Fodor's Expert Review Grand Hotel Rimini

This 1908 extravaganza, made famous by Federico Fellini in his film Amarcord, is grander than ever with ongoing restorations that keep the place completely current while maintaining its hyperluxe old-world charm. The stage is set by enormous crystal chandeliers in the lobby and inlaid wood in the rooms that seem comforting rather than formal. The place is full of light, partly because the many large windows let it all in. Some of the rooms are in an annex 30 meters away, though all the facilities are in the main building. A spotless private beach provides tranquillity (though so does the pool). In summer La Dolce Vita, the terrific restaurant, moves outside to one of the sweeping terraces overlooking perfectly kept gardens and the sea. It also serves lunch on the beach, and in July and August there's live music.