Reviews of Villa Dolce Vita
Self catering villa in Praiano, Amalfi Coast, Italy, with our best price guarantee!
Jeanne M.
Bluffton, SC
United States
VERIFIED
I would stay here again in a minute
May 2024 - Villa Dolce Vita exceeded my expectations! Every room has an amazing view. The villa was clean and elegantly decorated. The kitchen was well stocked for eating in. The pool-hot tub area was great for hanging out. The patio accommodates many for eating, lounging and hanging out. I would stay here again in a minute.
It's perfect!
Summer In Italy took care of all my needs!
Travel tips
- Many places to eat, shop for food, limoncello and Italian pottery.
Joseph T.
Pensacola
United States
VERIFIED
Beautiful house, spectacular views
November 2023 - It was perfect for our family of 7 adults and 3 children. Everyone enjoyed the comfortable living area and the outdoor terrace. The views were spectacular.
The house is beautiful. Francesco [the caretaker] came every day to clean the pool and make sure everything was in order.
We had a great experience with the Summer In Italy company. When our first villa was cancelled, Luca helped us find another villa that would be suitable for our group.
Travel tips
- The whole Amalfi Coast is beautiful. We found it very easy to use the bus service from the villa to go to all the towns from Sorrento to Salerno.
Robert A.
Doylestown, PA
United States
VERIFIED
Beautiful with unbelievable views
July 2023 - Villa Dolce Vita is beautiful, large enough for our extended family of 15, in the lovely and quaint town of Praiano with the most unbelievable direct view of the Mediterranean Sea from all locations.
After spending the day touring the Amalfi coast we would return to the villa to use the pool and then relax with drinks in one of the many outdoor sitting areas. Our grandchildren also enjoyed more than their share of plums from the plum tree. It was also a perfect location for us to explore nearby towns like Ravello and Positano.
Your concierge, Giovanna, went above and beyond to assist us with making reservations and giving suggestions. She also connected my wife with her mother's cousin which was a wonderful meeting and we went to mass at the church right there where my wife's father was baptized.
Travel tips
- Bar Del Sole - Cafe with sandwiches, pastries, gelato and COFFEE, it was our daily start of the day stop
- Cafe Mirante - focused on Aperitifs with some of the best Lemon Spritzes, strategically located on the steps to the beach. Our family was a frequent visitor here.
- La Dolce Vista - great Italian restaurant with with wonderful food and service and some of the nicest proprietors. We came to realize that there was a family connection with them.
- There is a wonderful pizzeria (name eludes me) next to the villa, great for takeout.
- Our family also spent a day on boats touring the Mediterranean for a day with a wonderful lunch stop in Nerano, time eating and shopping in Positano and part of our group did a cooking class in Sorrento.
Fiona M.
Stirling
United Kingdom
VERIFIED
Plenty of space, great terrace and garden
September 2022 - We were a family of 9 people, 2 generations of adults celebrating a special occasion. The best part for us was the roof terrace where we could gather to eat, play games, listen to music. The roof terrace is very well equipped and the views are spectacular. The garden is also a great gathering space with plenty good seating for all and space to stay out of the sun if we wanted. The living areas were very modern and spacious while the kitchen and bathrooms were more traditional. We felt there was plenty space for us all. The property garden and terrace were well maintained daily by Franco [the caretaker]. The seating and facilities in the garden were excellent.
Summer In Italy were excellent. Their communication was prompt throughout and the information they sent for our arrival was comprehensive and clear. Any questions we had about the property or the area were answered so quickly. I would certainly use Summer In Italy again and can definitely recommend them.
Travel tips
- Praiano is great little town with a more peaceful feeling - although has easy access by bus to Positano and Amalfi. Explore the little side streets and upper part of the town looking for the great bars and restaurants
Gabriela G.
Ciudad de México
Mexico
VERIFIED
Super villa!
July 2022 - Great location in Praiano. Lots of space and great attention!
Travel tips
- Stop at the bar before heading up and down the stairs!
Celeste L.
