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LUXURY HOTEL INSIDER

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The Luxury Hotel Insider: Exclusive luxury hotel deals, features and special rates from the luxury hotel experts at Five Star Alliance.
Named one of Tripbase's Best Luxury Travel Blogs for 2011, below are Five Star Alliance's newest articles featuring exclusive information on luxury hotels worldwide including special offers and deals at the world's best hotels.

| By: Rachael Weir

Set at the top of the Spanish Steps, Rocco Forte Hotel De La Ville is a luxury hotel nestled within an 18th century palazzo. Providing sweeping city views and fine dining at Da Sistina, the property offers an exclusive retreat in the heart of Rome. Learn more about the Canova Suite and an exclusive Five Star Alliance Perk below the photo.

Rooftop Bar at Rocco Forte Hotel De La Ville

Featuring a mix of guest rooms, suites, and signature suites, the Rocco Forte Hotel De La Ville has an elegant setting for travelers. One of the hotel's top suites is the Canova Suite. Named after the Neoclassical sculptor, Antonio Canova, the sophistated suite blends high art with lavish style. The separate living areas from the sitting room to the bedroom are furnished in a color palette of cool wheat shades accented by a curated collection of objects d'art. The lavish marble bathroom has exclusive Irene Forte Skincare products crafted with Sicilian botanicals, a separate shower, state-of-the-art audio speakers, and double washbasins. While the private walk-in wardrobe is an ideal setting to get ready for a glamorous night out in Rome.

One of the suite's highlights is the beautifully furnished outdoor terrace. Featuring exclusive views, the terrace is an idyllic place to enjoy an aperitivo while soaking in the views of the sunset-lit rooftops of the Eternal City. Discover an exclusive Five Star Alliance Perk below the photo.

Canova Suite at Rocco Forte Hotel De La Ville

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: All reservations booked under the “5 Star Signature Package” rate and "Best Available Rate" will also include breakfast daily, a $100 hotel credit per room/per stay, complimentary WiFi, and a welcome amenity.

Check availability at Rocco Forte Hotel De La Ville


| By: Rachael Weir

Set on the site where gladiator barracks once stood, Palazzo Manfredi is a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of ancient Rome. Providing an elegant retreat steps from the Coloseum, the building began in the 17th century as the villa for the Evangelisti family. Rebuilt in the 18th century, the villa was purchased by Count Goffredo Manfredi, who transformed the building into an exclusive luxury hotel. Learn more about the property below the photo.

Palazzo Manfredi

From the Family Suite with Colosseum views to the contemporary Ludus Magnus Suite inspired by the history of the Eternal City, the property provides a regal Roman setting. Continue reading below the photo.

Suite at Palazzo Manfredi

Opening in July 2019, the new cocktail bar, The Court, showcases unique city views with a menu of innovative cocktails using revolutionary techniques created by some of the most famous Italian mixologists. The new venue is set to serve exceptional drinks in a one-of-a-kind location from dusk to midnight.

One of the hotel's highlights is the award-winning Aroma Restaurant. Providing unparalleled Colosseum views from its picturesque terrace, the Michelin starred restaurant showcases classic Italian dishes in a quintessential Roman retreat. Featuring an idyllic setting for romantic dinners and private parties, the 40-seat restaurant is led by Roman-born Chef Di Lorio, who developed a menu marrying traditional Italian with fresh ingredients, while supporting sustainable fish, local produce, and regional meats. Each of the main courses revolves around pasta, with a feature of five different varieties. Learn about an exclusive Five Star Alliance Perk below the photo. 

AROMA Restaurant Views at Palazzo Manfredi

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking through Five Star Alliance receive a complimentary welcome drink, daily Continental breakfast for 2 guests, and entrance tickets for 2 to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and The Palatine Hill. Guests who book a one or two bedroom suite also receive a one way limousine transfer to or from the airport (not applicable to Junior Suite).

Check availability at Palazzo Manfredi


| By: Rachael Weir

Aroma Restaurant at Palazzo Manfredi

The Eternal City offers centuries of history from Roman ruins to the Vatican. Featuring showstopping vistas and iconic landmarks at every turn, Rome attracts Christians for its religious sites, art lovers, culture seekers, history buffs, and travelers from around the globe seeking to understand its history while taking in the present pace of Rome via Vespas or romantic strolls. 

