Florence & Tuscany 2009

Best and worst accommodations:

Best: Locanda Casa Querini
Why: recommended to us by Riccardo of Corte Campana, it was delightful. Room was beautiful, location was excellent. Quiet courtyard, good breakfasts (free), helpful receptionists even though they spoke little english. Would definitely stay here again.

Worst: Ostello Santa Monica
Why: The people working there were EXTREMELY RUDE! A very small sign indicating "checkout 10 a.m." REALLY meant BE OUT by 10 a.m. for cleaning purposes. They did not tell us this. When we were not out by 2 minutes my family was locked into their room!! Until I came up and argued with the cleaning lady. Another person had their luggage on the steps and she would not let him get it, therefore he missed his connections to his next destination. They then spoke about us in Italian, laughing, pointing, and shaking their heads. It was deathly hot - no a/c which is okay, but no cross ventilation of any kind either. We called it the "Sauna". It was extremely noisy with people slamming doors all night, loud talking, yelling. Nobody enforced quiet and respect for the other guests who wanted to sleep. I would NOT recommend this hostel to anyone!!! And I would highly recommend that you remove it from your book. Also, their directions were difficult to follow, making it difficult to find in the first place. This is by far the worst hostel that I have ever stayed in.

Wendy Shaw in McHenry, il USA 07/24/2008

Best: Hotel IL Bargellino Florence
Why: We found Carmel and Pino to be extremely helpful. The patio rooms were very clean and we enjoyed being able to take our wine out on the patio and converse with other guest. We did not find the rooms that opened to the patio to be loud at night. We were there in early May. They recommended many of the same restaurants that were in Richs' book.

Michael de la Pena in Shingle Springs, CA USA 06/22/2008

Best: Il Giardino Secreto, Pienza
Why: Beautifully restored rooms, nicely run, beautiful garden, peaceful and restful.

Worst: Il Bargellino in Florence
Why: Actually, Carmel was very helpful and the room was nice....but do NOT take one which opens onto the patio...We got no sleep until we put in earplugs because the hotel was full of Americans,and they sat out on the patio until all hours of the night discussing things like where they were from in America and which airports there were the worst..... no Florence info to be gained there even if you did feel like you wanted to eavesdrop. So if you stay there and really just want to spend your day seeing the wonderful art and other sights, get a room OFF the patio. With no air conditioning, it was tough to have to close those patio doors and use ear plugs in order to be able to sleep.

Barbara Prickett in Tucson, Az USA 06/16/2008

Best: Da Elisa alle Sette Arti, Lucca and Hotel Moderno, Pisa
Why: Very inexpensive (96euro a double for 3 nights in March). Shared bathrooms & kitchen. Good location within the walls. Helpful staff. Hotel Moderno is an easy walk to city center, train station and airport. Friendly staff. 50euro for a double.

Ann Prentice in Plymouth, MA USA 06/05/2008

Best: Hotel Enza
Why: Very friendly and helpful with everything, great value. Breakfast (additional $) worth it. Great location. AC worked. Great recommendation.

Nancy Casey in Olean, NY USA 06/04/2008

Best: Florence Dream Domus
Why: It was just wonderful. Perla was a delightful person with great recommendation in restaurants. Internet access 24/7, very accommodating!!! Put back in your book for 2009!!!! Just remember to mention that it's on the second floor.

Ana Miner in Novato, CZ USA 06/04/2008

Best: Palazzo Bruchi Hotel Dali B&B Valentina
Why: Palazzo Bruchi in Siena is perfection. Fantastic location lovely room clean great view every travel need has been thought of from the snacks in the room to the clothesline in the bath. Lovely hostess VERY sweet and helpful! Hotel Dali in Firenze GREAT location clean room Samanta and Marco are delightful. Samanta made all of our museum reservations. Coin laundry nearby great markets internet point CONVENIENT

B& B Valentina Lovely clean room great location Valentina is very sweet

Worst: Albergo Bernini Siena
Why: Can't comment on the actual room because they gave our reserved room away even though we were forced to mail a US dollar money order to hold the room. Fortunatly we found a really nice place but I would be cautious booking here. I've had to file for a refund of the money order which has a fee involved so basically I'm out the cost of the money order, the cost of the refund fee and of course the funds tied up for two months.

We were curtly informed by email the morning we were catching the bus to Siena that our reservation was cancelled--- how fortunate that we were early to the station and checked email.

I've received no appology from the owner just a bunch of attitude filled emails about how they are "world famous" HUH???? and have thousands of people that want their rooms --- so they really don't need me. YIKES.

A nightmare at the time but actually kind of funny now.

Maggie Flynn in Florissant, MO USA 05/29/2008

Best: Hotel Alex
Why: I don't believe it is listed in Rick's book but a great place to stay. A short walk outside the city wall, so convenient but affordable. the view from their patio is lovely. The owners, a family, are extremely friendly and helpful. A worker even stopped what he was doing and helped us drive our car out of the hotel garage that had a very steep driveway. And a nice breakfast room with a good breakfast.

Melanie in Houston, TX USA 05/13/2008

Best: Hotel Centrale
Why: Friendly staff, large airy room, great breakfast, central location. This hotel was wonderful. We thoroughly enjoyed our 3 nights there. It was a home away from home and we would recommend it highly.

Eileen in Apex, NC USA 04/26/2008

Best: Hotel (Soggiorno) Magliani
Why: I am a PhD Student and attended a conference for my first international paper. Cristina and her mother were very helpful; they booked me for the Academia ( I was there in May /June 2007). I had a street room, and the Americans outside were the worst! The hotel was as spare as any one star, very clean and the Americans who booked, courtesy of Rick Steves, were very friendly. The bookings are mostly American so I was able to talk with others about their visit. I visited Pisa with a colleague and we picked up an American exchange student on the way to Pisa while on the train. The Florence Tuscany guidebook gave us the amount of detail we needed to navigate as well as enjoying the surroundings. Had a nice pizza at a place in Pisa with a French cook who'd learned English in an Irish restaurant. I would recommend Magliano to those who are open enough to experience to share a bath with cool marble tile. So good in the mornings! I lucked out and picked up Internet access from somewhere too. The Espresso place just down the street opened before I hopped the bus to the conference. The bus system is easy, more or less. We were at the Villa donated to the UNY.

Linda in McAllen, TX USA 04/18/2008

Best: Il Poggiolo - Agriturismo just North of Florence
Why: www.il-poggiolo.it/index_en.html. Graziella rents two private apartments - we were in the large one which was very roomy for our family of 4 with a nice size bathroom, refrigerator, and microwave, dining and living areas. She will provide breakfast everyday if requested. Graziella picked us up at the Rifredi train station when we arrived and made sure we had all of the information that we needed for our activities each day. She always made sure we had plans for dinner and arranged some wonderful meals for us with friends of hers. She would even drive us to dinner and pick us up in her car if we needed it since we didn't have one. It took us about a half hour by bus to get into Florence and the bus stop was just at the bottom of her driveway. Her property was so peaceful and beautiful. In most cases, if you can book directly with the owners rather than going through an agency, you will get a much better price. We booked directly through her and received a great deal - so be sure to contact her directly. info@il-poggiolo.it

Julie in Shoreline, WA USA 04/15/2008

Best: Residenza d'epocha in piazza della signoria
Why: Our family of four stayed for a week in an apartment on the top floor-Apartment Giulio- it was well-run, centrally-located, smart, clean and had the "flavor of florence"

Lisa Drage in Rochester, MN USA 04/09/2008

Best: Florence Dream Domus
Why: More than a B&B. Marbles and antiques in a very comfortable and relaxing setting. Service excellent at reception and perfect breakfasts with fresh products. The perfect stay in Florence. Extreemly helpful in booking events and museum. Great wine tour.