Lookout Mountain, Tennessee
United States
VERIFIED
Perfect home in a fabulous location.
June 2022 - This was my favorite week of our 4 weeks in Italy. The home was perfect for our two families. We loved sitting out on the patio every night enjoying the amazing view. The pool was great for cooling off each day.
We loved the town of Praiano, it had all the charm of the Amalfi coast but not the crowds. The location was fabulous, we could walk to a local grocery, bars and restaurants.
Giovanna the house manager was amazing help us set up transportation, tours and a in house chef one night.
We would definitely love to stay here again.
Summer in Italy was great facilitating the house rental. I would rent through them again.
James D.
Whitehouse Station, NJ
United States
VERIFIED
Every room better than the next and the villa was very spacious and super clean!
September 2019 - We took a family vacation (15 of us!) and stayed at Villa Dolce Vita in September. Villa Dolce Vita exceeded our expectations and was even more beautiful than the pictures.
Every room better than the next and the villa was very spacious and super clean! And the washing machine came very handy! Most of our time was spent down at the pool or on the terrace enjoying the breathtaking views.
Villa Dolce Vita could not be a better location! It is located right below the center of town which has a bunch of different restaurants and shops. Many nights didn't even leave Praiano and dined at the restaurants right in town. We liked that Praiano was small and quiet, yet vert accessible and close to neighboring towns.
We would definitely recommend Villa Dolce Vita!
Renee and Franco (the housekeeper and groundskeeper) were wonderful! They were so nice and helpful and took care any request that we had.
Travel tips
- We arranged with the owners a private chef come to the house one night which was amazing - it was so nicely done - from the food selection to the table decor. We also stayed in one night and grilled up items that we brought from the butcher shop in town.
- Our stay at Villa Dolce Vita coincided with the San Gennaro Festival which was an added bonus. We got to enjoyed music and a really great firework display.
- Our group took day trips to Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi.
- We also went to One Fire Beach which is beautiful - but quite a hike to get to.
- We stopped in at the limoncello store/factory which was right in town (Il Gusto della Costa) and got lesson on how limoncello is made!
Michael C.
Georgetown, SC
United States
VERIFIED
Our second visit!
August 2019 - This was our second visit to Villa Dolce Vita, so it says a lot that we would want to come back to the same villa for another vacation.
The home is very well maintained, the location is excellent for exploring Praiano, local shopping or for walking down to the beach. The views are exceptional and there is a feeling of just being "home" when you stay at this villa. Love visiting Praiano and enjoy the peacefulness of Villa Dolce Vita.
SummerInItaly makes the rental process easy and trouble free. My first call when I plan my return to Italy.
Travel tips
- One Fire is a great time, Cafe Murata is conveniently located on the way the the beach.
- Local merchants are very friendly. The market is in walking distance, great restaurants within walking distance and scenic views that can't be matched.
Fiona B.
George Town
Cayman Islands
VERIFIED
Our stay at Villa Dolce Vita was wonderful
July 2019 - Our stay at Villa Dolce Vita was wonderful. The villa itself is beautiful and spotlessly clean, and the location is very good, close to shops and restaurants.
The bedrooms are large and well furnished. The kitchen has everything we could have wanted. The large terrace has stunning views and was a perfect spot to relax in every evening after a busy day exploring the area. With the lovely pool and garden there was lots of space for everyone.
Franco and Renee [the caretakers] were very helpful.
10 out of 10 from us.
The staff at Summer In Italy were very helpful indeed.
Jacquie N.
Asheville, NC
United States
VERIFIED
We are already planning a repeat vacation!
June 2019 - Villa Dolce Vita was picture perfection. What I viewed online and what I experienced upon arrival was an overwhelming grand surprise.
My group was totally satisfied and still raving about their stay. We are already planning a repeat vacation!
I have no complaints and was quite pleased with the service received and personal attention given to me.
Travel tips
- All of the cozy and quaint local restaurants were wonderful.
- Shopping at the local markets and especially the butcher shop was pure joy.
- Getting a taxi is not always easy but the local bus is convenient.
