Florence & Tuscany 2010Favorite discoveries or tips: Il Latini restaurant -- a Florentine experience, family style Tuscany cuisine. Great for groups. Expensive but worth the splurge. Reservations required. Marianne Kurtz in Union, KY USA 11/11/2009 Hotel Dali, Florence. The owner was gracious and helpful --- and later managed to contact local police and get them to remove a traffic violation we received for driving in a restricted zone on our way to the hotel. Don Duprey in Bainbridge Island, WA USA 10/25/2009 We discoverd an incredible restaurant in Baccaiano, south of Florence near Montespertoli. It is a seafood restaurant run by a husband and wife who are very attentive and have some incredible fresh fish selections. The Chef PierPaolo was a personal chef to Madonna, Toby McGuire and Danny DeVito at one time. He brought several different fish to our table and let us chose which one we wanted and his suggestions on how to prepare it were amazing. You can order directly off the menu (which looks sumptuous)or have him prepare his own creation, as we did. It was one of the best meals we have ever had and would highly recommend this restuarant. It is Il Mezzo Marinaio at Via Volterrana Nord 84, Baccaiano, Italy. You will be delighted to have dined at this fabulous restaurant. Rhonda McCoy in West Des Moines, , IA USA 10/06/2009 Hotel Enza, Florence,VIA S. ZANOBI 45 50129 FIRENZE tel. 055 490990 fax. 055 473672 WWW.HOTELENZA.IT In 2009, this hotel is extending its rate of 69 Euros per night to everyone with or without Rick Steve's book Italy 2009. Tratttoria San Zanobi, Florence, Via San Zanobi 33A Tel. 055.47.52.86 Moderately price, excellent food Francis in Edmonton, AB Canada 09/27/2009 Paola and Giuseppe of Tuscany Tours was one of the highlights of our Italy 2009 trip. Paola for a walking tour of Florence and Giuseppe for a trip to the Tuscan countryside. They were terrific! The Ladies from Florida in Orlando, FL USA 09/23/2009 We just returned from a wonderful time in Tuscany and just wanted to say that the comments about the tower in San Gimignano should include a comment about the difficulty of the climb. In particular, the last climb is up a steep ladder. We were fine, but noticed a few people who were unable to make that last climb. R Pomerantz in Downers Grove, IL USA 09/21/2009 The agritursmo Podere San Lorenzo is a satisfactory place to stay near Volterra. lance Reynolds in alameda, ca USA 09/19/2009 Don't skip these 2 things--1) make reservations to Uffizi and Accademia. 2) buy or borrow an MP3 player or Ipod and download available free tours. For previous trips I've read outloud to our little group, trying to steal a look at a painting or statue, then been exhausted after the Uffizi or other tour. This trip, we all had our own guide with Rick's voice in our ear. I felt relaxed and enriched from the museum visit this time. Ken and Peggy Williams in Marietta, GA USA 09/19/2009 Meant to add this with earlier comments. The 2009 Florence guide warns of pickpockets, etc. in Santa Maria Novella piazza. It's seemed a little iffy in the past, but has been transformed. It now has long stone benches, new sidewalks, beautiful grass. Probably 200 people were sitting on benches chatting, or dozing on the grass (not bums but weary tourists). It's probably the best outdoor place in the touristed part of Florence to just hang out. Google Earth shows it under construction, but it's finished now, as of September 2009. Ken and Peggy Williams in Marietta, GA USA 09/19/2009 Ken and Peggy Williams zulie3@bellsouth.net Ken and Peggy Williams in Marietta, GA USA 09/19/2009 Casa Portagioia - http://www.tuscanbreaks.com/ My Contact Info Jesse Pellegatto jesse@turbo-kits.com 860-676-2929 x102 My wife and just got back and the property, service and overall expierence just blew us away at this place. Check the reviews on other sites, this place does not dissapoint and I think it would be a great addition to your 2010 book. Jesse in Canton, CT USA 08/27/2009 Ca Penelope, a B&B 30 minutes outside Modena, beautiful, modern yet in the country. Jim Mundell in Surf City, NJ USA 08/12/2009 I couldn't believe there was no mention of the huge, important synagogue in Florence. Many people like to trace