An elegant Art Nouveau villa built in 1903 holds the relaxed but sophisticated Hotel Astoria, with forest green shutters and wrought iron balconies adorning its exterior. Classical music plays in the contemporary, comfortable lobby and bar, which share a bright, open area decorated with vintage suitcases, vibrant equestrian artwork, and Art Nouveau prints. Light wood floors and gray tones carry over into the breakfast room, where floor-to-ceiling windows and classical woven tapestries mix. Most guests are couples, with the occasional family passing through as well.

The Hotel Astoria is on a main road in the heart of Rapallo and across the street from a beach. Public transportation as well as plenty of shops and restaurants are just around the corner, and the town's Sea Walk begins just outside of the hotel. The hotel doesn't have it's own beach, but operates deals with private beaches in Rapallo for guests. The nearby town of Santa Margherita Ligure is less than a 10-minute drive. Other lovely coastal towns such as Camogli, San Fruttuoso, and Portofino are around a 20-minute car ride, while the gorgeous Cinque Terre villages are about an hour away by car. The Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport can be reached in about a half-hour.

Most rooms at the Hotel Astoria are airy and stylish, with a contemporary yet classic style. Light wood floors, charcoal gray curtains, and black padded leather headboards create a fresh look, while traditional wooden furniture and gray damask wallpaper tune into the hotel’s history. All rooms are air-conditioned and have minibars and flat-screen TVs, plus some also have terraces with exceptional sea views. Many bathrooms are modern, with gray tile walls, light wood floors, and glassed-in rainfall showers.

Wine as well as cocktails are served at the small on-site bar, and the hotel offers a free breakfast that includes Genoa’s famous focaccia bread, eggs, pastries, sausages, and yogurt. In addition to free beach chairs and umbrellas, guests receive discounts to local restaurants and private beaches, including the beach across the street. Room service and free Wi-Fi are available, and small pets are allowed for free. There are meeting facilities on site. Private parking is offered adjacent to the hotel; however, it incurs a daily fee and guests need to reserve in advance.