GD Megighian in London, UK 02/14/2008

Best: Albergo Bernini (Siena)
Why: A warm welcome, a great location between the main sights and the bus hub, and the view both from my room and the breakfast terrace were stunning.

Brian Gulledge in Woodbridge, VA USA 02/11/2008

Best: Villa Romantica Lucca
Why: Perfect small hotel. The breakfast was relaxing-delicious. The house is beautiful but the Favilla family made our stay truly special.

Ian Turner in Oakes Denver, CO USA 01/16/2008

Best: Hotel Alessandra
Why: We had a superior room for 5 nights. The room was clean & comfortable. With the windows closed it was really quiet, even though it was on the street. The staff went out of their way to make our stay comfortable. Cappucino in the mornings was GREAT!!

Susan in Port Orchard, WA USA 01/13/2008

Best: Apartment of Lucia Freda
Why: The offer made by them was very good, they offered a deal of staying the 3rd night free and paying for 2 nights. We ultimately ended up staying for 4 nights! The apartment was completely at our disposal, the family lived 2 minutes down the same street. The family is very nice. We were there in Nov 20-23rd. We didn't know how to turn the radiator on. It was quite late when we had returned, even then Claudio, who runs the place, came and switched it on. His mother Lucia every morning would come and clean the apartment and make it spick and span again. On the last day we discovered that our travel alarm clock was not functioning, Claudio lent us his own clock radio for our benefit.

Kakoli Dutta in Sterling, VA USA 12/08/2007

Best: Hotel IL Bargellino
Why: My boyfriend and I stayed there for 2 nights. We loved it so much we came back for another night after visiting Rome. Caramel and Pino just make you feel at home. Pino walks around singing in Italian. Its just the cutest place, beautifully decorated and comfortable. The terrace from our room was so nice, too bad it was too cold to hang out on it. But we will be back in warm weather. And you will definitely find us there. Rates were just unbeatable!!

Anat Peri in New York, NY USA 11/24/2007

Worst: Residenza Dei Pucci
Why: This is a B&B, not a hotel, which was not indicated in the guidebook. A B&B does not have 24 hour staff at the front office/desk, like a hotel does. This is important to know for your arrival day, if you need to come in late. This place was VERY noisy, mostly from street noise. The only ventilation comes from open windows, but if you do that, you can't sleep for the noise. The breakfast spot was tiny- a narrow table in a hallway allowed 4 or 5 to squeeze in for a meager continental breakfast. A very disappointing recommendation. We found a much better accomodation nearby for 30 fewer Euros/night.

jody in seattle, wa USA 11/12/2007

Best: Il Bargellino
Why: Great value. Great location. Friendly and helpful hosts. We had no trouble sleeping. It was quiet in our room. Loved the resident cat!

Kathy Crandall in Colorado Springs, Co United States 11/03/2007

Best: Re: Hotels in Tuscany - please include city
Why: We are doing a Backroads cycling trip next May from Siena to Cortona and need some help. Could your feedback posters please add the name of the city next to the Hotel? This would help streamline our search, although they can be cross-referenced using Rick's books. Thanks - love your trip stories!

Don in Dallas, Te USA 11/02/2007

Best: Residenza il Villino
Why: Best room, best breakfast and best rate in our two week trip. Owner/staff very friendly and helpful.

Michael Sherwood in Prescott Valley, AZ USA 10/29/2007

Best: Hotel Dali
Why: Marco of the Hotel Dali is excellent! We communicated with him by email in advance of our trip. He and his staff made all the museum reservations for us at the times we had requested. The room was ready and clean upon our early afternoon arrival. He was very helpful with directions and suggestions about sights to visit around Florence. Also, Hotel Dali is very conveniently located to the major sights of Florence.

Joe Hartman in Raleigh, NC USA 10/27/2007

Best: Residentia Dei Pucci, Florence
Why: BIG ROOM! Lots of help from the staff there. They had a problem with hot water when we were there, so some may compain that there is no hot water. They got it fixed tho, and it was fine.

Barbara Powell in Lakewood, CO USA 10/21/2007

Best: Honestly, all were great, Edi's rooms in Riomaggiore
Why: Riomaggiore, in the Cinque Terra was great, clean and we had view of the sea. Our bags were carried to our room, laundary facilities were clean and accessible, friendly and helpful service

Linda Cherek in White Bear Lake, MN USA 10/19/2007

Best: Residenza il Villino, Florence, Italy
Why: From their warmest welcome to our sad farewell, we spent 7 days in August at this delightful B&B situated on a quiet street within walking distance of the major historical sites. Sergio, his wife Elisabetta and their son Lorenzo were excellent hosts who made us feel so much at home and provided us with unbelievably dedicated assistance in whatever we needed. They showed genuine concern and caring. We were thrilled with the very clean spacious accommodation, efficient air conditioning, delicious healthy breakfasts in the courtyard, and free internet access! We will never forget this B & B. We look forward to returning soon. It was a beautiful way to end a three week vacation.

Maurice & Joan Denis in Vancourver, BC, Canada 10/09/2007

Best: La Crociona Agriturismo in Montalcino and Hotel Santa Caterina in Siena
Why: It was great to be in rural surroundings at La Crociona. Fiorella and Roberto were very helpful with local directions, and Barbara helped us do our laundry in her laundry room. Lisa is the most delightful wine-tasting host you will ever encounter, and our 70 euro apartment was the most spacious facility we had in Europe.

The staff at Hotel Santa Caterina answered our every question, got our laundry done, and recommended a fantastic local restaurant. The terrace is an irresistable place for a before dinner drink, and is surely the calmest locale in Siena. In our opinion it is not worth paying for a larger room, as the one we had involved climbing stairs to a bedroom loft, while the bathroom and armoire remained on the lower floor.

Jim & Megan Taylor in Seattle, WA USA 10/09/2007

Best: Albergo Bernini - Siena
Why: This was the most charming hotel of my trip, I felt like I was staying in someone’s home! The family is really helpful in answering questions, and Mauro will play his accordion for you if you ask. The rooftop terrace and 7 euro breakfast were the absolute best (cappuccino, orange juice, croissant, pastry, and toast). It is SO beautiful up there, I spent an entire afternoon on the terrace just reading and looking at the view! I really enjoyed my stay here, and feel as though it really correlated with what I was seeking in a hotel, a more personal experience.

Jenny in Camas, WA USA 09/25/2007

Best: Hotel Il Bargellino – Florence
Why: I loved everything about this hotel. It a 5 minute walk from the train station (no need for a taxi when you arrive), and super close to all of the sites. I didn’t get much of a chance to talk to Caramel, but Pino was so kind and always friendly and smiling, asking if I had a good day. The hotel epitomizes attention to detail. Beautiful paintings and statues decorate the interior, and each room is equip with a little book they put together full of useful Florence information, including recommended eateries. With beautiful facilities and warm, welcoming hosts (and unbeatable rates!), I will definitely return to Hotel Il Bargellino.

