No one does summer quite like the Italians. And with the return of the Supersalone Design Fair scheduled for September, there is no better time to start planning your pilgrimage. So whether you’re looking to soak up all the shows or simply poodle along the pristine coastline, these 5 design destinations promise a truly bellissimo stay.

Every hour is happy hour in the serendipitous Roommate Giulia Hotel. Located a stone’s throw from the iconic Duomo Cathedral, it features 85 inviting rooms and is the ideal launchpad from which to enjoy the Design Fair festivities.

The interiors were conceived by industry superstar, Patricia Urquiola, and fizz with her trademark playful energy. Keen eyes will notice classic styles like the Tre Pezzi armchair, paired with iridescent Shimmer Tables and bespoke GAN rugs. Underscoring the invigorating spirit is the hotel sauna and spa — open until 1am — and the perfect place to pamper those weary post trade fair feet.

Nestled in an unassuming Brescia street is the Palazzio Monti. Once a stately family residence, it nows acts as an incubator for some of the world’s most original artists and thinkers. Each resident is invited to live for a number of weeks in the Palazzio’s neoclassical chambers, participating in a flurry of workshops and events. At the end of their stay, they must leave a piece of artwork behind — a bittersweet gesture that lends the Palazzio its idiosyncrasy and charm.

Flos Lighting | Discover

Visitors this September can book tickets to their Degree Show, where 11 Italian artists will exhibit a range of works.

Rumoured to have been founded by the Greek God, Poseidon, Positano is where every good aesthete goes to escape the bustle of the city. For the most intimate stay, we recommend the Hotel Villa Franca.

On The Rocks Sofa and Blu Velvet Dining Chairs | Edra

As well as offering world-class spa treatments, it also plays home to the Gallis Sky Bar — a local favourite for live music — and the only spot we know of where you can enjoy unspoilt ocean views alongside Jacopo Foggini designs.

The Hoxton’s Italian outfit is every bit as charming as the city that claims it. The interiors are inspired by the mid-century film, La Dolce Vita, and serve up tangible nostalgia at every opportunity. 

9602 Floor Lamp | Shop Now

Particular attention has been paid to the tactile sense. And whether it’s the linen Contardi lamps or the cool Verde Alpi marble counters, each detail has been carefully layered to create the impression of a home away from home.

There are no bonus points for guessing the architect behind this elegant watering hole in Ponte di Legno. With its distinct power lines and masculine finishes, it bears all the hallmarks of one Piero Lissoni.

Bertoia Barstool | Shop Now

Split across three distinct rooms, he reinterprets the traditional aesthetic codes of alpine architecture, favouring deep and dramatic hues over the usual light, bright Scandi woods. The result is a deeply atmospheric and cosy experience, complete with black label whisky and fine wines.

Photography by Thomas Pagani