Borgo Santi Apostoli 8, 1 minuto a piedi da Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy | (618) 248-8274
Historic 13th-century castle setting
Excellent central location just minutes from Ponte Vecchio and numerous sights
Panoramic views from ancient tower and its terrace
Classical rooms with minibars, AC, toiletries, and TVs
Free continental buffet breakfast with fresh fruit
Wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks served on terrace
Upgraded units have living spaces, plus balconies in some
Free property-wide Wi-Fi
Old-fashioned interiors may be dated to some
City taxes apply, as hotel is a historic building
No-traffic zone makes for tricky car navigation
Wi-Fi is reportedly weak in rooms
No full restaurant or wellness facilities
The mid-range Torre Guelfa Hotel offers 31 classically styled rooms and a central Florence location within a five-minute walk of dozens of sights. Occupying a 13th-century building, the hotel has historic, Old-World interiors with antique furnishings and period touches. Some travelers might find the traditional rooms more dated than charming, but all have flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, and minibars. An elevator goes to rooms, though the ancient tower (one of the oldest and tallest in Florence) is only accessible by steep stairs, however, panoramic views from its terrace are breathtaking and drinks are served here. Free continental breakfast buffets and spotty Wi-Fi round out the limited amenities. Travelers wanting a more contemporary design and additional on-site amenities should consider chic UNA Hotel Vittoria, though it's less central.
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Scene
Former medieval palace with classical interiors and panoramic views from a tower
On a quaint Medieval street in the historic center, the Torre Guelfa's interiors pay homage to its 13th-century origins. Expect antique furnishings under high coffered ceilings, gilded touches on Renaissance art, and plenty of Old-World charm from tapestries and original carved stone. Black-leather seating contrasts pink fabrics in the fifth-floor Lobby Lounge (with an elevator to reach it), while a breakfast room has metal chairs, mint-green walls, and windows that let in lots of light. The real wow factor here, however, is its ancient tower, which is accessed via 72 wooden steps. Visitors say the climb is worth it for the breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Its furnished terrace is great for evening drinks and mingling with guests, most of whom are tourists with a love of all things historic.
Location
Excellent central setting just minutes from top sights
The hotel is primely located in Florence's historic center and ideal for reaching the beautiful piazzas, galleries, and monuments. Strozzi Palace, Orsanmichele Church, Piazza della Signorina (and its Palazzo Vecchio), Piazza della Reppublica, and the Uffizi Gallery are all within a four-minute walk. Bargello Museum is five minutes away, while it's seven minutes to reach the Duomo. Housing the "David" statue, Galleria dell'Accademia is a slightly longer 15-minute walk, as is San Lorenzo's lively market. Visitors are spoiled for dining options, as the surrounding streets are packed with restaurants, bars, and gelaterias. Santa Maria Novella train station is 13 minutes on foot and journeys from Florence Airport take 45 minutes by public transport or 20 minutes by car, although the hotel's street is pedestrian-only and valet services involve storing your vehicle at a parking lot off-site.
Rooms
Old-fashioned rooms with cozy feel and air-conditioning
Individually designed rooms are done in a classical style that some guests may find dated. Expect patterned carpet or wood floors, colorful mint-green, yellow, or pink walls, old-fashioned bedspreads, and artwork. Some rooms have four-poster canopied beds, sleigh couches, or outdoor spaces. Rooms are well-sized, but some can be a bit dark. Some suites have two bedrooms, while Room 315 is the hotel's top option with a furnished roof terrace. Standard amenities consist of flat-screen TVs, desks, safes, and minibars, plus intermittent free Wi-Fi. Rooms lack kettles. Marble bathrooms have shower/tub combos, plus stall showers in some, as well as small hairdryers, bidets, and basic toiletries.
Features
Panoramic rooftop terrace and free breakfast
A standout at Torre Guelfa are the stunning views from the tower's terrace. Comfy furniture is set up here and a variety of wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks are available. All rates include a continental breakfast buffet, consisting of hard-boiled eggs, cold meat and cheese platters, breads and pastries with jams, cereals, yogurt, and fresh fruit. Tea and juices are set out and coffee is available upon request. Wi-Fi is free, but the signal weakens in rooms. Parking and room service are available for fees. There's no full restaurant, but numerous eateries are nearby.
