My husband and I are travelling to Italy for the first time in early May and will be staying in Florence two nights prior to moving on to Tuscany. Looking for recommendations for an affordable B&B, hotel, guest house with private bathroom in Florence for two nights. Also, looking for the same in Rome when we return from a cruise. Thanks!
You need to tell us what your idea of affordable is. It's different for everyone so a number will get you more specific answers. Donna
Would it be reasonable to find something between 60 and 80 euros?
Casa Rovai Guest H0use. Charming rooms, wonderful owner (Ciao Arianna), great breakfasts, nice location in Florence.
Thanks, but unfortunately it is booked...I just checked.
In 2003 we stayed at the Florence Old Bridge B&B. It was well located just over the Ponte Vecchio in the Oltrarno area. It was simple, plain, quiet, and cheap. No frills. But very clean and had good air conditioning. Breakfast was across the street at a bar. They gave you a voucher for breakfast. After the first morning we went elsewhere for breakfast. At the time there was no night desk, just a phone number to call in case of emergency. It was fine for my niece and I. And as I say it was inexpensive. Check it out. http://www.florenceoldbridge.com/?action=home&l=e
Try Hotel Medici - I payed 40 euro for a single w/bath last summer. It's two blocks from the Duomo, has a rooftop terrace with spectacular views, an elevator, breakfast (not the greatest but gets you started), helpful staff.
Hi Martha, I have not stayed at this hotel, as I am going on my first trip to Italy this coming May on an RS tour. However, a friend recommended it: San Frediano Mansion B&B http://www.sanfredianomansion.com It looks really nice! My friend said that it is a fairly easy walk from the Duomo, and if I am not mistaken, I think you might be able to hear the Duomo bells from the B&B. I do not know all the names of the hotels that Rick recommends, but try to get a copy of his Italy book. It is very comprehensive. We will be staying at Hotel Silla. I am very excited about this hotel, as it is in a beautiful neighborhood very close to the Ponte Vecchio and a fairly easy walk to the sights of Florence. The breakfast is supposed to be wonderful, on a terrace with a view. I heard that Torre Guelfa is very nice with an ancient tower with a spectacular view. As far as Rome, we will be staying at the Hotel Sonya, which is walking distance to sights and very near the Termini train station, I think the main train station in Rome. The hotel looks nice in the photos. Rick also uses (among several others) the Alamondi via Tunisi, which I have heard very good things about. Also, for hotels that know of Rick, ask for the Rick Steves discount! Hope this helps. Happy travels! Ruth
The absolutely most affordable places are staying in B&B's or personal homes. See AirBnB.com for the least expensive accommodations. Booking.com and Venere.com are also good big websites to go through.
Being new to this, I can't begin to thank everyone enough for all your help. I have successfully booked a room in Florence and am working on one in Rome now. We're thinking about renting a car in Tuscany to travel around to some of the smaller towns in the area. Open to any advice/suggestions.
Thanks again!