One of the questions you ask me most often is: “Which verified accommodations do you recommend in (place name), but only the ones you’ve personally checked!” Well, here it is! A special collection just for you—”Verified Accommodations in Italy”—with all the details in one place. I have personally checked every single one! I’ve stayed there, eaten there, and relaxed there. No fake reviews or hidden advertisements. No recommendations from friends or a collection of random Facebook comments. Plus, you’ll also find info about places I wouldn’t recommend, ones you should definitely avoid. Hotels from 1 to 4 stars, agritourism, B&Bs, campgrounds. Sicily, Tuscany, Naples, Rome, Apulia, Venice, the Dolomites, Sardinia, Calabria, Bergamo, Milan, and more. What’s more, I update this list after every trip. Enjoy!
Checked accommodation in Italy – preliminary information
This post should have been one of the first ones on the blog. I had the idea, but at some point, I decided to drop it, thinking I would write about each place in a separate post. Unfortunately, I now realize that I won’t be able to, because there are more and more interesting topics for articles with each new trip, and you’re very interested in the accommodations I’ve personally checked, constantly asking about them. So many times, I’ve received emails thanking me because you visited a place I recommended, and it was a perfect choice. How many small B&Bs and agritourism spots have written to thank me because suddenly a lot of Polish tourists started coming, saying: “Natalia recommended this place to us.” You ask me about different locations. I haven’t visited everywhere yet, which is why this list still has a few blank spots, which I hope will gradually disappear. I’ve grouped the accommodations by region, and I’ve also highlighted cities like Rome, Naples, and Bari.
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* amazing! – a place I would love to return to
- 3* good – a really nice place, but nothing extraordinary
- 2* decent – okay for one or two nights
- 1* avoid – places I left with a sense of relief
Note! The rating is not related to the level of luxury offered by the accommodation! I considered location, surroundings, room and bathroom comfort, food, atmosphere, and service.
If you can’t find accommodation in this database for the place you’re interested in, I warmly invite you to join the Facebook group ITALY – Travel & Lifestyle, where thousands of Italy enthusiasts share their experiences, offer advice, joke, and laugh together. However, please note that this is not a place to post your accommodation offers or requests. Such posts are not published.
Verified Accommodations in Italy – What You Need to Know
In this post, I share my experiences starting from 2008. Things might have changed in a given hotel or agritourism, for better or worse, or the ownership might have changed as well. Whenever possible, I include my own photos, but I don’t have pictures from every place. The idea for this blog came to me in the second half of 2012, and it wasn’t until later trips that I started paying attention to photographing accommodations. Also, like everyone, I’m constantly learning, and some of those photos from over a decade ago (just like some of the posts from my early blogging days) sometimes make me cringe – better not to upload them. Nonetheless, I hope this list will be helpful for you.
Honest reviews
The second point is honesty. Among the accommodations listed below, there are some where I didn’t pay because I was a guest. I receive many invitations from hotels and agritourism spots in Italy, asking me to visit and review them on my blog, offering a free stay. I write about such places on the blog, always indicating that the post was created as part of a collaboration. My reviews are positive, but not because I feel obliged to write favorably; rather, I carefully select the invitations. If I check booking sites and see poor reviews, I simply decline. So far, I haven’t found myself in a situation where I needed to criticize a client’s offer, but I wouldn’t hesitate to do so if necessary. Honesty towards my readers is the guiding principle of this blog, and your trust is the most valuable asset. That’s why I reject – and will continue to reject – offers to include places I haven’t personally visited in the “Verified Accommodations in Italy” database in exchange for financial compensation.
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 Recommended Accommodations in Italy
Since this post is quite extensive, I’ve prepared the following map for your convenience. You can, of course, zoom in and move it around. I’ve marked all the accommodations I have personally reviewed in Italy, and when you click on any location, the name, town, my rating, and a link to the property will be displayed. Below the map, you’ll find a description of each place or a link to an article on the blog where I’ve provided a detailed review. The accommodations are grouped by regions of Italy, starting with those where I’ve stayed the most: Tuscany, Sicily, Campania, Lazio, Apulia, and so on. Some places, like Lake Garda, are administratively divided between several regions of Italy. In such cases, the recommended accommodations by Lake Garda can be found in various regions.
Recommended Accommodations in Italy – Tuscany
Florence – Hotel Ariele
I stayed here – July 2010
Number of nights: 1
My Rating – 3* good – A really nice place, but nothing spectacular
Above all, the location is excellent, almost in the center of Florence, and it even has parking! Although it’s an additional cost and there are only three spaces, so you need to book in advance, but for a hotel in the historic center of Tuscany’s capital, that’s still a luxury. The hotel is located in an old palace, and its rooms have a lot of character. The breakfast didn’t impress me at the time, but perhaps things have changed over the years.
Florence – Hotel Deco
I stayed here – October 2023
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* amazing!
A very nice two-star hotel in the heart of Florence, located between the main train station Santa Maria Novella and Piazza del Duomo. Everything is within walking distance, including the station, which is just a 5-minute walk away. I particularly recommend this hotel to those traveling by train. The very friendly staff let me check into the room before noon (it was ready, though this isn’t always the case). The only small downside is the elevator, which only goes up to the third floor. If your room is on the fourth floor, you have to climb one flight of stairs, which could be an issue with luggage. The room itself was large and comfortable, with a very cozy bed. I would have happily stayed longer.
Siena – Agriturismo La Torre alle Tolfe
I stayed here – May / June 2021
Number of nights: 14
My rating – 4* amazing!
Check out the separate post on La Torre alle Tolfe.
Siena – B&B Le Lupe
I stayed here – October 2023
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* amazing!
A wonderful small bed & breakfast with a beautiful view of Siena’s historic center. The guesthouse is located on the second floor (accessible by elevator) and has been created from a large apartment. There is a shared kitchen with a table, coffee machine, and fridge, and a few rooms further in. Not all rooms offer the same view. Check-in is remote: you send a photo of your ID and then receive a code to collect the keys. My single room was small but cozy, heated (late October), and with a warm duvet on the bed. It also had a mini-fridge, a kettle, and a cup, and there was a cookie as a welcome treat. The building is located right where the ZTL zone starts, but you can still drive up to the door. It took me about 10 minutes to walk to Piazza del Campo. A great location!
Pisa – Casa per ferie religiosa Figlie di Nazareth
I stayed here – July 2024
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* amazing!
I described this modest convent accommodation with photos in my Pisa travel guide.
Borgo a Mezzano (Garfagnana) – Hotel Ristorante Corona
I stayed here – May 2013
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 1* avoid at all costs!
The biggest disappointment in the history of my Italian travels! Sure, the price was suspiciously low, but I was looking for something cheaper because the previous night’s accommodation—an absolutely phenomenal castle in Fosdinovo—had cost me much more than my daily limit for that trip. Still, I didn’t expect such scandalous conditions in a place calling itself a hotel, and a 3-star one at that! Peeling and cracked paint in the rooms was the least of the problems. We left after the first night, even though we had paid for two. Exposed wires were coming out of the hairdryer, making it easy to get an electric shock. The shower was dirty, with someone else’s hair in the drain, and breakfast? Old boiled eggs, at least from the day before. Artur nearly threw up after one bite, and maybe he should have—it might have saved him from an upset stomach. I didn’t eat anything. The only positive? Good location and a few parking spots in front of the building, and the staff were relatively polite. But I would never return, not for anything. Avoid this place at all costs!
Fosdinovo (Province of Massa-Carrara) – Castello Fosdinovo
I stayed here – May 2013
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* amazing!
Check out this post about the castle.
Chianti | Montevarchi – Agriturismo Podere Luisa
I stayed here – April / May 2013
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* amazing!
I described this agriturismo in a separate post.
Chianti | San Sano – Agriturismo San Sano
I stayed here – September 2022
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* amazing!
Agriturismo San Sano, beautifully located among the vineyards and hills of Chianti, offers 16 rooms ranging from economy to superior, a large parking area, a garden with romantic corners, and a pool surrounded by olive trees. Every morning, a really good, varied breakfast is served. Besides sweets and homemade cakes, there’s farm yogurt, various cold cuts, cheeses (including fresh sheep ricotta), tomatoes, cereals, boiled eggs, savory vegetable pies, and fruit. It’s one of the best breakfasts I’ve had outside of four-star hotels. You can even come here with a dog.
San Gimignano – Podere Bellavista
I stayed here – April 2013
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* amazing!
Check out this post about Podere Bellavista.
Volterra – Tuscany Forever
I stayed here – September 2017
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* amazing!
I described Tuscany Forever in a separate post.
Val di Merse / Chiusdino – Podere di Santa Maria
Note! This place is closed until further notice.
I stayed here – September 2017
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* amazing!
A wonderful agriturismo located in the middle of a forest on the edge of Maremma, close to the Abbey of San Galgano, and just a half-hour drive from Val d’Orcia. The centuries-old buildings are restored but still have the incredible atmosphere of classic Tuscany, and the breakfasts are delicious, made with local products. There are options to organize Tuscan cooking workshops or enjoy horseback riding through the Maremma forests. The main image at the beginning of the post is Casa Ada at Podere di Santa Maria.
Here’s the full post on Podere di Santa Maria.
Maremma/ Fonteblanda – Agriturismo Peretti
I stayed here – May 2013
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* amazing!
More details in the post about this agriturismo.
