Florence always makes me happy! I lived here for a year in the late 80’s and have been back at least a dozen times since. The city remains true to its impressive 15th century architecture, proud Florentine style, and mind-blowing Renaissance art.
Here is my view from my home at the wonderful Il Saliviatino hotel, located in the hills of Fiesole overlooking this magical city.
Il Salviatino is an historic renaissance villa that stands above the city of Florence and is a perfect perch for relaxation and views with the city center just 10 minutes away. I’ll be honest, Florence is one of those cities that sadly has become victim to being Over-Touristed and staying in Fiesole is one trick to enjoying your stay in this sophisticated paradise without being overcome by the hordes of visitors.
The breathtaking view from my room.
My gorgeous room with welcome amenities, frescoes, and a mini bar. So Italian!
A quick 10 minute drive takes me to the heart of Florence. I could walk for hours and hours on its tiny streets, people-watching, getting lost, but always stumbling upon the Duomo, that is the only structure that jets above the rest of the renaissance buildings.
A highlight of my stay in Florence was participating in a fantastic cooking class where we created a fantastic dinner – A highly suggested evening!
One of the most impressive parts of this trip was the private visit to Casa Buonarotti, the former home of Michelangelo where we had an exclusive viewing by a renowned curator of Michelangelo’s original drawings! Absolutely mind-blowing and I can arrange this for my clients too!
Every trip involves research and in the city center I did site inspections of some of my clients favorite hotels.
HOTEL LUNGARNO – is a classic property located on the Ultrarno (the opposite side of the Arno) and definitely the place to be in order to avoid the throngs of tourists. If you stay on the Ultrarno you will also have access to many of the best restaurants frequented by locals. View of the Arno and the Ponte Vecchio are terrific from this quaint property.
PORTRAIT FIRENZE – Cross the Ponte Vecchio on the city center side of the Arno River, you will find the sister property to the Lungarno Hotel, the Portrait Firenze. The Portrait is a very contemporary and chic property for those seeking a modern touch, it’s ideal for families with sizable suites, interconnecting rooms and plenty of space.
Both properties are owned by the Ferragamo Family and include entrance to the Ferragamo Shoe Museum.
THE SAVOY – I happened to be in town on the day the famous Savoy hotel reopened after a long closure and full renovation. It is modern and lovely and exceptionally well located at the fashionable Piazza della Republica!
Yes, this is the view from the top suite at the Savoy! Breathtaking Firenze, you make me smile. How do you maintain your composure and grace after so many years?!