Jenny in Camas, WA USA 09/25/2007

Best: Residenza il Villino
Why: This is a charming and comfortable B&B on a quiet residential street in the center of Florence within 10 minutes walking distance of major cultural and historical sites.

Sergio and his wife Elisabeth are gracious hosts who greeted us at breakfast in the patio in the morning and attended the front desk in the morning and afternoon. Roberto, a helpful evening attendant, managed the front desk until 10:00 p.m. We felt welcomed by Sergio, Elizabeth and Roberto as they were eager to help us with whatever we needed: directions, sightseeing information, looking up bus and train schedules on the Internet and assistance using the two computers (free Web access) in the lobby available to guests. When one of us one not feeling well, Sergio wrote, in Italian, the name of a medication to request at the pharmacy. Sergio shared personal stories about himself and family that gave us a better understanding of Italian culture.

Our room was clean, spacious and quiet. Besides the bed, there were two luggage racks, an armoire with lots of hangars, a small sofa, a small refrigerator, desk with a chair and shelf, television and user controlled air conditioning and heating. Nightstand tables and lights were conveniently located. Floors are covered in tile. Our large stained glass window opened to overlook the tiled rooftop and shaded courtyard. We didn’t have a safe in the room, but Sergio stored our valuables in the hotel’s safe. The building is secure. Suggestion: add a wastebasket to the main part of the room.

The spacious bathroom had a nice size sink with a wide rim to store items. There is also a small shelf. The shower stall was a standard cylindrical style found in European hotels with sliding plastic doors (fine), but we wished there had been a shelf in the shower to store shampoo and soap. Soft bath towels and super high-quality cotton hand towels were provided. The bottled shampoo and package soap also were of good quality. Lighting in the bathroom was fine.

Breakfast is served in the lovely courtyard, which is covered with a canopy. Trees and flowers surround the area. Breakfast included coffee and tea, juice, milk, yogurt, cereal, croissants, rolls, luncheon meat, and fresh fruit. Sergio offers espresso and cappuccino, as well. Complimentary English language newspapers are available.

We suggest taking a taxi from the train or bus station to Residenza il Villino. The sidewalks are narrow on busy streets and it’s about a 15-minute walk towing luggage.

Victoria Watkins in NEW YORK, NY USA 09/15/2007

Best: Palazzo Ravizza
Why: The room, breakfast, location... Everything abou this hotel was more than we could have asked for. We would stay here again 100 times over for the comfortable bed and constant smiles and help from the staff.

Allison Hardin in Atlanta, GA USA 09/13/2007

Best: Hotel delle Arti
Why: A wonderful place to stay, good location for exploring Florence, and a friendly staff. My wife and I stayed at this hotel a few weeks ago and we enjoyed our stay very much. Two weeks later, we came back through Firenze and we went back to the Hotel delle Arti, asking if they could store our luggage for a few hours. They were happy to and that meant a great deal to us. We will certainly be back!

Danielle & Jean Claude in Montreal, Canada 09/09/2007

Best: Residenza il Villino
Why: WOW WOW WOW! Sergio is amazing - makes you sort of feel like an old friend from the moment you arrive! The accomodations are very nice, but the warmth and welcoming attitude of Sergio and his wife, other staff is what makes this place absolutely unbeatable. The location is also pretty nice - a quiet area yet a short walk to Duomo, Accademia - nothing is very far in Florence anyway. The breakfast was delightful, also. I just cannot say enough about how welcomed we felt.

Tiphanie in Benoit, MI USA 09/08/2007

Best: Residenza Il Vilino and Meuble Il Riccio
Why: Kudos to the fine folks responsible for these superb accommodations. The Vilino, located near the Accademia ("David") in Florence, is a top-notch, great-value-for-money place, featuring tidy rooms, free internet, air-con, tasty cappucinos, and the kind of helpful, friendly service that makes travelers feel right at home. The il Riccio, meanwhile, located in lovely Montepulciano, is another place to seek-out. Gio is the embodiment of the helpful, caring host, and his place is very attractive, with a great central location, air-con, and smashing views of the Tuscan countryside. Plus, a big round of applause for his tasty homemade baked goods on offer at breakfast. Yum! Don't miss these two places should you be looking to hang your rucksack in either Firenze or Montepulciano. And thanks for the accommodation tips, Rick.

David Dillon in Westford, MA USA 09/01/2007

Best: Pensione Bencista, Fiesole
Why: This place was like living in a Jane Austen novel. We loved the family and the dogs and our lifestyle while staying there for 5 nights. The views from the terrace of Florence were fantastic. We loved everything!

Amy Scherer in Menlo Park, CA USA 08/13/2007

Best: casa rabatti, albergo bernini, ostello san frediano
Why: they were all affordable and clean. marcella at casa rabatti was so warm and friendly. she would speak mostly in italian but we understood her! she let us use her phone to call the calling card 800 number.

Paige Woodman in los altos, CA USA 08/11/2007

Best: Hotel Casci-not in book
Why: Very nice and friendly place, conveniently located.

Devin in Olympia, WA USA 08/06/2007

Best: Soggiorno Battistero
Why: Location. Views. Great owners. Clean. I'll be back!

Kathy Arcangeli in Oak Ridge, TN USA 08/05/2007

Best: Hotel Enza
Why: The room was immaculate, the staff exceptionally helpful and was an incredible value which included air conditioning and Internet.

Worst: Hotel Il Bargellino
Why: The room was overpriced with a lack of amenities. The shower tiles were cracked, the floor was dirty, the room was exceptionally hot and near the street with noise throughout the night. Towels were hard. Owners were nice, but the room was awful.

Mary Jo in Centreville, VA USA 08/03/2007

Best: Hotel Il Bargellino
Why: What a fantastic small hotel with a great location. Just a short walk from the train station and close to most sights. Pino was wonderful from the moment he greeted us we felt right at home. (Carmel was back in the states during our stay). The terrace is a beautiful oasis where you can relax with other guest and share a bottle of wine and your adventures of the day.I can't wait to go back to Florence and will definitely be staying at Hotel Il Bargellino. We contacted Carmel via email and booking and payment could not haver been easier!

Kathy Hermes in Everett, WA USA 07/21/2007

Best: Hotel Il Bargellino
Why: It was just lovely. The room had great antique furniture and an "Italian" feel to it, it was close to both the train station and the sights, and the information packet left in the room by the owners made Florence the easiest city to navigate.

Carly Bean in Moscow, ID USA 07/14/2007

Worst: Florence Dream Domus
Why: I don't really mean to categorize this little B&B as the worst, but that's the way this page is set up (best and worst). But I WAS disappointed.

We stayed three nights, arriving midday. I had asked the management to arrange reservations at both the Accademia and Uffizi Gallery. Well, the reservations for the Accademia were made for about the day and time we were arriving. Luckily--and with instructions from the clerk at Dream Duomo, we were able to use them the following day. We were told by the clerk that our reservations for Uffize Gallery were at 4:30 the following day. When we got there, we found that the gallery was closing. We then called the owner of the B&B, who spent most of the conversation making an excuse for our not getting into the museum and suggesting--as was done for the other reservation--that we try to get in the next day. That was not an option. it was a disappointment and we did not see the Uffizi.

