Italy 2013 Guidebook
Best and worst accommodations:
Best: Il Timone Loreto in Monterosso and La Magnolia in Orvieto
Why: Il Timone was very comfortable, well located, and Francesco was quite helpful. He even did our laundry for free (since the launderette that used to be down the street at 33 Via Roma did not re-open after the flood). You should re-instate his lodgings in the next guidebook. Also, La Magnolia in Orvieto was in a great location, had a nice large room with very good bath, and Serena was delightful.
Worst: Hotel Montecodeno in Varenna
Why: We had a very small room and ridiculous bathroom where you had to step into the shower in order to get to the toilet. Also, their email address did not work all the time so it was hard to contact them.
Gary Jones in Georgetown, TX USA 05/15/2013
Best: Hotel Antiche Mura, Sorrento
Why: Comfortable, quiet, dark in the nighttime, great location.
Kathryn in Vancouver, BC Canada 05/12/2013
Worst: Villa Mocenigo, Miranda
Why: Insulation between the walls so thin we could hear every word the people in the next room said. The shower stall was so cheaply made it leaked like crazy and created a lagoon on the bathroom floor. The food in the restaurant, which sounded so nice in the book, was appalling - brown spots on the lettuce, badly cooked potatoes, spinach boiled into a green sludge, and dried out chicken. They kept our passports until we checked out, probably to prevent us doing a bunk in the night and not paying!!
Suzette Jones in Burlington, MA USA 04/23/2013
Best: Dona Palace in Venice
Why: Great location close to the main tourist spots but far enough off the beaten path to be quiet at night. Nice patio on the canal. Very nice staff and a tasty breakfast. We obtained a hefty discount by prepaying through EuropeanDestinations.com. We did not pay anywhere near the 400 euro rack rate.
Barbara Kiszka in Plaistow, NH USA 04/17/2013
Best: Albergo Marina in Monterosso
Why: Staff was helpful and friendly, location was central but quiet, and their two meals a day (made to order omelets and pasta with great sauces) and their coffee and water on demand acted as a haven for us.
Scott and Amy Schaefer in Buffalo, NY USA 04/07/2013
Best: locanda casa querini
Why: terrific location and helpful staff
linda huetinck in alhambra, ca USA 01/14/2013
Best: "Residenza Giotto B&B" in Florence, Italy 2012, p 494
Why: Very friendly and welcoming.
Giorgio and Silvia made us feel very comfortable. They even called and set up our appointments to the Accademia and Uffizi and did not charge us for that service. Excellent accommodations and a spectacular view of the Duomo from our room.
Roger in San Francisco, CA USA 01/13/2013
Best: Hotel Centrale in Bellagio
Why: Nice hotel in great location, and a good value.
Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 12/16/2012
Best: Pensione Palazzo Rivazza in Siena
Why: Loved the location, right on the edge of the old city, able to look out on the beautiful countryside. We had a "superior triple" room with a king bed. Spacious, nice but tight bathroom, on the street side. Breakfasts were OK, not the best we had in Italy but certainly adequate. Nice staff, quiet place and amazing interior spaces, given its history as the residence of a noble family. Highly recommend.
Lynn Hartmann in Rochester, MN USA 11/24/2012
Worst: Hotel Punta Mesco, Monterosso Al Mare
Why: The host was very kind and the breakfast was great, but we found it to be too expensive for what it was. If it would have been on the ocean with a view then it would have been perfect.
Tasha Weller in Sainte Anne des Plaines, QC Canada 10/31/2012
Best: Hotel Aberdeen - Rome
Why: Lovely rooms and breakfast room (This former family home (mansion) has been converted into 2 hotels plus private residences); Friendly and helpful staff; comfortable beds.
Worst: Hotel Settimo Cielo - Sorrento
Why: The Settimo Cielo is a clean but very run down hotel. Last updated approximately 30 years ago. Toilet was very difficult to flush and when it did, extremely noisy. Bathroom has no counter space (none!) nor anyplace to hang items. We stayed there 20 to 23 Oct 2012 and paid 125 Euros per night. Because there is no restaurant in the hotel, dinner was always a long walk into town. On our last evening, we decided to dine at the hotel restaurant across the street (the Bristol). Dinner was delizioso and we were well attended by the staff. We decided to compare rooms and prices of the Bristol to the Settimo Cielo and were quite surprised to find that for only 5 Euros more per night we could have stayed at the Bristol in a beautiful and comfortable room with a view of the sea. (a room with a balcony would cost 35 Euros more).
It was obvious to us that we were over charged at Settimo Cielo. For the 3 days we stayed at our hotel, we only saw 2 other couples in this 40 room hotel. However, the Bristol was filled to capacity. If we ever return to Sorrento, we will be staying at the Bristol!
Theresa G in Lake Oswego, OR USA 10/27/2012
Best: Hotel Ideale in Assisi
Why: The terrace with the most beautiful view.
There were a lot of great hotels in your book In Orvieto, Serena of La Magnolia B&B
Worst: small showeres only problem in some abd location could have been better in Rome. Hotel Select Garden was fine and the staff were excellent, but we always had to take the train or bus from Roma Termini station and that is never easy, especially the train.
Why: The trains were fast, but a lot of walking to get to the right train.
Ruth Stark in Sun Cityy Center, FL USA 10/22/2012
Best: Hotel Loggiato dei Serviti in Florence
Why: It was a dream place to stay - big room, great views of the S.S. Annunziata Courtyard and the Hospital of the Innocents, great views of Brunelleschi's dome, Renaissance hallways and stairways, friendly staff, central location, etc.
Worst: Hotel Antigo Trovatore in Venice
Why: Terrific location, quiet at night, decent bed, nice service by the staff...
but with minimal light in the room. It was hard to read anything (including the R.S. guidebook). They must use 20 watt light bulbs in their lamps...
David Graham in Shell, Ecuador 10/20/2012
Best: Casa Rabatti in Florence
Why: Marcella was welcoming, warm, and made us feel right at home.
Katie Baker in Laguna Beach, CA USA 10/15/2012
Best: Villa Degli Argentineria, Monterosso al Mare
Why: Not listed, but it should be...$$$, but a true experience and worth every penny - good location, incredible fun ambiance & sweet proprietors.
Worst: None.
Why: see above "no worst" comment
Betsy Santarpio in Moultonborough NH, NH USA 10/14/2012
Best: Casa Masoli in Ravenna
Why: We had the large room and felt like royalty! Beautifully decorated, large marble bath tub, and the arched fresco ceiling made you feel like you were in old Italy. Great location. Loved the town of Ravenna with hardly any tourists.
