Last May my husband and I traveled to Italy with two friends, staying a week in Florence at a lovely B&B and aparthotel, Canto degli Scali. Ideally located near the Ponte Vecchio. A recently restored 14th century palazzo, it is owned by two brothers, Marco and Alessio Ducceschi, who provide wonderful hospitality and service.
It was challenging for us to find a place to stay in Florence that met all of our different requirements. My husband wanted a hotel with daily breakfasts, room cleaning, and onsite host. I wanted a relaxing apartment with two bedrooms, a spacious living room, and kitchen for us to relax with friends as we were staying for a week. We also wanted something affordable and found that in Canto degli Scali.
Highlights
- Location: this was a wonderful location, five minute walk from Ponte Vecchio, 10 minute walk from the Duomo nestled in a quiet alleyway.
- Lodging: we stayed in the B&B in a two-bedroom suite: Giglio Viola. Each room was tastefully decorated combining modern local art with restored Tuscan tile floors and furnishings. The bedrooms had king beds, large closet space and the master bedroom had an ensuite bathroom. The living room was large with plenty of seating and the dining room had a table that could easily fit 6 people. The kitchen was well appointed for those that wanted to cook and the refrigerator was stocked with plenty of water. There was a coffee machine and tea kettle.
- Hospitality: Marco & Allesio were charming hosts who helped arrange transport, especially important since we were leaving the day of the Florence marathon. They helped with recommendations for restaurants. Marco curated a nice selection of local wines for purchase to enjoy in the room.
Lowlights
- No elevator and lots of stairs: this was not a problem for us as Marco helped with the luggage. For those who are not comfortable with stairs, this might not be the best choice.
- No in-room breakfast: again this was not an issue for us as we had a voucher for daily breakfast at a local cafe a few minutes from our B&B. The food was really good and it was a local place, so not a lot of tourist.
All in all, when I visit Florence again, I plan to stay at Canto degli Scali.