And I also thought that the breakfast at this B&B was no more than average or pedestrian: not much choice, and the pastries weren't very fresh.

And finally, there was supposedly multiple channel cable TV in the rooms. Ours work the afternoon we arrived and the morning we left. In between it didn't.

In neither case (museum reservations or TV) did the owner make any offer to make things better--only excuses for our not getting to the Uffizi.

We spent our last night in Florece at a hotel nearer the train station. The price was lower, the accommodations were relatively the same, the staff was more helpful and pleasant, and the breakfast was more plentiful and of greater variety.

Joe Gawel in Saint Augustine, FL USA 07/11/2007

Best: Hotel Ungherese
Why: Sabina is the best. She really takes care of her guests. Sabina was always available to answer all questions. She should conduct classes in hotel management. Beautiful backyard garden. Rooms very nice and the neighborhood quiet with easy access to busses to Florence city center and Fiesole. Cappucino is excellent.

Craig in Salt Lake City, Ut USA 07/11/2007

Best: Hotel Davanzati
Why: This hotel is amazing -- from the lovely clean rooms filled with amenities (laptop computer, mini bar, sound machine if needed for noise, DVD player) to the incredibly welcoming, attentive staff, to the excellent cappuccino at breakfast and happy hour to the excellent location. My room was in the back and with the double paned windows I had no problems with noise (and I'm a light sleeper). The only thing Rick needs to emphasize in his book is the steep flight of steps (about 20) to get to the landing to then reach the elevator to reception and the floors. The staff will help with luggage but if you have mobility issues you will have problems.

Shelley Wood in New York, NY USA 07/04/2007

Worst: Hotel Pendini in Florence
Why: It is 4 flights(2 sets of stairs for each floor) up from ground with a tiny, tiny elevator. We walked most of time and it was agony. Rooms are worn down and staff is pleasant, but not very accomodating.

csw TX USA 06/28/2007

Best: Hotel Davanzati
Why: Great location, lovely people, spacious rooms, modern conveniences, delicious breakfast and terrific advice on where to eat and what to do. Couldn't be better.

Rose Ann in Cupertino, CA USA 06/18/2007

Best: Hotel Ungherese
Why: We stayed at Hotel Ungherese in May for four nights. It was delightful. Sabina and Leonardo were wonderful hosts and made our stay in Florence very memorable. It was really nice staying outside the hustle and bustle of Florence. Once we learned the bus system, it was a simple 10-minute ride into Florence. We caught the bus around the corner from Hotel Ungherese in a safe, quiet residential area. We purchased a 3-day bus pass and it worked out perfectly for getting around. Sabina made reservations for us ahead of time at the Accademia and Ufizzi Gallery which made our entrances into those two sites very easy. She was also great at giving us good advice on places to visit and where to eat and how to get there by bus. We took buses to Fiesole, Piazza Michelangelo, and to Settignano -- all had wonderful views of the City. Breakfast was a real treat - great pastries and awesome capaccinos. We will definitely stay here again on our next trip to Italy.

Al & Joyce Morgan in Seattle, WA USA 06/16/2007

Best: Hotel Enza
Why: Was located away from noise and traffic on a side street. Staff was most helpful with anything we asked about and the breakfast was good. Only drawback was they have to turn A/C off from 12 AM-7 AM and it did get hot one night. You could leave windows open, but beware of mosquitos. They can give you a candle to burn in the room to keep them away.

Dan Bertellotti in Foster City, Ca USA 06/12/2007

Best: Il Bargellino Hotel in Florence
Why: We enjoyed our stay in th8is clean, well-run small hotel. Carmel & Pino, the owners, made us feel more like family than tourists--she grew up in Boston, and they both seemed to take a personal interest in our comfort and enjoyment during our stay!

Paul A. Ellis in Tacoma, WA USA 06/07/2007

Best: Palazzo Bruchi
Why: Our hostess was so kind and warm. The room was lovely and felt like an authentic part of the neighborhood. The little kitchen and its Italian coffee pots were a great comfort to us! We also loved Stella the cat! J&K of Boston

Kathrine Douthit and John M. Anderson in Boston, MA USA 06/07/2007

Best: La Boheme B & B (Lucca)
Why: Ranieri is as gracious as you mentioned in your description. The rooms are clean and comfortable. My husband and I have been annual visitors for a few years now.

Christine G. in Chicago, IL USA 05/31/2007

Best: Soggiorno Battistero
Why: A great view, super fair price, and gracious hosts, English speaking and helpful in all respects. If you can get a room looking over the Duomo courtyard, as many do, you need no TV. Stairs need to be climbed but that is part of the exercise you need anyway. I really liked this place.

Tim in Johnson, GA USA 05/30/2007

Best: HOTEL ALESSANDRA
Why: A comfortable home away from home. Andrea and his mom go out of their way to make you feel welcome. He makes a special cappuccino with a chocolate smile. Their rates were more than reasonable included a good breakfast. The other Andrea and the staff were warm,friendly and accomodating.This is the best place I have stayed at in all of my trips to Europe. I definately will return.

Joseph Hilton in Los Angeles, CA USA 05/28/2007

Best: Hotel Centrale
Why: This place went out of their way to make our stay great. They made Uffuzi reservations, had a great breakfast, and were as the name implies...central! The rooms seemed like they should cost more, a real bargin here for everything you get.

Rob in Tampa, FL USA 05/23/2007

Best: HOTEL IL BARGELLINO
Why: I was traveling on my own and wanted to see as much as I could. I just came from Rome where I stayed in a hotel far away from the centre, and it made me very happy to see that Il Bargellino was so close to everything! I loved the single room that I stayed in. I admired all the paintings that were there, and this giganting mirror - just perfect to see if I looked ok, hehe. Caramel was very helpfull with what's where and how to get there, and Pino - well he made me smile :-) I wasn't there for a long time, so I could not relax on their great patio, but when I go back to Florence I definitely will, because this place is just like home!

Monika England 05/18/2007

Best: Il Bargellino
Why: What a great location and wonderful accommodations! After arriving by train to Florence, it's just a short walk to this small hotel. We were pleasantly surprised to find our room opened onto a large patio shared by all the guests where we had a wonderful time playing cards with Carmel and some other guests. Carmel and Pino's restaurant recommendations were terrific and where we found some of our best meals in Italy. The cost of this place can't be beat. It was the least expensive place we stayed and our favorite!

Sara Roman in Saint Louis, MO USA 05/17/2007

Best: El Marsam, Umbertide, Italy
Why: This bed and breakfast owned and run by Mike and Ginda Simpson was a lovely restful, relaxing haven. We enjoyed the countryside views from atop the hill where the B & B is located. We opted to dine in every evening as the food was great. Tastefully prepared and hearty meals. The Simpsons are knowledgeable on several area tourist sights and handed us printed directions with hints/tips of where to dine and what to look for. Most helpful when you do not know the area. The B & B is situated in an area which is a perfect starting point for many day trips in and around Umbria and Tuscany - our highlight being Assisi.

Sally A Acomb in Dundee, NY USA 05/13/2007

Best: Hotel Relais-Bosquet in Paris
Why: Great personal service, pleasant rooms, good location.