With two thousand years of history, the Colosseum is one of the city's top landmarks. Known as the Flavian Amphitheater, the building was home to gladiators taking on each other or fighting wild animals. In 2016, the building completed a massive renovation, making it even better for visitors. The largest, richest, and likely most famous church in all of Italy is St. Peter's Basilica. Completed in 1626, the church is home to significant works of art including Bernini's baldachin over the papal altar as well as Michelangelo's Pieta and awe-inducing dome. While the Vatican Museums showcase one of the world's greatest art collections with a range of masterpieces from Egyptian times to frescoes by Raphael and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel. The 2,000-year-old Pantheon is now a church, but was originally built as a temple and is one of the Rome's most well-preserved ancient landmarks. 

Of course no trip to Rome would be complete without experiencing the food. From strolling with gelato to sipping a cappuccino, its important to allow time for gastronomic experiences, trattorias, pizza, and wine bars. 

Here are 5 Top Rome Luxury Hotels

5. Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie

Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie

A favorite of politicians, artists, and celebrities for generations, Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie is an iconic luxury hotel. Situated between Piazza di Spagna and Piazza del Popolo, the hotel offers one of the city's most prestigious address. There's a Mediterranean tiered Secret Garden with orange trees and rose bushes, the open-air Stravinskij Bar with crafted cocktails, and fine Italian dining at Le Jardin de Russie. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests making reservations with Five Star Alliance receive daily buffet breakfast and an 85 Euros food and beverage credit per room/per stay.

Check availability at Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie

4. The St. Regis Grand Rome

The St. Regis Grand Rome

Blending history, location, and authentic charm, The St. Regis Grand Rome is a luxury hotel located on one of the city's most iconic palazzos. Following a meticulous renovation, the property has 161 guest rooms and suites, signature St. Regis Butler Service, Lumen Restaurant, and the Kami Spa & Fitness facility with state-of-the-art equipment and a range of treatments for relaxation and rejuvenation. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate or "Best Available Rate" will also receive buffet breakfast for two daily at Caelum Bar & Lounge, a $100 USD food and beverage credit per stay, and complimentary WiFi. 

Check availability at The St. Regis Grand Rome

3. Grand Hotel Via Veneto

Spa at Grand Hotel Via Veneto

Close to the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, Grand Hotel Via Veneto is a luxury hotel with Michelin Star dining, occupying two 19th century historical buildings. The exterior of the buildings is protected by Environmental and Architectural Heritage of Rome, while the interiors have custom-made Murano glass chandeliers, black granite floors, and travertine stairways with cast iron banisters. While the AQVA City Spa has Vichy showers, vitality pool, and exclusive Sisley treatments. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate will also receive full breakfast for two daily, and 85 Euro food and beverage credit per room/per stay to be used at Times Restaurant & Wine Bar (alcoholic beverages excluded), complimentary WiFi, and an automatic room category upgrade at booking, based on availability. 

Check availability at Grand Hotel Via Veneto

2. Hotel d'Inghilterra Rome

Hotel d'Inghilterra Rome

Dating back to the 16th century, Hotel d'Inghilterra Rome is a short stroll from the Spanish Steps. Guests at the hotel can enjoy Roman cuisine in an al fresco setting at Cafe Romano, a British setting for a classic drink at the Bond Bar, and awake in one of the hotel's 88 rooms and suites, each offering its own style and identity. Located in the heart of the historical center of Rome, the property is steps from Via Condotti, Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain. 

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests booking the "5 Star Signature Package" rate, "Best Available Rate", as well as promotions and package rates with at least a three night stay, will also receive full breakfast for two daily in Café Romano, a 50 Euro Food and Beverage credit, per room/per stay, along with a bottle of wine & chef pastries on arrival. 

Check availability at Hotel d'Inghilterra Rome

1. Palazzo Manfredi

Family Suite at Palazzo Manfredi

Directly across from the Colosseum, Palazzo Manfredi is located on the former site of a gladiator training school. The current building was originally built as a villa for the Evangelisti family in the 17th century. Rebuilt in the 18th century, the property was purchased in 2002 and transformed into a luxury boutique hotel by the noble Manfredi family. Commemorating the past while infusing the future, the hotel has a Michelin starred restaurant, AROMA offering Roman cuisine with views of the Colosseum, as well as the American Bar for cocktails with panoramic views, and a mini-gym.

FIVE STAR ALLIANCE PERK: Guests who book through Five Star Alliance receive a complimentary welcome drink, daily Continental breakfast for 2 guests, and entrance tickets for 2 to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and The Palatine Hill. Guests who book a one or two bedroom suite also receive a one way limousine transfer to or from the airport (not applicable to Junior Suite). 

