For killer views of Positano and Italy's most dramatic hotel setting, you can't beat Il San Pietro: seemingly carved out of the Amalfi Coast's jagged cliffs, its terraces and gardens sweeping down to the private beach (the only one in the area, complete with a seaside tennis court, bar and restaurant).

While the town itself is a complimentary 15-minute shuttle-ride away, the out-of-town location gives you accommodation that's more spacious (ask for something on the hotel's right-hand side for Positano views), large terraces, extra privacy, first dibs at the Michelin-starred restaurant, and a fantastic clifftop swimming pool that has to be seen to be believed.