Hotel Aretusa Vacanze is an atmospheric hotel in Syracuse's historic centre housed in an attractive 17th-century villa. There are 10 simply furnished, contemporary-style rooms, all with en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning, TV and fridge. Aretusa Vacanze, Syracuse
Hotel Giardino is an enchanting hotel close to Ancona, Marche, Italy. In a beautiful peaceful setting, it is surrounded by its own extensive gardens. There are 41 rooms, all decorated in an elegant, understated style with en-suite facilities plus TV, radio alarm, telephone and fax. Hotel Giardino, Ancona
This hotel in the Santa Croce sestiere of Venice (Venezia) is ideal for visitors, being situated conveniently close to the railway station and the car/coach park at Piazzale Roma (no cars within Venice of course!). The Hotel Doge is on a sidestreet close to the Grand Canal, giving you easy access to the gondolas and water taxis which will get you around by water. This old area of Venice is a network of little calli (streets and alleyways) with great local shops, bars and restaurants. Hotel Doge, Venice
The Westin Excelsior in the heart of Rome's ancient city centre has a staggering 316 rooms, but quantity in no way compromises the quality of this five-star, award-winning hotel. Its bedrooms have been decorated by hand in sumptuous colours and with luxurious furnishings, and each is equipped with air conditioning, hairdryer, immaculate en-suite bathroom and well-stocked minibar. The Westin Excelsior, Rome
Hotel Aurora is set in a quiet location near the mainline railway station in Florence (Firenze) and close by the Piazza Santa Maria Novella. This hotel in Florence has just 12 bright, cheerfully decorated en-suite rooms, all with direct-dial telephone facilities, satellite TV, internet connection point and a well-stocked minibar. Hotel Aurora, Florence
The Hotel New York in Milan offers guests a comfortable stay in a conveniently central location. This recently modernised and refurbished three-star hotel lies close to Milan's mainline railway station and the city's business district. Hotel New York, Milan
The only hotel in Duomo Square, and popular with opera singers - La Scala is close by - the 5-star Grand Hotel Duomo has 162 luxurious rooms and 20 suites, all with views over Milan's stunning cathedral. Grand Hotel Duomo, Milan
This Courmayeur hotel is situated in the centre of the Italian Alpine town, close to Monte Bianco (or Mont Blanc) and just a few minutes walk from the cable car leading up to the ski slopes. Hotel Courmayeur, Aosta