Val d’Orcia (Pienza) – Agriturismo Il Macchione
I stayed here – May 2013
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 2* decent – good for one or two nights
This beautiful agriturismo is one of only two places in the history of my travels in Italy that left me with such conflicting emotions. Agriturismo Il Macchione is a gorgeous place, perfectly located just 2 km north of the town of Pienza. The apartments in the old, typically Tuscan farmhouse are elegant and functional, and the kitchen is well-equipped. Guests are welcomed with a bottle of wine from the owners’ fattoria. If the atmosphere had been as pleasant as it was at places like Peretti or Luisa’s, I would have gladly given it 4*. And there’s the issue. Throughout our stay, I felt like we were being treated as second-class guests. When the owner saw our old Seat Leon (at the time 11 years old) parked next to his Jeep and other expensive guest cars, he gave us a look as if wondering whether we could afford to pay for our stay, which wasn’t exactly cheap—though it was low season, we were paying about 102 euros per night for three nights. I really dislike it when people judge others by such shallow standards. There are people who prefer being to having. I’d rather travel to Italy than buy a new car, and a friend prefers buying a new car and going to the Baltic. His choice. I wish everyone would see a mechanic as infrequently as I did when our Leon was still in full force, effortlessly making two trips to Sicily (once around the whole island) and a third from Calabria, not to mention shorter journeys. But that’s not all. Another major issue was breakfast. Quite a large room, with a few tiny round tables—perfect for a cup of coffee—with a buffet nearby. The buffet wasn’t large but was quite nice and varied, with a lot of homemade items, including cakes. But imagine having the three owners “ready to help” standing nearby, watching what and how much you put on your plate, then trying to fit it onto the tiny table alongside your travel partner’s plate. Awful. We felt uncomfortable the entire time. The final straw came when we paid. Just a few weeks earlier, the city of Pienza had introduced a tourist tax, which, as in most Italian cities, must be paid for every night and every person. At the time, it was only 0.7 euros per person, so no big deal, but the owner couldn’t resist commenting that he didn’t understand why Pienza needed this tax, as it’s a wealthy town. Fair enough, I agree. The conversation continued, and we were asked about our travels, to which we truthfully replied that we mostly traveled to southern Italy, particularly loving Sicily, and then we heard that the people of southern Italy are lazy and parasites on whom the hard-working people of the north have to work, and that taxes are introduced because of people like them. Awful. We left feeling utterly disgusted. I had really wanted to stay at this agriturismo, as it seemed unique when I saw it online, and it has excellent reviews. Well, everyone is entitled to their subjective opinion, and now you know mine.
Val d’Orcia (Monticchiello) – Agriturismo Barbi
I stayed here – September 2014
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* amazing!
More about this agriturismo can be found in the post about the town of Monticchiello.
Val d’Orcia (Crete Senesi) – Staffolino
I stayed here – September 2022
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* amazing!
A typical Tuscan house made of red brick, beautifully located among the rolling hills of Crete Senesi. Although it looks like an agriturismo at first glance, it’s not. The owners live off-site, and the entire property is reserved for guests. It’s an old farmhouse on a hill, accessible by a private dirt road, offering beautiful views, a barbecue area, parking, and a shared pool, from which, on a clear day, you can see Siena in the distance. Via a winding, panoramic road, it’s only 12 km away, putting this medieval gem of Tuscany within easy reach. The property offers a standalone house for up to six people and several apartments in the main building. Each apartment has a private entrance from the garden, with a table, chairs, an umbrella, and sun loungers right outside.
Verified accommodations in Italy – Sicily
Trapani – B&B GranVeliero
I stayed here – May 2016
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* amazing!
More information can be found in the post about B&B GranVeliero.
Trapani – Angelo Apartments
I stayed here – May 2018, April 2019, September 2021
Number of nights: 21 in total
My rating – 4* amazing!
Hotel website and bookings, mention the code “Italia by Natalia” during booking and receive some special offers!
Details and more information can be found in the post about Angelo Apartments.
Erice – Il Carmine
I stayed here – June 2012 and September 2014
Number of nights: 3 in total
My rating – 4* amazing!
Il Carmine is one of my two favorite accommodations in Sicily. This small B&B (8 rooms) in a 15th-century monastery has an incredible atmosphere, and the walls are so thick that even on a hot day, it’s pleasantly cool inside, despite the lack of air conditioning. I feel wonderful when I stay at Il Carmine. The proximity to Erice’s center is great, yet it’s located in a peaceful, green area on the outskirts of the town. Since my first posts based on my 2012 experiences, breakfast has improved, as we noted during our 2014 stay.
Check out the post about the town of Erice.
Custonaci – Residence delle Cave
I stayed here – September 2014
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* amazing!
A new building with guest parking on the first level, an elevator, and several elegant and well-equipped apartments with balconies or small gardens. Spotlessly clean, cozy, air-conditioned, and run by a very friendly young owner who also operates a tourist information desk in his office by the garage. I highly recommend this place; we had a wonderful time there and would happily return. The garage is a big plus, as it not only provides a parking space but also shields your car from the sun. Amazing!
Castellammare del Golfo – Locanda Scirocco
I stayed here – June 2012
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 3* a really nice place, but nothing spectacular
More information can be found in the posts about the town of Scopello and the Zingaro Reserve.
Sciacca – B&B Conte Luna
I stayed here – June 2012
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 3* a really nice place, but nothing spectacular
Check out the post about the towns of Marsala and Sciacca.
Agrigento – B&B La Dolce Vita – Luxury House
I stayed here – June 2012
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* amazing!
I will never forget the Louis XIV-style bed! Say hi to Dario if you go there. He’s the most wonderfully eccentric Sicilian I’ve ever met. I hope to return to La Dolce Vita someday.
Check out the posts about the Turkish Steps and Agrigento and the city of Enna.
Palermo – Torre dei Federico
I stayed here – September 2014
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* amazing!
Have you read or watched “The Leopard” by Lampedusa? Fascinated by those times? Would you like to take a trip back in time and stay in a Sicilian palace from that era? Be my guest! Palazzo Conte Federico, located right next to the Ballaro market, is one of the oldest such properties in Palermo and is still inhabited by a real count and countess. The part of the palace located in the tower, known as Torre dei Federico, is home to the count’s brother, Don Francesco, and his wife Vittoria. This is where they’ve created a small, atmospheric B&B. The location is excellent, and there’s even the possibility to park your car in the palace courtyard, which is a rare luxury in Palermo’s center. We felt great in this beautiful place, where history seems to seep from every corner. Breakfast is served on the rooftop at a communal table with other guests and consists of delicious homemade treats, including cannoli, which we enjoyed one morning. Pets are warmly welcomed, with the owners’ dog roaming freely around the palace. I gave it 4*, though Vittoria disappointed me a little at the end. After settling our bill and having our luggage carried to the car by a butler (yes, a real butler in a white tailcoat and black bow tie), the butler received a phone call in the courtyard, then asked us to pay an additional 30 euros for parking the car for two days. Vittoria had supposedly forgotten to mention it, but somehow, I don’t believe that.
Palermo – Hotel Garibaldi
I stayed here – June 2012
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 3* a really nice place, but nothing spectacular
Check out the first post about Palermo.
Palermo – Apartments by Kasia Strycharska
I stayed here – December 2017, May 2018, October 2020
Number of nights: 12 (total)
My rating – 4* amazing
No website, but you can find photos, descriptions, and contact details for reservations in the posts When You’re Looking for More and How to Visit Palermo.
Favignana – Residence Favignana
I stayed here – May 2016
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* amazing!
A great location in Favignana. Close to the town center but still a bit off the beaten path. The apartments are very well-equipped, elegant, and cozy, each with a balcony or patio. Additionally, you can rent a bike or scooter on the property at a good price, both popular means of transportation for exploring the island.
Favignana – Favignana Home
I stayed here – May 2018
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* amazing!
A beautiful apartment on the outskirts of town, well-equipped, with a charming terrace and functional kitchen. The very kind owner can arrange for a scooter to be delivered to the apartment from a nearby rental company upon prior request.
Marettimo – B&B Mare e Timo
I stayed here – May 2016
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* amazing!
A charming and well-organized B&B on Marettimo. There are no apartments with kitchens here, but there is a shared kitchen and a rooftop terrace where you can lounge on a sunbed or enjoy a meal. Everything is close by, but that’s typical for this small village—the only one on the island.
Eraclea Minoa / Montallegro – Camping Eraclea Minoa Village
I stayed here – September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* amazing!
Check out the post about camping in Italy.
Piazza Armerina – Villa Trigona
I stayed here – June 2012
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 3* a really nice place, but nothing spectacular
Check out the posts about the towns of Enna and Piazza Armerina.
Modica – I Tetti di Siciliando
I stayed here – September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 3* a really nice place, but nothing spectacular
A really nice place to stay in Modica. Although it’s in an old building, the rooms are large, and the bathroom is standard-sized (which is not always common in centuries-old townhouses). The shared dining room terrace offers a wonderful view, and there’s free parking on the main street under the building. Climbing the stairs—which are also the street—might be tough, especially with a lot of luggage, but it’s worth it. Why didn’t I give it 4*? Two reasons. First, the breakfast was rather thin, though the view from the terrace made up for it like the finest feast. The service annoyed me by charging a high fee for my dog’s stay. I understand some places charge for pets, while others don’t, but charging the same amount for my small dog (weighing 10 kg) as for an additional adult was too much.
Ragusa – B&B Giardino di Pietra
I stayed here – June 2012
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* amazing!
