In travel and lifestyle literature, there’s probably no older cliché than that of the Italian dolce vita. And yet, our pulses still quicken and our endorphins run free as soon as we cross the border into Italy. The same thing happens to Angelika Taschen, the publisher and author who’s travelled around the country myriad times capturing her favourite places and boutique hotels.

As such, Great Escapes Italy is not only a wonderfully illustrated book showcasing glamorous Venetian palaces, charming South Tyrolean guesthouses and iconic hotels such as the Parco dei Principi and Villa d’Este but also the ultimate bucket list for devoted lovers of the country. If you manage to visit or stay at each of the 38 recommended dream hotels in the book at least once in your life, the Italian grandezza will undoubtedly flow through your veins. 

Photos: Taschen Verlag