Linda Woodall in Gainesville, Ga USA 05/12/2007

Best: Hotel IL Bargellino
Why: Carmel and Pino are friendly and helpful. I appreciated all the information they have available for local eateries, internet cafes, and laundromats.The accommodations were spacious even for a triple. The terrace is a lovely place to relax.

Bobbi Jensen in Edmonds, WA USA 05/10/2007

Worst: Casa Santo Nome di Gesu convent
Why: This is the only place that we stayed in this book. They were nice enough and the view from our room was good. But the towels that they supplied (one set for three days) looked and felt like cloth table-cloths. Also the breakfast wasn't much to wait around for.

Craig Caldwell in Kaysville, UT USA 05/09/2007

Best: HOTEL IL BARGELLINO
Why: Great place to get a real taste of Italy. Convenient location. Clean and spacious room. Roof terrace a nice extra bonus. Friendly Carmel and Pino make the place a home away from home. Great help with signts reservation. Highly recommended.

CC in Lexington, Ky USA 04/21/2007

Best: Hotel Alma Domus in Sienna
Why: Location, comfort, value, helpful hosts and great view!

Worst: Affitacamere Lucia Freda in Florence
Why: No toilet paper, no working shower, other guests were extremely loud all night. Owner not on site but down the street, (actually he was in Milan and his mother was useless). No phone to contact her or anyone else. A terrible night was spent there, so in the morning we went to see Mama Marcella at Casa Rabatti who spent about 30 minutes calling other hotels to find us a room. She hooked us up with her friend Maria at Katti House where we stayed two nights and it was very nice. These two women were very kind to us.

Rachele Hemphill in Napa, Ca USA 04/12/2007

Best: Hotel Ungherese, Florence
Why: Clean, quiet, and in a neighborhood with no other hotels and not other tourists. If you've been to Italy, you'll know that there are tourists almost every. Staying here gives you an opportunity to see neighborhoods that few other tourists ever take the time to see. It's not near the sights, but that didn't matter to us as we were in Florence for five nights. We walked to the center. There are services like ATMs, tabbachi, an internet cafe, and a post office along the way to the old wall. You walk through time along the way. From places that are 200 years old you go back in time. The streets get narrower and the buildings older as you approach the center. Good value, clean. The proprietor is warm and friendly. We'd stay there again.

phil burger in seattle, wa USA 04/01/2007

Best: Soggiorno Battistero
Why: An incredible location - we opened our window and looked out at the Baptistery and Duomo - a wonderful view (one evening we could even listen to the madrigal choir singing by the Baptiatery), and when we closed the double pane window, nice and quiet. Kelly & Luca were excellent hosts, making all our museum reservations, recommending some excellent restaurants, giving great shopping tips (i.e., leather goods, pottery). They were always available, friendly, breakfast was good, and our entire stay quite reasonable and wonderful. Thank you Rick Steves!

Janet Caille in Roswell, Ga USA 04/01/2007

Best: Hotel Davanzati
Why: Everything! Amazing location, accommodations were excellent, service was amazing, the breakfast and evening "happy hour" terrific. Fabrizio went out of his way to make us feel at home. This was my mother's favorite hotel because of she felt like she was staying in a palazzo and my 13 year old daughter loved all the little extra's like the movie lending library after a long day of siteseeing. I loved the breakfast and the Chianti for happy hour was delicious!

Maria in Long Valley, NJ USA 03/19/2007

Best: casa portagioia
Why: casa portagioia is a fabulous place to stay. the rooms and apts are big, beautiful and so clean. the entire setting is breathtaking with a grand pool and beautiful gardens. the food is too die for and the owners couldn't be nicer or more helpful with our adventures.

tierney danehy in chicago, il USA 03/12/2007

Best: Hotel Ungherese
Why: Warm welcome and easy stay in nicely appointed room. Friendly proprietors tried to assist us in every way requested. Very quiet neighborhood, free parking, and easy access by bus to central Florence. Arguably the best cappuccino in Florence served with breakfast. Highly recommend!

Shari in Poulsbo, WA USA 02/16/2007

Best: Hotel Davazanti
Why: Delightful place to stay. Small but with all the appointments and run by a great family. Great central location - we virtually walked to everything.

Kathy Mooney in Ashland, OR USA 02/07/2007

Best: Novecento B&B Florence
Why: I took my neice to Italy for her first overseas trip and we loved this B&B. It is situated around the corner from the Duamo and when you sit on the terrac you feel you can almost touch it. The owner Franco is very helpful and the rooms are beautiful and maintained well. It is well worth what you pay being so central.

Pauline Dixon in Perth, WA Western Australia 01/28/2007

Best: Dream Domus
Why: Perla Mineo of the Florence Dream Domus was teriffic. We asked her to make reservations at no less than 7 museums and she arranged everything for us. Because of her kind help we were able to see several sites in the two days that we were there. The hotel was great and located in a very convenient area.

Nancy Otto in Austin, TX USA 01/24/2007

Best: Cas Portagioia (www.tuscanbreaks.com)
Why: The friendliest, most home-like place we've ever stayed. Exceptional rooms/apartments. Wonderful food. Top-flight recreation. Read Rick's recommendation in 2003 and we've gone back every year since. The finest "battery recharger" we've found. Do not miss this place!!

Dr. Michael Banks in New York, NY USA 01/24/2007

Best: Hotel Ungherese- Florence
Why: The owners were simply magnificent. Immaculate rooms,romantic garden. We ha a wonderful Christmas at Hotel Ungherese. Sabina was so nice and helpful with directions, tips and all suggestions she gave us.We higly recommend!!!Thanks to Rick again!!

Karin Baker in Dallas, TX USA 01/09/2007

Best: Alma Domas of Siena
Why: The Alma Domus was a great value at 60 EUR for a double room with a shower. The views of Siena from our balcony were absolutely stunning (and how often do you get a fabulous view and balcony with French Doors for that price?) The entry/lobby area had a stained glass window where you could peek into the beautiful Sanctuary of St. Catherine, that the Alma Domus was attached to. We normally take public transportation, but this time we took a taxi from the bus station to the hotel...I don't think we would have EVER found it on our own. It was totally worth the small 7 EUR charge...so convenient that we used the taxi to return to the train station, too. The rooms were very plain, but the location and views were incredible. The nuns disn't speak English, but different men worked the front desk in the evenings and were able to answer our questions. I would recommend this place to anyone...it was a very memorable experience.

Terry Miller in Bend, OR USA 01/06/2007

Worst: Hotel Ungherese
Why: Walls are paper thin and right in the lobby, you have to shower OVER the toilet and the owners are not as nice and accomodating as they seem. I was seriously disappointed!

Stacy in Atlanta, GA USA 01/05/2007

Best: Residenza il Villino, Florence
Why: Lovely old building with courtyard and view of the Duomo, extremely clean and comfortable, and the friendliest, most hospitable hosts you could ask for. Always ready to assist us in any way they could, and make us delicious capuccini every morning, Sergio and Elisabetta (sp?) are wonderful hosts. Great breakfasts (coffee, tea, croissants, yoghurt and more) to get you started every day.

Susan Hall in West Vancouver, BC Canada 12/23/2006

Best: La Crociona (agriturismo farm)
Why: It was a quiet, beautiful setting in the Tuscan countryside. The proprietors were very helpful and gave us a warm reception. The restaurant next door "Osteria La Crocina" was quite good (recent change in management after we were there so hope it is still same good food and service).

s j erickson in Woodbury, MN USA 12/19/2006

Best: Hotel Basilea
Why: Very Helpful. Made reservations at Academia and Uffizi Gallery for us on the days and time I wanted and emailed me the confirmation number for each museum.