Check out the posts about Ragusa and Modica.
Ragusa – La Dimora di Angela
I stayed here – September 2021
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* amazing!
Wonderful apartments and houses in the center of Ragusa, but not in Ibla—rather, with a fantastic view of Ibla (as seen in the photo at the top of the post). My apartment was split-level and very well-equipped, not only with a kitchen but also with a utility room that had a washing machine, cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, a drying rack, an iron, and an ironing board. Breakfast is included and delivered to the apartment at a pre-arranged time, consisting of fruit, yogurt, freshly squeezed juice made by the owner, crackers, and a choice of cornetto or cannolo. I ordered the cannolo, and it was delicious! The owner’s son speaks English. Since I arrived by bus, and the bus station is about 2.5 km from the apartments, the owner’s husband picked me up and later dropped me off at the train station without any extra charge. I highly recommend this place!
More about this place will be added soon in the updated post about the city of Ragusa.
Scicli – Canton delle Rose
I stayed here – September 2021
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 2* decent – good for one or two nights
If you’re looking for a really cheap place to stay in Scicli and you’re a heavy sleeper not bothered by noise, I recommend this place. I chose it for the low cost, but unfortunately, it was a bit of a miss. The apartment on the upper floor was well-equipped, but there was an apartment next door with tenants who had no sense of decency. I get that babies cry in the middle of the night—that happens—but blasting loud music at 3 a.m. and shouting at each other is just too much. Apart from that, the location is great, especially if you’re not just staying in Scicli for one night but for a few days and want to explore using public transport. The train station is a five-minute walk away, and the town center is just a ten-minute walk. You can easily park your car for free either right under the apartment or on nearby streets.
Siracusa – Hotel Casa Mia
I stayed here – June 2012
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 1* avoid at all costs!
I have no idea how this place has such high ratings on Booking.com with glowing reviews. Maybe things have improved since my stay, but back in June 2012, it was no laughing matter. At the time, I didn’t mention this unpleasant experience when writing about my trip to Syracuse, and now I can’t even recall why. Booking.com doesn’t keep reviews that old, so I’ll have to rely on my memory. The room was awful. At least the one on the website had bedside tables; ours had only one, and that was it—no dresser, no shelves, nothing, not even in the bathroom. Everything—cosmetics, phones, chargers, and all the little things you need while traveling—was crammed onto that one sad little table. Plus, although there was a balcony, no one had thought to hang a line where you could dry your wet towels. The air conditioning was there, but after turning it on and getting hit with the smell of mold, we opted for the heat instead. The bathroom was a disaster. The shower door was cracked and broken, so water flooded the floor, and we found someone else’s hair in the shower. Breakfast wouldn’t have been so bad if it weren’t for the fact that the staff didn’t replenish the food. So, if you weren’t there right at 8 a.m., all that was left were the scraps. And serving leftovers from the previous day? That was standard practice, though I’ve seen this in many hotels.
Syrakuzy – Una Hotel One Siracusa
I stayed here – November 2018
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* amazing!
A hotel for those who like minimalist decor and a range of high-class amenities. It’s avant-garde, unusual, and not for everyone. The black walls and dim lighting are designed to create a sense of relaxation and calm, but it takes some time to get used to the style. The gym offers top-notch equipment, and the hotel restaurant caters to both sweet-toothed guests craving Italian pastries and good coffee for breakfast, as well as those who prefer savory options (made-to-order omelets, scrambled eggs, toast). Health-conscious guests will appreciate the slow-press juicer for making fresh vegetable juices, with the produce prepped and ready to use. Cheese and cold cuts are served freshly sliced upon request. The chef’s philosophy is that food must always be fresh. The hotel also offers free parking. However, the location means you’ll need your own vehicle.
Syrakuzy – B&B Maison Ortigia
I stayed here – November 2018
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* amazing!
First of all, an amazing view of Ortigia’s rooftops and the sea. The building has an elevator, and the B&B consists of two large apartments where rooms with private bathrooms have been created for guests, along with shared common areas. I could complain about the soundproofing—I could hear everything happening in the neighboring rooms and in the hallway from my room. The shower wasn’t the best either, but that’s all. The view from the balcony was incredible, and I have fond memories of sitting there, sipping coffee. What else won me over? The breakfast. It wasn’t a five-star buffet, but I did find mini cannoli and a jar of pistachio cream. Delicious! One more tip: if you want a balcony view like mine, be sure to book a room with a balcony and sea view. Not all rooms have such a nice view.
Syracuse – Dream Holiday Ortigia
I stayed here – September 2021
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* amazing!
The property is located on the upper floor of an old building in the heart of Ortigia Island, right by Piazza Minerva, practically next to the cathedral. There is a room and a room/studio available for three people, which comes with a small kitchenette. It’s not suitable for cooking but perfect for preparing tea or a cheese and cold cuts platter. And since there are so many wonderful restaurants nearby, you’ll be spoiled for choice. A fresh guide can be found in the post Where to eat in Syracuse?. If Dream Holiday Ortigia is fully booked, I recommend checking out Il Salotto di Maria Pia next door, which offers a similar view and excellent reviews. Highly recommended!
Taormina – Hotel Condor
I stayed here – August 2008
Number of nights: 6
My rating – 4* amazing!
© Hotel Condor
This modest hotel holds a special place in my heart. We stayed there for a week in August 2008 as part of our honeymoon. Originally, I had booked a place called Villa Giannina, located on the road to Castelmola, but the owner scammed me. I had transferred 100 euros as a deposit (back then, the transfer fee was over 20 euros), and I had bank confirmation that everything was in order, but the owner claimed she never received the money. A week before our trip, when I sent a courteous email to confirm everything, I was left high and dry. Our stay was scheduled during *ferragosto* (August 15th), the absolute peak of the season. So, I started looking for alternative accommodation without the need for another deposit and found the two-star Hotel Condor. It was here that I had my first breakfast with a view, as the panoramic view from the dining terrace is breathtaking. Though the breakfast itself was modest (at least back then), we eagerly anticipated it every morning. The hotel appears small from the street, but that’s because it slopes sharply downward, and the full size of the building is only visible from the other side. The best rooms, with balconies and sea views, are on this side. Unfortunately, our room was in the “Basic” category, as it was the only available option when we booked. Of course, the sea-view rooms are pricier, but I assure you, they’re worth it. Another advantage of Hotel Condor is the private parking located about 100 meters from the property. However, the greatest advantage, in my opinion, is the absolutely perfect location. It’s on a quiet street, away from the crowds on Corso Umberto and late-night parties, yet very close to the old town—and on the better side of it. Why better? Taormina’s old town begins (or ends, depending on how you see it) at Porta Messina on one side and Porta Catania on the other. However, staying near Porta Messina is more convenient because it’s just a stone’s throw from the cable car that takes you to the beach. One more detail: near the start of Via Dietro Cappuccini, where Condor is located, there’s a *nasone*—a drinking fountain that provides cold, delicious water. Considering how expensive this popular resort town is, being able to fill your water bottles for free is a bonus for anyone on a budget. And not every room has a fridge to keep store-bought water cold.
Check out my post Taormina Guide.
Taormina – Bed and Breakfast Sorriso
I stayed here – September 2021
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* amazing!
Excellent location in the heart of Taormina, but not on Corso Umberto—rather on a parallel road leading to Castelmola. The rooms are small and simple but clean, with a beautiful view of both the city and the sea. The owner is very kind and helpful, though she only speaks Italian. If there are no rooms available, I recommend checking out Cielo di Taormina next door, which has a similar view and excellent reviews.
Castelmola – Villa Regina
I stayed here – June 2012 and September 2014
Number of nights: 5 in total
My rating – 4* amazing!
Since I didn’t dedicate much attention to this property in my posts about Castelmola, I’ll take the opportunity to add a few more details here. I love this place! The view from the balcony, overlooking Taormina below, Calabria’s coast in the distance, and the sea, is one of the most breathtaking in all of Italy. The hotel is modest, the rooms are simple but clean, with a decent bathroom, but no matter what, I will always come back here. I love Castelmola, I love sitting on this balcony in the afternoons, I love the sunrise over Calabria waking me through the window, and in the evening, I love locking the door of “my” room (I have a favorite) and heading out to dinner at Taverna dell’Etna with a view of the volcano, or alternatively (if I’m not too hungry) to Bar Turrisi, where everything from the door handle to the lamps, the bathroom faucet, the wine bottles, and even the menu is shaped like a penis in honor of the bar’s founder who fathered five sons. Caution: this post is only for those with a sense of humor—if you’re offended by murals depicting the *Kama Sutra* or stone tabletops carved with similar imagery, you might want to skip it 😉 And here’s the view from the balcony I adore so much.
Check out my post about the town of Castelmola.
Cefalu – Apartment Balcone sul Mare
I stayed here – November 2018
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* amazing!
Next to Villa Regina in Castelmola, this was the most wonderful balcony I’ve ever had in a rental apartment or hotel room. It’s perched above Cefalu’s famous beach, offering a stunning view. Not only that, the apartment is located in an old building right in the heart of Cefalu, so everything is close by. Some might find the steep, narrow stairs a downside, but that’s typical of historical buildings. The only small downside for me was the bathroom—it could have been better, but that’s a minor issue.
Cefalu / S. Ambrogio – Case Saponara
I stayed here – June 2012
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 3* really nice place, but nothing extraordinary
Check out my post about Cefalu.
Katania – Hotel Centrale Europa
I stayed here – August/September 2021
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* amazing!