Jewish culture throughout Europe and are interested in a quick stop--if not a detailed tour. There is an old synagogue in Siena as well...just intereting FYI to those who care..worth a mention. otherwise the book was great...the tours were the perfect amount of info without spending hours. Trena Rauner in Englewood, NJ USA 07/13/2009 I was in Florence in mid-May this year. I ate at Il Pirata on Via de'Ginori one evening at their buffet. There were two gents sitting just behind me. When they got up to leave I realized that one of them was Rick Steves, who was dialoguing with the owner. When they left I asked the owner if he knew who he was talking to, but he did not. I explained to him that Rick Steves was the author of the book which I had in my hand, and that his restaurant/deli was becoming quite well known as a result. The next evening he quizzed me again about Rick Steves. Tom Robertsen in St. Louis, MO USA 07/12/2009 This was my first trip to Europe-Florence, Italy in particular so I wasn't quite sure what to expect. The guidebook became my "must take" item everywhere I went...my fellow travelers jokes that they would come along with me because I had my best friend "Rick" to guide us. Loved it! You don't list Hotel Atheneaum as an hotel option..but I stayed there and loved it. Excellent attentive staff, beds were comfy, room was pristine, breakfast was bountiful, location was comfortable for someone who doesn't mind a short walk to avoid noise. Krista Zajkowski in Appleton, WI USA 07/09/2009 Dei Mori La Massa in Casentino Valley. It is owned by the same owners of Dei Mori(B&B)in Florence. (highly recommended in your guidebook) Located an hour from Florence, high in the hills of the vallley. After turning off the main road at the Vertelli sign, you begin a long climb to LaMassa, and are transported into a world of serenity and beauty you cannot imagine. We were treated like family by Peter and Danny. Contact person is Peter Gosmore. E-mail address is deimori@bnb.it. Would highly recommend this not only for the beauty and serenity, but the hospitality shown by the owners. The accomodations are first class, from the mini kitchen to the down comforter, with small patio for each room with bistro table. Lap pool, star jasmine, geraniums, lavender, te trees, olive trees in a serene courtyard. Check the website. It is a definite find, and one that I think Rick Steves would love. Would be happy to give further info if necessary. I thought Dei Mori in Florence was fabulous, but this tops everything. Read reviews in Trip Advisor for additional info. JoAnne Cruson in Nampa, Id USA 06/30/2009 We flew Boston to Rome, then train to Florence. Which meant we had to take Leonardo Express to Rome first, then change trains. We had difficulty with the trenitalia Web site, then were unable to get Leonardo Express tickets from the automated ticketing machines. Since it was early morning and not too crowded, we decided to buy ALL tickets for the trip at once from the ticketing office, which worked well with almost no wait. Rick's advice to take euros and avoid money hassles worked great, and we LOVE the money belts; were not hassled at all by pickpockets, except a couple gypsies dressed whiteface as nuns in the piazzas who were curiously aggressive, but brief! We really enjoyed the Oltrarno District, south of the River, though we wish we'd thought about going earlier in the day so as to enjoy all the shops. Trattoria Sabatino was packed, bustling and delicious! We met so many wonderful people on our trip - in hotels, at sights, in restaurants. Definitely a nice benefit of 'extroverted travel!' Either we got lucky or travel is noticeably down right now (week of May 26, 2009). We had no trouble at all getting hotel reservations 3 wks in advance. Restaurants were relatively quiet (except Sabatino, tho we were seated immediately!). No problem getting reservations at Uffizi 1 wk in advance, and next to no lines anywhere. We had read in the Wall St Journal that travel had really slacked off in Europe and that booking things later rather than earlier would likely work to our advantage. We found this to be the case this time. We were told, however, that things were expected to really pick up in June. Cecilia