Restored Franciscan convent
The seventeenth-century friary runs as a relaxed coastal hotel, trading monastic quiet for harbor life facing Palmaria Island.
What it’s good at
Remarkable
A 1616 Franciscan convent with original brick vaulting and a citrus-planted cloister.
Notable
Ligurian majolica tiles and brushed oak set beneath seventeenth-century convent arches.
Listed
Veranda dining overlooking Palmaria Island, serving regional Ligurian seafood and local wines.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
the exact blend of the historical and the contemporary varies as well — they’re uniformly attractive, though, and plenty comfortable.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
The waterfront promenade and Doria Castle sit just steps away. Across the harbor, Palmaria Island rises from the Ligurian Sea.
The rooms
Irregular layouts reflect the building's monastic past, and many rooms open onto balconies looking out to sea.
The spa
The spa has a Turkish bath and dry sauna, and treatments use Italian botanical cosmetics from Mei.
Palmaria Restaurant
Tables inside the glass veranda look straight across the harbor, with a menu focused on fresh Ligurian seafood.
At the table
Cocktails are shaken beneath original brick vaulting, and candlelit terrace tables face the water at dusk.
How it began
The 1616 Franciscan convent served as a military hospital through both world wars, even as the friars remained in residence.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.