Best Preferred Hotels & Resorts in Italy

Located about 5 miles northeast of Florence in the town of Fiesole, this restored 15th-century villa attracts guests with its picturesque views and gardens. Visitors are equally impressed by this Preferred Hotels & Resorts outpost's guest rooms and suites, which feature traditional Tuscan details like locally made linens and high ceilings. Though some past travelers noted a few maintenance issues in their accommodations, most appreciated the rooms' comfortable beds and modern conveniences like mirrors with built-in TVs and free Wi-Fi. After settling into your digs, venture outside to the hotel's gardens, where you'll find a two-tier infinity-edge pool, which is open seasonally between April and October, and some of the property's best vistas. For those in need of respite from the sun, head inside for a massage at the spa or an Italian-inspired meal at La Cucina. Or, if you'd rather dine in Florence, take advantage of the hotel's complimentary shuttle service to and from downtown.

Situated along the Grand Canal within walking distance of must-see sights like Saint Mark's Basilica, the Bridge of Sighs and the Rialto Bridge, the Metropole Hotel – which has welcomed famous figures like Sigmund Freud and Marcel Proust since the 1500s – offers visitors a serene yet convenient setting in central Venice. Travelers rave about the hotel's relaxed atmosphere and traditional Venetian charm, which you'll notice when you enter the Old World lobby. Throughout the hotel, antique fans, 19th-century card cases, rare crucifixes and animal-shaped nutcrackers are on display. And in all guest rooms and suites, travelers will find ornate decor with traditional Venetian furnishings and red, ivory or gold fabrics. All accommodations also come with garden, city or canal views, plus modern conveniences like televisions and free Wi-Fi access. Additional perks, such as private hammams and rooftop terraces, are provided in select suites. According to recent guests, the property's rooms are "beautiful" and feature modern and spacious bathrooms, though some noted unpleasant odors and weak air conditioners. Other high points for travelers include the hotel's helpful staff, Mediterranean-themed Citrus Garden, Asian-inspired Oriental Bar and Michelin-starred Met Restaurant.

Visitors say this hotel sets the bar extremely high thanks to its central location, convivial staff members and delightful rooftop lounge. The Acquaroof terrace provides sweeping views of Rome and welcomes guests for dining (lunch and dinner) and drinks. Other on-site eateries at this The First Hotel Roma include the Michelin-starred Acquolina, which dishes out gourmet seafood, and the Lounge Bar, which offers small bites and beverages. What's more, the hotel draws on its rich, cultural surroundings and displays more than 150 contemporary pieces of art. When it's time to rest, guests have their choice of rooms or suites, all of which include modern Italian artwork, LED TVs and marble bathrooms, and are outfitted with neutral decor and bold royal blue accents. Some accommodations offer terraces with a Jacuzzi and lounge chairs, while others may include a fireplace. You'll find The First Hotel Roma in central Rome, within walking distance of the Spanish Steps and several restaurants and boutiques.