In the 500-year-old Palazzo della Gherardesca, the 116-room Four Seasons is one of Florence’s most luxurious hotels, combining Renaissance-era opulence with signature Four Seasons service. Guests get exclusive access to the 11-acre Giardino della Gherardesca, one of the city’s largest private gardens, along with three restaurants, an outdoor pool, and a spa. Rooms and suites range from large and comfortable to huge and palatial. A former convent across the park has 36 guest rooms that provide a more private stay. It’s definitely a splurge, and the best that Florence has to offer for those who aren't worried about price.

One of Florence's iconic hotels, The St. Regis oozes elegance and old-world charm. Housed in a historic palace designed by Filippo Brunelleschi of Duomo fame, the hotel evokes the city's artistic splendor in its magnificent interiors. Guest rooms and public spaces are bedecked with elements like coffered ceilings, gilt mirrors, frescoes, and chandeliers. In-room amenities include big flat-screen TVs, Bose stereos with iPod docks, ultra-comfy beds, and marble bathrooms. The St. Regis prides itself on its impeccable service standards and features multilingual concierge staff, plus butler service for suites. Property facilities include a superb Tuscan restaurant and small day spa. Situated in an elegant area on the north bank of the Arno, the hotel is within a 10-minute stroll of the Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, Santa Maria Novella train station, and Ponte Vecchio Bridge.

With a seemingly never-ending array of treatments and health-related services, Fonteverde Tuscan Resort & Spa can just as well be considered an overnight wellness center. Its status as an iconic luxury property is well-earned considering its large, 80 elegantly styled rooms, on-site gourmet dining choices, and 180-degree Tuscan valley view. The hotel's somewhat remote location and access to indulgence make it easy to see why many socially elite and well-discerning guests return again and again. There isn't much to do in the area, as the Fonteverde itself is the destination.

Saturnia Tuscany Hotel’s chateau-style building and small but well-designed spa are with easy reach of the Saturnia baths. The upscale hotel offers a clean, well-maintained and relaxing location from which to explore the nearby waterfalls and spas, and, further afield, several picturesque towns. While the hotel has its own spa, many guests have commented on its modest size; Terme di Saturnia, a considerably larger resort with thermal baths and its own set of spa offerings, is just down the road. Saturnia Tuscany’s own restaurant is widely considered good, and has gluten-free options upon request.

Staying in a castle is an undoubtedly romantic experience, and the Castello Delle Quattro Torra is an affordable and familial alternative to many of the more opulent castle hotels found in the Italian countryside. A short drive from Siena, this family-run bed and breakfast has only three rooms, including an apartment and a two-story tower room, all of which can be rented by the night or -- for a discount -- by the week. There's little to do in the surrounding area, and guests really need a car, although those who love walking can hike to Siena in about 45 minutes.

The Renaissance is a large resort complex overlooking some of the most picturesque landscape that you'll find in Tuscany, if not all of Italy. Despite being less than 90 minutes by car from Pisa Airport, the location feels remote and timeless, and is a great setting to really unwind. Rooms are elegantly finished and some have stunning views. Rooms without views may not be worth the price, but the rates are reasonable for this caliber of hotel.

Castello Banfi Il Borgo is an 18th-century farmers village that was born around the medieval Banfi Castle. The village (in Italian “Il Borgo”) has been restored and transformed in a luxury resort, and is part of a 7,100-acre property where high-quality red wines are produced. The hotel's 14 rooms and suites reflect this heritage, and each named after one of the bottles produced by Banfi. Expect plenty of charming historical character throughout the property; picturesque stone buildings have wood beams, bricked archways, and terra-cotta tiles inside. The chic pool has stunning views of the vineyards there are also two restaurants, a wine shop, and a glass museum.

This small renovated farmhouse property within the rolling green hills of Tuscany oozes relaxation and romance. With only five classically rustic rooms and an adults-only policy, the upscale Aia Mattonata Relais' intimate vibe is ideal for couples seeking a secluded starting point to explore Siena and other nearby areas of Tuscany. The ultra-boutique B&B may be quaint, but with a wellness center with Turkish bath and body treatments, a saltwater infinity pool, and small exercise room, it is not lacking on features. Since it's a few miles outside of town, guests will either need to have their own car or rely on public transportation. The attentive owners aim to do what they can to accommodate guests.

A luxury hotel with history and style just south of the center of Florence, the Villa Cora was built in the late 1860s by Baron Oppenheim, a German financier, and was restored in 2010. It is part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux fellowship of hotels and restaurants. With a unique heated outdoor pool and a subterranean spa, the special property is a good spot for both relaxation and sightseeing. Those who are up for it can walk a little more than a mile and a half to attractions in the center of Florence, including the Duomo, but the hotel also offers a free shuttle. The hotel provides a fairly good value for its class and amenities.

This updated 15th-century villa, located on top of a hill just two miles north of Florence, offers five-pearl luxury in a stunning setting. There are beautiful views of Florence and the Tuscan countryside from many rooms, and 19th-century frescoes and antique furnishings. The food from chef Carmine Calò gets high marks. This Renaissance-era property is a splurge.

One of the Maremma region's classiest hotels, the luxurious Il Pellicano has refined classic Tuscan style and a gorgeous green hillside location. The hotel's 50 spacious rooms have a contemporary, understated decor, and additional privacy can be found in the few detached cottages. Opened as the product of a personal love story, Il Pellicano is ideal for affluent couples seeking romance and tranquility loaded with luxury. Everything here is top-level, including a restaurant with two Michelin Stars, wellness center, state-of-the-art gym, and beautiful private beach area overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The 22-room Hotel Palazzo del Capitano is an exclusive upscale property set within the grounds of an ancient medieval palace. Olive trees and fragrant plants create a relaxing, lush environment while rustic Tuscan decor blends with luxurious style. Filling out the small spa and wellness facility are hot tubs, caves, and various body treatments.Al Vecchio Forno trattoria serves creative Tuscan cuisine and offers vino from its wine cellar. The pedestrian-only area means cars must be left outside the palace walls, but porters are available to help with luggage. This is ideal for anyone looking to escape the touristy vibe and have an authentic Tuscan experience.

This luxury hotel is set in a former medieval village with a rich history. Originally built in the 11th century as a monastery, it later became a castle and residence for the noble Chigi family. The hotel has been updated with modern amenities and sophisticated decor, and provides a relaxed, chic setting. The 74 guest rooms are dispersed throughout the different buildings and chock-full of charming historical touches. Surrounded by vineyards and the beautiful Tuscan countryside, the hotel is isolated, but there are many amenities at the hotel to keep guests occupied, such as a full-service spa, a Gordan Ramsey restaurant, a fitness center, and two outdoor pools.