Worst: Hotel Firenze Continentale in Le Spezia
Why: Rick did state in his book only stay in Le Spezia if desperate! We arrived at the Hotel (this after many email checks to make sure we had a reservation) in mid-September only to find that before arrival they ran the charge card on file, only to find that the card run (provided last May) came up "bad" because my bank had changed the card #due to violation at a business I supported. The man at the desk stated they tried to get a hold me online (not true) and we were very "lucky". Only 2 rooms left. We could have one for 40 Euros more. The room we were given was a smoking, looking onto the next building room. It was very expensive to begin with and an extra 40 Euro made it ridiculous! Even after talking to a few managers, there was no sympathy! The only saving grace about Le Spezia was the Friday market. Wished we'd stayed across the street.
Karen in Gig Harbor, USA 09/30/2012
Best: Lancelot (Rome)
Why: Great location, wonderful service and friendly staff ... room was small and price was high but it was Rome after all.
Worst: Hotel Loggiato dei Serviti (Florence)
Why: Worst is probably an overstatement, but of the hotels while in Italy (Lancelot, Rigacci, Aberdeen, Grand Hotel Padova) Loggiato was the WORST. No air conditioning, bugs both flying and in the bed, poor breakfast service and way mediocre breakfast food ... i suggest reviewing your recommendation; the bugs were enough to warn people about staying there
michael in Portland, OR USA 09/29/2012
Best: Villa Pircher
Why: My wife and I just finished a three week bicycle tour of Germany and Northern Italy. The best Gasthaus/hotel we stayed in was the Villa Pircher (Runkoff) in Siusi Italy. The Pircher family was very nice the room was very clean and well appointed. The setting was very beautiful and the room came with an extraordinary view of the Italian Alps. The price was very reasonable at 74 Euros for two per night including breakfast. Thomas and his family went above and beyond to accommodate us. They even did our laundry for only 15 euros and there had to be at least two loads the clothes came back pressed and neatly folded.
Terry Adams in Wise, VA USA 09/29/2012
Best: Used Pension Guerrato in Venice & Hotel Nardizzi in Rome - both very comfortable with good breakfasts. Best was Casa Capellini in Manarola...
Why: Climbed hill in Manarola to this private home & lovely room & bath with a FABULOUS view of entire town & sea!! All for 68 Euros - a bargain in Italy!
LINDA HOOD in LEWIS CENTER, OH USA 09/26/2012
Best: Soggiorno Battistero in Florence
Why: Location could not be beat - actually, it's almost too good, as the hotel is so close to the baptistry that you can't see the duomo from your room's window. Proprietors Kelly and her husband were very friendly and helpful with info.
Marion in San Francisco, CA USA 08/13/2012
Best: Panella's in Florence, and Casa Rezzonico in Venice
Why: Helpful and professional staff. Friendly, good service.
Worst: Casa Capellini in Manarola
Why: Didn't see owners after first day. They never serviced the room. We didn't get clean towells, sheets, and we had to buy our own toilet paper and it WAS HOT with no fan.
Cindy Bennett in Canby, Or USA 08/07/2012
Best: Ulisse Deluxe Hostel in Sorrento
Why: We really liked the Ulisse during our four nights in Sorrento. The beds were firm, but we slept well. It's a 20-min walk from the Circumvesuviana train station, but it's quiet and air-conditioned. The included wifi worked in our room (which was a surprise). A couple of negatives (awful-tasting tap water, dim lighting, confusing shower) didn't impact our stay that much.
Worst: Hotel Aberdeen in Rome
Why: Hotel Aberdeen was great in so many ways! We loved its location (close to Termini, within walking distance of Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Colosseum), super friendly front desk staff, large bathrooms, included breakfast, and lack of street noise. Its major problem: the WORST mattresses I've slept on in years. They reminded me of worn-out bunk bed mattresses. We struggled to sleep during our two nights. (If we'd planned more than 2 nights in Rome, we'd have gone elsewhere.)
Kyla Gurganus in Ypsilanti, MI USA 08/03/2012
Best: Mercurio in Venice
Why: great location, LARGE room for the price, easy to find!
Kathy in Lake Elsinore, CA USA 07/24/2012
Best: All the Transportation related information
Why: You gave great recommendations where to find transportation accomodations so we could maximize our time visiting the sites
Kevin P. Quill in Virginia Beach, VA USA 07/23/2012
Best: Albergo al Carugio hotel at Monterosso
Why: Andrea (the owner) of the hotel is the kindest and most warm-hearted person I met in Italy! He made my whole stay in Monterosso enjoyable by introducing good places to visit in Cinque Terre and offering his wine over the conversation at the lounge. I bet whoever stayed in that place would remember how welcomed they were by Andrea.
Yoonhee in Minneapolis, MN USA 07/22/2012
Best: Hotel Sonya in Rome and La Spiaggia in Monterosso
Why: Sonya - Cool AC, good location, free Internet, great jacuzzi tub and it was QUIET! After three hot, LOUD weeks in Italy, we enjoyed 'decompressing' before our flight home.
La Spiaggia - great location, friendly staff, and Poggi Andrea is larger than life itself.
dkm in Chicago, il USA 07/13/2012
Best: Hotel Settimo Cielo
Why: Great views/setting
Marianne Thompson in La Canada, Ca USA 07/11/2012
Best: Panella's Residence
Why: Oh my goodness, could Graziella be any more sweet and what a gracious host! She made you feel like beloved family rather than just a guest. The room was huge,spotlessly clean, and absolutely beautiful! Her rates were extremely affordable. I want everyone to know that staying at Panella's Residence is a must if going to Florence!!!!
Cynthia Wilimitis in Columbus, Oh USA 07/09/2012
Best: Hotel Cavallino D'Oro in Castelrotto
Why: We had wonderful accommodations all throughout our stay, but this was a standout. Susanne and Stefan were amazing hosts. The hotel is immaculate and well-appointed. Our room was very large with an amazing view of the mountain. We were well cared for with a very comfortable bed, free use of a steam room, sauna, and a serene, peaceful environment. Of all the places we stayed, Cavallino was the only one to provide upon registration a whole packet of information that helped make our short stay more meaningful. Even with providing all the printed information, Susanne was still more than happy to answer any questions we had about trails, buses, restaurants other than the one onsite.
