Look through a set of wrought-iron gates guarded by twin lion statues and find the imposing and elegant 1900s Art-Nouveau facade of the Grand Hotel Royal, an iconic Viareggio seafront landmark that was once a private mansion. The lobby is done up in a similar vein, with elegant antique furnishings, tasseled drapery, and crystal chandeliers. A central marble staircase with ornately carved balustrades is particularly impressive, although furnishings showing small signs of wear detract from the otherwise regal interiors. Behind the property is a pretty, well-tended grassy garden with flowering shrubs and rock-lined paths.

The hotel looks over the Viareggio seaside on the northwest coast of Italy. The area's long sandy beaches are just a block away, while the promenade directly in front of the beach stretches for two miles. It's lined with designer boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Both Lucca and Pisa are 20-30 minutes away by car, while Florence takes just over an hour to reach. The nearest airport is Pisa International, a half an hour-drive away.

The Grand Hotel Royal has 114 rooms and suites, all of which are simply decorated with antique-style furnishings and tiled flooring. They're a bit plain compared to the elaborate common areas and facade. Art on the walls would go a long way to add interest. Modern comforts include flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, free Wi-Fi, and minibars. Front-facing rooms have views over the seafront, though only some also have balconies. Expect to pay a premium for the best views. Bathtub/shower combinations are standard. Toiletries and a wall-mounted hairdryer are provided.The cheapest, smallest rooms have particularly tiny bathrooms and some rooms show signs of wear.

The hotel features include a chic swimming pool (open May to September) that's surrounded by comfy lounge chairs and umbrellas in a well-tended garden. The garden has a few hammocks and guests can drink cocktails from the on-site bar while swinging under the shade of a pine tree. Guests also have access to a private beach directly opposite the hotel, though daily rates are pricey -- as they are throughout Viareggio. The hotel's elegant restaurant offers fine Italian dining, and light meals and drinks can be taken outside on the patio. Daily breakfast buffet and Wi-Fi are free. Bikes can be rented from the front desk.