Check availability at Palazzo Manfredi


| By: Rachael Weir

In the midst of the Villa Borghese gardens, Aldrovandi Villa Borghese is an urban resort offering a regal retreat in the heart of Rome. Situated in the upscale Pinciano District, this classical hideaway provides old world glamour. Minutes from Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps, the property is located in the "green heart" of Rome where guests can go jogging, stroll in the fresh air, or walk to the National Gallery of Modern Art and the Borghese Gallery. Continue reading below the photo. 

Lobby of the Aldrovandi Villa Borghese

The regal hotel offers an array of dining options, including the Michelin-starred Assaje Restaurant. Featuring an elegant setting overlooking the property's private garden, the restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine led by two-star Michelin chef Andrea Migliaccio and resident chef Claudio Mengoni. Lavish buffet breakfasts are served in the Sala Verde, the Grill offers light meals and snacks, the Garden Bar is a luxe setting for relaxation, and the American Bar serves Aldrovandi's signature cocktails in an elegant venue. Read more about the property below the photo. 

Outdoor dining at Aldrovandi Villa Borghese

For pampering treatments, the Mytha Spa has state-of-the-art facilties, a calming atmosphere, and an array of rejuvenating services. There's also a heated outdoor swimming pool, exclusive pool club, private garden, and complimentary bicycles are available for guests to explore the Eternal City.

Check availability at Aldrovandi Villa Borghese

Posted in: Rome

| By: Rachael Weir

What's better than shopping at the Fendi flagship boutique in Rome? Staying above the store on the third floor of the Maison's home, Palazzo Fendi, which is now the Fendi Private Suites. Providing a stylish and elegant setting in the heart of Rome, the world's first Fendi hotel is steps away from the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, and just a short walk to the Pantheon, Vatican City, and the Piazza Navona. Read more below the photo of the Corner Suite at the Fendi Private Suites. 

Corner Suite at the Fendi Private Suites

Offering seven designer suites, the exclusive property features a one-of-the-kind retreat. Guests are immersed in the elegance of the Fendi world, which offers a highly sophisticated setting with the ultimate level of privacy. Situated within the historic noble home of the Boncompagni Ludovisi family that was transformed into the Fendi headquarters in 2005, the property provides a distinctive location on the Via dei Condotti, with accommodations that combine Roman elegance mingled with refined juxtapositions of contemporary design. Continue reading below the photo of the Deluxe Suite at the Fendi Private Suites. 

Deluxe Suite at the Fendi Private Suites

Guests can choose from seven suites at the property, including the Palazzo Suite with a separate master bedroom and living area, Karl Lagerfeld's original prints of Rome's fountains, and a bathroom with Carrara marble walls. Designed by Fendi Casa architects, the Deluxe Suite boasts two one-of-a-kind views of Via del Corso and Via Tomacelli with large windows, images from Lagerfeld's "The Glory of Water" series, and a headboard adorned with a fur masterpiece. While the Corner Suite overlooks the corner of Largo Goldoni and Via di Fontanella Borghese with a bed dressed in Fendi Casa’s Makò cotton satin bed linens, limited edition furnishings, and original Lagerfeld photographs. 

Check availability at Fendi Private Suites


| By: Rachael Weir

Adjacent to the Baths of Diocletian, Palazzo Montemartini offers an exclusive setting in the center of Rome. The only hotel in the city crossed by the ancient Servian Wall, the luxury hotel occupies a former palazzo. Mixing historic 19th century details like marble and stucco with contemporary design and high-tech elegance, the prestigious property has 82 guestrooms and suites, including Signature Suites, Business Suites, and Spa and Fitness Suites. Read more below the photo of the Junior Suite. 

Junior Suite at Palazzo Montemartini

Steps from the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, designed by Michelangelo, Palazzo Montemartini has the exclusive Caschera Spa featuring packages and treatments inspired by the adjacent  Baths of Diocletian. There's also the Senses Restaurant & Lounge Bar providing a refined setting blended with Italian traditions and modern infusions. Read more below the photo of Senses Restaurant.

Senses Restaurant & Lounge Bar

Five Star Alliance Perk: Guests booking through Five Star Alliance receive a bottle of Italian wine, 10% discount at Senses Restaurant and the Caschera Spa.