Excellent location right in the heart of Catania, at the corner of Piazza del Duomo. Most rooms offer views of the square and the cathedral. You can add breakfast in the bar, but you can also easily find your own food as there are many nearby options. I’m very happy I chose this hotel for another short stay in Catania.
Read more about this in my post Where to stay in Catania for tips on finding accommodation in a good location, and more about Hotel Centrale Europa.
Katania – B&B Centro Storico
I stayed here – November 2018
Number of nights: 6
My rating – 4* amazing!
Check out the post linked below.
Katania – Camping Jonio
I stayed here – September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 3* really nice place, but nothing extraordinary
Check out my post about camping in Italy as well as the post on Where to stay in Catania?.
Isola di Ustica – B&B Caserta
I stayed here – September 2021
Number of nights: 6
My rating – 3*/4* Amazing, if you prefer atmosphere over luxury
This is the first review where I had difficulty choosing between 3 and 4 stars, so I decided to split the rating with an explanation. B&B Caserta is a cheap and modest place, the most affordable I found on the island in September 2021. It’s highly rated, and I understand why, but I would not recommend it to those who prioritize luxury and a high standard over the people and the atmosphere of the place. Why? My tiny studio had a small, well-equipped kitchenette, a clean and decent bathroom with a regularly cleaned toilet, and even an electric kettle—almost as rare on this island as UFOs—which was provided at my request. There was a table on the terrace in front of the house, though it had a view of the courtyard rather than the sea, which is visible from the upper garden. However, in my room, you could often hear water flowing beneath the floor, and occasionally there was an unpleasant smell. This is the only, but significant, downside, which led me to split my rating. Everything else was true *dolce vita*.
The owner of this place, Carmela, is a local institution. When you stay here, you’re staying at Carmela’s, not at B&B Caserta—it’s just the trade name. Everyone on the island knows her. Breakfasts are served on her terrace, and guests can choose what they want—just let her know in advance. During my stay, she was also hosting a solo-traveling Italian woman, and she drove into town to bring her warm *cornetti* every morning. I, on the other hand, asked for something savory and vegetables. Carmela sliced cheese, salami, tomatoes, and even made a salad of fried eggplant seasoned with olive oil and fresh herbs for me. Absolutely delicious! Of course, she varied the offerings daily. She also served freshly cut melon, the best I’ve ever had. If I ever return to Ustica, it will likely be to Carmela’s.
Looking at the map, you might think it’s far inland, but there are taxis here that cost 2 euros per trip per person. Ustica will be the subject of a separate post on the blog, where I will describe everything I experienced—it was a lot. Stay tuned.
Verified Accommodations in Italy – Campania
Ravello – Hotel Bonadies
I stayed here – March 2016 and March 2017
Number of nights: 10 in total
My rating – 4* fantastic!
More information and photos can be found in the post about Hotel Bonadies.
Amalfi – Hotel Il Nido
I stayed here – July 2010
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* fantastic!
This was my first stay on the Amalfi Coast. I was looking for something with a good location and parking, which is very valuable in this beautiful part of Italy. Il Nido offers a garage, an elevator, nice rooms with balconies that offer stunning views after sunset, and a dining room with large windows overlooking the sea. At least back then, breakfast was very good.
Santa Maria di Castellabate – Grand Hotel Santa Maria
I stayed here – March 2016
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
I gave four stars, although I rated the rooms a year and a half ago as needing some refurbishment. However, the place is great. Located on the outskirts of Santa Maria di Castellabate, but right by the sea with its own beach where sunbeds await guests during the season, and the food is excellent, both in the morning and in the evening. The dining terrace allows you to eat while smelling the sea and hearing the sound of the waves.
Paestum – Savoy Beach Hotel
I stayed here – March 2017
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* fantastic!
An absolutely phenomenal place. A luxury hotel with top-tier service, a garden, and an outdoor pool—a true display of architectural mastery. Excellent service and proximity to a beautiful long sandy beach, with the hotel offering its own beach club. Highly recommended for those who love luxurious relaxation.
San Marco di Castellabate – Hotel Hermitage
I stayed here – March 2017
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 2* decent – good for one or two nights
This hotel didn’t appeal to me, though it is nicely located amidst greenery and offers a view of the town of Castellabate, famous from the film “Welcome to the South,” perched on a hill. The breakfast is good, but the room I received was worse than those in 2-star hotels, and yet this is a 4-star hotel! The bathroom door wouldn’t close, and I had to block it with the trash can, which was embarrassing since the door to the room from the courtyard was glass. Apparently, the hotel also offers rooms of a higher standard.
Palinuro – B&B Ecco del Mare
I stayed here – March 2017
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
You can read more about Ecco del Mare in my post about Palinuro.
Palinuro – Hotel La Torre
I stayed here – September 2017
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Verified Accommodations in Italy – Naples
(Mercure) Ibis Styles Napoli Garibaldi
I stayed here – June 2012
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 3* a really nice place, but nothing special
When I stayed here, the hotel was part of the Mercure chain, but now it’s an Ibis, which means many things may have changed. One thing that has definitely remained is the good location in a side street off Piazza Garibaldi, right next to the train station. I remember the previous owner served an excellent and varied breakfast, but the rooms needed urgent renovations and new furniture.
Best Western Hotel Plaza
I stayed here – December 2013
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 3* a really nice place, but nothing special
The rooms were pretty nice, though nothing special, and the bathroom was decent. Breakfast served on the rooftop was really great. The hotel is in a good location, close to the historic center and Piazza Garibaldi.
Hotel Napolit’amo
I stayed here – June 2012
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 3* a really nice place, but nothing special
The breakfast was average, but the room was great (we got an upgrade for the price of a cheaper room). The location is excellent for exploring Naples and the islands of the Gulf of Naples, as you can quickly walk to the port at Molo Beverello. More details in this post.
Hotel Nuvo (Fuorigrotta district)
I stayed here – September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
If you’re planning to visit Naples by car, Hotel Nuovo is a great option. It’s located a bit outside the center, but it has private parking. There’s also a Cumana train station right next to it, which will take you to the city center or to Pozzuoli (Solfatara Volcano). The rooms are nice, comfortable, and spacious. Breakfast is a diverse buffet and very tasty.
Hotel Cineholiday (Piazza Garibaldi)
I stayed here – March 2016
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 2* decent – good for one or two nights
A good and cheap spot for one or two nights near Piazza Garibaldi. The room was so-so, the bathroom was poor, but the location was good, and breakfast was really nice considering the low standard. Excellent coffee and very friendly service.
Nel Cuore di Parthenope (centro storico)
I stayed here – March 2017
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 2* decent – good for one or two nights
More details about this place in a separate post.
Napoli Retro (centro storico)
I stayed here – March 2017
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
More information and photos can be found in a separate post about Napoli Retro.
Maison Arena al Corso
I stayed here – June 2021
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 3* a really nice place, but nothing special
Affordable rooms in the center of Naples, located about halfway along Corso Umberto I. It’s a ten to fifteen-minute walk to the train station and the port, where hydrofoils to the islands depart. It’s an apartment converted into rental rooms with a shared hallway. My room was clean and nice, with a kettle and cups. The bathroom was functional, but I received only one towel, which was a bit problematic. Breakfast was served downstairs in a bar—a coffee and cornetto, very tasty. However, I’m lowering the rating due to the dishonesty of the owner. I needed an invoice for my business trip, which I still haven’t received (not even a receipt), even though I requested it before my arrival. The owner strung me along with made-up stories for two months until I gave up. Luckily, I paid by card and could prove it. Keep in mind that in Italy, failure to issue a receipt or invoice can lead to fines from the financial police.
LostNaples (Quartieri Spagnoli)
I stayed here – September 2023
Number of nights: 6
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Not the cheapest option in the atmospheric Quartieri Spagnoli, but a great one. Located on the second floor of an old palace, I never saw the owner in person. You get access by sending your ID photos and receiving codes for the entrance and the room key. My superior room was large with a huge desk, perfect for working on a laptop. The room had a big, comfortable bathroom and a balcony with a table and chairs. The downsides? No elevator and a slightly musty staircase, but that’s typical of the buildings in this district. In return, you get authenticity and a chance to see local life up close. Right below the building, there’s a large selection of restaurants and pizzerias, and it’s just a few steps to the Augusteo funicular station and the main pedestrian street Via Toledo. It’s also close to Toledo metro station and the port. Side note, I experienced my first earthquake in the bed shown in the photo—4.2 on the Richter scale. The bed danced, but nothing fell from the ceiling.
Ischia Island (Sant’Angelo) – Regina del Mare
I stayed here – June 2021
Number of nights: 6
My rating – 4* fantastic!
More information and photos can be found in the separate post about the town Sant’Angelo d’Ischia.
Ischia Island (Forio) – Hotel Nettuno
I stayed here – September 2023
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Beautifully located, charming hotel on the edge of the town of Forio. From the rooftop terrace, you get a magnificent view of the sea, especially at sunset. The jacuzzi is a wonderful addition. The buffet breakfast was delicious, though – as typical in the south – it consisted mostly of sweet items. My room was small but comfortable, with a large balcony where there was a table, chairs, and a drying rack for laundry and towels. You can reach the center of Forio, a sandy beach with piers, and the port within about 10 minutes.
