
My rating 4* revelation!
Beautiful, charming, picturesquely located agritourism in Val di Fassa surrounded by mountains. A typical mountain house, very stylish, with a beautiful view from the window, a well-kept garden, and farm animals: cows, ducks, and donkeys. Dogs welcome. Delicious breakfasts and dinners, extremely nice owners who run the facility together with their adult daughters. The village of Tamion is a tiny town that, in addition to accommodation with a climate, also offers the possibility of having dinner in a restaurant with a Michelin Star – click here. Our room was clean and spacious, and the shower was large and comfortable. In the basement, there is a sauna and a relaxation room with the possibility of making tea. If I were to award additional stars as a hit of the “proven accommodation in Italy” database (which I may decide to do in the future), the Weiss agritourism would receive such a star.
Fiera di Primiero, Pale di San Martino – Hotel Garni Astoria
Was here – September 2018
Number of nights: 5
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
Located right next to the old town of Fiera di Primiero, Hotel Astoria has its own, large car park next to the building, on a road closed to traffic, where only hotel guests can drive. The decor of the hotel is very nice, the mountain atmosphere has been taken care of, and there is no shortage of wood and stylish accessories. Our room was pretty good, but nothing to rave about. The service was nice and the food in the restaurant – both breakfast and dinner – was good. What I can fault this hotel is the breakfast at the end of the season, when two or three couples stay in the hotel. When we arrived here, the breakfast was great, but after three days when most guests had left and the hotel was about to close, there were leftovers from the previous days at breakfast. I understand that it was economically so, but ethically not anymore because these guys from the end are nothing worse than those from the peak of the season. To sum up, if you are going to Pale di San Martino for skiing in the middle of winter or mountain trekking in the middle of summer, I recommend it, but just before the hotel closes, I advise you to think about it. During our stay, the breakthrough came on Sunday, September 23, when the Gran Festa del Desmontegar, the largest parade of its kind in the Dolomites, took place at Fiera di Primiero. Then the guests came to the town, so on Sunday morning everything was fine at breakfast, but from Monday it was getting worse.
Spiazzo, Val Borzago – Baite Di Pra
Was here – September 2018
Number of nights: 1
My rating 4* revelation!
Tą malutką agroturystykę u podnóża wysokich Alp opisałam w poście o Val Borzago.
Balbido-Rango, Comano – Agritur Maso Pra’ Cavai
Was here – September 2022
Number of nights: 3
My rating 4* revelation!
Beautiful agritourism in the mountains located off the beaten track, but at the same time close to Lake Garda. It is a farm typical for this area, where, among others, apples, walnuts, and cherries. Homemade cakes, preserves, local yogurt, cheeses, and cold cuts are served for breakfast. During the season it is also possible to buy homemade dinners. Both children and dogs are welcome, while eclectic car owners can recharge their vehicles here. The owners – Carla and Rodolfo – are very kind and helpful.
Locca | Lake Ledro – Garnì Le Prealpi
Was here – September 2022
Number of nights: 3
My rating 4* revelation!
Small but modest and rooms a few kilometers from the shores of Lake Ledro. Delicious breakfasts, private parking. The hotel is very friendly to travelers with dogs.
Lake Garda | Nago-Torbole – Hotel Forte Charme
Was here – September 2017
Number of nights: 6
My rating 4* revelation!
See the separate post about the Forte Charme hotel.
Lake Garda | Riva del Garda – Hotel Luise
Was here – September 2018
Number of nights: 4
My rating 4* revelation!
Check out a separate post in which I described Hotel Luise.
Lake Garda | Arco – Pace 1954 Hotel
Was here – September 2022
Number of nights: 3
My rating 4* revelation!
An elegant, comfortable hotel in the very center of Arco, offering a private garage just 100 m from the hotel door. Good and varied breakfast buffet with the option of ordering hot dishes from the a la carte.
Trento / Rovereto (on the motorway) | Calliano – Villaggio Hotel Aquila
Was here – June 2023
Number of nights: 1
My rating 4* revelation!
A great hotel located close to the motorway between Trento and Rovereto, ideal even for an overnight stopover, with private parking. Very friendly people and the buffet breakfast is simply brilliant for such an affordable price. A huge selection of sweet pastries, still warm, fruit, bread, cheese, cold cuts, preserves, espresso coffee, and scrambled eggs are available on request. I highly recommend it!
