Residenza Castiglioni

Residenza Castiglioni is a romantic mid-range boutique property set in a historical Florentine family residence. At just seven rooms, it’s tiny, but that’s part of its charm; the petite size feels cosy and personal. Light drapes, historical features, and classic Florentine furnishings in rooms create a romantic vibe, attracting plenty of couples and honeymooners. With floor-to-ceiling 19th century frescos, painted doors, and stately high ceilings, be prepared to be transported to another time and place – an era past that’s certainly fitting in the cradle of the Renaissance.

The sister hotel is located in the same building, across from the elegant shared courtyard, and shares breakfast facilities with this hotel. But with just five additional rooms, it’s never a crowd, and the two hotels practically co-exist as one. Both have an overall quiet atmosphere, save street noise from night revellers and the morning garbage truck -- a disturbance that may require ear plugs, but it’s a welcome trade-off for the conveniently central location. Both hotels attract guests young and old, primarily from the U.S, U.K., Australia, and South America.  

Residenza Castiglioni is located around the corner from a more upscale part of Florence’s historical center, with designer shops on nearby Via de’ Tornabuoni, a five-minute walk away. It’s also a five-minute walk to the Duomo, as well as the main train station. For authentic local dishes made from fresh local produce, try the Mercato Centrale, a four-minute walk from the hotel. The Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, and historical Ponte Vecchio are all about 12 minutes away on foot, while Florence’s airport is a 25-minute drive. 

Rooms are a delight at this hotel, packed with character and ambience. They also come with modern conveniences, including minibars, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Guests also get free slippers, chocolates, and savory snacks as a small welcome gift. Bathrooms are supplied with toiletries made from locally produced organic olive oil, and all have showers. The Classic Room is the lowest category type, and although small and simple, has plenty of romantic atmosphere. Superior Rooms are larger, with floor-to-ceiling 19th-century frescos, creating a convincing Old-World vibe usually preferred by couples and honeymooners. Suites are better suited to families, clocking in at 450 square feet. The Executive Suite is the only room with modern decor -- a chic, gray-and-white themed space with original wood-beamed ceilings, an extra sofabed, and two bathrooms -- one with a bathtub. Keep in mind that some rooms are prone to picking up noise from late-night revelers and traffic. 

As is standard with most Florence hotels, features are kept to a minimum. Residenza Castiglioni shares its cozy reception and breakfast room -- which are essentially the same space -- with its sister hotel across the courtyard. The free breakfast is a continental buffet that’s far more appealing than it sounds: it includes freshly baked bread, fresh fruit juice and pastries, homemade yogurt, and a variety of savory products including vegetables, cold cuts, cheese, and hard boiled eggs. Hot drinks are available to order throughout the day, and there’s free Wi-Fi here as well. The elegant ground floor courtyard can be used by guests, and small pets are accepted with advanced approval. Paid parking is available at a garage just down the street -- but they don’t do valet service.