Worst: Hotel Minerva Sorrento
Why: I emailed them more than a year in advance to inquire about availability. They did not respond. When I followed up a few weeks later, they told me they didn't open their reservations yet for 2012. When I followed up a few weeks later, they again didn't respond. Fortunately, we found another hotel no longer in Rick Steves book that we just loved (Il Nido) and couldn't have been more pleased with our accommodations.
Amy in Hartford, CT USA 07/09/2012
Best: Albergo Marina in Montorosso and Allasandra in Florence
Why: Marina and Edarta were so excellent. I wish I could go there every year. Breakfast in the lemon grove superb. Room was lovely and cool even in late june and is easy access to everywhere.
In Florence, Monty of the Hotel Allasandra was also incredible to us and helped with everything from the smallest question to train travel issues. Allasandra was a wonderful old hotel in excellent condition near everytihng.
Worst: Hotle All'Angelo Venice
Why: You must remove this hotel from your book. I know it was only recomended as an expensive Venice hotel, but it is absolutley terrible. I had statyed there in Spring 2005 after a big renovation and it was great--new bathrooms with high end fixtures, good breakfast and luxurious linens. 2005 Staff were super helpful in general and specifically with a complex water taxi/train transfer at 5:30 in the morning. This year, everything in the bathroom was somewhat broken, linens were worse than a Motel 6, air conditioning was a sham (our room was still 85 degrees with it on all night) and the staff ranged from indifferent to hostile(except for the afternoon desk man--very nice). No WIFI except in the main lobby that you have to share with kids gaming so it takes forever to get a simple email or search result. Breakfast was stale carbohydrates and runny eggs. We tried to get a cup of coffee 10 minutes before the official breakfast start time as we ran out to catch the Ali Laguna (since the hotel couldn't seem to find any guest willing to share a water taxi to the airport with us despite three days notice) and they said no--and sent my husband on a 20 minute wild goose chase to a coffee shop that was not open. I was so dissapointed to see this gem ruined. Never Again.
Barbara O'Connell in Philadelphia, PA USA 07/08/2012
Best: Hotel Select
Why: Perfect location, wonderful staff! best we stayed in all 3 weeks in Europe and the price was perfect! Glad to spot it in your book. We had backpacks only and easy walk to Termini Station.
Karen in Cleveland , OH USA 07/01/2012
Best: Hotel Centrale (Bellagio)
Why: Loved it - family owned and operated. Very clean, welcoming, close to the pedestrian ferry dock.
AB in Murfreesboro, TN USA 06/22/2012
Best: Plazzina Cesira - Montalcino
Why: personal, detailed accomodations, great breakfast room, hospitable hosts, excellent tour and restaurant information
Worst: Casa Correale - Sorrento
Why: difficult to find, impersonal ambiance, cold breakfast room
Martie DiGregorio in Brownsville, TX USA 06/12/2012
Best: Hotel Continental in Sorrento
Why: This place was NOT recommended in Rick's book. We found it online and were not disappointed in the least. Quite the contrary. An excellent hotel in a fantastic location right on the Villa Comunalle overlooking the Bay of Naples. The beds were comfortable. The rooms well appointed, with a balcony and chaise lounges. Very courteous and helpful staff. An Olympic sized swimming pool with loads of geraniums and rosemary in terry cotta bots too! Minutes walk to the center of town and the Piazza Tasso! We plan on booking it again next visit.
Mark Richard in Bensalem, PA USA 06/04/2012
Best: B&B Michaelangeli
Why: great value, great location
Worst: Hotel Garda
Why: Milan was terrible, too much harassment
Lionel in Kennebunk, ME USA 05/30/2012
Best: Soggiorno Battistero, Firenze, Italia
Why: We rented an apartment for 3 weeks in Rome, but this B&B in Florence was the only other accommodation we had. Loved the owners, location, price, and room. However . . .
Worst: Soggiorno Battistero, Firenze, Italia
Why: We stayed here for 4 nights, including Friday and Saturday. WOW, the noise from the disco on the first floor!! And we were on the back, supposedly "quiet" side. Avoid this place like the plague on Friday and Saturday.
Synda Sallee in Scottsdale, AZ USA 05/28/2012
Best: Stayed at Hotel Majestic Toscanelli (4*s)
Why: Excellent service & did much extra to accommodate my elderly mother! Very kind and thoughtful. Highly recommend if wanting someplace human and NOT antiseptic.
Allie Taylor in Vancouver, BC Canada 05/26/2012
Worst: Hotel, Locanda Silva, Venice Italy
Why: Hotel was very clean, however, the it also was not user friendly, and stripped of amenities. Not even an instruction card on how to use the in-room telephone, and unable to provide wake-up calls.
Everett Beale in Pickens, SC USA 05/18/2012
Best: La casa del capitano
Why: Found on venere.com. U look out onto piazza barbherini & the triton fountain. Great rooms, most amazing breakfasts of the trip with fresh rooks, prosciutto, shaved Parmesan, fresh fruit salad. Right by metro stop. Only con is the noise at night from street traffic
Chip Milosch in Wauconda, Il USA 05/01/2012
Best: Soggiorno batiste to
Why: Florence. I'm torn... Location is great, hosts are nice, but rooms are almost prison cell plain. They need some color, pictures, something. Also, with tiny shower a set of doors wld keep curtain from attacking & clinging to you.
Chip Milosch in Wauconda, Il USA 05/01/2012
Best: Villa Margherita, Cinque Terre Parkland
Why: Great value for money, comfortable and very clean. So nice after weeks in hotels to have the apartment with private garden to relax in, good kitchen so didn't have to eat out every evening and lovely breakfast in dining room every morning, also washing machine so able to do our laundry and parking for car provided. Great location to explore Cinque Terre from as train leaves from Levanto. Staff excellent and helpful, would highly recommend to families or couples.
Donna Grinham in Adelaide, SA Australia 04/20/2012
Best: Panella's Residence in Florence
Why: SPOTLESS! Excellent location! Owner, Graziella, makes you feel like family. Excellent breakfast. Comfortable and large rooms! If Graziells books something, it WILL happen! We by- passed long lines because she made museum reservations for us. Her dinner recommendations were spot on. We needed a taxi at 4:30 a.m. for the airport and that taxi was prompt! We were visiting our daughter who is studying abroad. Because it was Easter we travelled northern Italy for 4 days. Graziella graciously stored our large luggage until we returned. Best B&B in Italy!
Mary in Salem, CT USA 04/17/2012
Best: Hotel iQ Roma
Why: Well run, clean and just plain fun to explore. Nice but artificial rooftop garden--plastic leaves and such. We loved the 5 euro bottles of wine in the vending machine. We walked with luggage from Termini.