Sue Hall in Wilson, WY USA 11/29/2006

Best: Borghese Palace Art Hotel
Why: Brand new and right in the middle of everything. An easy walk to everywhere. Can be noisy in the back rooms next to the disco across the street, but quite in the front rooms. Modern double pain window do wonders for the noise. Three nights for the price of two on Hotels.com

Jim Punches in Aptos, CA USA 11/20/2006

Best: Bellevue House
Why: Antonio and Rosanna were excellent hosts. The rooms were great! Don't miss the oldest pharmacy in Europe across the street.

Lenny Fein in Austin, TX USA 11/10/2006

Best: Hotel Il Bargelino
Why: On an unseasonably warm night in late October a disparate mix of ten of us ranging from our 20s to our 60s (from DC, Montana, Boston, Indiana, San Jose, and Galway, Ireland) wandered out onto the roof terrace of Hotel Il Bargelino to celebrate a honeymoon, a wedding anniversary, travel romances and family stories. We swapped recommendations for good restaurants, endearing accounts with Florentines and stories of olive picking and wine tasting. Carmel and Pino started this all just by telling one of us that she had to come out to the terrace to meet a visitor. And as often happens here, it just picked up like we were all old friends.

Cathleen O'Brien in Washington, DC, USA 10/24/2006

Worst: La Pressura Agritourismo
Why: This Agritourismo was not recommended in Rick Steve's book, but the book does mention about staying at an Agriturismo. I found La Pressura on the internet. It appear to be a lovely reasonably priced organic farm between Florence and Greve. Small apartment type villas in the heart of Tuscan country. The accomodations were nice, the apartment clean, but the office was always closed. The owners were not very friendly and did not offer any wine or olive oil tasting/tours. They offered laundry facilities, but the office where the washer and dryer were located was always locked. The surrounding area was very beautiful and convenient, direct bus route to either Florence, Greve or Siena, the hospitality was almost next to none. We were told that we could have dinner at the farm, but needed to give 24 hours notice. Unfortunately, the office was never open to give notice.

Our third day, my husband woke to find he was covered in bug bites. The Farmacia thought they were spider bites that he was having an allergic recation to. We could not stay another night and risk more bug bites. When we talked with the owner about this, he would not refund us the remaining night of our reserved stay. He explained that the bugs are bad this time of year (near the end of September) and there was nothing that he could do. We do not recommend this Agritoursimo. We found later that there are many places reasonably priced to stay in this area and probably could have found better accomodations.

Cindy Spencer in Waterford, MI USA 10/22/2006

Best: Agriturismo Terrapille
Why: This rustic romantic spot just out of Pienza with a pool overlooking a view of the Tuscan hills that stretch for miles was a real highpoint of our trip. Lucia our host could not have been warmer and friendlier.

Pat Christie in Calgary, AB Canada 10/15/2006

Best: Hotel Bellettini
Why: Resrved after reading comments on this website; good location; reasonable price; very large clean room; breakfast included and was quite good. The staff was very helpful. Would stay there again.

Dorothy in Winter Park, FL USA 10/13/2006

Best: Hotel Belvedere, Assisi
Why: A beautiful place to stay while in Assisi. Enrico is a wonderful person. I highly recommend it, and if I ever get back to Assisi I will stay there again.

Kathy H. in Seattle, WA USA 10/03/2006

Worst: Ristorante il Moro Rooms, Montalcino
Why: The communication is very difficult. If you dont show up when the restaurant is open, its very hard to get in touch with them. We waited a long time. There isn't drinkable water in the rooms or the kitchen. There might be a shared kitchen, but there is NOTHING in it. We had to ask for all kitchen utensils. We got 2 forks, plates, knives and a pot. Cooking was a lot like camping. We had to buy our own toilet paper. For a good 3 minutes after you flush the toilets, they would make unbelievable racket. If one room flushed in the night, it would wake up people in all four of the rooms. The room was clean and comfortable and it was in a good location, but once we checked in, we were on our own.

Jennifer Detzel in Wyoming, MN USA 10/02/2006

Best: Hotel Pendini
Why: Huge rooms. I mean huge. Close to the Train station. On a great piazza.

Jeff Kane in North Tustin, CA USA 09/06/2006

Worst: Hotel La Scaletta
Why: I would like to advise you of my dissatisfaction with the unacceptable service that myself and my family recevied during our stay in Florence at the Hotel La Scaletta. When I made the reservation with the hotel mentioned I advised the Reservation Manager that we were a family of 6 people. We have recevied an offert talking about a SUITE which could welcome 6 of us very well. We reserved it by credit card.

When we have arrived at the hotel we found this room to be large with also a small room and bathroom with no windows. The large room could only accomodate 4 people. The rest of my family were placed in an adjoining room with NO windows as well as an air conditioning which was out of service. As I told both bathrooms did not have windows and were without a fan.

Before I arrived at the hotel I had advised that an additional person would be joining the group making the party of 7 people. I was advised that this would not be a problem. I've been told that the suite room could accomodate 8 people.

When I checked in I saw the room and I realized it would not be appropriate for my family. I politely asked them to change my reservation and give my group 2 rooms. The staff were unhappy with my request.

We were planning to stay 3 nights but left next day because of the room size. Also we had found the room very noisy, dirty and smelling unpleasantly. The breakfast was such thing undescribable. I was charged for the whole stay, which was €300 per night cash. I paid cash and I did not receive a receipt or a copy of my payment. On top of this when we needed a taxi on departure the lady at the reception would not call one for me, advising us that there was a charge for this service. I have never met staff so rude and unwelcoming. I'm surprised that people like this are working in the service industry in a hotel of 2 stars.

We unfortunately did not enjoy our holiday due to this experience.

JOSEPH in BARRINGTON, CA USA 09/03/2006

Worst: Novecento B&B, Florence
Why: It was certainly not a terrible experience. Franco the Italian owner was very nice and cheery and the rooms were spotless!!! The rooms are also very romantic. It was just that when the bill came instead of it being 85 euro each night, one night had 15 euro tagged on top of it! His girlfriend tried to convince me it was a service fee through where we booked, but I've never booked through agency with service fees. For the best of the business, the best thing to have dine was refund that 15 euro. C'est la vie!

Michelle in Seattle, WA USA 08/25/2006

Best: Mini Aparthotel Haus Benji
Why: Mini Aparthotel Haus Benji located in Adelshofen 4 mi north Rothenburg Ober Tauber, Germany is a beautiful facility in the middle of a small farming community. It is located close enough to Rothenburg to allow for visiting and shopping, but offers a retreat away from the busy city--a real vacation. Our apartment was extremely nice and roomy. The owners, Ute and Gerhard, were very accommodating and even fixed my husband fried eggs each morning--a rare thing in Europe. Breakfast also included homemade cherry preserves, which was delicious. We had a wonderful stay and we hope to return one day soon.

