Our guide to the most beautiful understated luxury villa rentals in Italy

Puglia — or Apulia, as the Italians call it — owes its name to the Greek apulos, meaning “without rain.” This region consists of five provinces, each more charming than the last, this sun-drenched region enjoys around 300 days of sunshine a year. Here, la dolce vita isn’t just an idea, it’s a way of life. Picture it: postcard-perfect villages, sandy shores, and the dazzling turquoise waters of Salento.

What’s on the agenda? Endless farniente, plates of homemade pasta, lush valleys, expansive vineyards, grand basilicas, panoramic pools, and endless places to walk and discover. Add in a glass of local wine (or two), and you’re all set for an unforgettable escape.

Now, it’s time to choose your dream spot and make your reservation. Will it be a historic stone palazzo with a private pool, an architect-designed villa surrounded by olive groves, a lovingly restored farmhouse with vineyard views, or maybe an old castle with class and character? There are so many types of villas to explore — and when you’ve got a villa for rent like these, the only hard part is deciding whether to stay longer… or come back for round two.

Need something a little extra? How about a chef on hand, a park for morning strolls, or planning your trip for October, when the region slows down but stays just as vibrant? We’ve got all the insider tips to make your booking villas in Italy experience smooth and special.

Ah, Tuscany! The birthplace of the Renaissance, panzanella, and home to Florence… With its rolling hills and charming hilltop villages, Tuscany is a timeless gem.

Amidst its picturesque landscapes, ochre-colored farmhouses emerge between vineyards and cypress trees. These authentic homes, often boasting pools with panoramic views, offer the perfect setting for an idyllic getaway and the promise of a peaceful retreat into nature.

Looking for even more tranquility? The Tuscan archipelago offers hidden gems: very old properties that have been transformed into dream vacation homes. Here, you’ll be disturbed only by the sound of seagulls as you enjoy sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. With exclusive activities and premium services, it’s the perfect escape for a vacation far from the bustle of civilization. We’re spending the holidays making the most of everything the seaside has to offer: snorkeling, boating, and some serious beach lounging…

Tuscany also boasts charming medieval towns with Renaissance buildings that have been lovingly restored by inspired architects.. The perfect way to immerse yourself in the rhythm of a small Italian village: morning espresso on the terrace with a pasticceria, a stroll to the market for fresh goods, wandering through charming alleys, and ending the day with dinner at a local trattoria.

 

 

Travel to the Italian Alps, where dramatic peaks meet culture-rich landscapes and the legendary Lake Como steals the spotlight. Bordering France, Switzerland, Slovenia, and Austria, this central region of northern Italy boasts a range of spectacular stays in equally stunning locations.

From a chalet hidden in the forest to a futuristic home facing the mountains, or a lakeside villa that stands proudly over Lake Como, each place delivers a magical escape. Think premium services, breathtaking surroundings, and of course, the local pleasures — hearty mountain food, a scoop (or two) of gelato, and those secret spots only the locals know.

Ready to visit? Discover some of the best villa rentals in the Alps, and elevate your next alpine adventure with a stay that truly stands out.

The islands are to Italy what Corsica is to France: a cherished Mediterranean gem beloved by summer travelers. Each island has its own unique identity and qualities.

Sicily, located to the south of Italy, is the largest island in the Mediterranean. It draws visitors with its archaeological sites, beaches, cities like Palermo and Syracuse, and its rich culinary heritage. For a stay away from civilization, head to the lesser-known Sicilian islands, such as Pantelleria, where you can live in fully renovated dammusi (round-roofed volcanic stone houses). Here, only peace and tranquility prevail.

Similar vibe, Sardinia style, to the west of Italy, where you’ll find stone shepherd’s huts with old-world charm. What could be better than staying in a local property and enjoying the Sardinian countryside? Here, the itinerary is refreshingly simple: admire the Mediterranean, stroll through a medieval village, hike, swim, and savor some pasta… What more could you ask for?

Another island, much smaller than its counterparts yet equally famous, is Capri! As beautiful as it is exceptional, this island in the Bay of Naples dazzles with its spectacular coastline dotted with grand villas (with pools and beach access, please), offering an exclusive vacation experience.

Often called the “green heart of the country,” Umbria is renowned for its perched medieval towns, dense forests, local cuisine, and countryside homes. It’s the perfect region for hiking enthusiasts, cyclists, or anyone who loves beautiful landscapes.

For a true escape into nature, what better than a traditional house right in the heart of a small village? Here, the favorite activities of guests include watching the elderly tending their vegetable gardens or sipping an espresso in the village square, accompanied by the sound of the fountain and church bells. A region still off the tourist radar, and well worth more than a quick stop.