Patricia Sinnott in Atlanta, GA USA 04/10/2012
Best: Villa Olmo Hostel, Como/Beehive Hostel, Rome
Why: Como - Very helpful staff!!! Marcella and Mohamad were friendly and had time to help plan sightseeing.
Beehive is in a great location, helpful staff.
Marfa in Corvallis, OR USA 03/27/2012
Best: Hotel Victoria Trieste
Why: Shame on you, Rick, for not giving the city of Trieste at least some mention in your Italy or Venice (area) book! If one does travel to Trieste, the Hotel Victoria was absolutely lovely!
Cindy in BEAVERCREEK, OH USA 03/23/2012
Best: Hotel Olimpico - Just outside Salerno
Why: This hotel is awesome, and such a nice staff ! Great breakfast spread ! so glad we picked it
Anthony in Milwauke, WI USA 02/12/2012
Worst: Hotel Souvenir in Monterosso - Cinque Terro
Why: Numerous problems. Manager wakes everyone up around 6:30am every morning speaking extremely loud for about 2 hours in the courtyard. No one ever in office. Got overcharged. Management promised to refund 30E numerous times over 3 month period, but never sent it. This went on for 3 months before the flood hit. I finally threatened to give them a bad rating in Trip Advisor (which they deserved) if they did not return my money. Then they told me I was trying to blackmail them with a bad review. So I replied very nastily to them and posted the bad review in Trip Advisor.
Jack Hay in White Plains, Md USA 12/22/2011
Best: Panella's Residence Bia Pergola
Why: The BandB made my entire Italian Vacation worth it. My room was very spacious and the host and hostess were full of great ideas of places to go and places to eat. This home was 1500 years old and has been in the family for 7 generations. The hostess, Garziella was so knowledgeable and made you feel at home. The location was near very good areas for shopping and sight seeing. The owner were just so wonderful and interesting and made a wonderful breakfast and capicinio each morning which was enough to get you well unto the day. All fresh ingedients and prepared so beautifully. My stay with Graziella and husband made my Florence trip delightful. I have visited Europe on several occasions and this was the very best accomodations of all the places I have visited. I would highly recommend this BandB to all if you are looking for a conforatable, clean, and friendly place to stay while in Florence. I would have loved to have stayed my entire 11 days just here. I left with the hopes that I would be able to revisit this wonderful home in the near future. I highly recommend that you give it a try as you too will be happy you did! The best accomodation ever! You will feel so welcomed from the moment you arrived until you move on. Graziella is a delight and gave us good ideas on where to eat and sight see to get the real feel of Florence's incredible art work and architecture.
Jenell Griffith in Mobile, Al USA 12/02/2011
Best: Hotel Modigliani (Rome); Hotel al Piave (Venice); Il Pirata rooms (Vernazza); Residenza Il Villino (Florence)
Why: We stayed 3-4 nights at each and they were all excellent: Clean, well appointed, decent bathroom, good breakfast, excellent location, and all gave helpful, friendly, courteous service. We would stay at every single place again (and we hope that Il Pirata is able to re-open soon).
Worst: None
Why: All were equally excellent and we have nothing negative to say about any of our accommodations, except we wanted to stay longer at all of them.
Karen in Winnipeg, MB Canada 11/27/2011
Best: Casa Masoli B&B in Ravenna
Why: Great location, big rooms and wonderfully big bathrooms
Marina in Washington, DC USA 11/16/2011
Worst: Loggiato dei Serviti
Why: Loggiato Dei Serviti was in a run-down plaza,nearly deserted but for the poor of Florence waiting on the steps to the hotel, we think for a meal at the nearby church. We were given a room in a nearby "annex", and while a nice room, we did not feel that we were staying in the hotel, as this room was in an apartment building. The only advantage to it was that we did not have to walk through the seamy plaza, as we would have had to if we had stayed at the hotel.
Deborah in Ann Arbor, MI USA 11/09/2011
Worst: Katti House, Florence, IT
Why: Mama speaks no English at all and we never met her daughter, so communication was very limited. It took forever to pay our bill and check out.
Arlene Geist in Seattle, WA USA 11/08/2011
Worst: Hotel Ideale in Assisi
Why: The views from this hotel are wonderful, especially if you have a corner room like we did. The rooms are a bit worn as is the lobby and the stairway. The women staff were nice (we saw very little of them) but we found the father to be gruff and he made us feel like we were an bother. We were rushed through breakfast and didn't dare ask for a second cup of coffee. Not a horrible place and the view might be enough for us to stay again.
Linda in Battle Creek, MI USA 11/07/2011
Best: Palazzina Cesira, Montalcino
Why: Perfect location, large rooms, amazing hospitality by Lucilla and Roberto and a delicious breakfast.
John Osgood in New York, NY USA 11/01/2011
Best: Manuel's Guest house in Monterosso, Casa Selita in Orvieto and Meuble il Ricco in Montepulciano
Why: In every one of these recommended accomodations we were treated as friends, had exceptionally clean and comfortable rooms, were close to all of the sights, and provided with excellent dining recommendations. Two had killer views (Manuel's & Il Riccio) and Casa Selita had the addition of a very special wine tasting experience. All of the breakfasts were great.
Pat in Middletown, DE USA 10/31/2011
Best: Memo Rooms, Vernazza
Why: That infamous day, it took us 17 hours from Gimmelwald to reach Vernazza due to full trains, late trains, and missed connections. We had to wake up Enrica at midnight and asked her to keep the door open for us. She was so nice to mark the path to our room with my name. After a very frustrating day, the room was the most beautiful sight we beheld, not to mention the midnight walk down to the breakwater in deserted Vernazza with warm Mediterranean wind blowing on our faces. Thank you Enrica!
Kay Ishii in Renton, WA USA 10/30/2011
Best: Albergo Marina Sestri Levante
Why: Our hotel was newly updated. It was clean and the staff was fantastic. Our room as well as the common rooms were spacious and inviting. Santo the owner is the BEST! He is friendly, funny and very helpful. He even let my husband (who wanted to take a cooking class) work alongside him one evening. We spent a month in Italy and Albergo Marino was our favorite!
Lee Carlton in Venura, CA USA 10/30/2011
Worst: Nicolina in Vernazza
Why: One of the rooms was advertized as having a hid-a-bed. In my request, I specifically said I would not accept a room with that bed, and of course when I got there, the only room they had was that one. She essentially told me that I misunderstood, and did a bunch of annoying Italian hand waving. Please take Nicolina off your list. The bed is HORRIBLE, maybe OK if you are a college student, but NOT for 80 euros. I could not argue; we had been on the road for 16 hours, and I needed to sleep. VERY annoying owners. I don't like to be accused of lying.