Nita High in Saluda, NC USA 08/12/2006

Best: Hotel Le Volpaie
Why: Hotel Le Volpaie is a charming hotel in Castel San Gimignano, Italy. Castel San Gimignano (not to be confused with San Gimignano) is a a lovely, village located between Florence and Siena and about 15 km from the larger San Gimignano. The owners Luca and Anna were very kind and helpful. Luca offered maps of places to visit and suggestions for places to eat. The breakfast at Hotel Le Volpaie has to be among the best in Italy. Our room had a nice balcony and view of the Tuscany country side. We were touring on a motorcycle and the hotel has a garage where we could park in the evening. We visited for three days and I wish we could have stayed longer.

Nita H. High in Saluda, NC USA 08/12/2006

Best: B&B La Romea (Lucca)
Why: Giulio and Gaia are wonderful hosts and are very helpful (they speak English very well). The breakfast was excellent and we really enjoyed our time there.

Worst: Florence Dream Domus B&B, Palazzo Ravizza (Siena)
Why: Florence Dream Domus-- We are so disappointed with them. They overbooked and bumped us to a 2-star hotel down the road. We paid the same price as what we had reserved for this great sounding B&B. When we called to confirm, we were told by Perla, our contact, that we would be in one of her rooms just down the way. That sounded a little odd, but we figured the hotel might have another building that they also run. When we arrived we found out that we had simply been bumped to a nearby hotel that had room. We never saw Perla, and we were quite disappointed that we were misled. We had a cheaper hotel reserved originally, but we decided to let go of it to splurge a bit and enjoy this B&B. We ran into friends from home while we were in Florence (quite a shock, since we didn't know we were all there at the same time!). As we talked, we found out that they too had booked a room at Dream Domus, and they too had been bumped to a different hotel in the neighborhood. After hearing that, I do not trust the management at this place!! If you book here, know that they may send you elsewhere!

Palazzo Ravizza was a fine hotel-- it was very pretty actually, and breakfast in the garden was wonderful. However, it was the one place that didn't really have AC, even thought they claimed they did. In our room, the "AC" was a fan blowing room temperature air. We complained that it wasn't working, but none of the staff seemed to understand what the problem was. They all said it was working just fine. We stayed in at least 10 other hotels along our trip, and the rest understood that AC should be cold air. It was frustrating that one of our more expensive splurge hotels didn't really have AC in the middle of a hot summer.

Julie in Santa Barbara, CA USA 08/08/2006

Worst: Hotel Bretagne - Florence
Why: Not recommended in book but on this web site A dilapidated dump, seedy entry to walk up reception area decorated with left over furniture from before Mussolini's childhood. Furniture dirty from decades of use and lack of cleaning, three shade of white on bathroom wall none of them bright enough to indicate cleanliness, elevator inop most of our short visit. The garage they use to store your car managed to scartch a week old BMW and then claim the damage was there before, even though their own inspection form showed no damage the night before. This hotel was so bad we couldn't get out of Florence quick enough, skipped town without seeing any of the standard tourist spots. A flop house would have been a step up.

Charlie Gaetze in Sioux Falls, SD USA 07/28/2006

Best: Hotel Pensione Alessandra
Why: During our trip all of our accomodations were nice (Paris, Venice, Florence, Rome). This hotel had the friendliest, most helpful staff. Good location and wonderful breakfast included each day.

T. Koons in Forest, VA USA 07/22/2006

Best: Hotel Ungherese
Why: Gracious, helpful hosts (Sabrina and Leonardo); charming terraced garden; immaculately clean, reasonably-sized clean room; generous breakfast with the most delicious cappucinos I had in 15 days in Italy; and its location in a quiet, safe, pleasant neighborhood, just a 10-minute bus ride outside of the non-stop noise and activity of central Florence.

Carol Breen in Newton, MA USA 07/12/2006

Best: Palazzo Bruchi, Siena, and Residenza Vespucci, Florence
Why: Our large rooms in Palazzo Bruchi were beautiful, and MariaCristina and Camille were very helpful. Residenza Vespucci (booked though Angela and Tommaso at Hotel Davanzati, which was full, but cheaper to book directly through Francesco) was a newly re-done apt. with air conditioned bedrooms--greatly appreciated and huge baths.

Karen and Jim in Memphis, TN USA 07/09/2006

Best: B&B Inpiazzadellasignoria
Why: The bed and breakfast was wonderful. I will recommend it to all my friends. The staff was so very helpful and accomodating.

Ellen Walters in Jacksonville, Fl USA 07/08/2006

Best: Hotel Ungherese
Why: The hospitality was so warm and amazing. i was traveling with 2 teenage daughters and this was their favorite stay due to the great staff. The breakfast was very good. They were very happy to get tickets to several sites and were very helpful in tips and hints to appreciating Florence from their perspective. It was spotless and clean and the antiques provided a very warm ambience. We felt like part of the family not just a guest. The staff was very helpful on shopping tips and great local eateries as well. I am definitely recommending this to all of our friends. Also, the garden courtyard was beautiful and very relaxing. I can't say enough positive things about Hotel Ungherese.

Cathy in Toronto, ON Canada 07/06/2006

Best: La Moscadella
Why: Not in Rick Steves, but a great hotel/inn. It's a farmhouse with a pool, 10 rooms, an amazing restaurant, and views of the Tuscan countryside. We had great breakfasts every day out on the patio. The owners really see to your needs, and we got a great recommendation to a winery that turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip.

Lindsey CO USA 06/30/2006

Best: La Moscadella
Why: Not in Rick Steves, but a great hotel/inn. It's a farmhouse with a pool, 10 rooms, an amazing restaurant, and views of the Tuscan countryside. We had great breakfasts every day out on the patio. The owners really see to your needs, and we got a great recommendation to a winery that turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip.

Lindsey CO USA 06/30/2006

Best: Hotel Pendini
Why: We had planned to stay on an agriturismo in Chianti from Saturday to Saturday, then move to a hotel in Florence for 3 days. Upon arriving at the agriturismo, it was clearly not suitable for our needs. We needed to move to Florence immediately. Without internet access or even a phone in the house, all we had was your book. With a day's notice (on a weekend in June!), the Pendini had a room for us. After a sleepless night imagining some squalid Italian hovel, we arrived at a beautiful hotel on the Piazza della Republica to the warmest welcome -- and a hotel filled with patrons holding your book. In fact, all of Florence seemed to be carrying your book. Also, the Pendini offers a computer in the reception area with free internet access for guests.

B. Decharo in New York, NY USA 06/21/2006

Worst: La Crociona
Why: Fiorella does not do cooking classes anymore. When I asked about them, she said she would give me recipes in English. Barbara and Roberto were selectively helpful. We basically had to bug them to even get a wine tour and tasting there.They said we could do a load of laundry, then charged us 8 euro for one load.

Joyce Dittmer in Atlanta, GA USA 06/20/2006

Worst: Hotel Chiusarelli - Siena
Why: I would like them removed from your recommended hotels list. They have a special Rick Steves rate on their site, but when I booked, they said they only had a side room. I reconfirmed I would be checking in at 11pm and wanted the side room, if not a back room. When we checked in, they said the hotel was full, gave us a very noisy room in the front and told us maybe something would open in the morning. I showed them the email promising me a side room and he pretended to not know what "side" meant, even though it was their words. The a/c had to be switched on (had been turned off inside the machine). At 8am, they told me nothing would be available and I was stuck with the front room for 2 more nights. The measily window wouldn't even shut. They were extremly rude and unaccomodating. Until they buck up and get better windows, they don't deserve a 3 star status, or your recommendation. You can't count on a room in the back because when you check in they may just say "sorry, hotel is full". I have never been so disappointed in a hotel, much less a recommendation on yours.