- Do not miss going to Marina di Praia Beach.
Terri M.
Sylvania, Ohio
United States
VERIFIED
Excellent
June 2019 - We enjoyed relaxing around the pool and the incredible view!!!
Summer In Italy was wonderful!! They answered emails right away and had great ideas for things to do. Very helpful and easy to book the villa. We would definitely use them again!
Travel tips
- We went to Amalfi for the day, great shopping and restaurants.
- Also, chartered a boat for the day, was incredible!!!
Michael Z.
Crown Point, IN
United States
VERIFIED
Great location and villa
June 2019 - Great location and nice villa. The outdoor space/patio/terrace for dinner is excellent.
We will always use Summer in Italy as our choice since they have been fabulous each time we have come to the Amalfi Coast.
Travel tips
- We recommend Bar Del Sole for coffee and La Strada Ristorante for dinner as two good choice which are close in town.
Abhishek S.
Navi Mumbai
India
VERIFIED
Excellent
May 2019 - Yes we were Family of 15, we enjoyed a lot. Caretaker and owner were of great help to us.
We will strongly recommend if you are in Amalfi, do stay at Praiano - Villa Dolce Vita.
Summerinitaly has given us the best service. >We strongly recommend if you are looking for holidays in Italy, do book through Summerinitaly.
Amy R.
Valparaiso
United States
VERIFIED
We had an amazing time and LOVED Villa Dolce Vita
October 2018 - Just returned from a week stay in Villa Dolce Vita (Oct. 13-20th, 2018). Our group of eight ladies from Chicago. We had an amazing time and LOVED Villa Dolce Vita. A beautiful villa with an awe inspired outdoor space from the PANORAMIC view of the sea to the lovely pool (which we did use as our weather was beautiful) as well as the hot tub. The bedrooms are quite spacious each with their own view as so tastefully decorated. The kitchen is WELL EQUIPPED with all you will need including 2 refrigerators! Bathrooms were awesome as well with GREAT water pressure! The washer came in very handy during the week.
Villa Dolce Vita is very spacious. We never seemed cramped. Book this villa... You will be so pleased! Worth the price!
Renee [housekeeper] was very nice and working with Summer In Italy was just a pleasure.
Summer In Italy was great to work with. Very organized and attentive to our needs. I would book with no one else but Summer In Italy for our next trip!
Travel tips
- Praiano is a great home base and only about 5 miles from Positano (we went twice!).
- The main street of Praiano has quite a few restaurants and a couple grocery type stores.
- The bus stop is located right there too. Although we didn't think the bus system was too convenient as far as purchasing tickets as well as the bus scheduling not being dependable so we walked or took cabs.
- Keep in mind, the villa has steps inside to get to each floor where the bedrooms are as well as about 30 steps up and down getting to the main street but so worth it!
Robert V.
Applecross
Australia
VERIFIED
Excellent
September 2018 - Villa Dolce Vita was beautiful. Very convenient between Positano and Amalfi good public transport. We liked having the opportunity to get out of the extremely busy bigger towns.
Travel tips
- Go buy your own bread, cheese, cold meats and tomatoes have them at the villa.
- Take a boat trip for the day. We could have bypassed landing on island of Capri though.
- Positano was great.
- Amalfi was very hectic, not pleasant at all.
Cheryl L.
York, PA
United States
VERIFIED
We absolutely loved our stay at Villa Dolce Vita!
July 2018 - We absolutely loved our stay at Villa Dolce Vita! Conveniently located, Villa Dolce Vita offered a local small grocery store within easy walking distance and several restaurants. The villa is so perfectly located with the most beautiful panoramic views. We enjoyed our evening dinners on the terrace, which has several large tables and comfortable patio furniture. The pool was cleaned daily and was so refreshing. Our stay in this beautiful villa was simply splendid. I would book this villa in a heartbeat, the bedrooms, baths, living spaces and kitchen were all very tastefully decorated and extremely efficient. If you are looking for a large space for a large group, Villa Dolce Vita is perfect!
