A stone's throw from the monuments of Classical Rome, this hotel in Italy is the perfect pace for exploring the Eternal City. The four-star Hotel Pace Helvezia is within walking distance of the Colosseum, Pantheon and Foro Romano, and just a few hundred yards from the central railway station. Hotel Pace Elvezia, Rome
This Venice (Venezia) hotel is located in the heart of the old city, just a few steps from many of the cultural highlights of the Serene Republic. The Doge's Palace, Piazza San Marco, the Museo Correr, countless historic churches, terrific galleries and museums, great restaurants serving the seafood and delicious pastries for which Veneto is famed. Hotel Bonvecchiati, Venice
The world-famous Raphael Hotel is close to Piazza Navona in the centre of Rome. Created by its first owner, Spartaco Vannoni, back in 1963, the hotel has attained semi legendary status, and many guests return year on year. Raphael Luxury Hotel, Rome
Hotel Gattapone is a delightful four-star hotel housed in a historic villa close to the castle and Spoleto's medieval centre. With stunning views of the Monteluco hills and the famous medieval bridge Ponte delle Torri, the hotel is just a short stroll from all Spoleto's major attractions. Hotel Gattapone Spoleto, Perugia
Swimming pool
The elegant, contemporary-style President Park Hotel is located in the attractive coastal resort of Acicastello, which lies around five kilometres north of Catania. This hotel in Sicily has 96 spacious rooms, many with a balcony and panoramic views. President Park Hotel, Catania
Swimming pool
The Hotel Sporting e dei Congressi is in the heart of Rimini, within walking distance of the beach. It has 88 elegant rooms with private balcony and bathroom, direct-dial telephone, satellite TV, minibar and safe. Hotel Sporting, Rimini
Swimming pool
Families looking for well-appointed rooms, a convenient location and plenty of activities should head straight to this hotel in San Vito Lo Capo, on Sicily's north-west coast. Villaggio Cala Mancina, Trapani
Swimming pool
This comfortable four-star hotel in Milan offers excellent standards of service and comfort in a strategic central location in the lively Brera district. There are 94 en-suite guest rooms at the Carlyle Brera Hotel, Milan. Carlyle Brera Hotel, Milan
