Banner image courtesy of Anders Jildén
Italy offers a huge variety of unforgettable experiences, from sun-drenched coastlines to romantic lakeside towns, ancient ruins, and culinary hotspots. Whether you’re dreaming of peaceful countryside retreats or bustling cultural hubs, choosing the right base can transform your Italian getaway.
Staying in the right location not only enhances your trip, but it also makes exploring the local surroundings more convenient, immersive, and enjoyable. With countless beautiful regions to explore, this guide highlights five of Italy’s most stunning destinations and the best places to stay while enjoying each. From the historical charm of Rome to the scenic shores of Lake Garda and the volcanic landscapes of Sicily, we’ve selected the top spots where comfort meets culture.
If you’re planning your next Italian adventure, let this list help you uncover luxurious, characterful, and ideally located accommodation options in the heart of Italy’s finest scenery. Read on to discover where to stay while exploring Italy’s most breathtaking sights.
Rome
Rome, the Eternal City, is an unmissable stop for anyone exploring Italy’s historic treasures. Home to iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon, this bustling metropolis is a living museum. Accommodation in Rome spans luxurious five-star hotels, boutique B&Bs, and stylish apartments tucked into centuries-old buildings.
For the most immersive experience, consider staying in the Trastevere or Monti districts – both central yet steeped in local charm. These neighbourhoods offer cobbled streets, authentic Roman cuisine, and easy access to the city’s major sites. After a day of sightseeing, retreat to your accommodation and enjoy a rooftop aperitivo or a peaceful courtyard.
Choosing the right place to stay in Rome adds ease and atmosphere to your trip. Whether you’re visiting for art, architecture, or espresso-fuelled wanderings, Rome delivers endless inspiration and a sense of living history that continues to enchant travellers from around the world.
Sicily
Sicily is a mesmerising island, where history, nature, and cuisine merge to create a rich and vibrant destination. From Mount Etna’s dramatic silhouette to the Valley of the Temples and the golden beaches of Cefalù, there’s something for every traveller.
Accommodation here ranges from rustic farmhouses to coastal escapes, but for comfort, privacy, and scenic beauty, the best holiday villas in Sicily to rent are a top choice. Whether you stay near Taormina’s charming streets or amidst the olive groves of the south, these villas often come with pools, gardens, and panoramic views. They offer the perfect retreat after a day of exploring local markets, sampling arancini and cannoli, or diving into crystal-clear waters.
Many are located within easy reach of cultural sites and natural wonders, making them ideal for families, couples, or groups. Sicily’s unique blend of history and hospitality ensures a memorable stay in the heart of the Mediterranean.
Tuscany
Tuscany is a region of rolling hills, historic cities, and timeless beauty. Its capital, Florence, is the birthplace of the Renaissance, while smaller towns like Siena, San Gimignano, and Montepulciano offer a taste of medieval charm and rural tranquillity.
Staying in the Tuscan countryside allows visitors to truly unwind, often in converted farmhouses or elegant villas surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. These properties provide a peaceful base for wine tasting, hiking, or cultural day trips. Imagine waking up to golden sunlight over the hills, enjoying a slow breakfast before exploring nearby markets or driving through the iconic Val d’Orcia.
Many accommodations offer pools, gardens, and authentic Tuscan decor, giving you a true sense of place. Tuscany is ideal for those looking to blend relaxation with rich history and world-class cuisine. With its dreamy landscapes and artistic legacy, Tuscany is one of Italy’s most beloved – and unforgettable – destinations.
Lake Garda
Nestled between the Alps and the Po Valley, Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake and a favourite destination for those seeking serenity and charm. With its picturesque lakeside towns like Sirmione, Malcesine, and Limone sul Garda, the region offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The northern shores are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, while the southern side is dotted with elegant promenades, vineyards, and historic villas.
For an unforgettable experience, stay in one of the beautiful Lake Garda villas. These properties often feature lush gardens, lake views, and modern amenities, offering a luxurious base for day trips or relaxing lakeside afternoons.
Whether you’re windsurfing in Riva del Garda or sipping wine in Bardolino, staying in a private villa provides comfort and flexibility. With plenty of local trattorias, boat tours, and charming paths to explore, Lake Garda is the perfect blend of tranquillity and Italian sophistication.
Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is the epitome of Mediterranean glamour, where dramatic cliffs meet the turquoise sea. Its towns, such as Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, are known for their colourful buildings, lemon groves, and romantic atmosphere. Staying on the Amalfi Coast means waking up to sea views, dining on fresh seafood, and strolling through picturesque streets.
Boutique hotels and cliffside villas dominate the accommodation scene here, offering terraces, infinity pools, and spectacular panoramas. For the most immersive experience, consider renting a private villa that reflects the coast’s unique blend of elegance and rustic charm.
Locations like Praiano offer a quieter stay while still being close to main attractions. Day trips to Capri, Pompeii, or the Path of the Gods hiking trail are easily arranged. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in la dolce vita, the Amalfi Coast provides a luxurious and unforgettable setting for your Italian escape.
Where to Stay?
From sun-soaked islands to serene lakes and historic cities, Italy offers no shortage of unforgettable sights, and where you stay can make all the difference. Renting a villa in Sicily gives you access to the island’s wild beauty and rich heritage, while beautiful villas to rent in Lake Garda combine elegance with lakeside leisure. Rome immerses you in ancient wonders, Tuscany surrounds you with timeless countryside charm, and the Amalfi Coast dazzles with cliffside glamour.
Each of these destinations promises a unique Italian experience, and with carefully chosen accommodation, your stay will be as memorable as the journey itself. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or culture, there’s a perfect Italian base waiting to welcome you. So pack your bags, pick your view, and let Italy’s beauty unfold right outside your doorstep.