Capri Island – B&B La Melodia
I stayed here – October 2023
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 3* really nice place, but nothing special
Capri is such an expensive island that finding accommodation within a normal person’s budget is quite a challenge, even if booked off-season and ten months in advance. I had a few other affordable options, but this was the only highly rated one with a location close to a bus stop. An apartment that requires a 1.5 km walk with luggage could have worked if I was traveling with my husband, but as I was traveling solo, proximity to public transport was essential. B&B La Melodia is excellently located in the town of Anacapri, right next to the Church of San Michele with its famous majolica floor. It’s just a small studio on the upper floor, carved out from a larger apartment, but with a separate entrance. The sleeping area is on a wooden mezzanine; I don’t like this kind of solution, but I had little choice. Now I know I won’t choose it again. The stairs to the mezzanine were so narrow and steep that I was afraid I would fall every time I descended. According to the description, the apartment was supposed to have a washing machine, which was very important to me since I was traveling for five weeks with only carry-on luggage. It turned out that the washing machine was in the owner’s apartment. So, I gave only the larger items to be washed, although that wasn’t my plan. The owner – a young man named Marco – was very nice but not very talkative, quite unlike the people of southern Italy. Even though I used some of his additional services, in the end, he charged me 15 euros for washing two pairs of pants and two shirts, even though he added them to his own laundry, and I provided my own detergent. And this is mainly why I’m lowering the rating. Not only was I supposed to have my own washing machine, but he also took advantage of the situation to overcharge me. Once again, the rule that the more popular the place and the higher the prices, the greedier the locals working in tourism proved true. Although I enjoyed my stay on Capri, this episode at the end ensures that I will not return to Marco. The accommodation is recommended, but make sure to ask the price of everything that is not part of the apartment.
Verified Accommodations in Italy – Lazio
Vitorchiano – Il panorama di Vitorchiano
I stayed here – September 2017
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
More information and photos of the apartment can be found in the post about Vitorchiano.
Ponza Island – Maridea – Il Delfino
I stayed here – September 2023
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Despite the low ratings on the booking page, this apartment turned out to be a wonderful place, with a large bathroom, tiny kitchen, spacious balcony, and a small hidden terrace behind a wall, accessible from the kitchen. Excellent location between the town center and the sandy beach, right next to a scooter rental shop, stores, and a bar with a gelateria. Gorgeous view of the sea and the colorful buildings of the town. My experience at this place was so delightful that I described it in my book “Italia. Land of Contrasts and Diversity. Southern Italy“. Right next to it, the same agency offers two small apartments with the same view.
Verified Accommodations in Italy – Rome
Residenza In Farnese
I stayed here – August 2011
Number of nights: 6
My rating – 4* fantastic!
© Residenza In Farnese
Phenomenal location in the heart of Rome, right next to Campo de’ Fiori and at the crossroads with Via Giulia. I carefully thought about this location before embarking on a week-long trip to Rome, and it was a perfect choice. You can walk everywhere from here, though I recommend taking a bus to the Vatican, as you will appreciate conserving your leg strength, especially if you plan to visit the Vatican Museums. Returning to the hotel – the rooms are not as nice as in this photo, the photographer was quite a magician. They are darker and smaller, although the furnishings are the same as in the picture. Breakfast was excellent, with plenty of variety, and the common areas were also impressive. Why is it worth staying in this location and its surroundings when in Rome? I wrote about it in the guide How to organize a trip to Rome and where to stay?
Navona First Rooms
I stayed here – September 2013
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
I somehow don’t have any photos of the interior. These really nice rooms are scattered across several locations in the center of Rome. Mine was in an old palace on Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, and the view of the street is shown in the photos above. The room and bathroom were quite nice, though not spectacular, with an elevator (at least in this building) and a beautiful, grand staircase, fitting for a palace. Naturally, the location is excellent, very close to the above-mentioned Residenza In Farnese.
Maison Giulia
I stayed here – March 2016
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
The location is practically identical to the two places mentioned above. It’s worth noting that we’re talking about several buildings. The main one, offering rooms, is located on Via Giulia, while our mini-apartment with a tiny kitchenette hidden in a closet was two streets away. Importantly, after checking in at the main building, we were transported (and picked up the next day) by a golf cart. Now that’s guest care! Our apartment was lovely and very stylish. The picture above shows it, though it’s from the property’s website. To the left were the bathroom and the mentioned kitchenette, and to the right was the table, chairs, and TV cabinet. It was a great stay, and we were very sad it was so short.
Hotel Teatro Pace
I stayed here – July 2022
Number of nights: 5
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Fantastic location right next to Piazza Navona, and close to a bus stop on Via Vittorio Emanuele II, where bus number 64 runs between Termini station and the Vatican. The hotel itself is housed in a 16th-century palace. The reception is on the ground floor, and the rooms are on the upper floors. Unfortunately, there is no elevator in the building, but the reception staff helps carry your luggage. Up to the second floor, the stairs are low and comfortable; in ancient times, horses would ride up them. My single room was modest but offered everything I needed, including a desk with a tea-making set. Of course, there are much better hotels nearby, but this one offers affordable rates for such a prestigious location. I should also mention that the Junior Suite available at this hotel offers a private terrace with views of the neighboring rooftops and the dome of St. Agatha’s Church at Piazza Navona.
TrastEver Holiday
I stayed here – July 2022
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A small, affordable, and modest property in Trastevere, one of Rome’s most atmospheric districts. It’s an apartment with three bedrooms rented separately, comfortably furnished and quite large by Roman standards. The room has a fridge with two small bottles of water waiting for guests. In the shared area, there’s a kitchenette with a kettle and a capsule coffee machine, as well as glasses, but there’s no cooking option—just enough to plate takeout meals. The apartment is on the fifth floor of a mid-20th-century building and has an elevator. Right next door, there’s a well-stocked bakery Il Fornaretto di Trastevere, where you can buy pizza by the slice, fried snacks, and ready-made meals. It’s about 450 meters to the center of Trastevere (Piazza di Santa Marina in Trastevere), with nearby shops and restaurants offering lower prices than in central Rome or the historic part of Trastevere. There’s also a small playground for kids.
Camping Village Fabulous
I stayed here – September 2023
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Check out the post “Camping Village Fabulous in Rome – holidays in the shade of pines. What to see nearby?”.
Verified Accommodations in Italy – Apulia
Bari – B&B S.Antonio
I stayed here – September 2017
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Modest but with character, in an old building in the historic center. Check out the blog’s guide to Bari.
Bari – Dona Maria
I stayed here – October 2022
Number of nights: 5
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A beautiful apartment—actually a house—located among the maze of narrow streets in the old part of Bari Vecchia. It’s a high-standard place, perfect for those who appreciate the comfort of a four-star hotel combined with the freedom and independence of a self-contained structure. Dona Maria is a narrow, modern townhouse with a rooftop jacuzzi, squeezed between old buildings. This very comfortable house, located in a characteristic courtyard of Bari Vecchia, has four levels. More photos and details can be found in the Bari guide.
Alberobello / Noci – Podere Papilio
I stayed here – September 2013
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Check out the separate post I wrote about Podere Papilio.
Alberobello (city center, zona trulli) – I Trulli di Ottavio
I stayed here – September 2017
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
More information about this and interior photos can be found in the blog’s guide to Alberobello.
Fasano | Vall d’Itria and surroundings – Antica casa Maria degli Ulivi
I stayed here – October 2022
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A wonderful place. A tiny stone house in a 500-year-old olive grove between Fasano and Ostuni. Guests have access to a parking spot on the driveway and a terrace with a table, chairs, and a view of the sea in the distance. The owner, Anna, is a lovely, warm, and very wise woman. My experience here was so fantastic that I described it in my book “Italia. The land of contrasts and diversity. Southern Italy.”
Castro Marina | Salento Peninsula – Sun & Sea terrace
I stayed here – October 2022
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A 100 m² apartment in Castro Marina with a large living room, kitchen, and access to a terrace that offers a beautiful view of the Adriatic Sea and, in the distance, the white town of Castro, spread out on a high hill. The sea is so close that you can clearly hear the sound of the waves while sitting on the terrace and see the water 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 the smaller bedroom with single beds. The main bathroom has a washing machine. The apartment is decorated with attention to every detail. The owner has only two apartments, and you can tell that she takes care of them herself.
Peschici | Gargano Peninsula – Apartamenti Castello
I stayed here – October 2022
Number of nights: 5
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Apartments in a castle and annex, in the center of the town of Peschici. Modest, but with stunning views of the sea and beach.
Polignano a Mare – A sud Holiday House
I stayed here – December 2022
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A beautiful, comfortable, and well-equipped apartment in the historic center of Polignano a Mare. The rooftop features a shared sun terrace with loungers and a table, shared with another apartment.
Verified Accommodations in Italy – Calabria
Praia a Mare – Hotel Garden
I stayed here – July 2010
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Very nice rooms and a decent bathroom, plus private parking behind a gate locked at night, great location right by the beach, and a beautiful view from the balcony. The breakfasts were modest, as it later turned out, you had to ask. A bit embarrassing, but maybe someone there has wised up and fixed this mistake. They had great coffee. I have fond memories of my stay at Hotel Garden.
Tropea – Villa Vittoria Tropea B&B
I stayed here – October 2023
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A great spot in the center of Tropea, right next to the old town but not within it. This means you can drive right up to the door, and you can park in guest spots, but only with a prior reservation; there simply aren’t enough for everyone. Breakfast is served in the garden in the morning—tasty, but nothing extraordinary. There’s not just sweets, but also cheese, cold cuts, scrambled eggs, and even tomatoes, although after a longer stay you’ll notice that it’s the same every day, with only a few cakes changing. The guesthouse occupies the entire building of a stylish villa, the staff are very friendly, and it’s easy to leave town by car or get to the train station. Highly recommended!
