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The owners of this centrally located inn live on the top floor, but graciously share their roof terrace with guests, who can enjoy vegetarian meals along with views of the Castello and Palazzo Comunale.

The top hotel in Tuscany’s most exclusive coastal resort. It has large, tasteful rooms, a private beach with boats and canoes, beauty spa, swimming pool in the park, weekend candlelit dinners on the lawn and access to a neighbouring golf course.

The only decent lodging in Livorno is right on the harbourfront, and its best rooms overlook Pietro Tacca’s Monument of the Four Moors and the busy port beyond. Guest rooms are well-appointed, if uninspired, and there’s a small fitness centre and spa.

To most aficionados, the only place to stay in Montecatini. A truly grand villa, set amid five acres of wooded grounds in the centre of town. It sports a frescoed restaurant, pool and exercise room, and spacious rooms.

An 18th-century villa surrounded by apartments sleeping 2–4 people. Guided horse rides are available and the nature reserves are close by. There’s also a pool and tennis courts. Three nights minimum.

Though lacking the full suite of amenities at the Excelsior and the fine setting of the San Michele, the Helvetia still feels posher than either. Also, it is the most central of Florence’s luxury inns.

A 15th-century palazzo of High Renaissance architectural panache (creamy plaster against soft grey stone). Beamed ceilings, antiques, rural vistas from many rooms, and yet sited right in the centre of town.

This wine- and olive oil-producing villa, renting five doubles and two apartments sleeping 4–6, offers a chance to canter amid the hills or relax by the pool. Minimum three-night stay, low season; one week, summer.

Another great family-run place, tucked on a side street off the town’s main drag. Rooms are cosy, many with rural views and creaky antique furnishings. As an added attraction, a stretch of medieval town wall passes through the property.

A converted 15th-century convent in the centre of town, with well-appointed and modishly furnished rooms enlarged from monks’ cells. Views are over the rolling Val d’Orcia hills.