Luxury Italian Bucket List

Just moments from bustling Soho and a stone’s throw from Mayfair, the Ham Yard Hotel is an oasis of calm in the heart of central London.

Quintessentially British but with a modern twist, the hotel is bursting with character and is impeccably styled, its decor a unique mix of vibrant colours, patterns and textures. Each room has been individually designed and features floor-to-ceiling windows. There is the option of interconnecting rooms, making it an ideal base for families.

Enjoy sweeping views across the London skyline from the roof terrace, a haven of tranquility with lush planting and tinkling fountains. There’s a real buzz around the beehive and the kitchen garden keeps the hotel restaurant’s larder well stocked. When you need to put your feet up, you can relax with the papers or a book in the library or curl up in front of the fireplace in the drawing room.

There’s a world of culture on your doorstep, but in between soaking it up at the nearby galleries and museums be sure to pull up a chair at the bar and sip an expertly mixed cocktail or enjoy a decadent afternoon tea.

Since its opening in 1906 César Ritz, this London landmark has been a firm favourite of royalty, heads of state and thousands of discerning guests for over a century, and has become a symbol synonymous with true luxury.

Its opulent Louis XVI neoclassical style flows throughout the establishment, from the grand Long Gallery lobby and into each of its 111 rooms with their signature blue, yellow, rose pink or peach colours. Some offer exquisite views into Green Park or Piccadilly and a handful can be connected for families.

23 suites range in size from 62 square metres (665 square feet) to a positively palatial 260 square metres (2,802 square feet) five bedroom suite. Each enjoy 24-hour butler service and a one-way London airport transfer in the chauffeur driven Ritz Rolls-Royce Phantom.

The Palm Court is the setting for the quintessentially British Afternoon Tea at The Ritz, while the Rivoli Bar is the place for Champagne and cocktails amidst Art Deco glamour. The Ritz Restaurant, one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the world, serves timeless fine French classics.

There is also a spa on the seventh floor, a tranquil sanctuary in this bustling part of town, and the exclusive Ritz Club with its own bar, award-winning restaurant and 24 hour gaming facilities which residents of the hotel are welcome to visit during their stay.

Wonderfully located between the Strand and the northern banks of the River Thames, The Savoy has stood as a London landmark since its opening in 1889.

268 luxury rooms and suites celebrate two distinct historic styles – stately English Edwardian and Art Deco grandeur – each encapsulating a timeless London glamour. Many enjoy wonderful views across the river and to other monuments around the city.

Those staying in suites have a dedicated butler service, and all guests have access to Beauty and Fitness, a private facility in which offers spa treatments, a private pool, and 24-hour gym.

Fine dining is central to The Savoy’s history, indeed upon its opening it attracted an aristocratic crowd in full regalia, suppering in public for the first time. Today, Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill offers informal dining in a stylish Deco setting, whilst Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill presents a British menu with a French touch. Simpson’s-in-the-Strand celebrates the best of British and is famous for its roasts.

The award-winning Beaufort Bar is renowned for pushing the boundaries of mixology and the Knight’s Bar is perfect for pre-theatre drinks. The beautiful Thames Foyer is where The Savoy serves one of London’s best Afternoon Teas.

Step onboard this legendary train and travel back to the golden age of the 20s and 30s, for a journey that combines adventure and style. Crisscrossing Europe, you’ll roll through sublime scenery to some of the continent’s most alluring cities, with the most famous overnight journey running from London to Venice across France and the Alps.

The train cars are the original 1920s models, and the charming vintage cabins have been restored to their former glory. The double cabins feature an upper and lower berth while the single cabins have one lower berth. During the day, the berths are transformed to offer comfortable banquette seating from which you can relax and watch the world go by.

There are three restaurant cars so you can dine in style while enjoying the beauty of the countryside. Etoile du Nord features wonderful floral marquetry; the Côte d’Azur’s delicate lalique glass panels add elegance and style; and L’Oriental is decorated in black lacquer. Ingredients are brought onboard at stops along the route to guarantee freshness.

The champagne bar is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a perfectly chilled glass in beautiful art deco surroundings, or sip an expertly mixed cocktail in the bar car while listening to the delicate tinkle of the resident pianist.

The iconic Belmond Hotel Cipriano is located on Guidecca Island, across the water from St Mark’s Square, a most enviable location that has long helped make the hotel one of Venice’s most exclusive.

96 rooms and suites, split between the mid 20th century building and historic palazzo, are decorated in an opulent and impeccably Venetian style, with views out across the lagoon and cityscape or the lush Casanova gardens.

