Our opinion
A four star hotel well-suited to those looking for classical elegance.
Hotel description
The four star Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte in Viareggio near Pisa possesses a wealth of historical opulence that brings it favour with aristocrats, artists, and the elite. It began in the early 1920s as the Select Palace Hotel, but has since been extended and rebranded, most recently in 2004, to make it the hotel it is today. From the outside, the hotel’s palatial beginnings are apparent, with a grand entrance framed by the curve of the corner and four pillars. Small balconies sit beneath tall arched windows, and the hotel name carved in stone crowns the front façade. Behind the curved stone on the rooftop, is the swimming pool, invisible from street level. Built into the shape of the building, with running fountains, a deck laid out with sun loungers and dining tables, and stunning views straight out to the sea, this may well be where you spend the last few hours of each day in Viareggio. The hotel’s two restaurants, Piccolo Principe and Regina, serve a blend of Tuscan and Versilian cuisine either in the light, elegant dining rooms, or on one of the terraces. They are known for attracting keen gastronomists from across the country. In the colour scheme and furnishings, a subtly nautical feel is established, with shades of blue paired with white table cloths and decked floors. Chandeliers, high vaulted ceilings, and soft cushioned seats maintain the palatial feel. As well as the bar on the roof terrace, there is a wine and piano bar on the ground floor comprised of an elegant salon and area with large windows overlooking the promenade, which is supplied by the hotel’s own wine cellar. After wining and dining and soaking up the relaxed evening atmosphere, return to your room for a comfortable and luxurious night’s sleep. Guestrooms at the Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte have been individually designed; some by architect Benelli. Each floor has its own theme, be it International, Deco, Empire, or Modern. Classical, stylish furnishings, from woven wooden chairs and shaded wall lamps to heavy curtains and thick bed covers, are arranged and combined with modern sensibility. The colour scheme is kept light and fresh, while retaining the rich historical ambience. Suites are more lavishly decorated, with bolder colours and patterns, and more extravagant fabrics. All rooms are incredibly spacious, though suites provide a touch more luxury for couples or groups of three alike. Walk down a corridor atmospherically lit and lined with bamboo in vases to the hotel’s spa. Alongside the water features and abundant greenery, you can enjoy holistic beauty treatments and massages that appeal to all the senses. Alternatively, head down along the famous Viareggio promenade to the hotel’s partner beach club. Spend between a few nights and a week at the Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte to experience the beautiful Tuscan coastline as well as its specific brand of historical luxury and elegance.
Location
Viareggio, just a minute from the seafront; near Pisa and La Spezia.
Distance from airport
22 miles
Closest airport
Pisa Airport
Room types
106 rooms with Wifi, satellite television, pillow menu, telephone, and marble bathrooms. Balconies can be requested for an extra charge. Rooms vary in style.
Classic Hill View Room
Superior Side Sea View Room
Superior Side Sea View Room with balcony.
Superior Front Sea View Room
Superior Front Sea View Room with balcony.
Deluxe Sea Side View Room
Deluxe Side Sea View Room with balcony.
Family Room, comprised of two interconnecting Superior Front Sea View Rooms
One Bedroom Sea View Suite
Hotel facilities and services
Piccolo Principe Restaurant, Regina Restaurant, rooftop terrace and bar, rooftop pool, wellness centre, piano and wine bar, spa, bicycle rental, partnered beach club, wine cellar, and cookery classes.
Land sports
Bicycle rental.
Out and aboutnearby/local interest
At the Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte you are perfectly placed to enjoy Viareggio’s famous promenade, which is lined with liberty-style buildings, boutique shops, restaurants, bars, art galleries, and theatres. In February and March, this stretch plays host to one of the world’s biggest carnivals: the Viareggio Carnival. More active visitors may wish to make the most of the bicycles on offer at the hotel and head away from the flat coastline into the Apuan Alps, perhaps to find the many medieval villages. Versilia, the Tuscan Riviera, is also known for its classy piano bars, which always prove to be an exciting place to spend an evening. The most significant historic building in Viareggio, and one of the only to survive WWII, is the Torre Matilde. Popular excursions from Viareggio include Florence, Pisa, Siena, Lucca, Chianti, and the Cinque Terre.
Sports nearby
Cycling, walking, hiking, and water sports.
Children
Children up to 12 years staying with at least two adults stay for free. Additional children receive special rates. Baby cots can be provided free of charge subject to availability. Infants 3 and under eat free of charge.