I will be staying in Florence for one or two nights May (I may stay in Florence for a night then move to Rome for a night). I tried Couchsurfing, but so far haven't found someone who can host me so I'm looking into hostels. I'm 45 years old, but I don't mind staying with a younger rowdier crowd. Also, my first night will happen to be my birthday, so I'm hoping to find some people to hang out (and celebrate) with. This will be my first time staying in a hostel, so I'm interested to hear if anyone has any first-hand experience with hostels in Florence or Rome. I've read lots of reviews, and they are a mixed bag and it's hard to decide where to stay. Any advice is appreciated!
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15644 posts
I'm a little older than you and I'm planning to stay at Ostello Archi Rossi this weekend, for the 4th time. The youngsters are definitely not rowdy, but they are friendly and the hostel sells wine at supermarket prices.
Posted by
Indianapolis
290 posts
I second Chani's recommendation of Ostello Archi Rossi in Florence. If you want they have private rooms available in the "Annex". You still get the benefits of a hostel - inexpensive price and lots of other people around - but still have some privacy and your own bathroom. Also, look into The Beehive in Rome if you choose to go there. However, it is very popular and might not have any openings.
Sharon
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32243 posts
david,
I'm 60+ and stay in Hostels from time-to-time. It sounds like you've received good tips for a place to stay in Florence, and I have a suggestion for Rome. You might have a look at Alessandro Palace which is an easy walk from Termini station (about 10 minutes or so). I've stayed there several times and have always found the rooms clean and the price is right (€35 per night in a four-bed Dorm with bathroom). The optional €4 breakfast was a bit disappointing on my last stay, but hopefully that's improved by now. The rooms are accessed using a modern electronic card key, which also activates the electrics in each room.
They also have the Alessandro Downtown property not too far away. I've never stayed there but I assume the standards are much the same as the Palace. For travel in May, I'd suggest pre-booking a room ASAP!
For Hostel stays, be sure to pack a small Padlock for the Lockers and also a Towel and soap, as those won't be provided.