Top10 resort hotels in Italy

Note: If you are looking for our latest recommendations, check out the list of our favorite resorts in Italy for2023..

The World's Best Awards 2021 survey was open for voting from January 11 to May 10, 2021, as countries around the world lifted COVID-19 restrictions. The survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over the past three years. We hope that this year's awards will inspire you for your own travels when you venture out into the world again.

Even when Italy's borders were closed for most of the last year and a half, travelers' love for the country never waned. And now they are returning in full force to its coastline, stunning lakes, and magnificent villages. Of course, such visits include stays in the best hotels, including retreats on cliffs, majestic palazzos by the lake, and Tuscan estates.

Every year, as part of our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to share their opinions on travel around the world - to share their experiences with the best hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and much more. Hotels were rated based on their amenities, location, service, dining, and overall value. Properties were classified as urban or resort based on their location and amenities.

Thanks to the sparkling Amalfi Coast, this region secured three spots on this year's list. With terraced gardens, colorful towns, beautiful lemon trees, and azure seas filled with boats, it's no wonder this picturesque southern area boasts some of the best hotels. The fifth place went to the Caruso hotel in enchanting Ravello. "It's truly a romantic place with stunning views and a pleasant walk to the village," said one of the voters. Sixth place was awarded to Il San Pietro di Positano, "an incredible hotel built into the mountain," according to one guest. Some prefer less noise, and their favorite hotels are often located on other coastlines, such as the northwestern coast of Liguria. "A magnificent hotel on the Italian Riviera," said one reader about the Grand Hotel Miramare, which took 10th place. "This area is beautiful and is a great alternative to the Amalfi Coast and the French Riviera."

The hotel that took first place this year may not be located on the coast, but it is situated by another popular water destination - Lake Como. Keep reading to find out what makes Il Sereno Lago di Como so special in the eyes of readers, and which other places made it onto the list of the best resort hotels in Italy.

1. Il Sereno Lake Como, Torno

One of the voters called it "a breath of fresh air on the old Lake Como." This hotel, designed by Patricia Urquiola with a modern style, brought vibrancy to the shores of this legendary location when it opened in 2016. The rooms are decorated with wood, marble, and, of course, large windows that offer views of the water. The hotel features three special Riva boats available for guests, as well as two jet skis and Urquiola's version of the classic watercraft Vaporina del Lago on Lake Como. Voters praised the attentive staff, and one reader wrote that it is "the perfect hotel for a peaceful getaway." Rating: 98.50.