We would like to offer you a general guideline on what to seek when searching for an hotel in Italy. Most of the rules are common to other countries, so feel free to apply them to your needs.

 

Location

The most important thing in finding the right hotel is clearly its location, as it not only defines the price, but mainly the overall set up and rhythm of your vacation. Every city in Italy has very central hotels, therefore we strongly suggest taking a room at one of these to make getting around easier. Unless you are planning on a nice relaxed vacation in the countryside you will want your hotel to be in a relatively prime location. If the calm country is what you seek think about renting a room or villa in Umbria or Tuscany, just to mention two very hot spots.

 

Price Range

A decent hotel in a main city or popular location will cost at least $150-$200 per night, therefore keep in mind that hotels in Italy are not cheap. There are different options like full hotels and bed & breakfasts, but when it comes to the city the quality and the price range doesn't vary very much. In the country things can be very different. With "agriturismi" properties becoming increasingly popular there are now many more choices that allow you to keep your budget low while getting in touch with nature.

 

Room Size

The average room size in Italy is smaller than what people are used to in America. Beds are often twins and a single room means just that. A double room, if not specified, is usually a double twin bed room. Regardless of the myths and the films, bathrooms are always included in regular hotels and when they are not it is a true unique situation that even Italians will laugh about it.

 

Elevator

Some smaller hotels in older buildings might not always have an elevator. So, it if this is an issue, make sure and double check before booking.

 

Amenities & Extras

The hotel usually dictates these, but big chain or luxury hotels have them. If looking at a hotel that is rated 3 stars and below be sure to inquire as to what amenities are offered. Make sure to read the fine print before booking. Gyms and pools are not very common in the city except in luxury hotels.

 

Internet

Wi-Fi and internet access is finally catching on and most locations offer them. An Italian law, recently abolished, made it really hard to access Wi-Fi without a proper signature and registration. In terms of pricing, it is still uncommon to receive it as a freebie and many hotels charge for it.

 

Food

If there is a restaurant chances are the food will be pretty decent, but unless you are on a resort we strongly suggest you go out and seek eateries beyond your hotel. Usually the prices aren't that different and you can enjoy a wider variety of good and experiences this way.

 

Room Service

Cleaning services in hotels are pretty standard, in terms of getting food delivered to your room it really depends on the hotel. Most hotels do offer room service with times varying depending on operation and kitchen hours.

 

Number of People Allowed in a Room

This is a major difference with the U.S., as rooms are charged per person and every person must be registered. This means that one price doesn't pay for all and you can't just pay a flat rate and fit as many as you can into a room.

 

Personal Identification

Every guest must be registered; therefore showing proper I.D. at check in is a must. The law requires it, so you must be prepared to reveal the identity of each member of your party. This is something that some Americans have problems with, but don't fear, it is not a cheap way to get your personal data for marketing, hotels are obliged to get you to register.

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