Introduction
Italy boasts a stellar healthcare system recognized for excellence in specialties like oncology, neurology, pediatrics, transplant surgery, and university-affiliated care. Here are the nation’s standout hospitals in 2025, celebrated for innovation, expertise, and world-class patient management.
1. Ospedale Niguarda Ca’ Granda – Milan
One of Milan’s largest and most important hospitals, consistently ranked among the top in Italy. Known especially for its exceptional emergency, cardiology, oncology, and orthopedic services. It frequently tops Italy-wide hospital rankings.
2. Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli – Rome
One of Italy’s largest private and academic hospitals, serving over 1,500 beds. It is a major center for colorectal tumors, endocrine and metabolic diseases, neuromuscular disorders, transplants, and innovative surgical therapies.
3. Policlinico Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic – Bologna
Italy’s largest district general hospital, with over 1,500 beds and a strong academic affiliation. It stands out for high-volume transplants and international recognition in cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology.
4. Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù – Rome
The premier tertiary pediatric hospital and research center in Italy, serving children nationally and internationally. It pioneered significant pediatric treatments such as the first-ever permanent artificial heart transplant in a teenager.
5. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta – Milan
A specialized, nonprofit neurological research and teaching hospital, globally renowned for neurology, neurosurgery, brain cancer, neuromuscular care, and advanced neurosurgical simulation.
6. Istituti Ortopedici Rizzoli – Bologna
Italy’s top orthopedic center, focusing on musculoskeletal surgery, orthopedic oncology, and complex trauma care. It is well recognized for its strong legacy in orthopedic research and innovation.
7. Fondazione Poliambulanza – Brescia
Ranked among the top hospitals in Italy for clinical and reputational excellence. It has built a strong reputation for high-quality general and specialized care.
8. Ospedale San Raffaele – Milan
A leading institution in advanced healthcare, San Raffaele is known worldwide for its excellence in cardiology, neurology, oncology, pediatrics, orthopedics, and gastroenterology. It also stands out as one of Italy’s most innovative smart hospitals.
9. Additional Notables
Several Italian hospitals, including Niguarda in Milan, Gemelli in Rome, and San Raffaele in Milan, often rank among the world’s top 100 hospitals, especially in specialized categories. This highlights Italy’s strong international presence in clinical excellence.
Quick Overview Table
| Rank | Hospital | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ospedale Niguarda Ca’ Granda (Milan) | Emergency, cardiology, oncology, multispecialty |
| 2 | Policlinico Gemelli (Rome) | Transplants, neurology, endocrine, advanced therapies |
| 3 | Policlinico Sant’Orsola-Malpighi (Bologna) | Transplants, cardiology, academic excellence |
| 4 | Bambino Gesù Hospital (Rome) | Pediatric referral, transplants, research |
| 5 | Carlo Besta Neurological Institute (Milan) | Neurology, neurosurgery, brain cancer |
| 6 | Istituti Ortopedici Rizzoli (Bologna) | Orthopedics, musculoskeletal surgery |
| 7 | Fondazione Poliambulanza (Brescia) | High-quality general and specialty care |
| 8 | San Raffaele (Milan) | Smart hospital, cardiology, neurology, oncology |
Conclusion
Italy’s top hospitals blend historic legacy, academic strength, and advanced specialization. From Milan’s multispecialty leaders to Bologna’s transplant giants and Rome’s pediatric and research hubs, these institutions represent the very best of Italy’s healthcare excellence in 2025.