Hotel Londra Palace

Once hosting aristocratic travellers, Russian royalty and renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau, a half century hiatus as an office building ended with a glorious restoration and re-establishment of this Roman icon. The Hotel de Russie lies between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo on the Via del Babuino, within easy walking distance of Rome’s main attractions, fashion houses and Via Condotti. Though surrounded by the ceaseless buzz of the city, behind the hotel’s unassuming frontage, is a soothing tranquility – both in design and ambiance – and vast private 18th century terraced gardens, a rare oasis away from it all. 122 rooms and suites are thoroughly up to date amenity wise, complete with Bisazza mosaic and Carrara marble in the bathrooms. Some feature private terraces and many rooms have views over Rome, Piazza del Popolo or the garden. The Stravinskij Bar is renowned for its apertivos, while Le Jardin de Russie and its chef, two-Michelin-star chef Fulvio Pierangelini, serve up simple yet refined dishes Mediterranean dishes in one a most romantic of settings. Furthering the Hotel de Russie urban oasis credentials is the De Russie Spa, one of Rome’s best health clubs.

Set amidst lush trees and terraced gardens, the Belmond Villa San Michelle enjoys the most perfect view over Florence from its hilltop position. Dating back to a 15th century monastery, the renaissance villa’s facade has been attributed to Michelangelo, as much a part of Italy’s heritage as the cathedrals and galleries down the hill. Today, Belmond Villa San Michele is recognised as one of the country’s finest boutique hotels. Each of the 20 rooms and 25 suites are unique, with sumptuous antiques, along with cotto-tile flooring and bright Florentine textiles. Separate from the main building, the exquisite Limonaia Villa contains three suites located in the convent’s former orangery, all with incredible views. These can be connected together to create perhaps the most glamorous villa in Tuscany, a unique haven for families and groups of friends, or for a special occasion such as a wedding or exclusive party. Belmond Villa San Michelle is naturally a favourite among honeymooners, however there are special services tailored towards family adventures, and world famous the cookery school is a destination in itself. A huge range of activities are on offer, such as exclusive historical tours and rafting under the Ponte Vecchio, and there is a complimentary shuttle to and from Florence itself. At the hotel, relax amongst the immaculate gardens and at the spa, swim in the panoramic pool or take part in one of the renowned culinary classes. Dining options here include one of the best restaurants in Florence – the romantic La Loggia – and more laid back cuisine at the Pool Restaurant, each with their own bar, as well as the Cloister Bar in the old monastery.

A classic and elegant hotel enjoying a fantastic central location just steps from Piazza Maggiore and the Due Torri, Grand Hotel Majestic is one of the most celebrated hotels in the city. With origins dating from the 18th century, the building has hosted this magnificent hotel for over 100 years and is considered an institution of the city. Consisting of 106 guest rooms, all elegantly decorated and furnished in keeping with the hotel’s artistic style, guests will enjoy a blend of typical Italian style reinforced by modern comfort, as well as lovely city views. A range of newer junior suites and deluxe rooms offer something a little bit different with their classic 18th-century French decor. Guests will benefit further from the superb dining on offer at the Grand Hotel Majestic, beginning with the famed I Carracci Restaurant. Set in a magnificent hall adorned with frescoes, this is the place to sample traditional cuisine of the Emilia-Romagna region, all whilst seated below artistic beauty. Fine food and wine can also be enjoyed at the new Enoteco Morandi wine cellar eatery, with its rustic menu, while Café Marinetti is the place to begin the evening, with an aperitif in hand. For a touch of rejuvenation between days exploring medieval architecture and sampling mouth-watering cuisine, the hotel’s health and wellness centre is an oasis of relaxation. Featuring a Turkish bath, sauna, emotional shower with chromotherapy and an intimate relaxing area, this is a haven of wellbeing.

The Due Torri Hotel enjoys a fantastic position within the historic centre of Verona, providing classic comfort and convenience on the doorstep of many of the city’s most famous landmarks and attractions. Overlooking the Church of Santa Anastasia, the hotel is set within a former 14th-century palace and retains much of the authentic characteristics of this historic building. Each of the hotel’s 89 rooms are spacious, themed by traditional décor and furnishings that perfectly represent the timeless elegance of Italian style. The Due Torri’s suites are particularly in keeping with the heritage of the building, containing period furniture and precious tapestries, as well as hand-varnished parquet and marble bathrooms. Guests have the choice of two rewarding dining experiences, beginning with the Due Torri Lounge & Restaurant, regarded for its innovative regional and international cuisine which is best washed down with a selection from the extensive wine list. On the hotel’s rooftop, the Panoramic Terrace & Grill Restaurant boasts breathtaking views of the city, accompanied by traditional Italian dinner and cocktails.