Travetta

Magnificently situated overlooking the Bay of Naples, this is a belle-epoque dream come true. Gilded salons, stunning gardens, and an impossibly romantic terrace where orchestras lull you twice a week with Neapolitan and modern music: in all, it's a truly intoxicating experience. Enrico Caruso stayed here and, more recently, Luciano Pavarotti. An outdoor swimming pool and gym add more-modern comforts. Pros: Secluded setting, great breakfast, good deals during low season. Cons: Pricey restaurant, some rooms are better than others.

"Housed on the estate of an impressive villa and surrounded by a park right in the heart of town, this is the best hotel in Sorrento, and one of the best hotels in the world. Welcoming guests since 1834, this exclusive hotel has counted among its guests Lord Byron, Wagner, Oscar Wilde, and a long list of royalty. Still run by the same family (the Fiorentinos) since its opening, it offers exquisite and individualized service. The elegant public spaces and terraces -- still with the original 19th-century furnishings -- are perfect places to enjoy a drink. The huge guest rooms are elegant abodes that are finely decorated and furnished with many antiques -- and all the modern comforts. The refined bathrooms are marble-clad. Most of the rooms open onto a private balcony or terrace, and the best have views over the Gulf of Naples (the others over the delightful orange-tree garden). From the hotel, elevators take guests to the private beach-pier off Marina Piccola. In a splendid setting overlooking the gulf, Terrazza Bosquet offers the most romantic gourmet dining in Sorrento. A good way to sample its creative cuisine is the tasting menu, which starts at 53€ ($74/£37)."