Checked accommodation in Italy – Veneto
Venice – Hotel Savoia & Jolanda
Was here – October 2018
Number of nights: 4
My rating 4* revelation!
A unique hotel for demanding customers. Perfectly located right next to the famous and luxurious Hotel Danieli, opposite the water bus stop and just a few minutes’ walk from the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark. Rooms ranging from modest and small to large, spacious, beautifully decorated, with balconies overlooking the lagoon, where you can enjoy the magnificent view. Bathrooms very comfortable, elevator in the building, friendly and helpful staff. Breakfast very good, varied, served in a stylish dining room decorated with numerous paintings. Unforgettable experience! More in the post Where to sleep in Venice?
VENICE – how to organize a trip, what to see, what is worth knowing? Guide
Venice – Casa Accademia
Was here – October 2021
Number of nights: 7
My rating 4* revelation!
Affordable, but very good rooms in the center of Venice, in the Dorsoduro district. I wrote more about this place and showed photos in the post Where to sleep in Venice?
Venice | Mestre – Hotel Montepiana
Was here – October 2022
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 3* good – really cool place but no fuss
I’m against choosing Mestre as a base for visiting Venice because you lose the unique atmosphere of the city, which is most beautiful early in the morning. Recently, however, I stopped in Venice on my way from the south, traveling by car, with huge luggage and the intention of visiting a few specific places. I decided that a hotel with private parking in Mestre would be a good choice. The modest Hotel Montepiana has two advantages: firstly, it takes no more than 5 minutes to reach the train station from which trains to Venice depart, and secondly, parking on the premises is available even after checking out, for an additional fee, if there is a place, of course. My room was very modest, but for one night it was enough.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Sardinia
Stintino / La Pelosa – Hotel Cala Reale
Was here – June 2022
Number of nights: 2
My rating 4* revelation!
This fantastic hotel is located on the outskirts of Stintino (an article about the village and more photos and information about this hotel) with rooms ranging from budget to standard, also overlooking the pool and the sea in the distance. In the morning, the hotel’s restaurant serves a buffet breakfast, very generous for a 3-star hotel, including up to two types of pancakes. Unfortunately, there are no vegetables at breakfast, which is standard for southern Italy. The hotel also offers a buffet dinner for €25 per person without drinks. I recommend it, it’s worth it! The hotel’s shuttle bus will take you to and from La Pelosa beach free of charge (except for lunch breaks). The hotel pool is just brilliant, huge, guarded by a lifeguard, hence only open from 9 am – 8 pm. The part of the pool visible in the foreground of the above photo is a separate paddling pool for children.
Olbia – NG Guest House l’Acquedotto
Was here – June 2022
Number of nights: 1
My rating 4* revelation!
Three rooms in an apartment on the fourth floor of a block located between the center and the coast. Each guest can use a communal, very well-equipped kitchen with a fridge and an electric kettle. Interestingly and very conveniently, we do not meet the owner at all. Before arrival, he sends information about the remote completion of formalities with a request to remove the documents and then sends the code to the front door, the code to the apartment, and the code to the locker from which we collect the keys to our room. There is an elevator in the building. In the Superior room we had a balcony and a very large walk-in shower.
Alghero – Sa Domo Apartments
Was here – June 2022
Number of nights: 5
My rating 4* revelation!
Townhouse located in the heart of the old town of Alghero, divided into three apartments, located on the first floor. The first door leading from the street is common to all, as is the staircase. The apartments are accessed from the first floor. Our apartment had a living room with a kitchenette, a separate bedroom, and a second bedroom on a mezzanine above the living room. The kitchen with a two-burner induction hob is reasonably well equipped, although for my taste it would be ideal if it was equipped with an electric kettle and large, standard mugs. Air conditioners hung both in the living room and in the bedroom, worked efficiently, and the water pressure in the shower was very good, which is not obvious in rooms and apartments in the centers of historic Italian cities. The location is great, both for strolling around the old town and for sightseeing by public transport. Only a few hundred meters separate these apartments from the most important bus stops and the port. The only downside is the need to pick up the keys at a hotel located 1000 m from the apartments. On the other hand, in this hotel, you can safely store your luggage while the apartment is not yet ready, and you can also get tourist information from the reception staff.
Cagliari – Residenza le Scalette
Was here – June 2022
Number of nights: 5
My rating 4* revelation!
