WHERE TO STAY - Florence and Tuscany - page 246

OLTRARNO Istituto Gould

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Via dei Serragli 49, 50100 Tel [phone] Fax [phone] Rooms 41 Map 3 B2
The combination of unbelievably low rates with their contribution to a good cause (disadvantaged children), makes it
easier to fully appreciate this sparsely furnished hostel-like outfit. The rooms are spotless, and the gardens make for a
very attractive view. Ideal for those who want safety and basic comfort on a tight budget. www.istitutogould.it
OLTRARNO Hotel Annalena

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Via Romana 34, 50125 Tel [phone] Fax [phone] Rooms 20 Map 3 B2
Opposite the Boboli Gardens, and on the second floor of a 15th-century palazzo (once a convent), this pensione has
a fascinating history. The single and double rooms come with their own little terrace. Rooms are decorated with
antique pieces. The atmospheric hotel prides itself on its Florentine authenticity. www.hotelannalena.it
OLTRARNO Pitti Palace

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Borgo San Jacopo 3, 50125 Tel [phone] Fax [phone] Rooms 72 Map 3 C1
As close to the Ponte Vecchio as you can get, this hotel is in a modernised 13th-century tower, with two terraces on
the sixth floor. You can soak in the splendid vista of the city and the Boboli Gardens as you enjoy breakfast. Small
and functional, but well-priced for such a good location. Try to book the top-floor suite. www.vivahotels.com
OLTRARNO Sorelle Bandini

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Piazza Santo Spirito 9, 50125 Tel [phone] Rooms 13 Map 5 B5
This historic building might be considered shabby, but its unbeatable location makes it a popular choice. There are
13 rooms but only five come with a private bathroom. The romantic loggia overlooks all the action in the square
below. Zeffirelli's Tea with Mussolini (1999) was shot here, a testament to the beauty of the place.
OLTRARNO Villa Betania

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Viale del Poggio Imperiale 23, 50125 Tel [phone] Fax [phone] Rooms 20 Map 3 A4
This family-run hotel has been warmly welcoming guests since 1945. Set in its own lush grounds, the southern city
gate of Porta Romana is only a 10-minute walk downhill. The rooms are quiet, elegant and offer excellent value.
Private parking and a regular bus service make it a convenient base. Superior breakfast. www.villabetania.it
OLTRARNO Hotel Silla

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Via de'Renai 5, 50100 Tel [phone] Fax [phone] Rooms 35 Map 6 F5
Located in a beautiful 16th-century building, this family-run hotel on the Oltrarno side of the river is reached through
an elegant courtyard. A grand staircase leads to the first floor. The rooms and decor are a delight, and the staff are
friendly. Guests can enjoy the terrace which overlooks the river. www.hotelsilla.it
OLTRARNO Marignolle Relais & Charme

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Via di San Quirichino a Marignolle16, 50124 Tel [phone] Fax [phone] Rooms 6
Located just off the Via Senese, this is an ideal location for those who want to explore the Chianti countryside, and
perhaps play a little golf, while still being able to spend time in Florence. The large rooms are decorated impeccably,
and the terrace offers breathtaking views of the city. The pool is set in a delightful garden. www.marignolle.com
OLTRARNO Lungarno

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Borgo San Jacopo 14, 50125 Tel [phone] Fax [phone] Rooms 73 Map 5 C4
This boutique hotel sports a crisp and cool look that is refreshing to the eye. Many of the rooms have their own
terraces jutting out over the river, offering great views of the Ponte Vecchio. Some rooms are in an adjacent medieval
tower, while the Lungarno Suites across the river are available for longer stays. www.lungarnohotels.com
OLTRARNO Palazzo Magnani Feroni

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Borgo San Frediano 5, 50124 Tel [phone] Fax [phone] Rooms 13 Map 5 A3
On the Oltrarno side of the river, this 16th-century palazzo features massive halls and a sweeping staircase. Large
bedrooms and sitting rooms fitted with chandeliers and Renaissance-style furniture. The billiard room and rooftop
terrace add to its appeal. Two apartments are available for rent by the week. www.palazzomagnaniferoni.com
FURTHER AFIELD Pensione Bencistà

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Via Benedetto da Maiano 4, 50014 Tel/Fax [phone] Rooms 40
Choose between full board, half board or just breakfast in this 1500s villa-turned-hotel. However, the place is so
welcoming, and the views so lovely that people are usually happy to stick around all day. Watch the sun set over the
Florentine countryside from the stone balcony. Advance booking is advisable. www.bencista.com
FURTHER AFIELD Una Hotel Vittoria

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Via Pisana 59, 50143 Tel [phone] Fax [phone] Rooms 85

With bright colours and crazy designs, this is an antidote to the antiques or tasteful contemporary interiors which
characterize most Florence hotels. Rare materials such as mosaics, leather and printed lamé are used in all rooms, and
all have Internet connection and plasma screen TVs. Parking and half-board available. www.unahotels.it
FURTHER AFIELD Riva Lofts

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Via Baccio Bandinelli 98, 50142 Tel [phone] Fax [phone] Rooms 8
This collection of self-contained suites overlooks the river on one side and the Cascine park on the other. The light,
airy rooms feature clean, modern lines with a monochrome theme, and most have a kitchenette. The modern lounge/
breakfast room has an honesty bar with lots to read, and the garden has a pool. Fantastic staff. www.rivalofts.com