Franco, the groundskeeper and Renee, the housekeeper, are available to assist with any questions.
We loved Summer In Italy! We were truly appreciative of the price accommodation and excellent response time to our questions and needs. Thank you Luca and Summer In Italy for excellent accommodations and communications. We will certainly use Summer In Italy again!
Travel tips
- The local grocery store at the top of the steps, Bar del Sole, the local ceramic shop, the Amalfi Lemon Tour, the boat trip to Capri, a cooking class with Marina in Cucina, the convenience of transports (arranged by Renee) and the local pizzeria are just a few of the highlights we enjoyed.
Celia C.
La Mirada, California
United States
VERIFIED
We had a wonderful stay at Villa Dolce Vita
June 2018 - We had a wonderful stay at Villa Dolce Vita.
Renee and Franco [the caretakers] were so helpful and friendly.
It was the first time using Summer In Italy, but would not hesitate to recommend and/or use your company again. Everyone was extremely helpful and friendly.
Arun K. D.
Potomac, Maryland
United States
VERIFIED
Villa Dolce Vita lived up to our expectations
June 2018 - We visited from the USA. Villa Dolce Vita lived up to our expectations. The villa as well as the furnishings were all quite fresh and clean. We visited with our family of 10 including two young grand-kids. It was for a special family event. While we went out every day for sight seeing, lunches and dinners, we spent several evenings at home to enjoy the beautiful terrace, and have relaxed leisurely dinners on the terrace. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Villa Dolce Vita which enhanced our vacation.
The highlight was the Amalfi dinner freshly prepared by a chef arranged by the caretakers Renee and Franco, and served on a beautifully laid out table on the terrace. They also took care of the clean-up afterwards. Additionally, they arranged at our request, for daily cleaning/freshening service of the villa. They were very friendly, helpful and eager to please.
We found out about Summer In Italy through a friend who had rented through them several times. This was our second visit to the Amalfi Coast within three years. First visit we stayed at a villa in Positano. This time we chose Praiano. Both times the villa rental was arranged through Summer In Italy. They are real pros. Their web site photos are very good and descriptions are quite accurate and reliable. Basically, you get what you see. This is significant because anything can be made to look better than it is in color photos. They are very good to deal with, phone calls and emails are promptly responded to. The additional information re restaurants, sightseeing, and other services and tips provided after the villa is booked are very helpful. We hope to book through them again and have also referred them to our friends.
Travel tips
- The location is excellent with grocery and wine stores, pharmacy and taxi service within short walking distance, as well as cafes and good restaurants.
Laura H.
San Diego, CA
United States
VERIFIED
We had the best and most magical stay at Villa Dolce Vita!
May 2018 - We had the best and most magical stay at Villa Dolce Vita! The location was perfect and it is a beautiful home! The best part was having our wedding at the villa.
The caretakers and owner went above and beyond to make our day amazing and the food the chef cooked at the villa was amazing! Could not thank them enough for all they did for us! Everything was outstanding!!
I worked directly with Melanie at Summer In Italy and she was amazing! She responded to all of my many emails in a timely manner and was really a great asset for helping me plan our wedding at the villa! Without her help our wedding would have been extremely difficult to plan!
“Future guests, please contact us if you are considering having a wedding reception at Villa Dolce Vita as we need to make special arrangements for you!! „
Travel tips
- We all went to Bar Del Sole every day for coffee and breakfast and even at night for cocktails. The staff there is amazing!
- We loved taking the long walk down to the One Fire Beach bar and on the way back up the hill stopped at the bar that overlooks Praiano for one of the best mojitos we have ever had!
Darla D.
Orlando
United States
VERIFIED
The perfect spot for our family!
May 2018 - Villa Dolce Vita was the perfect spot for our family! The layout of the home provides space and privacy while the outdoor terrace became our social spot for meals. The villa itself was clean, modern and included all of the essentials. Our group thoroughly enjoyed our stay and were extremely impressed!
I highly recommend this location as it's not in the middle of a tourist area rather an easy taxi ride to either Positano or Amalfi.
