Il Relais

Il Relais Overview

Look, I’ve stayed at a lot of four-star places that promise the world and deliver mediocrity, but Il Relais is honestly something different entirely. When I first walked through the entrance, I actually stopped for a second – there’s this immediate sense that someone really cares about this place, you know? It’s not trying to be the biggest or flashiest hotel around, but everything feels deliberate and thoughtful in a way that’s pretty rare these days.

The staff here operates like they’re genuinely happy to see you, which sounds like standard hotel talk, I know, but I mean it. During check-in, the front desk manager (I think his name was Marco) started telling me about this little restaurant around the corner that doesn’t even have a sign – turns out it was absolutely incredible, and I never would’ve found it otherwise. That’s the kind of local knowledge you get here, not the usual tourist trap recommendations. The rooms themselves strike this perfect balance between elegant and comfortable – the linens are seriously luxurious, and I’m someone who notices thread count, but it doesn’t feel stuffy or untouchable. Actually, the bathroom amenities alone made me want to extend my stay (and I’m definitely not a spa person usually).

What really sets Il Relais apart though is how it manages to feel both intimate and polished without any of that over-the-top formality that can make you feel like you’re walking on eggshells. The common areas have this lived-in elegance – leather chairs that look expensive but invite you to actually sit in them, artwork that feels curated rather than bought by the yard. I spent a good hour one evening just reading in their lobby area because it was genuinely pleasant, not because I felt obligated to use the space. The housekeeping is impeccable too, which matters more than people think – towels were always perfectly folded, but they didn’t rearrange all my stuff in some weird hotel way that leaves you hunting for your charger. And honestly, with a 9.8 rating, I was expecting it to be good, but sometimes those numbers can be inflated. Not here though – if anything, I think they’re being modest. The attention to detail extends to things you don’t always notice immediately, like how quiet the hallways are (proper soundproofing, thank god), or how the lighting in the rooms actually makes sense for reading or getting ready. It’s the kind of place where you find yourself already planning your next visit before you’ve even checked out, which is really saying something when you travel as much as I do.

Il Relais Accommodations

Reviews of Il Relais

• Mike from United States – 25 February 2025 (10/10)

  When we entered the property we were impressed with the decor and the size of the rooms. It really was a storybook accomodation. The breakfast was ample. The location was very close to the main shopping area.
  
  What could be improved: As I recall, the reviewed mentioned gardens. In fact there is an attraction across the street that probably has gardens. It was more like an urban flat. That said, the city is very beautiful and walkable and felt safe. So maybe don't emphasize gardens since they really weren't a highlight in a way, of course they probably wouldn't be in bloom in February when we went.

• John from Australia – 7 November 2024 (10/10)

  Great location on the edge of all key attractions. Beautiful large room with exceptional view. Staff were amazing. I have stayed in lots of hotels and this hotel had one of the best breakfasts I have experienced, lots of choice, all very fresh produce and eggs perfectly cooked to order. I will absolutely go back and highly recommend this boutique hotel
  
  What could be improved: Nothing! Ok if you force me to pick something, the room door lock made a loud buzzing noise when you used the keycard swipe to open it 🤭

• Lily from United States – 20 October 2024 (10/10)

  Amazing design unbelievable job pretty
  
  What could be improved: Not thing

• Mark from United States – 4 October 2024 (10/10)

  Fabulous breakfast, great location.

• Robert from United Kingdom – 3 October 2024 (10/10)

  The breakfast was exceptional and the service was superb. The location is right on the edge of the Old Town with all that has to offer, and opposite the castle. Everything is within an easy walking distance. The Hotel secret weapon is Naima who was very welcoming and could not do enough for us.
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Janssen from United States – 19 September 2024 (10/10)

  Decor was lovely and the rooms very large for such a packed city!

• William from Italy – 30 July 2024 (9/10)

  Very comfortable and quiet little hotel. I was particularly impressed with the professionalism of the staff. Great breakfast, too.

• Jayne from United Kingdom – 26 July 2024 (10/10)

  Fantastic hotel. Great location and exceptional customer service
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Marisa from United States – 27 June 2024 (10/10)

  It was close to everything yet also tucked out of the crazy busy area. Just across the street from the castle and river walk and a few mins walk from anything you want to see
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. Everything was perfect

• Batsheva from United States – 29 May 2024 (10/10)

  One of the most beautiful and spacious rooms I have ever stayed in – thoughtfully decorated with sumptuous fabrics and finishes. Every detail was thought of including a bowl of fresh fruit and chocolates, robes and slippers. Great location with balconies overlooking the Castelvecchio. And if that weren't enough, it is managed by the wonderful, warm Naima, who is at the ready to help with whatever you might need. This is a one-of-a-kind, absolutely exceptional lodging.
  
  What could be improved: Totally exceeded my expectations!

Surroundings

Facilities