Check availability at Palazzo Montemartini


| By: Rachael Weir

Happy National Coffee Day! Specialty coffee sales are inceasing around the world at a rate of about 20% per year. In the U.S., the average person drinks 3.1 cups of coffee per day, yet the U.S. is not in the top 10 for coffee consuption in the world. If you love coffee as much as we do, here's a list of five hotels in top cities for coffee that we love a latte (sorry, we couldn't resist). 

1. Thompson Seattle

The Nest at the Thompson Seattle

Home of Starbucks and known for chilly and rainy weather, Seattle is a haven for coffee lovers. The Thompson Seattle is perched above Pike's Place Market, making it a quick walk to the original Starbucks. Featuring contemporary design and floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the Puget Sound, Pike's Place Market, and the Olympic Mountains, the Thompson Seattle has a rooftop bar and the signature Scout restaurant specializing in Pacific Northwest cuisine.

Check availability at Thompson Seattle

 

2. Hotel Continental Oslo

Bar at Theatercafeen at Hotel Continental Oslo

Norway is in the top 10 countries for coffee consuption, and Kaffe is typically served at breakfast and after dinner with dessert, while Turkaffe is traditional Norwegian hiking coffee. At the Hotel Continental Oslo, guests can begin their day with a fresh-brewed pot of coffee at Caroline's, then explore the walkable Nordic city, and finish up their day with a gourmet dinner at Theatercafeen complete with dessert and coffee. Five Star Alliance Perk: Guests making reservations with Five Star Alliance receive a $100 food and beverage credit per room as well as VIP status.

Check availability at Hotel Continental Oslo

 

3. The Nines, Portland

The Nines Portland

Portland, Oregon is known for a unique coffee culture with a mix of independent roasters and coffee cafes brewing espressos and lattes topped with artful foam. At The Nines, guests can stay in the heart of the city in the historic Meier & Frank Building, formerly a department store. The LEED Silver Certified Hotel is steps from Pioneer Square and the trendy Pearl District, plus there's two gourmet restaurants on-site specializing in local Pacific Northwest cuisine. 

Check availability at The Nines

 

4. Hotel Sacher Wien, Vienna

Cafe Sacher Wien at Hotel Sacher Wien

Viennese coffee houses are an institution in Vienna, typically with marble tables, newspapers, pastry creations, and of course, coffee drinks. At the Hotel Sacher Wien, guests can experience a Viennese coffee house within the hotel. The Cafe Sacher Wien is a traditional Viennese coffeehouse with a refined setting featuring red interiors, chandeliers, pastries, coffee specialties, and teas, as well as local dishes like fried chicken salad, Wiener Schnitzel, or Tafelspitz.

Check availability at Hotel Sacher Wien

 

5. Palazzo Manfredi, Rome

Aroma Restaurant at Palazzo Manfredi

Known for coffee houses where espresso is served at a bar, and guests drink the coffee quickly while standing, Rome offers a coffee culture of its own. At the Palazzo Manfredi, guests stay in the heart of Rome, steps from the Colosseum and the city's coffee houses. There's also the rooftop Aroma restaurant with Michelin Star cuisine, as well as the American Bar on-site. Five Star Alliance Perk: Guests booking through Five Star Alliance receive a welcome drink, daily Continental breakfast for two, and tickets for two to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill. 

Check availability at Palazzo Manfredi


| By: Rachael Weir

Planning a family vacation to the Eternal City? The Family Suite at Palazzo Manfredi offers an idyllic base for a family vacation. Featuring two adjoining rooms, the Family Suite has king-sized beds, views of the Colosseum, and two marble bathrooms with glass showers, separate soaking bathtubs, and Acqua di Parma amenities. There's a Sky Digital TV with a Parrot by Philippe Starck surround audio system, Nespresso machine, and complimentary minibar. Continue reading below the photo. 

Family Suite at Palazzo Manfredi

Furnished with baroque-inspired decor, the suite has a color palette of velvets and golds, infused with a mix of contemporary accents. The marble of the Domus Aurea can be seen from the suite's windows, as well as views of ancient Rome. Read more below the photo. 

Family Suite at Palazzo Manfredi

The Family Suite also includes breakfast at the AROMA restaurant, limousine transfer from the airport, and complimentary entrance to the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Plus, a Five Star Alliance Perk: Guests booking through Five Star Alliance receive a welcome drink. 

Palazzo Manfredi is a 14-room boutique hotel directly across from the Colloseum. Set within a historic villa, the luxury hotel offers the rooftop AROMA Restaurant, recipient of a Michelin Star, as well as a mini-gym for hotel guests. 