Dale Kingsbury in St. Paul, mn USA 10/28/2011
Best: Villa Cipressi, Varenna
Why: This older style villa hotel was wonderful! We had a lovely view of the lake and a nice dinner in the restaurant. Also we spent part of a nice morning touring the beautiful hotel gardens. Wish we could have stayed longer! Varenna is a lovely town and we also enjoyed the passenger-only boat tour that Rick recommends. Great hop-on, hop-off way to enjoy Lake Como and small towns!
Chuck&Merilee Hill in Chehalis, WA USA 10/24/2011
Best: Nicolas Inn, Rome and Manuel's Guesthouse, Cinque Terre
Why: Melissa at Nicolas Inn was very helpful with great local restaurant recommendations. Nicolas Inn is located near the Forum and within walking distance to the train station.
Manuel's Guesthouse room with balcony - outstanding view (worth the 99 steps). Very friendly staff - welcoming drink, inexpensive honor bar with beer and wine.
Mark and Doreen in Pittsburgh, PA USA 10/21/2011
Best: locandi Rosati in Orvieto
Why: Charming owner, good location, delicious food
Jodi Sanders in Sun Valley, ID USA 10/06/2011
Best: Manuel's Guesthouse
Why: Amazing staff, amazing view, food and cocktail hour were fantastic. BEST part of our trip!
Kelly Moffa in Irvine, CA USA 10/01/2011
Best: Villa Marsili in Cortona
Why: The staff were fantastic, the accomodations were magnificent and the view was breathtaking.
Laura Lee Crosetti in Putnam, CT USA 09/30/2011
Best: Hotel Ideale, Assisi
Why: Lovely view of entire valley from room, quiet. Excellent Breakfast, friendly owner ( But speaks no English). Very reasonable price for the view.
Worst: Katti House, Florence
Why: Room in annex dark and depressing. No one spoke any English. Owner tried her best to shortchange us on the bill. No question about this. We were very angry about this.
Dick and Denise Devlin in Kingston, NH USA 09/26/2011
Best: Hotel Lancelot, Rome
Why: Warm and freindly family hotel. Loved having dinner in the courtyard at the end of long days. One evening even ate with our charming hostess.
Barbara James in Beaufort , SC USA 09/25/2011
Worst: Hotel Primavera in Stresa
Why: Upon the recommendation in your guide, we booked into the Hotel Primavera for 5 nights and guaranteed our stay with a credit card. We we arrived we were told that our room was not available because the person occupying the room was sick and could not move. We were sent to another branch location of the hotel (Villa Mauricio). This was touted as a newly renovated studio with all the amenities, although it was some distance from the Center of the town. While the kitchen and bathroom were indeed nice, the room was right over the railroad tracks. Between the noise from the trains which ran all night and a very uncomfortable couch bed, we got as much sleep as we did on the plane trip from the US to italy!
On the next day we were able to check into the Hotel Primavera and had a nice room with a balcony and a lake view. Funny thing, however, on our last day in the hotel we were sitting in the reception area when an American couple arrived to check into their room. They were told that their room was not available for th same reason that we were (a sick person who could to leave). What we had in common was that we both checked in after 4pm and we were both American. Also the hotel has several other non central locations that they are trying to fill. This may be a ploy to fill these sub optimal locations.
Michael in Boston, MA USA 09/25/2011
Best: Hotel du Lac
Why: Amazing view, great staff!!!! We could only get 2 nights and spent the 3rd in Bellagio- boy was that a culture shock after being in Varenna!
Worst: Hotel Florence- Bellagio
Why: Only because the hand held showers were the worst thing we experienced and there were no shower curtains so there was water everywhere!
Liza in Syracuse, NY USA 09/05/2011
Best: Hotel italia
Why: Their 60€ airport transfer was a treat -- stagger off the plane and into an air-conditioned Mercedes driven by an English speaker. Best splurge of the trip.
Worst: Hotel Italia, Rome
Why: Booked online rather than calling and as a result was stuck in the annex. There was always an English speaker around; I should have called to make the reservation.
K in Rizzo, Va USA 08/23/2011
Best: Inpiazzaadellasignoria in Florence
Why: Great room, friendly staff, great breakfasts!
Worst: Rome
Why: Overwhelming. Too touristy.
Pat Geddes in Berthoud, CO USA 08/16/2011
Best: Antiche Mura, Sorrento
Why: Spotlessly clean; beautiful decor; comfortable beds and linens; spacious bathrooms with superior shower options; warm, friendly staff; delicious and abundant buffet-style breakfast that includes pastries, eggs, juices, fruit (eat indoors or outside); beautiful pool area surrounded by lemon and orange trees and with "fantastic" Mario serving the best pina coladas ever!
Susan in Smithtown, NY USA 08/09/2011
Best: SoleTerraMare
Why: We rented two apartments from SoleTerraMare in Corniglia in June. They were both very comfortable and had air conditioning. The owner, Eleonora Rossi was wonderful. On our previous trip we stayed in Vernazza, but we were delighted with Corniglia and recommend staying there.
Sherry in Hernando, MS USA 08/04/2011
Best: Hotel Saini Meuble, Stesa, Italy
Why: I would highly recommend the Hotel Saini. I stayed at the hotel with my wife and three children, and the owner Gianni Saini treated us like family. The rooms were large, clean, modern and quiet. Our balcony had a lovely view of the mountains. The rates were very reasonable. The hotel is conveniently located one block from the main boat dock and just around the corner from the old town piazza. It is a 15-minute walk to the train station.
Gianni gave us croissants and cappuccino for breakfast. There was no extra charge for breakfast. He recommended a restaurant for dinner, which was excellent and reasonably priced.
Because of Gianni, we were able to meet my Italian cousin for the first time. My grandfather was born in Gallarate, Italy in 1881. He immigrated to Rockford, Illinois, in the early 1900s, where he worked as a bricklayer. Gianni offered to call my cousin Giorgio. My cousin was not home so Gianni left a message. My cousin returned the call the following day, but we had already departed the hotel for the train station. I was standing on the train platform and a man approached me with a cell phone. He handed the phone to me and I was surprised to hear Gianni on the line. He explained that my cousin had called and then gave me Giorgio’s mobile phone number. I contacted my cousin when we were in Milano and we had a wonderful visit with him.
Gianni went out of his way to help us and I am very grateful to him.
