Hotel Hermitage

Things are homey and traditional at the family-owned Hotel Hermitage, situated two minutes on foot from Ponte Vecchio. Above a cafe and gelato shop, the six-story hotel has a buttercup-yellow exterior with bright-green shutters that makes for a cheerful arrival. The unusual layout means the front desk is on the top floor, but a short flight of stairs to an elevator means reaching it (and rooms) is easy. Expect antiques and old-fashioned decor throughout, particularly in the adjacent Library Lounge that has views of the Arno River and its ancient bridge. The living room-style space has pink-fabric sofas, hardwood floors topped by antique rugs, a wooden dresser displaying a liquor collection, and green walls and drapes. Gilded mirrors and wall sconces add period touches, and an exposed-brick fireplace is cozy. 

It's a pleasant spot to have a drink and take in the view, though most guests prefer to head up to the rooftop terrace when weather permits. Furnished with tables, chairs, and sunbeds around trellis greenery and lime trees, the terrace has beautiful views of the Ponte Vecchio and city rooftops. The atmosphere is largely relaxed, but street noise can be heard from rooms. Note that the front desk isn't staffed 24/7.

On the banks of the River Arno, the hotel is in Florence's historic center, just a two-minute walk from Ponte Vecchio. The hotel is on a quiet street, one block from the Uffizi Gallery and around the corner from the Palazzo Vecchio, which overlooks Piazza della Signorina. Michelangelo's "David" at the Galleria dell'Accademia is a 15-minute walk, as is the main Santa Maria Novella train station. Cultural center Palazzo Strozzi, the National Museum of Bargello, and famed "Duomo" are all within a seven-minute walk. It's a 10-minute walk for the lively markets of San Lorenzo and Mercato Centrale. Florence Airport is a 20-minute drive (or 30 minutes by public transport) and the hotel can organize airport pick-up (at a fee).

On the dated side but with old-fashioned charm, rooms are decent-sized for Florence and range from Singles to Quads. Decor varies a bit by room, but expect hardwood floors topped with traditional rugs, gold bedspreads, fabric headboards with matching drapes, and frilly patterned wallpaper in often pink or blue hues. Antique furniture, gilded touches, and homey artwork add a cozy feel. Unfortunately, some guests have complained of late-night noise from the nearby piazza and rooms lack both fridges and kettles. However, all have desks and chairs, plenty of storage space, air-conditioning, and safes. Views are mostly of the courtyard and street, though some offer river views -- Superior Rooms guarantee river views and have whirlpool tubs. 

Bathrooms are all en-suite, and Singles have self-contained showers in the bedroom areas. Separate bathrooms are white or cream-tiled, outfitted with showers or jetted tubs, plus toiletries and small wall-mounted hairdryers.

Hotel Hermitage's standout feature is its rooftop terrace with lovely views of the Ponte Vecchio bridge and city skyline. Dining sets and sunbeds make it suitable for an evening drink, sunbathing, or breakfast in warm weather. Breakfast is also served in a charming room with lots of windows, pink walls housing framed artwork, and white-clothed tables. The free continental buffet spread consists of cold meats and cheeses, breads and pastries, jams, and fresh fruit, alongside tea and coffee. Cooked items of bacon and made-to-order eggs are available at a surcharge. Wi-Fi is free in all areas and guests are welcome to bring along small pets for free.

There are no wellness facilities or full restaurant here, but numerous eateries are nearby.