Fine dining options, such as the Michelin-starred Oro Restaurant and Cip’s Bar, take full advantage of the location’s wonderful vistas, while the Gabbiano Bar, Wine Cellar and Piano Bar are each draws in the evening.

The famous Olympic-sized swimming is at the centre of the property, the only one of its size in central Venice. There is a personal trainer on site, red-clay tennis courts, and a fitness centre, as well the Casanova Wellness Centre for something a bit more relaxing.

It is just five minutes from the Belmond Hotel Cipriani’s own pier to St Mark’s in the heart of Venice. Here the city’s highlights await.

At the Grand Canal’s edge, the historic Gritti Palace occupies a building that dates back to 1475 as a private home for the noble Pisani family, followed by the distinguished Doge of Venice, Andrea Gritti.

Carefully restored in 2013, the Gritti’s heritage and culture have blended with a renewed Venetian style. 61 luxurious guest rooms and 21 sumptuous suites, including some with canal views, are replete with rare archival fabrics, the finest Italian marbles and a stunning array of new and original chandeliers from Murano, as well as the latest technology and sumptuous beds.

Gritti’s famous terrace has long been a social hub. The splendid Bar Longhi features some of the best cocktails in Venice and the Club del Doge Restaurant features regional specialties, casual chic by day and a more formal affair at dinner. The palace is also home to the Gritti Epicurean School, an informal Venetian open kitchen that hosts wine tastings, cooking workshops and celebrations.

Well located by the Grand Canal on the southern edge of the San Marco district, Venice’s great opera house, cathedrals, museums and palazzos are all close by.

In the gallery-filled Dorsoduro borough, hidden away by the Salute church, is the intimate Ca’ Maria Adele in its quaint 16th-century palazzo.

There are just twelve sumptuous rooms, including two suites and five themed rooms inspired by Venice’s history, such as the Oriental Room, a nod to the travels of Marco Polo, and the Doge’s Room, all deep-red damask drapes and gold accents.

The vibe is Venetian and decadent – think terrazzo floors, Murano chandeliers and antique furnishings – but playful touches of African wood, polished concrete and a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere make it modern.

Whilst lacking a restaurant of its own, breakfast is served wherever you feel, whether in room, in the lounge or out on the terrace, a setting where Italian-style tea can be enjoyed in the afternoon. There is also an exceedingly well stocked bar.

Ca’ Maria Adele can organise tailored tours in and around the city, the Royal Palace a short gondola ride away from the hotel’s own water entrance. Being in Dorsoduro, the Peggy Guggenheim Museum, Punta della Dogana and the Magazzini del Sale are a short stroll away.

Set on the lively Riva degli Schiavine promenade, Hotel Danieli is the epitome of Venetian style and elegance.

On entering the hotel you are welcomed by rich golds and reds, marble floors and beautiful tapestries. This classic décor is carried throughout the 210 rooms and suites which feature high ceilings, Murano glass lamps and large windows through which you can take in the views of the canal or the cobbled streets of the city.

The rooftop restaurant allows guests to gaze out across the Grand Canal, watching the gondolas glide across the water while enjoying traditional Venetian cuisine influenced by the spice traders that used to pass through the city. For a pre-dinner aperitivo or a morning cappuccino, Bar Dandle with its marble columns and chandeliers has plenty of atmosphere.

You’re ideally situated to explore Venice, just minutes from the Bridge of Sighs, Piazza San Marco and the Palace Gardens.

Lake Como is all about style and elegance, and the iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo with its impressive art nouveau façade, fits the brief perfectly.

Sat on the western shores of the lake, the hotel looks out across the water to the pretty town of Bellagio and the dramatic Grigne mountains. Not to be outshone by its famous neighbour, Villa Carlotta, the hotel sits within beautifully landscaped gardens filled with rare and ancient magnolias, palm trees and flowers that explode in clouds of red, purple, pink and blue.

Rooms come with large windows that look out over lake or gardens, and the views from the rooftop suites are hard to beat. It’s not just the scenery that’ll catch your eye, however, and there’s plenty to admire inside as well. The lounge is filled with brightly coloured furniture and features ornate silk hangings on the wall, while the billiards room is home to an original table from the 1800s.

Guests can dine on seasonal Mediterranean cuisine in the restaurant where in the warmer months, food is served on the terrace. The trattoria and wine bar is perfect for more casual dining, offering the relaxed atmosphere of an ancient wine cellar with a touch of modern elegance.

