Italy has an endless number of relaxing holiday destinations. Read our guide to the best destinations to escape it all and fully relax in paradise Italian style!
Italy offers a tapestry of diversity, from its dramatic coastlines to its historic cities packed with Roman Amphitheatres and ruins, which will be irresistible to history buffs.
Italy is ideal for a getaway to unwind and recharge, particularly if you can find a hidden, peaceful corner. Its perpetual sunshine, delectable cuisine, Pasta dishes to die for, and flamboyant people deliver everything you need for a relaxing retreat.
We’ve already reviewed the best Marriott hotels in Italy, and if you’re on a budget, the cheapest Marriott hotels in Italy, so we have suggested a vast selection of delightfully luxurious and also cost-effective hotels for your next Italian break.
Some of the best European Four Seasons hotels can be found in Italy, but stays at Marriott hotels have the advantage of earning you Marriott Bonvoy points whereas you can’t collect loyalty points at Four Seasons hotels.
Book any Italian stay via our luxury travel concierge to get free breakfast, hotel credit, room upgrade (subject to availability), as well as all your usual loyalty points.
1. Capri
Capri is a magical place. Most travelers arrive here via Naples airport or station. Naples is a destination where your stress levels will be turned up to 10. The constant car honking (are there any cars in Naples without dents in them?), the pollution. There’s a traffic tunnel near the port that you can barely breathe in; the fumes are so noxious. I always pray my taxi doesn’t get stuck in a queue in this particular slice of Naples paradise as the air is so polluted.
Even the architecture around Naples is stressful. Concrete blocks tower over what remains of the original pretty buildings, like something out of George Orwell’s novel 1984. But don’t be put off. Once you are past the beeping cars and the pollution and reach the port, you can hop onto a ferry or a private yacht to transfer over to Capri. It’s like the sea breeze is blowing you to Paradise.
Capri itself is a peaceful island surrounded by azure blue waters. The little windy streets in Capri town are so pretty and carpeted in cobblestones. On the edge of the town and around Anacapri, there’s lots of greenery, little vineyards, and arid scrubland dotted with olive trees. So relaxing. Even the smells here are relaxing. Lavender and other herbs waft across the hot, grassy hills.
Book into one of the luxury hotels for the ultimate in relaxation. The Capri Palace is our top choice and you can enjoy free benefits here if you book via our concierge. Stay here and relax around the leisurely pool. Unwind on a lounger and chillax with a cocktail or a pizza from their pizza restaurant. Even the decor is perfect for destressing. It is a mix of shades of white with lots of flowing linens and peace.
This hotel is also outside the center of Capri and sits in Anacapri, so you can avoid the day crowds and take the free hotel minibus down to the main square in the evening once the crowds have dissipated.
2. Puglia
With Four Seasons Puglia soon to open, right on the beach, this will be the place to stay in Puglia for ultimate relaxation.
The forthcoming Four Seasons establishment in Puglia will feature 150 rooms and suites situated in an exclusive seaside setting offering vistas of the Adriatic Sea and direct beach entry. Guests will enjoy proximity to the nearby historic town of Ostuni and numerous other attractions in the region.
Puglia, comprising the heel of Italy’s iconic “boot,” boasts ancient towns steeped in history, national parks, majestic mountains, exquisite culinary delights, pristine coastlines, and a Mediterranean climate. Ostuni, a short distance from the resort, is renowned as the “White City” for its whitewashed dwellings nestled into the cliffs, medieval alleyways, and a 15th-century Gothic cathedral.
Positioned within a 40-minute drive from popular locales like Ostuni, Alberobello, and Monopoli, the forthcoming Four Seasons in Puglia, Italy, will stand out as one of the region’s rare hotels with direct beach access. Accommodations will comprise villa-style units, all affording serene sea-facing views, promising the utmost in relaxation.
The state-of-the-art destination spa will be the ultimate place to relax, with ten treatment rooms, a hammam, a sauna, a pool, and a yoga studio.
The resort will be located 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Brindisi International Airport and 95 kilometers (60 miles) from Bari International Airport and is also accessible via direct train from Rome.
3. Sicily
With its serene coastal vistas, charming countryside, and laid-back atmosphere, Sicily offers a truly relaxing escape. Most of the luxury hotels in Sicily, including San Domenico Palace a Four Seasons Hotel are located in Taormina.
Nestled on the eastern coast of Sicily, Taormina is a picturesque hilltop town renowned for its stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the imposing Mount Etna. Characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, elegant squares, and historic architecture, Taormina exudes a timeless charm.
Visitors can explore ancient ruins, such as the Greek Theater, wander through lush gardens, or relax at one of the many panoramic cafes, taking in the breathtaking scenery. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquil ambiance, Taormina offers a truly enchanting experience for travelers seeking relaxation and serenity.
4. Lake Como
Nestled amidst the tranquil landscapes of northern Italy, Lake Como exudes an aura of serene relaxation. Surrounded by lush hillsides, charming villages, and elegant villas, the lake offers a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
With its calm, crystal-clear waters and picturesque shoreline, Lake Como invites travelers to unwind and embrace a slower pace of living. Whether strolling along the waterfront promenades, enjoying a leisurely boat ride, or simply admiring the panoramic views from a lakeside cafe, every moment spent at Lake Como is infused with a sense of tranquility and relaxation.
Stay at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo for incredible pools and views, the Ritz-Carlton Lake Como when it opens for complete luxury or the Hilton Lake Como for luxury on a budget.
