Romantic Places in Italy, Autumn Escapes & Winter Inspiration
Ciao,
October is an interesting time to start thinking about where to travel next.
The Mediterranean season is stretching further into autumn, new hotels are opening in some of my favourite Italian cities, and I'm already looking at winter escapes that offer something different from the usual beach holiday.
This week, I'm sharing a few developments that caught my attention, along with some thoughts on who they might suit and what I would consider before booking.
After all, choosing the right destination is only part of the journey. Timing, the hotel and the little details matter just as much.
01 | Italy: Two New Places for Romantic Escapes
Italy continues to be one of the destinations I return to when planning honeymoons, anniversaries and romantic celebrations.
And this October brings two interesting additions, each offering a different way to experience an Italian city.
Experimental Roma: A More Playful Side of Rome
Rome has no shortage of historic grand hotels, but sometimes I want to suggest something with a different atmosphere.
Experimental Roma, which opened on 10 October near Via Veneto, brings a contemporary approach to the city.
With 82 rooms, a rooftop pool, a cocktail club and a restaurant by Giovanni Passerini, it looks particularly interesting for couples who enjoy food, design and discovering a city beyond its traditional landmarks.
My perspective: I'd consider it for a stylish mini-moon, a long weekend or an anniversary in Rome.
For a honeymoon, I'd look closely at the room categories, particularly those with a balcony or terrace. And as with any new opening, I'd want to hear early guest feedback before recommending it confidently.
Courtesy of La Réserve Firenze
La Réserve Firenze: Florence with the Privacy of a Home
Opening on 16 October, La Réserve Firenze introduces a different concept to Florence.
Set within a restored 15th-century palazzo in the Oltrarno neighbourhood, it comprises just six serviced apartments.
The accommodation ranges from spacious one-bedroom apartments to a three-bedroom duplex with a private terrace.
Guests have access to services including housekeeping, concierge assistance and private-chef arrangements.
What interests me here is the balance between independence and personalised service.
Who would I recommend it to?
Couples planning a longer stay in Florence, honeymooners who appreciate privacy, or families celebrating a special occasion together.
It could also work beautifully as part of a longer Tuscany itinerary, combining a few days in Florence with time in the countryside.
There is one important distinction: this is a private-residence experience rather than a traditional luxury hotel. For some travellers, that is precisely the appeal.
For others, having a restaurant, spa and lively hotel atmosphere matters more.
And that is why the right recommendation is always personal.
Where Are We Going Next?
Whether you're considering a honeymoon in Italy, an anniversary somewhere snowy or a few days away together, I'd love to hear what you have in mind.
At PM Journeys, I design personal journeys around your interests, the way you like to travel and the experiences that matter to you.