Michael Milani Chicago, Illinois
Michael Milani in Chicago, IL USA 08/03/2011
Best: Nicolas Inn and Apartments, Rome
Why: Francois and Melissa were very friendly and accomodating (Melissa is originally from Chicago). Beautiful and comfortable rooms, centrally located. We highly recommend this hotel.
Quinn in Vancouver, WA USA 07/27/2011
Best: Panella's Residence, Florence
Why: Wonderful central location and beautiful rooms. Graziella and Giuseppe are so friendly (especially if you speak a little Italian) and the breakfast was healthy and delicious. Wonderful proprietors and accomodations.
Quinn in Vancouver, WA USA 07/27/2011
Best: Hotel Nardizzi
Why: All the staff were wonderful!! We ended up needing to stay an extra day and they were perfectly accomodating. It is within walking distance of the train station and a wonderful restaurant (Target). Loved this area! And it was right across the street from the Defense Ministry - we felt very very safe! :)
Angel in Katy, TX USA 07/27/2011
Best: All the accomodations we used came from your book. Burano (Monterosso) and Residence la Tavolozza (Positano) were our favorites.
Why: The people...we loved Celeste, her sister, Francesca, and Paloa and did not want to leave the place or the city.
Joe and Lila Klein in Richmond, MN USA 07/26/2011
Best: Noli--Ca' de Tobia
Why: Not in guidebook but should be...new seaside B&B in Noli. Delightful, attentive proprietor who speaks perfect English, chic and elegant rooms and breakfast. http://www.cadetobia.it
Susan in Wolcottville, IN USA 07/25/2011
Best: Hotel Mediterraneo
Why: Family run by Victorio, Pia, Erik and Marco -- great feel and attention. Pia spoke the best English by far. Very nice size rooms, classic old villa/hotel, great breakfast and gourmet evening meals, close to everything but in a quiet area of the city. Probaly best for older travelers -- lost of great memorabilia. Free bikes and free laundry (Pia wanted me to be sure to mention the free laundry to Rick Steves)
John and Elyse O'Kane in Stone Mountain, GA USA 07/24/2011
Best: Casa betania, Cortona
Why: Clean, great location and price
Toey in Houston, Tx USA 07/22/2011
Best: Hotel Gerber
Why: Fabulous people! The owner was precious. The breakfast was great
Worst: Hotel La Tonnarella
Why: Again as I put in worst experiences, I am so disappointed because of my inexperience with this, but I guess with everything else that I did by the recommendations of the book one thing going wrong should not be horrible. Just so frustrating.
Debbie in Benton, Ky USA 07/20/2011
Best: All were delightful. Arco Del Lauro (Rome) Hotel Europa (Florence), Hotel Sileo (Rome)
Why: Arco Del Lauro was clean, clean, clean. Lovely hosts Lorenza and Daniela were so gracious and helpful. They made dinner reservations for us a week in advance of our trip for our arrival night in Rome. They suggested two restaurants and we chose one. Felt like an oasis of cool and comfort during a delightful, but busy trip.
Worst: No "Worst"
Why: Just a detail. Hotel Sileo asked me to pay in cash which was easily accommodated with a trip to the ATM at Termini.
Maureen in Grayslake, IL USA 07/18/2011
Worst: Hotel Riva, Venice
Why: I hesitate to list this as a "worst" because the owners are working hard to welcome guests and the hotel is right on the canal. Our issues: my 6'4" husband could not fit into the shower; no dresser and no place to put suitcases except floor; no lift and difficult to haul luggage up 3 flights of narrow stairs; breakfast was coffee, juice and boring rolls.
Linda Hagen Miller in Liberty Lake, WA USA 07/17/2011
Best: Hotel Villa Steno, Monterosso, Cinque Terre
Why: Absolutely wonderful. Spacious, ocena view terrace room where we watched the moon rise over the hills. Gracious host and hostess, amazing breakfast, free wifi.
Linda Hagen Miller in Liberty Lake, WA USA 07/17/2011
Worst: Hotel Montreal, Rome
Why: Recommended by friends who'd stayed there about 4 hears ago and RS Italy 2011, but has gone downhill. Room was shabby with torn bedspread, peeling linoleum, battered wordwork. A/C was minimal, breakfast unremarkable. We aren't paranoid, but somehow it didn't even feel safe.
Linda Hagen Miller in Liberty Lake, WA USA 07/17/2011
Best: Katti House, Florence
Why: Spacious room, delightful owner, grerat location within walking distance of everything.
Linda Hagen Miller in Liberty Lake, WA USA 07/17/2011
Best: AGRITURISMO GUARDASTELLE - San Gimignano, Italy
Why: Not in Rick Steves but should be. Reasonably priced and nicely decorated B&B en-suite rooms and apartments. Great location. Good base camp for Tuscany day driving trips, such as Volterra (25 minutes), Certaldo (20 minutes), Monteriggioni (25 minutes), Firenze (1 hour), Siena (45 minutes). It is only a 20 minute walk to San Gimignano where there are lots of sightseeing, shopping, restaurants, and gelato. Guardastelle is an estate that sits on top of a hill overlooking delightful gardens,grape vineyards, olive groves, Tuscany rolling hills, beautiful swimming pool and a gorgeous scenic view of the town of San Gimignano. Susanna and Fausto are the owners who are very friendly and delightful hosts and eager to please. They speak very good English. Delicious breakfast. They provide a fantastic wine/oil tasting and wine tours of their vineyards. Check this place out in Trip Advisor because it is highly recommended. Link to Guadastelle: http://www.guardastelle.com
Tom, June, Becca in Tallahassee, FL USA 07/15/2011
Best: Pensione Guerrato in Venice
Why: Great location, air conditioning worked, clean, quiet and charming.
D Mitchell in Elk Grove, CA USA 07/12/2011
Best: FLORENCE: HOTEL ENZA
Why: LOCATION WAS VERY GOOD, I ALWAYS TRIED TO STAY CLOSE TO THE TRAIN STATION. THE ROOM AND BATH QUITE NICE AND CLEAN. THE STAFF WAS EXTREMELY NICE AND INFORMATIVE. THE ABILITY TO HAVE BREAKFAST WAS GREAT.