Check rates and availability at Palazzo Manfredi


| By: Rachael Weir

Dine under the Italian sky with panoramic views of the Eternal City at Grand Hotel de la Minerve. The Minerva Roof Garden houses the hotel's exclusive restaurant with a strategic location, 360-degree views, and creative cuisine by Naples-born Chef Antonio Falco. Continue reading below the photo of the Minerva Roof Garden.

Minerva Roof Garden at Grand Hotel de la Minerve

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restauran offers Italian and international cuisine with a traditional menu, tasting menu, and a la carte options, plus an extensive wine list. There are special birthday and first communion menus, and The Bar serves international cocktails in the space that was once the palazzo's winter garden. Read more below the photo.

The Bar at Grand Hotel de la Minerve

Once an aristocratic home built in the 1600s, the Grand Hotel de la Minerve is a luxury hotel overlooking the Pantheon. Set in the midst of the historic city center, the noble hotel offers 135 guest rooms mixing classic style with the latest amenities including bathrooms with travertine marble and Etro bath products, double glazed windows, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. Continue reading below.

Suite at Grand Hotel de la Minerve

Steps from the Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps, the property is ideally situated for exploring Rome.

Check availability at Grand Hotel de la Minerve


| By: Rachael Weir

Featured Journeys: Romantic Trip Through Italy

Italy, known for food, art, and culture, it seems as if there's something new to discover at every turn. In this edition of Featured Journeys, we're going on a Romantic Trip Through Italy. While there's so much to explore, this journey will feature three of the major cities, along with a stop in Tuscany for wine and enjoying la dolce vita. 

Rome
Siena
Florence
Venice

Rome

The journey begins in Rome. Founded around 753 B.C., the city is a haven for history lovers. Three of our favorite hotels below provide ideal locations to explore all the Eternal City has to offer, including the Colosseum, Pantheon, St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican, and the Trevi Fountain. Thanks to Italy's fashion houses, many of the city's major landmarks, including the Trevi Fountain have recently been refurbished, making it an ideal time to visit. 

Here are a few of our top Rome hotels:

Palazzo Manfredi

Palazzo Manfredi

Directly opposite the Colosseum, the Palazzo Manfredi is a boutique hotel set within a 17th century villa. Offering the Michelin star Aroma Restaurant, guests can dine on award-winning cuisine while enjoying views of the iconic Colosseum. Perk: Five Star Alliance guests receive daily breakfast for 2, complimentary welcome drink, and entrance tickets for 2 to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill.

Palazzo Montemartini

Palazzo Montemartini

Situated in central Rome, Palazzo Montemartini offers a modern, yet romantic setting. The only hotel in the city crossed by the Servian Walls, the luxury hotel is set within a stately former palazzo with a spa, Turkish bath, and indoor lap pool. Perk: Five Star Alliance guests receive a bottle of wine, plus a 10% discount at the Senses restaurant and spa treatments. 

Fendi Private Suites

Fendi Private Suites

Why only shop at the Fendi flagship boutique when you can spend the night in the Fendi Private Suites? Offering seven chic and creative suites within the Palazzo Fendi, the innovative designs incorporate the brand's classical visual language in the heart of Rome.

Explore all Rome Luxury Hotels

 

Siena

Offering a medieval setting, the city of Siena makes for a great base for exploring Tuscany. While the town itself is charming, we recommend spending a few nights (or why not an entire week if timing allows?) at one of the area's vineyard hotels where you can relax, sip some wine, and take in the beauty of the Italian countryside. 

Here are a few of our top Siena hotels:

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

This majestic estate has an 800-year history. Set in Val d'Orcia just north of Montalcino, Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco is one of Tuscany's largest contiguous estates. Completely restored, the property offers a focus on the land, wine, and history. Perk: Five Star Alliance guests receive $100 USD resort credit, and a welcome bottle of Castiglion del Bosco wine. 

Castel Monastero

Castel Monastero

Set amongst the Chianti vines, Castel Monastero is situated within a medieval village from the 11th century. About 30 minutes from Siena, this country resort offers a Gordon Ramsay restaurant, an intimate church for weddings, wine cellar with Tuscan wine tastings, and spa with wellness programs and medical anti-aging treatments. Perk: Guests booking with Five Star Alliance receive a three course lunch for two with wine, and $100 spa credit. 

