I will be visiting Florence in March and was hoping for some recommendations for a stay in very central Florence for a solo traveler. I was considering a monetary/convent but am new to that. Also, I love a hotel with a great cafe/bar/lobby in the spirit of NYC. I know these are 2 separate ends of the spectrum…..so herein lies my dilemma. Thank you for your thoughts in advance.
Posted by
Minnesota 🎒
17842 posts
Hi and welcome to the forum, Justine!
You're right: you're looking at two completely different animals. Just for kicks, have you considered a hostel? Many of them offer reasonably priced private rooms - if you're not up to bunking with strangers - and some have on-site bars, shared kitchens and lively social spaces, and even activities such as walking tours. It might be a good in-between choice? Explore some and see if any of them trip your trigger?
Posted by
Land of La
10017 posts
Casa Santo Nome di Gesu
Borgo Pinti House
Posted by
new york
1153 posts
What approximate budget are you working with?
Very central Florence (area near the Duomo) will be flooded with tourists..are you ok with that?
Are you ok with a cafe or bar a few steps from the hotel, or does it have to be IN the hotel?
You are wanting a cafe/bar where you can linger and maybe talk to other people, right?
A hotel with a great lobby bar that has lots of life is probably not going to be inexpensive...so you could just find a good cafe/bar near your hotel..that would give you more options.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Kate! Thanks so much for this great idea! I have stayed in hostels in the past and so enjoyed the experience. I so appreciate your time and especially the links. Best, J
Posted by
9718 posts
We loved the Hotel Balesteri on the Arno.
Posted by
Minnesota 🎒
17842 posts
You're very welcome Justine! Give a shout when you've gotten yourself sorted and let us know what you booked? Gosh, I'm so jealous as we loved Florence so you've got me wishing I was going too. You'll get some great suggestions/advice from the gang here if you have additional questions about this fascinating city so post away!
Editing to add: as you explore the hostels, pay attention to their locations? You're likely not wanting to be TOO far from center.
Posted by
Greeley, co, usa
2957 posts
1000% recommend the convent Casa per Ferie … Borgo Pinti. I’ve stayed twice with my wife. Cab driver on our first visit said it was the best location in town. We booked the first time thru Monasterystays.com which is a little more expensive but provides some good ‘hand holding’ information. .second time we booked directly