There’s something about Italy in the summer that never loses its appeal—the light, the pace, the feeling that entire days can revolve around beauty, long lunches, and nowhere urgent to be.
And this season, two highly anticipated hotel openings are redefining luxury hospitality in Italy in very different ways. One brings timeless Florentine elegance back into focus, while the other introduces a sleek, modern energy to Lake Como.
Both are already becoming the kind of places travelers quietly rearrange their summer plans around.
Belmond Florence
Florence has no shortage of beautiful hotels, but Belmond’s newest opening feels particularly significant.
Set within a restored historic property overlooking the city, the hotel brings together everything Belmond does best: old-world grandeur, exceptional service, and a deeply romantic sense of place. The interiors balance Florentine history with softer contemporary touches—think frescoed ceilings, layered textiles, marble baths, and terraces that open onto views of terracotta rooftops and church domes.
What makes this opening especially compelling is its atmosphere. It doesn’t feel overly polished or performative. Instead, it captures the quieter luxury Florence is known for—slow mornings, intimate courtyards, candlelit dinners, and rooms that feel connected to the city’s artistic history.
And in a summer where travelers are increasingly prioritizing experience over spectacle, that sense of authenticity feels more valuable than ever.
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The Lake Como EDITION
If Belmond Florence leans into timeless Italian romance, The Lake Como EDITION brings a completely different energy.
The EDITION brand’s arrival on Lake Como introduces a more contemporary, design-driven approach to one of Europe’s most iconic destinations. Clean architectural lines, understated interiors, and a relaxed sophistication set the tone throughout the property.
Set directly on the lake, the hotel combines the glamour associated with Como with the effortless cool that EDITION properties are known for globally. There’s an ease to the experience—sunset aperitivos by the water, minimalist suites opening onto lake views, and public spaces designed as much for atmosphere as they are for hospitality.
It feels less traditional grand hotel and more modern Italian retreat.
And as Lake Como continues attracting a younger international luxury traveler, the timing feels incredibly aligned with where hospitality is heading.
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A New Era of Italian Luxury
What’s interesting about both openings is how differently they interpret luxury.
One celebrates heritage, intimacy, and timeless European elegance. The other embraces contemporary design, relaxed glamour, and a more modern social energy.
Yet both reflect the same shift happening across luxury travel right now: people are seeking places that feel immersive, personal, and emotionally connected to their surroundings.
Final Thoughts
Italy has always mastered the art of living beautifully.
And this summer, Belmond Florence and The Lake Como EDITION offer two completely different—but equally compelling—ways to experience it.
One rooted in history. The other looking toward the future.
Both impossible not to add to the list.