Worst: ROME: BUBBLES
Why: I HAD MADE RESERVATION FOR (2) NIGHTS AT FAWLTY TOWERS. I RE-CONFIRMED MY RESERVATION A WEEK BEFORE I LEFT. AFTER FLYING ALL NIGHT (TIRED) WAS TOLD THAT THE PLACE WAS BEING REMOLDED AND IT TOOK AWHILE FOR THEM TO FIND ME A PLACE AT BUBBLES WHICH WAS TWICE THE PRICE OF FAWLTY TOWERS. I FELT A BIT UNSAFE THERE ALSO, ALTHOUGH NOTHING HAPPENED. ON MY RETURN TO ROME, PER YOUR SUGGESTION, I WENT TO THE LAUNDROMAT "SPLASH" AND SPOKE TO MANAGER (HE WAS IN YOUR GUIDEBOOK) AND HE FOUND ME A NICE PLACE AND HIS BROTHER EVEN TOOK ME THERE, VERY NICE FELLOW.
SANDI KELLY in SARASOTA, FL USA 07/10/2011
Best: ROME: Residenza Giubbonari
Why: Not recommended by RS, but I found it somewhere else. It was excellent. Located on a pedestrian street, Via dei Giubbonari, a block east of Campo di Fiori, in the heart of where you want to be in Rome. It is a 6-story apartment building, and we rented the penthouse apartment for our 6-person group. It worked perfectly, and we even had terraces with chairs and shade, so we could enjoy the outdoors overlooking Rome. ResidenzGiubbonari.com.
Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 06/30/2011
Best: SIENA: Albergo Residence Borgo Grondaie
Why: Borgo Grondaie hotel/apartments was not recommended by RS, but it should be. In many years of traveling in Europe, it was one of the best places we've ever stayed. We traveled with our 3-generation family, and found nothing suitable among the accomodations recommended in the Italy 2011 book. I found Borgo Grondaie was highly rated by TripAdvisor.com, and took a chance. It was excellent. Just on the edge of the city, it was a great value and excellent accomodations. We rented two 3-person loft apartments, and paid additional for breakfast, which was superb and well worth the price. It is located on a perch of several acres, with beautiful grounds, free parking, and a nice pool. Our stay was only 2 nights, but wish it were much longer. BorgoGrondaie.com.
Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 06/30/2011
Best: Venice: Pensione Guerrato
Why: Highly recommended by Rick Steves, it was even better than expected. A great location in Rialto, just off the Grand Canal, next to the fish and vegetable markets, and wonderful owners Roberto and Piero. Roberto even met our water taxi at the wharf , and carried bags and led us to the hotel...which dates to 1288. A great value.
Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 06/30/2011
Best: Hotel Jhungfaru at Murren
Why: Nice and clean hotel with frinedly staff.
Gaurav Agarwal in Tyngsboro, MA USA 06/28/2011
Best: Casa Capellini in Manarola
Why: It's a climb to get there (just underneath Billy's restaurant) but our room and the one next to us had terraces with fantastic views. The room was bright (white walls and tile floors) and spotlessly clean. No breakfast, but it was the least expensive room during our 17 night trip to Italy.
Worst:
Why: We stayed in several Rick Steves recommended accommodations, and each one was just as described. I'd return to all of them.
Lynette Taylor in Brooksville, FL USA 06/24/2011
Best: Aria di Mare in Manarola (Cinque Terre)
Why: Maurizio was very attentive, while simultaneously being inconspicuous. Plus, our terrace room came with a cat! (To be precise, the neighbor cat Miccia -- pronounced "mee-cha" -- visited daily, provided affection, hung out on the terrace, and even slept on the bed a few times most welcomely! As Maurizio said, "Miccia controls the garden.")
Roxanne in Seattle, WA USA 06/20/2011
Best: Lulu Rooms & Apartments
Why: Egidio owns and runs Lulu Rooms & Apartments in Vernazza, Italy. He is very friendly, and his English is excellent. He met us at the Vernazza train station when we arrived, and showed walked us to our room. The room was large, brightly-colored, and very clean. The inclusion of a stove, fridge, and microwave gave us some welcome flexibility for planning our meals. Egidio recommended we try out a few restaurants, and when the servers heard that Egidio sent us, we received especially good service. I would recommend Lulu Rooms to anyone visiting Cinque Terre.
Joel Pepin in Edmonton, Ab Canada 06/09/2011
Best: Hotel Eremo Gaudio, Varenna
Why: Great views, great value! We originally had reservations in Tremezzo, but after we purchased this book, and read that Varenna was more accessible, I was able to change our reservations. Breakfast was also a bonus!
Worst: none recommended
Why: we should have stayed at a Rick Steves-recommended place in Venice--we were at the Gritti Palace (on points), and it wasn't all that it was cut out to be.
Liz Santos in Seattle, WA USA 06/06/2011
Best: Hotel Centrale, Bellagio
Why: The garden, and breakfast room were lovely and peaceful, and the service was friendly and concerned, even calling us worried about our early departure, and whether we would need food packed the night before.
Worst: Albergo Barbara, Vernazza
Why: No one ever greeted us or smiled. The son was our contact, and I thought he had a nose bleed, but it was two bloody looking nose ornaments. They seemed only interested in collecting their money.
suzanne conrad in Trinity Center, CA USA 05/31/2011
Best: Meuble il Riccio, Montepulciano
Why: Montepulciano is centrally located among the Italian hill towns so it was an easy drive to spend a day in the others. Gio and Ivanna were great. Best breakfasts that we had. A four star hotel for 100 Euros a night.
Mary Weisse in Rapid River, MI USA 05/28/2011
Best: Hotel Maxim Florence
Why: Basic, but great location, nice breakfast and I had not problems using the Internet in the lobby! Would return
Carol in Atlanta, GA USA 05/27/2011
Best: Hotel Duomo, Orvieto
Why: The Massccesi family could not have been more pleasant and helpful. Room was very nice as was the breakfast. Its central location was excellent for wandering the streets of Ovieto.
Worst: Hotel Firenze e Continentale, La Spezia
Why: Just an all around bad experience. Upon initial check-in the desk clerk (rude and unhelpful) claimed that our credit card was rejecting the transaction.He also claimed to have sent an e-mail but we never received it . Therefore, he must charge us more for each night because they graciously held our reservation. I almost bought this , but decided to challenge him. He immediatlely said he could reduce the prices a small amount, after more discussion ( by now he couldn't hardly speak or understand English). I insisted on speaking with the hotel manager. Of course that person was not available. I then insisted that he run my card with the original amount contracted for (superior deluxe rooms) and the transaction went right thru. 4 Star hotel....computer didn't work, never resupplied the tolietries in the room, 5 nights, and finally Maria Gabriella did not throw in a Cinque Terra food specialty for Rick Steves readers.