Shari Hallahan in Kirkland, WA USA 06/19/2006

Best: Hotel Brunelesschi, Florence
Why: Cant remember if this was in your book, but it should be. Part of it is a medieval tower. Beautiful hotel and wonderful breakfast (included). It was mentioned on the last page of the Da Vinci Code.

Susan Willis in Lakeland, FL USA 06/06/2006

Best: Alma Dumos, Siena
Why: Exactly as you described, nuns, curfew, but basic room comfortable and the view magnificient, even though Doumo partly covered by scaffolding for repairs. Cost was Euro 60 for a double as you quoted. May 2006

Margaret Tuck in Augusta, GA USA 06/02/2006

Worst: Camere Bellavista, Montepulciano
Why: Gabriella is reasonably quick to forward a rate quote, but finalizing the reservation is all but impossible. I emailed, and she asks for a phone call to confirm. I phone, and despite my communicating in Italian, she asks me to email. So, I send two emails with the credit card number, and I get no response. Another phone call, and now she asks for a check in Euros for _more_ than 1 night's stay in order to confirm the reservation. Each response takes 2-7 days. With the poor customer service I didn't trust this arrangement to go any smoother. I eventually booked in Pienza instead to meet our budget.

Another review on a separate website confirmed my experience: they reserved in advance, reconfirmed in country both 1 week and 1 night prior, only to have their reservation not honored. Gabriella offered only a small standard room rather than the superior or terrace room they had reserved.

Stephen in Boise, ID USA 05/23/2006

Best: meuble il riccio montelpulciano
Why: A beautiful building in a wonderful medieval city. Gio and Ivana are lovely hosts. Our room was spacious, clean, and comfortable. The roof garden is a great place to relax. Internet access outside the door of our room.

Sandra Talarico in Little Silver, NJ USA 05/16/2006

Best: hotel ungherese
Why: My daughter and I spent a few days in Florence. I found the Hotel Ungherese through the Rick Steves Guidebook. We found that everything the book said about the hotel was true...and more! The young couple who manage it, Sabrina and Leonardo were extremely helpful to us! They got us museum reservations, helped us with steps we had to take to replace a lost passport. Sabrina speaks English, Spanish, French, German, as well as Italian. The breakfast was wonderful as is the coffee! It kept us going well into the day!The price was very reasonable and the neighborhood was peaceful, pleasant, quiet and safe (at the foot of the hill to Fiesole), away from the confusion and crowds of the center of town but well served by the 17 and 7 buses. There are great places to eat in the neighborhood (Picadilly's makes awesome pizza!) The best part was that we felt like when we left to come home, we were leaving friends! When my wife and I return to Florence, it's where we'll stay!

Tom Job in Oliver Springs, TN USA 05/06/2006

Best: Hotel Ungherese
Why: Excellent value and easy parking. Hosts Sabrina and Leonardo were extremely helpful and helped me move the car a few blocks on Thursday night to allow for street cleaning.

Robin Farrow in San Jose, CA USA 04/20/2006

Best: Hotel Duomo - Siena
Why: Clean, available, friendly. Very quiet, good breakfast, low-key wait staff.

Jill CH in Ontario, CA USA 04/19/2006

Best: Soggiorno Pezzati
Why: I got this hotel listing from one of your old books (2003) and I thought it was a really great find. It is only ten minutes from the train station so it is easy to use as a home base if you are taking day trips to Siena, etc. Daniela is warm and friendly and speaks great English. I would definitely recommend this place! www.soggiornopezzati.it.

LeAnn Yee in New York, NY USA 04/19/2006

Best: Hotel David in Florence
Why: Not in the book, but should be. In the Oltrarno area, just on the far side of the Piazza Michelangelo, this quiet, lovely 3-star oasis is for those that want to be a little removed from all of the hubbub of the city center, but still want to be within an easy walk, bus ride or cab ride of the major sights. The staff are the most responsive I have found in all of Europe and very pleasant to deal with. We had a quiet spacious quad room with breakfast included for 110 Euros. We will be delighted to stay there again on future visits to Florence.

Steve Heinen in Tulsa, OK USA 04/11/2006

Best: Florence - Palazzo Belfiore in the Oltrarno neighborhood
Why: We had a wonderful two bedroom apartment with kitchen and eating area. We stayed there two weeks and the price was very reasonalbe. The Oltrano neighborhood is lovely.

J in HONOLULU, HI USA 03/30/2006

Best: Quartopiano bed and breakfast
Why: paolo the owner was so kind and the location is great

Anne in London, uk 03/22/2006

Best: Hotel Loggiato Dei Serviti, Florence
Why: Very nice staff, very quiet location and literally around the corner from the Academia, San Marco and Museum of Precious stones. Two blocks from the Duomo and nice shops and a great restaurnant on the corner in front of the Duomo.

Worst: Hotel Chiusarelli, Siena, Italy
Why: Staff was very nice but we didn't find any quiet rooms here. Three travellers, we all asked for quiet rooms in the back, two got streetside, one got a room around the corner from the lobby. If the church bells of the Dominican church at 7:00 didn't waken you then, on the first floor the staff change on the tile floors at same time complete with echo and all conversations, would. Wouldn't stay there again.

Susie Sherman in Pleasant Ridge , Mi USA 02/04/2006

Best: Hotel La Scaletta, FLORENCE
Why: Extremely spartan accomodations high above a busy Vespa-filled street were nevertheless mildly charming, quite central and well-suited to my adventurously low-budget expectations. Hostess was so friendly as to wish Italian-ness upon her guests, if that isn't a bit much. What a sweet doll. Be a guest in Firenze, family-style!

Jonas K in Toronto, Canada 01/23/2006

Best: Soggiorno Battistero B&B
Why: The location, location, location was perfecto, perfecto, perfecto right in the heart of Florance. Luca and Kelly (and their 9 month old baby) were super nice, we felt like we were a part of the family. They made all reservations for us and gave excellent restaurant advice (and reservations). Very nice rooms with a view of the Duomo and Baptistry. My wife and I highly recommend Soggiorno Battistero.

Dennis & Donna Thompson in Godmanchester, CA UK 01/16/2006

Best: Hotel Villa Azalee
Why: Great service (Tony the day desk guy was so helpful and kind), the rooms are beautiful incl. phone,TV,minibar,heated towel rail,AC, excellent breakfast buffet. Found this place on laterooms.com for 1/2 price,had our choice of rooms upon arrival(in late Sept.) chose a triple bedded superior room for 100 euro/night and regular price is 235 euro- Viale Fratelli 44 Florence www.villa-azalee.it Centrally located, Very highly recommended !

Tricia in Shakopee, MN USA 01/05/2006

Best: Hotel Aldobrandini
Why: Iganzio was wonderful and so PROUD to be in your book... "The Bible" as he referred to it. The location was perfect...not far from the train station, but central to the city.

Worst: Hotel Aldobrandini
Why: The older gentleman at the desk each night filled the lobby with cigarette smoke even tho' there were no smoking signs everywhere. The smoke lingered through breakfast.

J. Taylor in LaConner, WA USA 01/02/2006