This four-star hotel in Puglia, located just outside Ostuni and conveniently close to the ports and airport in Brindisi, has the considerable appeal of being both seductively rural but having also great transport links. Hotel Masseria Tutosa, Brindisi
Hotel Roma is pleasantly located in the centre of the pretty hill town of Salsomaggiore Terme, about 30 minutes' drive from the centre of Parma. The hotel has 33 light, airy rooms, all with balcony and private bathroom plus cable/satellite TV, direct-dial telephone and minibar. Hotel Roma, Parma
This modern hotel in Milan is conveniently located between the city's main train station and the Porta Venezia and close to the large public gardens. All the guest rooms at the four-star Hotel Mediolanum, Milan have en-suite facilities. Hotel Mediolanum, Milan
This Florence hotel is a renovated 19th century palace in the heart of the city, where the book and film 'Hannibal' was set. It is within walking distance of Florence's architectural highlights including the famous Uffizi Gallery, which boasts works by Michelangelo and the domed city cathedral, The Duomo, which dominates the Florence skyline. Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence
One of Sorrento's oldest hotels, a comprehensive refurbishment in 2003 means the Grand Hotel Royal is also one of the most comfortable and contemporary. With an open-air pool and a selection of bars and restaurants, it's impossible not to relax and enjoy yourself. Grand Hotel Royal, Naples
Hotel Ristorante El Rustego is a charming hotel in Italy, housed in a converted manor house a little way outside the city of Padua. There are 41 comfortable rooms, all with en-suite facilities, satellite TV, radio alarm and a choice between a full-English breakfast and a continental buffet in the morning. Hotel Ristorante El Rustego, Padua
The Best Western City Hotel is a lovely, peaceful four-star hotel in the centre of Genoa with 66 spacious, comfortable rooms. Every room has luxurious en-suite facilities, direct-dial telephone, internet connection, tea- and coffee-making facilities and AM/FM radio. Best Western City Hotel, Genoa
This four-star hotel in Venice Mestre is surrounded by the gardens of San Giuliano park and is within easy reach of all the city's major transport links. Venice is just ten minutes away either by bus or by train and the magical cities of the Veneto region are also easily accessible from here. Capitol Palace Hotel, Venice