Art Crawford in Eagle, Id USA 05/18/2011
Best: Gianni Hotel
Why: Pleasant staff. Nice room. Small, old but updated with modern necessities. Get a room with a sea view. The 127 steps up to it is worth it!
Penney Haas in Belleville, IL USA 05/17/2011
Best: Hotel Punta Mesco, in Monterosso al Mare, and Palazzina Cesira, in Montalcino
Why: The Punta Mesco is cheeerful, bright and clean, (although the rooms are small), but all of the personnel are friendly and caring. Manuel, a young man who works at the front desk, went far above and beyond the call of duty to help me get back my i-phone, which had been lost on a train ride. He made phone calls, made arrangements to meet a woman who found it, and got it back for me - all with a "no problem" attitude and a smile. Palazzina Cesira, in Montalcino, was a true jewel of a place. The hosts, Robert and Lucilla, were extremely pleasant, helpful and a pleasure to chat with. The room was spectacular, and the breakfasts were tasty and filling, with eggs, crisp bread, and Lucilla's home-made jams. could not have been better.
Nick & Eileen Sordi in Eagle, CO USA 05/09/2011
Best: Hotel Punta Mesco, in Monterosso al Mare, and Palazzina Cesira, in Montalcino
Why: The Punta Mesco is cheeerful, bright and clean, (although the rooms are small), but all of the personnel are friendly and caring. Manuel, a young man who works at the front desk, went far above and beyond the call of duty to help me get back my i-phone, which had been lost on a train ride. He made phone calls, made arrangements to meet a woman who found it, and got it back for me - all with a "no problem" attitude and a smile. Palazzina Cesira, in Montalcino, was a true jewel of a place. The hosts, Robert and Lucilla, were extremely pleasant, helpful and a pleasure to chat with. The room was spectacular, and the breakfasts were tasty and filling, with eggs, crisp bread, and Lucilla's home-made jams. could not have been better.
Nick & Eileen Sordi in Eagle, CO USA 05/09/2011
Best: Hotel Nardizzi Americana
Why: I showed up without reservation and they didn't have any rooms. But Samy took pity on me and found a way to make a room free (I think its one that the workers use while there) for me. I had a bet, tiny closet, and a private bathroom with shower! Heck, it was cheap too! Three days later they made me a reservation for my return trip in a regular room and the price (for cash) was even better than what is quoted in the guide book! I'll be staying here again when I return to Roma!
Mitch McCann in Killeen, TX USA 05/09/2011
Best: Lucca / Albergo San Martino
Why: Beautiful, clean, comfortable and affordable. Best breakfast during our 2 week stay in Italy. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Easy walk from the train station. Perfect for our family of four.
S. Blank in Seattle, WA USA 05/06/2011
Best: Residenza Giotto, Florence
Why: Around the corner from the Duomo with a view that was fantastic. The owner and staff were wonderful. The room was very large and comfortable. Absolutely great.
Worst: Hotel Henry Venice
Why: The room was tiny, dingy, damp, uncomfortable and the worst place we stayed in Italy, The only good thing was that it was quiet. I would give it a 1 rating out of 100. DO NOT stay there.
Everett Kincer in San Mateo, CA USA 04/18/2011
Worst: Albergo Barbara
Why: Reserved 2 singles - got 2 singles pushed together and made into a large queen.
Called in the evening to request an extra blanket and was basically argued with.
Stopped by the office to request an extra pillow and was told one would be delivered - it never came.
Horrible customer service. I should have read tripadvisor before booking, it sounds like lots of people are having negative experiences there.
J.Fritz in Olympia, WA USA 04/04/2011
Best: Hotel Kinzica in Pisa
Why: This was the only recommended place we used and it was perfect for what we needed. Located a block from the Leaning Tower, we could see it from our window. The hotel is accurately described as tired but clean. The staff went from friendly to aloof.
Chris Kemp in St. Paul, MN USA 03/18/2011
Best: Kattie House, Florence, Italy
Why: The location was very central (close to Medici Chapel, the Duomo, and the Markets) and the accomodations were charming and comfortable....lovely spacious rooms and private bath. Best of all were Maria and her very delightful daughter...their warmth and hospitatality made our stay in Florence most memorable.
Jona Matevish in Santa Rosa, CA USA 03/14/2011
Best: Assisi - Hotel Sole
Why: Who says it's tired? Who every got less than good service? I've stayed there for 2 weeks every summer for the past 8 years. "Welcome home!" is not tired or a shrugged shoulder.
Robert Violette in Bordentown, NJ USA 03/01/2011
Best: Sorrento.....Antiche Mura
Why: great location, very nice staff, classy place
Pete Hall in Haddonfield, NJ USA 02/20/2011
Best: La Signoria de Firenze-Florence
Why: We stayed here for 3 nights in Oct and loved it. The reviews are right. Great location, 50 feet from the Piazza de La Signoria, friendly, helpful hosts, clean and comfortable rooms, and an excellent breakfast at a more than reasonable cost. 100E for a couple. One minute walk to the leather market and Ufizzi Gallery, two minutes to Ponte Vecchio and to the Duomo.Two restaurants were recommended to us and they were excellent. You will love it there. No need to look further.
Brian in Ft. Lauderdale, FL USA 01/21/2011
Best: Hotel Italia in Rome
Why: A comfortable, clean, friendly hotel in a great location. We spent 6 nights over Christmas week. Left to go to Sicily for 5 nights and returned for another 2 days. All of the staff were friendly and very accommodating. Breakfasts were wonderful! Hope we can return some day!
Michelle in Alden, NY USA 01/14/2011
Worst: Hotel Loggiato dei Serviti
Why: We arrived at this hotel and there were people sleeping on mattresses around the steps. Upon checking in, the clerk seemed disgruntled that we had interrupted them from whatever it was that they had been doing to perform this task. The A/C didn't work, mosquitos were everywhere. Don't know why this was so warmly recommended. We never felt completely safe upon leaving and returning. It was the most disappointing part of our trip.
Janice in West Richland, WA USA 01/11/2011
Best: Hotel Pasquale
Why: Clean. Great breakfasts!
Marisol Grossling in Vancouver, BC Canada 01/04/2011
Best: Albergo Doni in Venice
Why: Bed bugs in Venice! We traveled in Italy for 3 1/2 weeks and this was by far the worst hotel. While they were nice, the accomodations were not. the last straw was not putting out a couple of elevated sidewalks so we could walk into the hotel when flooding happened. Their response - welcome to venice.
Kevin Dibble in Colorado Springs, CO USA 01/01/2011