Beautiful rooms in the heart of the old town of Cagliari. Minuses? The location is on the second floor without an elevator, but the entrance leads through wide, comfortable stairs. At the time of check-in, the boy from the reception comes downstairs and helps to carry the luggage. The second downside for some may be the need to climb uphill because the historical center of Cagliari is located on a hill. The streets extending from the main street – Via Roma – are quite steep, which is not a problem for everyday walking, but if you have more luggage, the uphill climb will require some effort. On the other hand, we have the same advantages of such a central location, perfect for exploring Cagliari on foot, as well as by public transport, because it is very close to both Via Roma and Piazza Yenne and Piazza Costituzione. From these three places, you can get almost anywhere by bus. It is also close to the railway station, from which you can reach, among others, the airport. The rooms themselves are well equipped. among others in the kettle. You can also use the kitchenette common to everyone, but rather not to cook dinners, but rather to store something to drink in the fridge or to wash and cut fruit. One floor above there is a terrace where you can have breakfast on request. You can choose what you want for breakfast the day before. Sweets such as cornetto are available, as well as cheeses, cold meats, and bread. Something nice for everyone. Michele – the boy from the reception who takes care of everything there, including serving breakfast – is very nice and helpful, in case of any problems you can write to him at any time on WhatsApp.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Marche
Camerano (Ankona) – Villa Gens Camuria
Was here – November 2018
Number of nights: 4
My rating 4* revelation!
For more information, see the post about the city of Ancona.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Emilia-Romania
Bolonia – Residenza Ariosto
Was here – January / February 2020
Number of nights: 7
My rating 4* revelation!
Object website and booking oraz ich second building
One of the best accommodations in the history of my Italian travels. Superb apartments in the historic center of Bologna, ten minutes walk from the main square and ten to fifteen minutes the other way to the train station. Perfectly equipped apartment, comfortable, stylish, large bathroom, well-equipped kitchen. I highly recommend it!
Checked accommodation in Italy – Piemont
Turin – Mansarda Station Gioberti
Was here – December 2022
Number of nights: 4
My rating 4* revelation!
A small apartment in the attic (fifth floor) of an old tenement house. Living room with kitchenette, small bedroom, bathroom, central heating. There is an elevator in the building. The location is close to the train station and quite close to the historic center, which can also be reached by tram.
Turyn – Corte d’Appello Rooms
Was here – Jun 2023
Number of nights: 3
My rating 4* revelation!
A few great apartments right in the historic center of Turin, a few steps from the Cathedral, Palazzo Reale, and the Porta Palazzo bazaar where you can buy local food specialties. Check-in and check-out take place without personal contact with the owner. An undoubted advantage for those traveling by car is a private parking lot in the courtyard of the palace where the apartments are located. Space can be reserved for an additional fee, but the owner prudently refuses owners of larger cars and sends them to a multi-story car park two streets away. You can enter here – despite the ZTL zone – at certain times. Currently, the zone is no longer active after 10:30 and it lasts until late in the evening, but each time I advise you to ask the owner if anything has changed.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Dolina Aosty
Courmayeur – Hotel Locanda Belvedere
Was here – Jun 2023
Number of nights: 9
My rating 4* revelation!
A small 2-star Alpine-style hotel located 4 km from the center of Courmayeur, surrounded by forests and mountains. The rooms are modest but comfortable, and the buffet breakfast is good for two stars, although it becomes monotonous with a longer raise. The hotel offers private parking and a very popular restaurant in the area, which – especially on weekends – is frequented by a large number of non-guests. For this reason, returning after a day of sightseeing on Saturday and Sunday, it is difficult to find a free parking lot. A place for lovers of peace and traveling with dogs, which are very welcome here, at no extra charge (in June 2023).
If you haven’t found the right accommodation for you above, check also:
the largest website with all available accommodation
website specializing in holiday rentals houses and flats
Checked accommodation in Italy – Liguria
Appear soon.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Abruzja
Appear soon.
Checked accommodation in Italy – Molise
Appear soon.
That’s it for now when it comes to checked accommodation in Italy. As I have already mentioned, the database will be updated after the next trip, and each object, regardless of whether I will be its guest or an ordinary customer from the street, will be assessed according to the same criteria. I hope you will find the information you need here. Leave any questions in the comments below the text, I will try to answer them all. I will also be happy to read about your accommodation experiences from traveling around Italy, feel free to share information, it will certainly help people who are just planning a trip. You can post your directions for proven accommodation in Italy in the comments, but they will not be included in the post for the reasons I wrote about at the beginning. Here you can find accommodation only checked by me.
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