Italy, Curated: A Journey Through the Country’s Finest Stays

The Duomo di Milano was where the opening ceremony of DUCO Italy was held

A Front Row Seat at DUCO Italy

In March, I had the pleasure of attending DUCO Italy, a travel summit dedicated to a single destination—hosted within the destination itself. During the conference, I connected with over 50 of Italy’s top luxury hoteliers and partners, each showcasing the very best of their properties and hospitality offerings.

Exciting New Openings & Highlights

Italy’s luxury hotel scene continues to evolve, with several standout additions on the horizon. The highly anticipated Rosewood Rome is set to open this year, bringing a new level of refined luxury to the Eternal City.

Just outside Florence, Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Collection offers a beautiful blend of city access and Tuscan tranquility. Located just 10 minutes from the Duomo, it’s ideal for travelers wanting the best of both worlds. Current offers, including a fourth night free or 50% off a second connecting room, make it especially appealing for families.

Along the Amalfi Coast, Le Sirenuse in Positano is unveiling its new private beach club, Le Sirenuse Mare in Nerano. With chic loungers, a new restaurant, and seamless boat transfers included for guests, it promises to elevate the coastal experience even further.

Experiencing Italy Firsthand

A good day starts with a beautiful view in Florence, Italy

Florence: Timeless Views & Local Flavors

Before DUCO began, I joined Independently Yours on a familiarization trip featuring the Lungarno Collection. Our journey started in Florence at Portrait Firenze, an intimate hotel known for its sleek design and personalized service. Spacious suites overlook the Arno River and Ponte Vecchio, where both sunrise and sunset cast an unforgettable golden glow.

While in Florence, we experienced a private cooking class in a local home just outside the city. Learning to make pici and nudi from scratch, then enjoying the meal with wine overlooking Florence, was a highlight—especially the homemade tiramisu that set the standard for the rest of the trip.

Milan: Where History Meets Modern Luxury

From Florence, we traveled by high-speed train to Milan and checked into Portrait Milano. Set within a former seminary dating back to the 1500s, the property blends historic architecture with contemporary Milanese sophistication. With a longevity spa, curated boutiques, dining at Beefbar, and a hidden speakeasy, it offers a dynamic and stylish experience.

Behind the scenes of Fendi

A private visit to Fendi provided a deeper look into Italian craftsmanship, from one-of-a-kind pieces to the meticulous work of artisans behind the scenes.

Lake Como: A Storybook Finale

To conclude the journey, I traveled to Lake Como for a private lunch at Passalacqua, a stunning villa turned boutique hotel where lake and mountain views feel almost surreal. The final evening was spent at Grand Hotel Tremezzo, where the iconic setting and beautifully manicured grounds offered the perfect ending to an unforgettable Italian escape.

Planning Your Own Italian Escape

If Italy has been on your list, there’s never been a more exciting time to go. From iconic properties to exceptional new openings, the country continues to set the standard for luxury travel.

With firsthand experience and strong relationships with Italy’s top hotels and partners, we’re here to design a journey that feels seamless, personalized, and truly unforgettable.

Whether you're dreaming of Florence, the Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, or beyond, we’d love to help bring it to life.

Reach out to start planning your Italian escape.