With its clever combination of classic and modern decor, this superior four star hotel is placed in the centre of the city close to all the best shops, restaurants and attractions. Elegant and individual design ensures a memorable stay at this hotel and when this is coupled with the excellent facilities and service, then you have yourself an all round winner. The hotel bar is a charmingly relaxed place for a pre or post dinner drink and the staff are delightful. With pay per use parking, free lobby WiFi, a city tour desk, a concierge and night porter service all the essential are taken care of.
All the lovely guestrooms feature air conditioning, cable TV, an en suite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities, a safe with note book plug, a telephone, a high speed internet connection, a hair dryer and well stocked mini bar.
Our top picks in the local area
For families
The Gelateria Santa Trinita serves some excellent child friendly flavours of this Italian sweet treat, with most kids favourite being their yummy dark chocolate fondant.
For romance
On sunset drenched evenings, locals like to promenade in their finest threads around the Via dei Calzaiuoli and why should you be any exception? Hand in hand wanderings, while people watching and listening to the chatter and street music swelling as you go by is such a simple pleasure but also very romantic one.
For culture
Giotto’s Bell Tower allows you to do and see many things during a tour of it. From the magnificent sculptural design and decoration, to the unrivalled views from its lofty heights, it is well worth the entrance fee. Of course, to gain the benefit of the views you must climb up over 400 steps to the top, but the vistas over the city and particularly of the Duomo is quite staggering, especially at sunset. There are several separate levels inside at which you can admire the quality of the stonework inside and catch your breath as you make your way skywards.
For shopping
The largest market in Florence is at the Cascine, located outside the city walls, just west of the city centre. It’s open every Tuesday from 8 am until lunchtime, and you’ll find everything on sale from animals to pans and hats to bicycles.
For eating out
If you have a hankering for pizza on a budget then head straight for Gusta Pizza. Real food for the soul is sold here and the toppings on the pizzas sing to your taste buds in both their simplicity and creativity. Amazing!
For nightlife
For ballet fans, the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino is the only venue you will want to go to. Performances run through the year but during the city’s dance festival things really hot up.