Tropea – Accommodation Libertino
I stayed here – September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Modest, outside the centro storico, within walking distance, very kind owner. Check out the blog guide to Tropea town.
Capo Vaticano – Hotel Marinella
I stayed here – July 2010
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 1* avoid at all costs!
Look at this photo from the hotel’s website. That’s what you call photography skills, because this pool turned out to be much smaller than suggested. But it’s not the pool that makes me rate Hotel Marinella at Capo Vaticano 1*, as one of the three worst properties on this list. The ground-level room was a disaster, because either you sat in darkness with the shutters closed or you let people passing by look into your room. The towels were some kind of thin rag that didn’t absorb water at all. The breakfast was another disaster—very poor and not very tasty. But the truly embarrassing part of this hotel was the service, at least at that time. We felt like package tour guests staying for two weeks were treated better, but those staying for four days via Booking were second-class guests. Imagine telling the receptionist that you’re leaving at 7 AM the next day for the Aeolian Islands and asking for a packed breakfast (we were told at check-in that this was possible), and the girl chews gum and replies to a text without even looking at you. Was the breakfast ready for us? Of course not, no one even knew we had requested it, so we went to the islands hungry. And it takes nearly three hours to sail from Capo Vaticano to Vulcano.
Sant’Elia (Palmi) – Villaggio Camping S.Elia
I stayed here – August/September 2014
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 2* decent – okay for one or two nights
I don’t have pictures of this campsite because we found it unexpectedly after a nasty incident—Artur’s phone was stolen nearby, on the panoramic terrace where you can watch an amazing sunset over the Aeolian Islands. Coordinates and photos can be found here. We were supposed to go sleep in Scilla, but things turned out differently. The campsite itself has nice plots to set up camp, but the bathrooms were a real disaster. It’s not even about their aesthetics, just the horrible smell. I wouldn’t go back.
Reggio di Calabria – Le Mirage boutique
I stayed here – October 2023
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 1* avoid at all costs!
I have no idea how, in 2023, with my vast experience and always finding accommodation gems, I made such a bad mistake. Reggio di Calabria is not popular with tourists, and staying in mid-October with a reservation made many months in advance, the very low price didn’t raise any red flags. This modest place—not even a guesthouse—is very well located, and the owner is very nice. There are three basement rooms and a shared kitchen, though not fully, because there’s no stovetop—just a microwave, fridge, and sink. If I were to judge just on that, it would be three stars, but my room was uninhabitable. The window faced something I can’t describe—an internal courtyard only 2×2 meters, more like a garbage chute, which for a basement room in a multi-story building meant no air came through at all, let alone fresh air. I had to open the door to the kitchen and ventilate the room through the shared area, which was embarrassing. On top of that, the room had no ventilation, which is an absolutely basic requirement. The owner claimed that the tiny vent in the window was ventilation. Interestingly, the people in the room next door had a normal window facing the street. As I later found out, that was the deluxe room—I could have booked that, what’s the problem? Remember, deluxe means a window and fresh air 😉 The wardrobe in my room smelled so musty that I didn’t even put my clothes inside. The bathroom was fine for such modest conditions, but it was outrageous to accept tourists with a baby into one of the rooms when the walls weren’t soundproofed at all and were as thin as cardboard. The worst part is that the property advertises itself as a 4-star hotel and has very good reviews. I wasn’t looking for luxury, I was just there to sleep since I spent all day sightseeing, but I left with relief.
Recommended Accommodations in Italy – Basilicata
Matera – Fra I Sassi Residence
I stayed here – September 2013
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* fantastic!
An amazing small hotel located in the caves of Sassi, right in the heart of Sasso Barisano. Check out the dedicated post where I wrote about Fra I Sassi Residence.
Agriturismo Grotta Dell’Eremita
I stayed here – September 2013
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 3* really nice place, but nothing special
Check out the dedicated post where I wrote about the town of Castelmezzano and Flight of the Angel.
Recommended Accommodations in Italy – Umbria
Narni – La Rocca
I stayed here – July 2010
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 3* really nice place, but nothing special
This cozy hotel, surrounded by greenery, was a great stop for one night, though I could have easily stayed longer. The rooms were modest and nothing special, but the food at the hotel’s restaurant was very tasty. We didn’t get a chance to see the surroundings, as a terrible storm hit, so we were forced to spend a few hours in our room.
Recommended Accommodations in Italy – Lombardy
Lake Garda | Limone sul Garda – Casa Albergo Sorriso Only Adults
I stayed here – July 2010
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 3* really nice place, but nothing special
Yes, this hotel does not accept children. When I stayed here seven years ago, it was called Casa Albergo Sorriso, and later disappeared from Booking for a while, only to return with a slightly changed name, possibly under new management. There aren’t many such properties in Italy, as Italians generally love children, but I respect the management’s decision. The hotel itself is very nice. When I stayed in 2010, the rooms didn’t have air conditioning, and the breakfast was tasty, though simple, hence the 3*. Now there’s air conditioning, and as for the breakfast, I can’t comment, but if it’s improved, I highly recommend this place for adult-only travelers. First, the location is practically in the center of Limone, offering a beautiful view of the lake and mountains (I had a corner room) and a small parking lot for guests, which is invaluable in the towns around Lake Garda.
Lake Garda | Gargnano – Hotel Meandro
I stayed here – June 2021
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Photos and more information about this place can be found in the post about the town of Gargnano. Taking this opportunity, I would also like to recommend another hotel, which I didn’t stay in but had booked for spring 2020. Ultimately, I chose not to book it again because I preferred to stay in the center of Gargnano due to a tight sightseeing schedule. The views from the windows of Hotel La Terrazzina are breathtaking.
Lake Garda | San Felice del Benaco – Camping Weekend
I stayed here – May/June 2024
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Beautifully located and filled with well-kept greenery, this campsite near Salò has its own Eurocamp Poland chalets; they are all situated along one alley, in a quiet area. Palm trees and oleanders grow near the terraces. This location is perfect for exploring Lake Garda, not just the western shore. In nearby Toscolano Maderno, there’s a ferry crossing to the other side of the lake.
Bergamo (airport) – CENTRALE
I stayed here – May/June 2022
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Recommended Accommodations in Italy – Basilicata
Matera – Fra I Sassi Residence
I stayed here – September 2013
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* fantastic!
An amazing small hotel located in the caves of Sassi, right in the heart of Sasso Barisano. Check out the dedicated post where I wrote about Fra I Sassi Residence.
Agriturismo Grotta Dell’Eremita
I stayed here – September 2013
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 3* really nice place, but nothing special
Check out the dedicated post where I wrote about the town of Castelmezzano and Flight of the Angel.
Recommended Accommodations in Italy – Umbria
Narni – La Rocca
I stayed here – July 2010
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 3* really nice place, but nothing special
This cozy hotel, surrounded by greenery, was a great stop for one night, though I could have easily stayed longer. The rooms were modest and nothing special, but the food at the hotel’s restaurant was very tasty. We didn’t get a chance to see the surroundings, as a terrible storm hit, so we were forced to spend a few hours in our room.
Recommended Accommodations in Italy – Lombardy
Lake Garda | Limone sul Garda – Casa Albergo Sorriso Only Adults
I stayed here – July 2010
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 3* really nice place, but nothing special
Yes, this hotel does not accept children. When I stayed here seven years ago, it was called Casa Albergo Sorriso, and later disappeared from Booking for a while, only to return with a slightly changed name, possibly under new management. There aren’t many such properties in Italy, as Italians generally love children, but I respect the management’s decision. The hotel itself is very nice. When I stayed in 2010, the rooms didn’t have air conditioning, and the breakfast was tasty, though simple, hence the 3*. Now there’s air conditioning, and as for the breakfast, I can’t comment, but if it’s improved, I highly recommend this place for adult-only travelers. First, the location is practically in the center of Limone, offering a beautiful view of the lake and mountains (I had a corner room) and a small parking lot for guests, which is invaluable in the towns around Lake Garda.
Lake Garda | Gargnano – Hotel Meandro
I stayed here – June 2021
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Photos and more information about this place can be found in the post about the town of Gargnano. Taking this opportunity, I would also like to recommend another hotel, which I didn’t stay in but had booked for spring 2020. Ultimately, I chose not to book it again because I preferred to stay in the center of Gargnano due to a tight sightseeing schedule. The views from the windows of Hotel La Terrazzina are breathtaking.
Lake Garda | San Felice del Benaco – Camping Weekend
I stayed here – May/June 2024
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Beautifully located and filled with well-kept greenery, this campsite near Salò has its own Eurocamp Poland chalets; they are all situated along one alley, in a quiet area. Palm trees and oleanders grow near the terraces. This location is perfect for exploring Lake Garda, not just the western shore. In nearby Toscolano Maderno, there’s a ferry crossing to the other side of the lake.
Bergamo (airport) – CENTRALE
I stayed here – May/June 2022
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Bergamo (Città Alta) – FEEL – Salvecchio Apartments
I stayed here – October 2023
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
More photos and information about these apartments can be found in the post “Bergamo – Attractions of Città Alta, the medieval gem of Lombardy. What to see in Bergamo? Guide.”