Castel Porrona Relais

Castel Porrona Relais

Nestled amongst vineyards, cypress trees, and olive groves, the Castel Porrona Relais is a historic village resort with an outdoor swimming pool, fine Tuscan cuisine at Il Chiostro Restaurant, and suites with personal butler service. The Agua Spa offers wine therapy baths, Moroccan-inspired hammam, and treatments incorporating Tuscan wine and olive oils. Perk: Five Star Alliance guests receive a complimentary bottle of wine and 15% discount on spa services. 

Explore all Siena Luxury Hotels

 

Florence

Considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a must-see for art lovers. Yes, Michelangelo's "David" is here, but there's so much more to see. Il Duomo, the Florence Cathedral was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, and was built on the site of 7th century Church of Santa Reparata, where visitors can see the remains of the foundation in the crypt. On the piazza outside of the cathedral is the Baptistery of St. John, considered the oldest religious site in all of Florence. Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio to the "newest" part of the city for shopping, and be sure to try the iconic Florentine Steak for one of your meals. 

Here are a few of our top Florence hotels:

Brunelleschi Hotel Florence

Brunelleschi Hotel Florence

Steps from Il Duomo Cathedral, Brunelleschi Hotel Florence is in the heart of historic city center. Set within a 6th century byzantine tower and medieval church from 1400, the luxury boutique hotel has an upscale Italian restaurant and traditional trattoria. Note: you may recognize the property, as it is where Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks' character) stays while in Florence in the DaVinci Code and Inferno. Perk: Five Star Alliance guests receive a $50 food and beverage credit per room, along with a welcome amenity. 

Hotel Il Salviatino

Hotel Il Salviatino

Perched on the hillside of Fiesole, Hotel Il Salviatino is set within a 15th century villa. Overlooking Florence and the rolling Tuscan hills, the unique property has outdoor pools set immersed in the green hills. There's a spa with aroma's of Dr Vranjes, an exclusive Florence perfume house, along with La Cucina serving Tuscan cuisine crafted with ingredients grown on the property. 

Belmond Villa San Michele

Belmond Villa San Michele

Surrounded by gardens with a facade attributed to Michelangelo, Belmond Villa San Michele is set within a former monastery. Minutes way from the center of Florence, the building was expertly restored with the assistance of the Florence Fine Arts Authority. There's an Italian Cookery School with hands-on cooking classes, La Loggia Restaurant, and a hilltop pool. Perk: Five Star Alliance guests receive lunch for two at the Pool Restaurant, fresh flowers, and fruit upon arrival. 

Explore all Florence Luxury Hotels

 

Venice

The final stop on the journey is Venice. The City of Canals offers a romantic setting with ornate palaces lining the Grand Canal, narrow mysterious streets, and arched marble bridges crossing over canals with gondalas. Popular with artists and writers for centuries, the city is an ideal place to roam and wander with the one you love. Designed to approach from the water, Venice's iconic St. Mark's Square is a must-see, but can get crowded. We recommend visiting in the early morning.

Here are a few of our top Venice hotels:

Boscolo Venezia

Guest room at the Boscolo Venezia

Overlooking the lagoon, Boscolo Venezia is tucked inside a 16th century villa with a hidden garden. Providing a classic Venetian setting, the hotel's Giardino Segreto Restaurant provides a Boscolo Food Experience with themed islands, open kitchens, and an emphasis on food presentation. The Serenissima spa draws inspiration from the city's wellness traditions, and the hotel has a private boat offering transportation to St. Mark's Square. 

JW Marriott Venice Resort and Spa

JW Marriott Venice Resort and Spa

Tucked on the private island of Isola delle Rose, the JW Marriott Resort and Spa is a 15-minute boat ride across the lagoon to St. Mark's Square. There is a Wine & Cooking Academy providing guests with the opportunity to learn the art of Venetian cuisine, and the family-friendly property has a kids club and family activities. There is a romantic church, four restaurants, water sports, and a rooftop lounge with a pool. Perk: Five Star Alliance guests receive VIP status, Venetian sweets, and a bottle of prosecco. 

Aman Canal Grande Venice

Aman Canal Grande Venice

Overlooking the Grand Canal, guests typically arrive by boat to the Aman Canal Grande Venice. Evoking the feeling of bygone era with sweeping staircases, soaring ceilings, and historic frescoes, the luxury hotel has private gardens, and a boutique specializing in Venetian glassware. There's a roof terrace, along with the Dining Room serving Italian and Asian cuisines, and guests have walking access to San Polo. 

Explore all Venice Luxury Hotels

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