Ed.: The Inspired Stays series highlights hotels we love around Italy. Each property is independently reviewed by an Italy Magazine writer, who is generally hosted on a complimentary basis. Our contributors do not accept compensation or gifts in exchange for specific types of coverage. We only showcase properties we would genuinely recommend overall.
Why we love it
This charming B&B is run by one of Florence’s most creative couples and their personal touches abound everywhere you turn.
What to expect
This intimate B&B is housed on the top two floors of an 18th-century palazzo in Florence’s bohemian Oltrarno neighborhood. Betty Soldi and Matteo Perduca lent the place their magic touch, with hand-done lettering — Betty is a supremely talented calligrapher — and a quirky collection of vintage furniture and decor gathered from flea markets and antiques fairs. It’s a lovely mid-range option for travelers who want to stay in a charming neighborhood removed from the tourist crowds.
Background
The hotel is located within a historic residential building. It’s not very well marked, so be sure to keep the address handy when looking for it. Once inside the building’s main door you have to cross an internal courtyard and go up to the second floor.
Location, location, location
Across the river from most of Florence’s main sights, the Oltrarno feels more local and less touristy than the rest of the centro storico, even though it’s just a quick walk across the bridge. It’s full of independent boutiques, artisan workshops, great restaurants and bars, and is home to the sprawling Palazzo Pitti, the Medici palace.
Where you’ll sleep
There are only 14 rooms, each individually designed. My room was very spacious, with high ceilings, a chandelier and a clawfoot bathtub in the room. There was a separate shower in the bathroom, which was petite, but had nice products by C.O. Bigelow. Some rooms have original textured walls and terracotta floors, with a mix of vintage and contemporary furniture in addition to welcome amenities like an espresso machine, HD TV, comfy bathrobes and slippers.
Dining and drinks
There’s no full service restaurant, but a buffet breakfast is included in the room rate and the team at the reception desk is happy to recommend restaurants and help make reservations. For breakfast, you can expect to find the usual espressos and cappuccinos and both sweet and savory items, like pastries, cheeses, yogurt and cold cuts. It’s worth noting that Betty and Matteo are also partners at Regina Bistecca, a beautiful steakhouse just steps from the Duomo.
Service notes
During my overnight stay, the staff members I interacted with were all friendly and helpful. However, the front desk is only staffed until 7.30pm. If you’re planning to arrive after that, as I did, be sure to tell them so they can send you detailed instructions for checking yourself in.
Features & amenities
- City setting
- Free WiFi
- Family-friendly
- Elevator
Contacts
Oltrarno Splendid
Via dei Serragli 7, Florence
Tel. +39 055 4648555
Website