Milan – Hotel Berna
I stayed here – December 2022
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
The hotel is located right next to the main train station and the metro station, offering direct access to Piazza del Duomo. I chose this hotel mainly for its proximity to the station, as well as the price, which was comparable to guesthouses and hotels with lower standards located in the city center. Here, the price also included a very good and varied breakfast buffet, served from 7:00 a.m. My single room on the second floor was very comfortable. The comfortable bed and large, functional bathroom met my expectations. A very kind gentleman at reception checked me in at 9:40 a.m., although, of course, this depends on room availability. I highly recommend it!
Lake Como | Nesso – Balcone dei Limoni
I stayed here – June 2024
Number of nights: 9
My rating – 4* fantastic!
More photos and information can be found in the post “Recommended accommodation by Lake Como – our apartment with a view in Nesso, 12 km from Bellagio.”
Lake Como | Gravedona – Locazione Turistica Pieve
I stayed here – June 2023
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Property page and bookings, and the stone house from the same owner nearby can be found here.
A great location, ideal for discovering the beauty of Lake Como. First of all, the town of Gravedona is a very good base for exploring the northern and central parts of the lake. Moreover, the apartment and the neighboring house for rent are close to the pier where boats depart across the lake, making it easy to get to the town center but far from the main road along the west shore of Como. All of this while maintaining peace and quiet. Additionally, a big advantage of this structure is the private parking. The apartment is well equipped, including a washing machine and dishwasher, and offers two balconies—one accessible from the living room (pictured above), and the other from the main bedroom. More photos and information can be found in the post “Gravedona – a beautiful town and a great base for exploring Lake Como.”
Recommended Accommodations in Italy – Trentino – South Tyrol (Dolomites)
Pardel, Val di Funes – agroturystyka Tschampertonhof
I stayed here – September 2012
Number of nights: 5
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A beautiful agriturismo in the stunning Val di Funes valley. Traditional alpine buildings, with three intimate and well-equipped apartments, and a beautiful location. Right next to it was a large clover-covered meadow, where our dog Gucia loved to run. The hosts’ numerous cats roamed the yard, and occasionally a pony too. The whole valley is a natural wonder. Although I haven’t written specifically about this agriturismo, I want to highlight this part of Italy, usually visited in winter for its perfect skiing conditions, but equally attractive in summer. It’s very close to the A22 Brennero highway, which you take when entering Italy from Germany. If you’re looking for a stopover, make sure to visit Val di Funes.
Valdaora, Alta Pusteria – Hotel Fameli (Aparthotel Pircher)
I stayed here – September 2012
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* fantastic!
This excellent hotel has changed its name and probably ownership. It’s located in Valdaora, in the heart of the Alta Pusteria valley, one of my favorite valleys in South Tyrol, home to the magnificent Lake Braies. Valdaora itself is lovely, and the surrounding areas are breathtaking. In 2012, the hotel offered free bicycles, which we used for an amazing trip. Breakfasts were fantastic, and in the evening, every guest could relax in the spa area with an indoor pool and saunas at no extra charge.
Madonna di Campiglio – Hotel Campiglio Bellavista
I stayed here – September 2018
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A large and comfortable hotel in the center of Madonna di Campiglio, with an extensive garage in the basement, a large spa, indoor pool, and wellness center. The rooms are very comfortable, and those with balconies offer beautiful views of the town and mountains. The room rate includes a bathrobe and slippers for the spa. The building has an elevator that you can take with your luggage directly from the underground parking. The restaurant serves excellent breakfasts and dinners. The staff is friendly and helpful, and there’s a fireplace and bar in the lobby. You can also get information about local attractions and brochures. Just behind the hotel is a bus stop. The hotel is dog-friendly.
Tamion, Val di Fassa – Agritur Weiss
I stayed here – September 2018
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A beautiful, charming agriturismo, set in the mountains of Val di Fassa. A typical mountain house, very stylish, with a beautiful view from the window, a well-kept garden, and farm animals: cows, ducks, donkeys. Dogs are welcome. Delicious breakfasts and dinners, with friendly owners who run the place with their adult daughters. The village of Tamion is tiny, but offers a lot of charm and even a Michelin-starred restaurant, which you can read about here. Our room was clean and spacious, with a large and comfortable shower. In the basement, there’s a sauna and a relaxation room where you can make tea. If I were to award extra stars as a “highlight” of my “recommended accommodations in Italy” list (something I might do in the future), Agritur Weiss would certainly earn one.
Fiera di Primiero, Pale di San Martino – Hotel Garni Astoria
I stayed here – September 2018
Number of nights: 5
My rating – 3* good – really nice place, but nothing special
Located right by the old town in Fiera di Primiero, Hotel Astoria has its own large parking lot next to the building, on a street closed to traffic, where only hotel guests can drive. The hotel’s decor is very nice, with a mountain atmosphere, lots of wood, and stylish accents. Our room was decent but nothing spectacular. The staff was friendly, and the food in the restaurant – both breakfast and dinner – was good. However, I do have a critique regarding breakfast towards the end of the season when there were only a couple of pairs of guests in the hotel. When we arrived, breakfast was excellent, but after a few days, as most guests left and the hotel prepared to close, the breakfast became leftovers from previous days. I understand the economic reasoning, but ethically it wasn’t right, as the late-season guests deserve the same treatment as those during peak season. To summarize, if you plan to visit Pale di San Martino for skiing in the heart of winter or hiking in mid-summer, I recommend it, but just before the hotel closes, think twice. During our stay, the turning point came on Sunday, September 23, when Fiera di Primiero hosted the Gran Festa del Desmontegar, the largest event of its kind in the Dolomites. On Sunday morning, everything was fine at breakfast, but from Monday onward, things started to decline.
Spiazzo, Val Borzago – Baite Di Pra
I stayed here – September 2018
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
I wrote about this small agriturismo at the foot of the high Alps in a post about Val Borzago.
Balbido-Rango, Comano – Agritur Maso Pra’ Cavai
I stayed here – September 2022
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A beautiful agriturismo in the mountains, located in a quiet area but still close to Lake Garda. This is a typical farm for the region, where they grow apples, walnuts, and cherries. Homemade cakes, jams, locally sourced yogurt, cheeses, and cold cuts are served for breakfast. During the season, there’s also the option of home-cooked dinners. Children and dogs are welcome, and those with electric cars can charge their vehicles here. The owners, Carla and Rodolfo, are very friendly and helpful.
Locca | Lake Ledro – Garnì Le Prealpi
I stayed here – September 2022
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Small but cozy rooms located a few kilometers from the shores of Lake Ledro. Delicious breakfasts and private parking. The property is very dog-friendly for travelers with pets.
Lake Garda | Nago-Torbole – Hotel Forte Charme
I stayed here – September 2017
Number of nights: 6
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Check out the separate post about the Forte Charme hotel.
Lake Garda | Riva del Garda – Hotel Luise
I stayed here – September 2018
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Check out the separate post where I wrote about Hotel Luise.
Lake Garda | Arco – Pace 1954 Hotel
I stayed here – September 2022
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
An elegant, comfortable hotel in the heart of Arco, offering a private garage just 100 meters from the hotel’s entrance. Good and varied buffet breakfast with the option to order hot dishes from the menu.
Near Trento / Rovereto (by the highway) | Calliano – Villaggio Hotel Aquila
I stayed here – June 2023
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A great hotel located close to the highway between Trento and Rovereto, ideal for an overnight stay with private parking. Very friendly people, and the buffet breakfast is simply fantastic for such an affordable room rate. A huge selection of freshly baked pastries, warm bread, fruit, cheeses, cold cuts, jams, coffee from an espresso machine, and scrambled eggs made to order. Highly recommend!
Sprawdzone noclegi we Włoszech – Veneto
Venice – Hotel Savoia & Jolanda
I stayed here – October 2018
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* fantastic!
An exceptional hotel for demanding clients. Ideally located next to the famous and luxurious Hotel Danieli, directly across from the waterbus stop and just a few minutes’ walk from the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Square. Rooms range from modest and small to large, spacious, and beautifully decorated, some with balconies overlooking the lagoon, where you can enjoy stunning views. Very comfortable bathrooms, an elevator in the building, and friendly, helpful staff. The breakfast was excellent and varied, served in a stylish dining room decorated with numerous paintings. An unforgettable experience! More in the post Where to stay in Venice?
VENICE – how to organize your trip, what to see, what to know? Guide
Venice – Casa Accademia
I stayed here – October 2021
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Affordable yet very good rooms in the center of Venice, in the Dorsoduro district. I wrote more about this place and shared photos in the post Where to stay in Venice?
Venice | Mestre – Hotel Montepiana
I stayed here – October 2022
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 3* good – a really nice place, but nothing special
I’m not a fan of choosing Mestre as a base for visiting Venice because you miss out on the city’s unique atmosphere, especially early in the morning. However, last time I stayed in Venice en route from the south, traveling by car with a lot of luggage, planning to visit a few specific places. I decided that a hotel with private parking in Mestre would be a good option. The modest Hotel Montepiana has two advantages: first, it’s less than a 5-minute walk to the train station, where trains depart for Venice, and second, there’s parking available on-site, even after check-out, for an additional fee if space allows. My room was very basic, but sufficient for one night.
