My 10 top romantic destinations in Italy

As Valentine's Day approaches, it's time to compile my list of top romantic destinations in Italy. Naturally, this list is for Italian amore all year round. From Piedmont to Puglia, or Trentino to the Thyrrenian, I've selected the perfect spot to satisfy your romantic soul.

Photos of hotels can be found in the gallery at the bottom of the article. Most hotels cater for and/or organize weddings. Feel free to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you need to know more about any of these destinations or hotels, or planning your wedding or destination celebration in the area of your dreams!

1. Gradara, a romantic castle by the Adriatic sea • In the Marches (le Marche) region

Castello di Granarola

A medieval castle, beautifully situated not far from the beach, with a swimming pool and restaurant. "Super cute interiors of the rooms" commented one of their guests. 

2. Carloforte, a seaside town on a small island off the coast of the island of Sardinia

Hotel Pimpina

A small charming hotel, full of character and centrally located down one of the fabled cobblestone streets, further from the center of Carloforte for peace and tranquility. Breakfast in the small garden with views of the city – with their pet turtles for an unforgettable stay.

3. Spello, a sea of flowers in welcome you to Umbria

Albergo Il Cacciatore

The hotel is very well-situated right in the heart of the beautiful village of Spello. Beautiful, spacious rooms. The view from the terrace is one that will stay with you in all your dreams.

4. Pienza, a tiny town in Tuscany's Val d'Orcia brims with beauty

Agriturismo Il Casalino

Perfectly situated for offering the most stunning views across the Orcia valley, most rooms come with a kitchenette. Extremely comfortable, its romantic beams and terracotta floors in a word are magnificent. An excellent location from which to explore the area.

5. Vipiteno/Sterzing in South Tyrol

Steindl's Boutique Hotel

Within walking distance of the center of Vipiteno and yet completely surrounded by green meadows and forests. Cozy rooms with lovely bathrooms meet a modern-designed building with lots of wood, beautiful décor and soft colors. The breakfast is to die for!

6. Castellabate, overlooking the Thyrennian sea in southern Italy, Campania

Hotel Hermitage

A truly romantic spot, this hotel is perched 900 meters from the sea in the heart of Cilento National Park. Nestled among ancient olive treess, guests are treated with lovely sea views from the rooms and to a delicious breakfast served on the flowery terrace. There's also a swimming pool and shuttle service to the beach.

7. Asolo, in the foothills of the Veneto region, gives it is name as 'the city of 1000 horizons'

Country House Barone d’Asolo

Beautiful hotel in Veneto, about 25 miles from Venice, amidst a large garden filled with flowers. The rooms are excellent. Suitable for weddings, which often take place on the lawn. Swimming pool and outdoor bar. Asolo used to play host to the Queen Mother and has wonderful summer festivals, too.

8. Capalbio, a romantic spot near southern Tuscany's exclusive Argentario peninsula

Glamping Terre di Sacra

Camping in luxury tents set up in the dunes, just steps from the beach, complete with private bathrooms and placed at a discreet distance from each other. Check out the pictures to be convinced. Capalbio, Terre di Sacra, is an excellent location to get away, explore lesser-known towns and have nature walks or horseback rides. Also nearby is the protected WWF beach and Lago Burano.

9. Tremosine, spectacular views of Lake Garda

Hotel Bellevue - San Lorenzo

Rooms offer views of the lake and city. By night, the fort is lit up and you can hear the gentle waves on the shore. View the magical sunrise over Monte Baldo. The restaurant has a view of the lake – dinner and breakfast are excellent. It's an easy walk to town: just down the road a stairway takes you to the lake and to the city. So exclusive, the hotel does not accept families. 

10. Vogogna, an almost-forgotten spot in Piedmont's Ossola valley

Villa Chiovenda

Nestled just a few miles from the quaint village of Vogogna, this stunningly restored 18th century country house boasts modern finishes with an eye for detail. Extremely comfortable, the attentive and friendly owners make sure your stay is extra-special. The lush garden and swimming pool provide a tranquil oasis. The wine cellar is truly exceptional.

And some bonus recommendations for a Romantic Italian holiday

Alberobello in Puglia

Tipico Resort

With rooms scattered throughout the village, if you're into romance, you'll truly love these cozy little trulli houses. Breakfast is served in a central location. All rooms are equipped with wifi and air conditioning, and of course, a modern bathroom. 

Vernazza, one of the five villages of the Cinque Terre, Liguria

Albergo Barbara

If you're looking for something right in the heart of town, at the harbor of Vernazza, then Albergo Barbara is your choice. The rooms are simple, don't expect luxury, but the location more than makes up for it. Keep in mind that it's difficult to get here by car and you'll be dependent on public transportation. Enjoy the quiet evenings, once the last train or ferry has transported the mass of tourists and you'll have the place to yourself (well, almost).

Orta San Giulio, on the eponymous lake in Piedmont

Hotel La Bussola

Of course, the famous Relais et Chateaux hotel Villa Crespi in Orta San Giulio may be your first choice, but if you're looking for a more budget-friendly hotel, La Bussola is a wonderful option. The rooms may be a bit dated but the views are terrific and it has a lovely pool.

Last but not least, we should not forget Italy's city of love, Verona

Le Suite di Giulietta

There are plenty of good hotels to choose from in Verona, but there is only one that offers a view of Juliet's balcony. Romantic souls will not hesitate to choose this boutique hotel with a breakfast terrace overlooking "the balcony'. (Parking garage available)

Pictures of the recommended hotels

Villa Chiovenda, Residenza d'Epoca, Premosello Chiovenda near Vogogna in Piemonte

Relais et Chateaux Villa Crespi, Orta San Giulio

Hotel Bellevue - San Lorenzo, on Lake Garda

Agriturismo Il Casalino, Pienza

Agriturismo Il Casalino, Pienza

Hotel Pimpina, Carloforte, Sardinia

Albergo Il Cacciatore, Spello, Tuscany

Steindl’s Boutique Hotel, Vipiteno/Sterzing, Trentino

Steindl’s Boutique Hotel, Vipiteno/Sterzing, Trentino

Hotel Hermitage, Castellabata, Campania

Country House Barone d’Asolo, Veneto

Glamping Terre di Sacra, Capalbio

Hotel Barbera, Cinque Terre

Hotel Bussola, Orta San Giulio

Le Suite di Giulietta, Verona

Castello di Granarola

Castello di Granarola