Hotel Residence Amalfi

The Residence Hotel is housed in an 18th-century aristocratic palace, and now features a mix of modern and classic decor. It's located above a row of street-side stores -- mostly boutique clothing and curio shops. Guests are then welcomed through an arched glass-lined entranceway into a passage lined with antique furniture and vines growing up the walls and along the stair railing. The lobby is fairly small, with light tiled floors, small reception desk, and antique sofa. There's a large central spiral staircase lined with potted plants and an original collection of antique artwork and decor. The artwork and collection of antique furniture carries through into the terra-cotta floored hallways. It's a rather elegant affair in the restaurant, with a large open room featuring low-hanging chandeliers and lounge areas with antique furniture. There's also a lovely outdoor terrace, which overlooks the buzzing beachfront street. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere attracts mostly couples (lots of honeymooners) and a few family and group travelers.

Residence Hotel has a central location across from the Piazza Flavio Gioia, right on the Amalfi beachfront. There are numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops within walking distance; as well as the beach. The Amalfi Cathedral and adjacent Moorish cloisters of Chiostro del Paradiso are just behind the hotel, a minute's walk away. Nearby museums include the Museo Civico e Palazzo di Citta and the Arsenal of the Maritime Republic which are both a minute's walk away The Paper Museum is nine minutes on foot. The Emerald Grotto, in the beautiful Conca dei Marini Bay, is nine minutes by car. There's a bus stop right in front of the hotel and the Amalfi Port is a four-minute walk away. Travelers arriving at Salerno Costa d'Amalfi Airport should expect the drive to the hotel to take about an hour and 10 minutes.

The 27 rooms at Residence Hotel are simple and decorated with classic furnishings. Expect terra-cotta or patterned tiled floors, white walls, matching patterned bedspreads and headboards, antique furniture, draped curtains, and a white sofa. There is little else in the way of style. Amenities in all rooms include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, telephones, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Tea- and- coffee-making facilities aren't available. Upon request, an extra bed can be added to the Superior Rooms to accommodate up to four people. Bathrooms include shower/tub combos and come with hairdryers and simple toiletries. Bathrobes and slippers are provided in the Deluxe Rooms. Rooms include a small standing balcony overlooking either the sea or the famous Piazza Flavio Gioia.

Most Amalfi hotels have limited features, and Residence Hotel is no exception. The continental breakfast buffet is served on the outdoor terrace and is included in all room rates. Sensi Restaurant, the hotel's Italian restaurant, is open for lunch and dinner. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. While there is no on-site parking, the hotel can assist with parking at a nearby garage. The hotel lacks a swimming pool as well as any spa or fitness facilities.