Hotel Villa Argentina

With a stone foundation and yellow stucco facade, this charming little three-story place fits right in with its hillside setting. Flowers grow in baskets across the front, and an awning shades the sliding glass front doors. Once inside, the reception area is a cozy space, with a black-and-white tile floor, potted plants, and a comfy blue sectional sofa where guests can hang out. It's all a bit dated and humble, but that doesn't bother most previous guests. A variety of artwork hangs on the walls, and old wine bottles are on display above the reception desk. The lovely terrace is a popular place for taking in the views of the sea and the hillside. It has cafe tables and chairs for seating shaded by umbrellas. Potted plants on the tables add to the charm. The atmosphere throughout the property is quiet and relaxed. It's especially appealing to couples, but families, groups, and solo travelers also make their way here to take advantage of its excellent location. 

This hotel is perched on a hillside in the lovely village of Riomaggiore, one of the five towns in the Cinque Terre. Thanks to the hotel's hillside location overlooking the Ligurian Sea, guests can take in beautiful views of the sea and the village. It's a short walk from the city center and a 10-minute walk from the local train station. Other towns in the Cinque Terre are easily reached by boat or train. La Spezia is about a 20-minute car or train ride away. The hotel is reached via a private road passable only by residents and hotel guests, and it actually has parking on-site, which is unusual in this area. Pisa International Airport is about two and a half hours away by train, or an hour and 15 minutes by car. Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is two hours and 45 minutes away by train, or an hour and 35 minutes by car. 

Rooms are small and basic, with a style that's dated. Still, they are well kept and decor includes tile floors, white walls, white and wood-tone furniture, and old-style blue bedspreads. A few pieces of colorful art hang on the walls, livening up the look just a touch. Flat-screen TVs are mounted on the wall, and small safes are tucked into wardrobes. Ceiling fans supplement the air-conditioning, which comes in handy after days spent hiking in the warm summer months. Free Wi-Fi is also available in the rooms, though it doesn't work in all of them. Bathrooms also are small, with tiled showers, bidets, towel warmers, hairdryers, and toiletries. Some rooms have balconies with beautiful views of the hillside and sea. 

Like most of its value competition in town, features are limited here and most guests spend their days out hiking or exploring. A breakfast buffet with yogurt, fruits, pastries, cereals, and jam is served daily in the breakfast room, and eggs can be cooked to order. Guests also can have breakfast delivered to their rooms. Unfortunately, it's not part of the room rates, unlike other properties in town. The breakfast room is a cheerful space with a brightly colored abstract mural on the walls, black-and-white tile floors, and blue tablecloths. It also has a small bar. A desk in the corner provides a computer for guests to use, and books are available as well. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. On-site parking is available, which is unusual in this area. Pets are allowed at no charge.