5. Lake Garda
Set amidst the picturesque landscapes of northern Italy, Lake Garda beckons with its tranquil beauty and serene ambiance, offering visitors a perfect retreat for relaxation.
Surrounded by rolling hills, verdant vineyards, and charming villages, the lake exudes a peaceful atmosphere that soothes the soul. With its crystal-clear waters and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, Lake Garda provides an idyllic setting for unwinding and rejuvenating.
Whether lounging on the shores, taking a leisurely boat cruise, or exploring the quaint lakeside towns, every moment spent at Lake Garda is infused with a sense of calm and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing escape.
6. Venice
The center of Venice is not relaxing. In the summer, it’s stifling hot and unbearably crowded, but hop on a boat to one of the private island hotels, and you will find a place of discreet relaxation, where you can wander around peaceful green gardens with the lapping water never far away. The three best private island hotels are the JW Marriott Venice, the Kempinski Venice and Hotel Cipriani which sits on the end of an island and has one of the best hotel pools in Venice.
As night draws in, Mark’s Square, also known as Piazza San Marco in Italian, the principal public square of Venice, becomes much quieter. The same thing is true for first thing in the morning, although the most peaceful time to visit Venice is the winter when the fog sets in, and you have the winding cobbled backstreets all to yourself.
7. Tuscany
With its rolling hills, vineyards, and historic towns, Tuscany offers a truly relaxing escape. The gentle landscapes stretch on endlessly, inviting visitors to unwind and immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty. Whether strolling through sun-kissed vineyards, indulging in leisurely wine tastings, or enjoying a peaceful picnic amidst olive groves, Tuscany offers countless opportunities to relax and recharge.
The serene countryside, dotted with charming agriturismos and rustic villas, provides a tranquil backdrop for quiet contemplation and rejuvenation. With its slow pace of life, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, Tuscany embodies the essence of relaxation, making it a perfect Italian destination for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
8. Florence
In Florence, relaxation intertwines effortlessly with the city’s rich history and cultural allure. Amidst the bustling streets and iconic landmarks, there are serene oases where visitors can unwind and rejuvenate.
Imagine leisurely strolls along the Arno River, where the gentle flow of water provides a calming soundtrack to the city’s rhythm. Parks and gardens, such as the Boboli Gardens and the Rose Garden, offer tranquil retreats amidst lush greenery, perfect for picnics or quiet contemplation.
Additionally, charming cafes and piazzas provide ideal settings to sip a cappuccino or indulge in gelato while watching the world go by. Florence’s art-filled churches and museums offer opportunities for quiet reflection, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Whether savoring Tuscan delicacies at a cozy trattoria or simply admiring the city’s architectural wonders from a scenic viewpoint, Florence offers a myriad of ways to unwind and embrace the art of relaxation.
And where to stay? We choose the Four Seasons Florence over the St. Regis. Four Seasons Firenze is deeply historical and is tucked away in the city’s biggest private garden, a tranquil haven of statues, fountains, and centuries-old trees. These grounds are perfect for relaxing as there is a tranquil pool to enjoy during the day, and in the evening, you can relax alfresco with a glass of fine wine whilst enjoying live music.
9. Sorrento
On the stunning Amalfi Coast, Sorrento embodies the essence of relaxation amidst its breathtaking coastal scenery and Mediterranean charm. With its panoramic views of the azure sea and dramatic cliffs, Sorrento offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Visitors can unwind on sun-drenched beaches, where the gentle lapping of waves provides a soothing soundtrack to lazy afternoons spent basking in the sun. For a truly tranquil experience, travelers can explore the town’s quaint streets lined with lemon groves and fragrant gardens, perfect for peaceful strolls and moments of reflection.
Sorrento’s picturesque piazzas offer inviting spots to sip a refreshing limoncello or indulge in authentic Italian gelato while savoring the laid-back atmosphere. Additionally, the town’s spa resorts provide opportunities for indulgent pampering, with luxurious treatments inspired by ancient wellness traditions. Whether admiring the sunset from a cliffside terrace or savoring fresh seafood at a seaside trattoria, Sorrento beckons visitors to relax and immerse themselves in its idyllic coastal ambiance.
10. Rome
Rome, with its rich history and vibrant energy, may not be the first place that comes to mind when seeking relaxation, but amidst its bustling streets and iconic landmarks, there are pockets of tranquility. Visitors to Rome can unwind in the city’s lush parks and gardens, such as Villa Borghese or the gardens of Villa Doria Pamphili, where verdant landscapes offer a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle.
Serenity can also be found in Rome’s quiet squares and hidden courtyards, where charming cafes provide the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely cappuccino or a glass of wine while soaking in the ambiance.
For those seeking relaxation through cultural immersion, Rome’s world-class museums and art galleries offer an opportunity to explore at a leisurely pace, taking in masterpieces by the likes of Michelangelo, Bernini, and Caravaggio. Additionally, the city’s ancient ruins, such as the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, provide a sense of awe-inspiring serenity as visitors reflect on the grandeur of the past.
After a day of sightseeing, travelers can indulge in the Italian tradition of la dolce vita by savoring a leisurely meal at a cozy trattoria or trattoria, where delicious cuisine and fine wine are savored amidst convivial company.
Finally, as the sun sets over the Eternal City, there’s no better way to unwind than with a leisurely passeggiata (evening stroll) along the Tiber River or through the charming streets of Trastevere, where the city’s timeless beauty is illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights, offering a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the city’s eternal charm.
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