The booking process was extremely easy and efficient!
Travel tips
- The villa like all of Amalfi Coast does require a bit of walking and stairs! Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a steep staircase to reach the main road.
- A market was close by including restaurants and a taxi stand.
- Restaurant La Strada was a favorite!
Cheri H.
Plymouth, Wisconsin
United States
VERIFIED
Perfect for our group
October 2017 - Villa Dolce Vita was perfect for our group. We were a group of 11 from Wisconsin, we were there last week of October and had beautiful weather and sunsets from our terrace, some even enjoyed the pool. We had everything we needed, washing machine, dishwasher, big spacious bedrooms and nice bathrooms, and the location was perfect to explore the nearby towns. Take advantage of the local bus system it can get you everywhere you need to go.
Our group arrived at different times and the property manager was so great to meet everyone and let them drop luggage.
I cannot say enough good things about the group at Summer In Italy, they communicated so well during the booking process and with questions we had. They checked in with us one month before, 2 weeks before, the week before, and the day before... Offering to help arrange with everything they could. They also communicated with the owners about our crazy arrival times. When we go back to Italy we will be sure to use Summer In Italy again!
Travel tips
- Take advantage of the local businesses, they all were wonderful from the market to restaurants to transportation.
Michael C.
Georgetown, SC
United States
VERIFIED
The views from the terrace are exceptional!
August 2017 - The views from the terrace are exceptional! The location is convenient to the beach and to local merchants and restaurants. Although there are steps down to the villa and up to the piazza, it is the small price you pay to look out on the most amazing sunsets, Capri and Positano.
Rooms are good size and the house does not feel crowded at all; even with a large group. We had 15 people and everyone had space and some degree of privacy. The configuration of the home with bedrooms on multiple levels and 2 bedrooms detached from the main house facilitates privacy and help aid noise control. The kitchen is large enough to allow multiple people to work in it for meal preparation without tripping over each other. A better coffee maker would be a welcome addition. There were plenty of plates, glasses, utensils and cookware. There are two refrigerators, which is a nice feature. There are two washing machines in a separate utility room and we found this to be very convenient. The pool is just big enough and well maintained. The outside patio area around the pool allows for plenty of lounging space.
Rene the housekeeper and Franco the caretaker are very pleasant and made us feel completely at home. Both were available when needed and answered questions about the house and navigating Praiano.
I found Summer In Italy team to be very responsive, friendly and cooperative. My emails were answered in prompt fashion and they were very helpful when needed (for example, my daughter needed an urgent care doctor for an ear infection, so I sent an email to Melanie and received a response that same night - after 9:00 pm! - with the location of the local doctor. I would use you again and actually plan to rent in the same area in 2019.
Travel tips
- There is a little market and cab stand on the main street accessible in a 5-minute walk.
- You must stop at Caffè Mirante on the way to the beach. It is family owned and operated and they make the best specialty cocktails.
- Two restaurants we particularly enjoyed are a few minutes walk from the top of the stairs leading to the villa: Restaurant Hotel Smeraldo and Restaurant La Strada. The views, air conditioning, service and food at Restaurant Hotel Smeraldo made it my favorite fine dining experience.
A. D.
Toronto
Canada
VERIFIED
Absolutely perfect for our needs
July 2017 - Our family (group of 14 - adults and young kids) had a fantastic time at Villa Dolce Vita! The villa was absolutely perfect for our needs. Beautiful, spacious bedrooms, plenty of bathrooms, great kitchen, and everything nice and clean. Incredible terrace with a stunning view that we enjoyed day and evening, jacuzzi on the terrace, and the perfect pool for a refreshing swim after our days exploring the Amalfi Coast. The villa had plenty of beautiful outdoor furniture to make the terrace and poolside comfortable for a group our size to enjoy. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend this place.
Summer in Italy was fantastic throughout the whole process, and I would definitely use Summer in Italy again. Professionalism from start to finish. Prompt response to my initial inquiry, always answered my questions promptly, professional booking process - can't say enough good things. Keep up the good work!
