Grand Hotel La Favorita

La Favorita is opulent but not self-indulgent in its design and decor. From its shady lemon tree garden with antique benches and stone walls to the beautifully tiled interiors, the property is drenched in lavish, deep-rooted romanticism. In the lobby, large white columns rise from a burnt orange floor with ornamental motifs. Stylized arcs bend across ceilings holding elegant crystal chandelier lights, with stunning Renaissance-style furniture scattered about. The decor takes a more modern turn in the American Lounge Bar, outdoor pool area, and rooftop deck, while the dining area is somewhere in-between. The pool is slightly raised, surrounded by large beige rocks and small bits of greenery, while its deck is outfitted with single and double wicker sun chairs with a contemporary design.

While it lacks the idyllic surroundings found at many of the popular, slightly out-of-town hotels, Grand Hotel La Favorita –- with its Sorrento dead-center location -- trades beauty for bustle. Located in a pedestrian area near the Piazza della Vittoria, this venue is ideal for anyone who wants to be within walking distance of the town's shops, restaurants, and bars. La Favorita is also close to the harbor, where visitors can book 40-minute boat trips to famed Capri. The beach, theater, and railway station are all within walking distance, while the historic town cathedral is just down the street.

Reaching points of interest such as the ruins of Pompeii and the town of Positano takes 35-45 minutes by car, and Naples, home of the closest international airport, is about an hour’s drive away. The concierge can arrange multiple excursions to a variety of Amalfi destinations.

La Favorita's 85 spacious rooms offer gorgeous pattern tile floors, floor-to-ceiling picture windows with thick blackout drapes, and antique-style furnishings -- a compelling mix of modern and traditional Italian styles. Classically decorated tiles also adorn bathroom walls, floors, and showers. Junior Suites are the most elegant with hot tubs, furnished patios, and touches of art. All rooms have memory foam mattresses, air-conditioning, minibars, and flat-screen TVs with English channels. Higher rooms have the best views, while some ground-floor rooms have a small bit of garden. Street-facing spaces may be loud as the hotel is in a pedestrian area.

For all of its grand splendor and chic decor, it is a bit surprising that La Favorita doesn't have a fitness center or spa. Instead, guests must exercise their legs by walking around the idyllic lemon tree garden, or relax by the rooftop pool sipping a cocktail at the Snack Bellavista Terrace. Other dining options include the on-site Tiffany Restaurant (rustically elegant, serving the hotel's free breakfast buffet as well as lunch and dinner) and the next-door “O’Parrucchiano,” famous for its cannolleni. La Favorita cocktail parties are held at both the terrace bar and inside at the retro-luxe American Lounge Bar.