Relaxing here is easy; the hotel has a secluded outdoor pool in the gardens and its own man-made beach, located just in front of the water-on-water floating pool on the lake. The indoor infinity pool and spa look out over the water and offer luxurious Santa Maria Novella products and treatments. The hotel also has its own water limos for when you want to explore and discover the lake.

Neither French, as its name might suggest, nor typically Milanese with its overtly playful design, the Château Monfort is truly unique in both its interiors and ethos.

Located in the heart of the city, the hotel is housed within an early 20th-century art nouveau building, and draws its inspiration from the world of fairytales and opera. Pastel colors adorn the walls of the 77 rooms, enhanced by floral patterns and butterflies, mosaics on the floors, mirrors and princely alcoves.

Downstairs you’ll find the exceptional glass-domed Lounge Bar Mezzanotte – the perfect spot to sip a Milanese aperitivo. The magnificent Rubacuori Restaurant is split into three unique rooms, including a room of mirrors and of ceramic animal head trophies, and specialises in modern Italian cuisine. Underneath it all is the Cella di Bacco, an inmate setting for an informal meal of cold cuts, cheese and fine wines.

The Château Montfort also has its own spa – the Amore & Psiche Spa – an exclusive refuge with a sauna, Turkish bath and swimming pool.

Overlooking the historic Boboli Gardens, near to Florence’s centre, Villa Cora is an exquisitely restored 19th century palace that offers a step back into the grandeur of neoclassical Florence, with eclectic and occasionally bizarre artistic styles of the period.

Built at a time when Florence was the cosmopolitan capital of the newly created Kingdom of Italy, Villa Cora earned its reputation by hosting guests such as Princess Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III, and the Russian composer Tchaikovsky, being considered the most beautiful residence of the Tuscan capital. It became a grand hotel in 1960, during another of Florence’s most stylish periods.

The hotel has 44 rooms and suites, divided into the main villa and in two adjacent buildings. The majority are in the main villa, split over four floors, each of which has been characterised around a theme, one with extravagant frescoes, another taking Moorish influence from the Orient. Villino Eugenia is a small guesthouse overlooking the Boboli Gardens, containing 13 accommodations, each decorated and furnished according to the bourgeois styles of the late 19th century. Lastly, La Follie, a small guesthouse located at the edge of the park that surrounds Villa Cora has a particular charm and discretion with only two rooms for complete privacy.

Le Bistrot Restaurant offers seasonal produce, during the winter months in the splendid Moorish Room with its domed ceiling with original frescoes by Antonio Caremmi, and in the summer outdoors in the winter garden by the side of the swimming pool, where guests can relax in an elegant yet informal environment.

The Benè spa is located on the lower floor of Villino Eugenia and is equipped with a small gym, tepidarium, sauna and Turkish hammam. The wellness centre offers Asian and European massages as well as beauty treatments. There is also a large heated outdoor pool shaded by vast oak trees.

The Hotel Savoy could not be more centrally located if it tried, located on Florence’s Piazza della Repubblica, next to the Duomo, with all the famous attractions of the city within walking distance.

Interiors are the work of designer Olga Polizzi, combining sleek and contemporary Italian with the building’s historic form, along with some more playful touches throughout. There are 88 rooms and 14 suites, including the two bedroom Repubblica Suite and its spectacular view over the square, and the Brunelleschi and Signoria suites that each enjoy private steam rooms.

Hotel Savoy’s restaurant, Irene, is overseen by renowned chef Fulvio Pierangelini and offers authentic flavours using local seasonal products, with some light and healthy reinventions of Tuscan classics. During warmer months, guests can enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace and soak up the atmosphere.

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.

After falling for the ruins of this dramatically perched 17th century convent while boating in Salerno Bay, the American owner of the Monastero Santa Rosa spent the next decade painstakingly renovated and restoring the building, creating the stunning and secluded boutique hotel it is today.

With only 20 rooms and suites, but plenty of outdoor living areas and private spaces dotted around the estate, this unique property is dedicated to total relaxation, as you can take your pick from the various secluded sun terraces perched on the hillside. Make your way down the lush tiered gardens to reach a truly breathtaking infinity pool where you can soak up the sweeping, panoramic views across the Amalfi Coast.

The sisters’ former winery is now the setting for a vast sanctuary of a spa – an impressive selection of some 400 wines now stored in the cellar of Ristorante Il Refettorio, where guests can expect an innovative Mediterranean gastronomic experience with the freshest ingredients from the gardens and surrounding Campania region.

The convent sits in the quaint fishing village of Conca dei Marini, just a 20-minute car or boat ride from the most scenic towns along this glamorous coastline – notably Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. An array of excursions can be organised, from walking trails and cultural tours, to diving and windsurfing.