Travel tips
- The location in Praiano was perfect... Close to restaurants and local markets and close to the bus stop.
- Praiano was much less crowded than Positano, so very, very pleasant, with great restaurants. There was also the perfect little cafe/bar on the way down to the water, where we enjoyed some incredible mojitos made with Amalfi coast lemons!
Antony L.
Pentwyn
United Kingdom
VERIFIED
Totally exceeded our expectations
June 2017 - What a beautiful Villa. Totally exceeded our expectations. Woke up every morning and was blown away by the beauty. Would recommend highly!!!
Fantastic!!! Would use Summer In Italy again.
Travel tips
- The water from the tap doesn't get very cold so stock up on water and pop it in the fridge.
- Victoria in the little boat hire shop is amazing!!! Speak with her about trips.
- Bar Del Sole is the perfect place to end your night.
Martha O.
Indianapolis, Indiana
United States
VERIFIED
We absolutely loved Villa Dolce Vita
April 2017 - We absolutely loved Villa Dolce Vita. It was an excellent villa for a large group of people. We were very comfortable and never felt cramped.
The care keeper, Franco and Renee, the house cleaner were wonderful people. They made us feel welcome and were very helpful. The neighbors were equally nice and friendly.
Summer In Italy were great to work with in organizing this trip. I would definitely book with them again in the future. Any questions I had they answered.
Travel tips
- Che Bontà restaurant is excellent. But really every restaurant was good.
- The people in Praiano were wonderful.
- There are two groceries and a taxi service on the main street. The owners are Gennarino, wonderful man, and his great nephew, Rosario got us around to the various town near us. The price for the restaurant and taxi service were very reasonable.
Nicole P.
Houston, TX
United States
VERIFIED
We had a phenomenal stay!
September 2016 - We enjoyed Villa Dolce Vita so much. Everything about the villa was fantastic - we had a phenomenal stay!
The owner and groundskeeper went out of their way for us and were absolutely wonderful.
Stephanie W.
Victoria
Australia
VERIFIED
A very lovely villa
July 2016 - Villa Dolce Vita was a very lovely villa and super handy for a large amount of friends and family. We all had our own private spaces as well as the ability to fit all together in the larger communal spaces when required!
Paul C.
Danbury
United Kingdom
VERIFIED
Excellent location
June 2016 - Excellent location, in the heart of Praiano but down a quiet side alley with wonderful views. A large clean property on 3 levels with the garden and pool leading off one of the bedrooms on the base level (shared access stairs also). Although there were next door neighbours, it felt very secure and safe. Great patio area and we spent most of our time looking out to sea. The pool area could do with some work to the garden, grass was very long and trees need pruning/shaping but it did feel very safe for our young children. I would recommend this property as a good base to view the Amalfi Coast.
Very friendly and helpful local staff.
Excellent service from Summer In Italy. Thank you.
Travel tips
- Speak to the caretaker about organising groceries to be delivered from nearby mini market. Excellent service and saves the legwork as lots of steps.
- We didn't use road at all as we loved the alley walks down to the beach and Praiano village, lots of steps but excellent views.
- Hired water taxis to explore all areas, kids loved it.
- Great food at Restaurant La Strada and Restaurant Il Parata.
- Loved the small bar down alley en route to beach, fab mojitos.
Rubiah Abdul S.
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
VERIFIED
Very good
September 2015 - Our family had an enjoyable holiday, Villa Dolce Vita was adequate for our big group. We spent lovely times on the terrace, the only issue were the mosquitoes.
The owner was very helpful and attentive to our needs.
Happy with the friendly and helpful service from Summer In Italy.
Diona B.
Chattanooga, TN
United States
VERIFIED
Excellent
September 2015 - Villa Dolce Vita was beautiful. Great location with great access to market, restaurants and bus line. Lots of steps but to be expected in area.
Worked very well for our large group of 14. Kitchen was well stocked for cooking. Terraces were great for outdoor dinners and relaxation.
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