We are a couple in our 70's, in good health and we are planning to spend 3 nights in Florence before heading to our rental in Tuscany. We are looking at VRBO's and I am curious as to what area might be the best to stay in - I am looking at an apartment that overlooks the Arno and the Ponte Vecchio. Would this be a good location for walking around Florence to see all the sights? Thank you.
Posted by
Colorado Springs
3112 posts
We generally prefer the Oltrarno area ... ie on the other side of the Ponte Vecchio - it's a bit quieter over there and there a number of places that overlook the river.
One note: we found that the local buses were a great way to get around the city. There was a stop a couple of blocks from our accommodation near the Pitti Palace that made it convenient for exploring the old city while saving a little wear and tear on our legs. Can pay the driver upon boarding (about 2 Euro) or you can buy tickets for a cheaper price at any of the tabaccis around town. Make sure to validate the ticket in the little machine after you board though.
Posted by
OP
199 posts
Thank you for your suggestion. just wondering if we were wanting something closer to the main sites and within easy walking distance, what Hotels would you suggest (not the high end ones). Seems like things are starting to fill up and I am hoping to make a decision this week. Thank you
Posted by
Gettysburg PA
7749 posts
Florence is very compact
Anywhere between Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and train station is fine
Easy walk to all sites
Search the forum for Florence hotel recommendations - lots of threads
Posted by
nova scotia
111 posts
Hi
We are 2 seniors - late sixties/early seventies.
These are 2 flats we have used several times when in Florence.
This one looks out at Santa Maris Novella church - 5 minutes to the train station - fabulous sunsets , close
to Duomo .
https://www.residenzadifirenze.com/leon-apartment
This one is 2 minutes from the Ponte Vecchio and 2 minutes from the Uffizi - we will be staying there again this May for 10 days - It is our favorite - spacious flat, beautiful deck with views of the Duomo - walk everywhere.
https://www.airbnb.ca/rooms/49696406?locale=en&_set_bev_on_new_domain=1727534233_EAMDUzMGMxNmUwOD&source_impression_id=p3_1739830911_P3-mlE0R_wdLgLok
I do not know your dates but I would book sooner than later - wherever you choose
Posted by
Colorado Springs
3112 posts
It's the "overlooking the Arno and the Ponte Vecchio" part that's going to complicate things and drive up your cost, since everyone else is looking for the "Room With a View" experience too.
The city is indeed very compact and easily walkable, though during high season it can be extremely crowded in the area around the Duomo and Santa Croce, which is why we prefer the quieter Oltarno side - still an easy stroll across the bridge into the center but nice to leave the congestion behind once we've finished for the day.