Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WHERE TO STAY
Of all Italy's regions,
summer means that standards
are high. Many visitors opt
for self-catering holidays.
Often the accommoda-
tion is a small flat or house
on a farm, and the prices
can prove very reasonable.
Other options include hostels
and dormitories and, for walk-
ing enthusiasts, there are mountain huts
throughout the region. For more infor-
mation on hotels in Florence and Tuscany
see the listings on pages 250-63.
Tuscany has some
of the most charm-
ing places to stay. Inland
these range from ancient
villas to elegant town
houses. Smaller, family-run
establishments excel in their
cuisine and are sometimes filled
with antiques. The major cities also
offer B&B accommodation. Hotels on the
riviera tend to be less distinctive, but
the popularity of coastal resorts in
Sign showing
hotel rating
but this is the peak holiday
season on the coast. Avoid the
city during certain weeks of
January and July when fashion
shows fill the top hotels,
raising low-season prices.
Single room rates are higher
than individual rates for two
people sharing a double
room. Prices include tax and
service. Bear in mind that
accommodation in Florence
and Siena is more expensive
than elsewhere in the region.
HIDDEN EXTRAS
Before making a reservation,
establish whether breakfast is
included in the price. Garage
parking, laundry and snacks
in the hotel or from the
minibar may be pricey and
telephone charges from your
hotel room can be
phenomenal. Check the rates
first if you are concerned.
Some hotels may expect you
to take full- or half-board
during the high season.
Terrace at Hotel Continentale, Florence
(see p251)
WHERE TO LOOK
rich in converted villa hotels,
with excellent regional
restaurants, particularly
around Radda and Gaiole.
Siena's more attractive options
are outside the city, such as
the tiny hamlet of Strove.
Florence has a wide range of
hotels, but prices can be high.
The most attractive locations
are along the north bank of
the Arno, the historic centre
and in nearby Fiesole.
Parking is a problem in the
city centre, so if you have a
car it is best to choose a hotel
which has parking facilities.
Accommodation in central
Pisa is generally sub-standard
but there are some lovely
Tuscan villa hotels a short
drive from the centre.
Though large, Arezzo has
relatively few hotels and
those in the centre are mostly
geared for business people. If
you can, stay outside the
town and travel in to visit
the centre.
The hill towns of central
Tuscany offer a number of
quality villa hotels, manor
houses and even former
palaces. The Chianti region is
HOTEL GRADINGS
AND FACILITIES
Hotels in Italy are classified
by a star-rating system, from
one to five stars. However,
each province sets its own
levels for grading;
consequently, standards for
each category may vary from
one area to another. Some
hotels may not have a
restaurant but those that do
will usually welcome non-
residents to stop by and eat.
Some of the converted
castles and ancient villas are
not air-conditioned, but as the
stone walls are thick the
Street sign showing the direction
and location of hotels
HOTEL PRICES
During the low season
(November to March) prices
are cheaper and often
negotiable. Florence is less
busy than other parts of
Tuscany in July and August,