A Ravello establishment, the gracious Palazzo Avino combines its long history, unwavering modern luxury and timeless coastal views.

Much the current structure was built on the remains of a 12th century palace in 1710 by the Sasso family, then renovated in the 19th century as the grand Hotel Palumbo that hosted a long list of royalty, aristocrats, actors, poets and writers. Reborn again two decades ago, it has consistently rated amongst the best hotels in Europe ever since.

There are 43 rooms and suites, the pick which have wonderful sea views while others look back to the mountain or charming town. Interiors are bright with a selection of period furniture and typically resplendent Italian bathrooms.

Dining here is an absolute highlight. The famed Rossellinis offers Michelin-star dining and fine regional wines, while Terrazza Belvedere is a more casual affair with panoramic views. Caffé dell’Arte is the place apertivos and cocktails and the Lobster & Martini Bar is self explanatory.

The heated pool, gym, full service spa and rooftop solarium’s jacuzzis make the most of the views. Another unique feature is the Palazzo Avino’s Clubhouse by the Sea. Just 15 minutes away, on a complimentary shuttle service to the small town of Marmorata, guests have use of the beach platforms, a small swimming pool and casual Clubhouse Restaurant.

Built upon the ruins of a Roman villa in the 18th century and a landmark hotel ever since, the Bellevue Syrene brings bright modern style and refined service to a setting above Sorrento that has long attracted emperors, artists and intellectuals.

From its precarious cliffside position, views spill out across the Gulf of Naples to Vesuvius in the distance. 50 luxury rooms and suites are elegantly furnished, interiors blending traditional features and historical artefacts with more contemporary finishes. Most boast sea views and balconies. The breathtaking Roccia ‘Rock’ Suite is set in an ancient Roman grotto and has a large hydrotherapy bath tub opposite the bed, as well as sea views.

Outside there is a pool on the terrace as well as a lift down to sun beds and parasols on the private seafront deck.

Dining here is seasonal, with the splendid panoramic terraces of La Pergola perfect for hot summer days, and the Gli Archi’s warm and welcoming style for winter. The Mimmo Jodice room, decorated with some of the pictures of the great Neapolitan photographer, completes the hotel’s dining options. There is also a club lounge and wine cellar.

Guests can explore Sorrento, the nearby ancient ruins of Pompeii and picturesque Positano. Capri is a short ferry ride away and offers fantastic designer shops and restaurants.

Perched atop Ravello’s cliff, the beautifully restored Caruso is one the finest spots from which to soaking in the Amalfi Coast. The current building dates back to 1800, the original palace 700 years further still, and its 50 rooms and suites in an array of shapes and sizes are fittingly replete with marble, original frescos and Italian antiques. Many enjoy wonderful vistas of the coast, sea and fragrant gardens. The Caruso’s two Exclusive Suites have their own terrace and garden. The Belvedere Restaurant serves up Italian and local Neapolitan delicacies, in the summer to be enjoyed out on the terrace. There is also a restaurant by the famous infinity pool with a wood-fired pizza oven, an adjoining bar, and the elegant piano bar indoors. Explore the coast on complimentary cruises to Amalfi and Positano, scenic helicopter flights on request, or perhaps take out vintage Vespas or classic car along the coastal road.

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.

Built the late 19th century, this grandiose villa has stayed with the Trivelli family ever since, through hosting meetings of the National Council of Italian Women, high society gathering of Counts and Countess to being the residence of Piero Trivelli, a sensitive writer and refined poet. In 2004, son of Count Piero decided to convert the historic residence into the fabulous boutique hotel of today.

Communal areas are full of antiques and art, the library is listed and lounge areas steeped in a dark wood, old world luxury. Outside are peaceful formal gardens that form a walled oasis away from the Rome’s bustle.

Overlooking the greenery are just 12 rooms, warm and welcoming, with subtle modern touches enhancing the historic charm of the original features. Large beds are clad in Fiandra linen sheets and alpaca or cashmere throws. Bathrooms are spacious and lined in marble, and all have baths as well as showers. Well-stocked minibars are complimentary.

On the other side of the garden are two Garden Suites and a large apartment ideal for families, small groups or those seeking privacy.

Breakfast is a vast spread and afternoon tea is served by the fireplace, whilst dinners can be arranged in the garden during summer months. There is also a wonderful spa and health centre offering restorative wellness therapies.

Centrally located between the Via Nazionale and the Quirinal Palace, the Colosseum is a 15 minute walk away, the Trevi Fountain half that, and many of the city’s best restaurants are just around the corner.