Venice – Hotel Foscari Palace
I stayed here – December 2022
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
The hotel is housed in a 15th-century palace, located on the banks of the Grand Canal. A place for very demanding clients, although in the low season you can book a room at an affordable price. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views, and in summer, you can enjoy breakfast or an aperitif there. A small terrace overlooking the Grand Canal has three tables where you can have breakfast right next to the gondola station. An amazing experience! Additionally, its location in the Cannaregio district, close to the borders with San Marco and Castello, and near the gondola ferry station crossing the Grand Canal, as well as just a block from the Ca’ D’Oro vaporetto stop, makes this a great spot for those planning an intensive sightseeing tour. More in the post Where to stay in Venice?
Conegliano – Valdobbiadene (Prosecco region) – B&B Casa di Campagna
I stayed here – May 2024
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A wonderful place, with only four rooms available for guests in a stone house run by the hosts, located in a small vineyard in the heart of Prosecco country. The owners are fantastic; Pietro joins guests during breakfast and shares stories. They not only make their own Prosecco but also grappa. When the weather is nice and warm, breakfast is served at an outdoor table (check Instagram for more). Dogs are welcome. An incredible experience!
Sprawdzone noclegi we Włoszech – Sardinia
Stintino / La Pelosa – Hotel Cala Reale
I stayed here – June 2022
Number of nights: 2
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A fantastic hotel located on the outskirts of the town of Stintino (read the article about the town and more details about this hotel). The hotel offers rooms ranging from budget to standard, some with views of the pool and the distant sea. In the morning, a buffet breakfast is served in the hotel restaurant, very abundant for a three-star hotel, even including two types of pancakes. Unfortunately, there are no vegetables available at breakfast, which is typical for southern Italy. The hotel also offers buffet dinners at a cost of 25 euros per person (excluding drinks). I recommend it, it’s worth it! The hotel’s shuttle bus offers free transport (excluding lunch break hours) to and from La Pelosa beach. The hotel’s pool is simply fantastic, huge, and supervised by a lifeguard, open from 9 am to 8 pm. Part of the pool visible in the foreground of the above photo is a separate children’s wading pool.
Olbia – NG Guest House l’Acquedotto
I stayed here – June 2022
Number of nights: 1
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Three rooms in an apartment on the fourth floor of a building located between the center and the coast. Each guest has access to a shared, well-equipped kitchen with a fridge and electric kettle. Interestingly, you never meet the owner in person. Before arrival, they send instructions for remote check-in, requesting ID photos, and then provide codes for the main door, the apartment, and the key box from which you retrieve your room keys. The building has an elevator. In the Superior room, we had a balcony and a very large shower cabin.
Alghero – Sa Domo Apartments
I stayed here – June 2022
Number of nights: 5
My rating – 4* fantastic!
This townhouse located in the heart of Alghero’s old town is divided into three apartments on the first floor. The first door leading from the street is shared by all guests, as is the staircase. From the first-floor landing, you enter the individual apartments. 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, equipped with a two-burner induction hob, is fairly well-equipped, though in my opinion, it would be perfect if there were an electric kettle and large standard mugs. Air conditioners in both the living room and the bedroom worked efficiently, and the water pressure in the shower was excellent, which is not always the case in rooms and apartments in the historical centers of Italian cities. The location is excellent for both exploring the old town on foot and using public transport. The apartments are just a few hundred meters from the main bus stops and the port. The only downside is that you must collect the keys from a hotel located 1000 meters from the apartments. On the other hand, the hotel provides secure luggage storage if the apartment is not yet ready, as well as tourist information from the reception staff.
Cagliari – Residenza le Scalette
I stayed here – June 2022
Number of nights: 5
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Beautiful rooms in the heart of Cagliari’s old town. Downsides? The location on the second floor without an elevator, but access is via wide and comfortable stairs. Upon check-in, a staff member from the reception comes down to help carry your luggage. Another potential downside for some could be the uphill climb, as the historic center of Cagliari is situated on a hill. Streets leading from the main street, Via Roma, are quite steep, which isn’t a problem for everyday walking, but if you’re carrying heavy luggage, the climb will require some effort. On the other hand, the advantages of this central location are endless, perfect for exploring Cagliari on foot, and for using public transport, as it’s very close to both Via Roma and Piazza Yenne, as well as Piazza Costituzione. From these three locations, buses can take you almost anywhere. The train station is also nearby, offering access to the airport, among other destinations. The rooms themselves are well-equipped, including a kettle. You can also use a shared kitchenette, though it’s more for storing drinks in the fridge or washing and cutting fruits rather than cooking meals. Upstairs, there’s a terrace where you can have breakfast upon request. For breakfast, you can choose what you’d like the day before, with options including both sweet treats like croissants, as well as cheese, cold cuts, and bread. There’s something for everyone. Michele, the receptionist who handles everything, including serving breakfast, is very friendly and helpful, and you can contact him at any time via WhatsApp if needed.
Recommended Accommodation in Italy – Marche
Camerano (Ancona) – Villa Gens Camuria
I stayed here – November 2018
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* fantastic!
For more details, check out the post about the city of Ancona.
Recommended Accommodation in Italy – Emilia-Romagna
Bologna – Residenza Ariosto
I stayed here – January/February 2020
Number of nights: 7
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Property page and bookings and their second building
One of the best accommodations I’ve ever stayed at during my travels in Italy. Fantastic apartments in the historic center of Bologna, just a ten-minute walk from the city’s main square and 10 to 15 minutes in the other direction to the train station. The apartment was perfectly equipped, comfortable, stylish, with a large bathroom and a well-equipped kitchen. I highly recommend it!
Recommended Accommodation in Italy – Piedmont
Turin – Mansarda Station Gioberti
I stayed here – December 2022
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A small attic apartment (fifth floor) in an old building. A living room with a kitchenette, a small bedroom, a bathroom, and central heating. The building has an elevator. The location is close to the train station and relatively near the historic center, which can also be reached by tram.
Turin – Corte d’Appello Rooms
I stayed here – June 2023
Number of nights: 3
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Several excellent apartments in the historic center of Turin, just a few steps from the cathedral, Palazzo Reale, and the Porta Palazzo market, where you can buy local culinary specialties. Check-in and check-out are done without personal contact with the owner. A major advantage for travelers with cars is the private parking in the courtyard of the palace where the apartments are located. You can reserve a spot for an additional fee, but the owner wisely refuses larger vehicles and directs them to a multi-story car park two streets away. You can enter the ZTL zone during specific hours, which now ends after 10:30 am and lasts until late evening, but always check with the owner in case anything has changed.
Recommended Accommodation in Italy – Aosta Valley
Courmayeur – Hotel Locanda Belvedere
I stayed here – June 2023
Number of nights: 9
My rating – 4* fantastic!
A small, alpine-style two-star hotel located 4 km from the center of Courmayeur, surrounded by forests and mountains. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the breakfast buffet is good for a two-star hotel, though it becomes monotonous during a longer stay. The hotel offers private parking and is home to a highly regarded restaurant, which attracts many non-hotel guests, especially on weekends. This means it’s hard to find a parking space on Saturday and Sunday after returning from a day of sightseeing. It’s a great place for those seeking peace and quiet, and for travelers with dogs, who are very welcome here at no extra cost (as of June 2023).
Recommended Accommodation in Italy – Abruzzo
Barisciano – da sciuri case vacanza Barisciano
I stayed here – September 2023
Number of nights: 5
My rating – 4* fantastic!
In the town of Barisciano, on the outskirts of Gran Sasso National Park, the local agency “da sciuri case vacanza Barisciano” offers several modest rental homes. They don’t have pools or other luxuries but are comfortably furnished, including a washing machine. The owner, Francesco, is incredibly friendly and helpful. The house I chose was at the very top of the town, with easy access via an asphalt road, parking right in front, and a grill, table, and chairs outside the entrance. Pets are welcome. Inside, there are two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a kitchen. Every Saturday, Barisciano hosts a market for local products, and there’s a pizzeria with amazing take-out pizza.
Recommended Accommodation in Italy – Molise
Guardiaregia – Le Coccole
I stayed here – September 2023
Number of nights: 4
My rating – 4* fantastic!
Choosing Le Coccole was a perfect decision. The property is secluded, offering a large, comfortable room with a mountain view, a huge modern bathroom, fresh homemade pastries for breakfast, and the option to order dinner in the on-site restaurant (dishes chosen from the menu) at very reasonable prices. Though close to the main road, the area is peaceful and quiet. Pets are not only welcome; they are adored here, as the owners have several dogs that roam freely around the property and approach guests. If you’re afraid of large dogs, reconsider staying at Le Coccole. This place is ideal for those seeking peace, quiet, and a base to explore Molise. Though the property isn’t centrally located, the network of highways and the small size of the region make it possible to reach almost anywhere, even the coastal Termoli, in an hour to an hour and a half. We’ve promised ourselves that we’ll come back.
If you haven’t found a suitable accommodation above, also check out:
the largest accommodation site
a site specializing in holiday home and apartment rentals
Recommended Accommodation in Italy – Liguria
Under preparation
Recommended Accommodation in Italy – Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Under preparation
That’s all for now when it comes to recommended accommodations in Italy. As I mentioned earlier, the database will be updated after each trip, and every property, whether I’m a guest or a regular customer, will be rated according to the same criteria. I hope you find the information you need here. Feel free to leave any questions in the comments below, and I’ll do my best to answer each one. I’d also love to hear about your accommodation experiences during your travels in Italy—don’t hesitate to share your insights, as they will surely help those planning their trips. You can drop your tips for recommended accommodations in Italy in the comments, but they won’t be added to the post due to the reasons I mentioned at the beginning. Only accommodations personally reviewed by me will be included here.
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