in Dallas, Te USA 06/15/2009 We flew Boston to Rome, then train to Florence. Which meant we had to take Leonardo Express to Rome first, then change trains. We had difficulty with the trenitalia Web site, then were unable to get Leonardo Express tickets from the automated ticketing machines. Since it was early morning and not too crowded, we decided to buy ALL tickets for the trip at once from the ticketing office, which worked well with almost no wait. Rick's advice to take euros and avoid money hassles worked great, and we LOVE the money belts; were not hassled at all by pickpockets, except a couple gypsies dressed whiteface as nuns in the piazzas who were curiously aggressive, but brief! We really enjoyed the Oltrarno District, south of the River, though we wish we'd thought about going earlier in the day so as to enjoy all the shops. Trattoria Sabatino was packed, bustling and delicious! We met so many wonderful people on our trip - in hotels, at sights, in restaurants. Definitely a nice benefit of 'extroverted travel!' Either we got lucky or travel is noticeably down right now (week of May 26, 2009). We had no trouble at all getting hotel reservations 3 wks in advance. Restaurants were relatively quiet (except Sabatino, tho we were seated immediately!). No problem getting reservations at Uffizi 1 wk in advance, and next to no lines anywhere. We had read in the Wall St Journal that travel had really slacked off in Europe and that booking things later rather than earlier would likely work to our advantage. We found this to be the case this time. We were told, however, that things were expected to really pick up in June. Cecilia in Dallas, Te USA 06/15/2009 One of our best experiences in Florence (and there were many) was a day Market tour combined with cooking class through In Tavola. Our guide took us through the market explaining the history of Florentine cooking, meats, vinegars etc as we shopped for fresh items for the meal we would prepare back at the cooking school. Their website is Intavola.org Roberto was our instructor. They offer professional classes and one day "fun" classes as well. Maggie F in St Louis, MO USA 06/01/2009 Trattoria La Capannina, San Donato in Poggio - amazing food, though not your typical Tuscan fare, some 'country' specialities (like tripe!) but a brilliant Fiorentina steak.. Sound service, excellent value for money. 8/10 And Podere Patrignone (www.patrignone.com), not far from Castellina in Chianti but deep in the Chianti hills, which is actually where I am staying right now (am using their wireless network). Truly stunning place, beautiful surroundings, the owners are lovely, and their two dogs are the cutest mutts you've ever seen. They cooked for us last night and it was the best food we've had here in Tuscany (though not having to drive also helped!). A little rough around the edges but have really felt at home here with my family - the kids love it too. Louisa Greenwood in London, UK 05/14/2009 We stayed at Villa Le Torri in Tuscany: www.letorri.com Vacation rental by the week. One and 2 bedroom apartments with bedroom kitchen and bath. Kim in Austin, TX USA 05/07/2009 fun restaurant in Florence that wasn't in your book: our best meal was about two blocks from Hotel Enza on Via Nationale, called Jardine Il Barbaro? or Barbino?? Susan in Kansas City, KS USA 04/09/2009 1. After climbing up to the Piazza Michelangelo continue climbing up to San Miniato Al Monte. It is peaceful, beautiful and unemcumbered by buses and cars. They also have a WC (: 2. Shopping for little gifts-our Walking Tours guide suggested La Bottega Dell'Olio Piazza del Limbo, 2R, 50123 tel 055 2670468. He has olive oil, but also lovely olive oil soaps and fabulous scented soaps (rose!) in addition to olive oil hand cream-nice scent and not greasy. Unfortunately I forgot that hand cream is treated like a liquid, so I had to check my luggage on the way home ): Suzy Pare in Cleveland, Oh USA 04/04/2009 Yes, go to thebestoftuscanytour.com We had a marvelous daylong bus tour which took us to Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa and lunch at a wine estate. It was very inexpensive for what it offered, covered alot of ground and the scenery was breathtaking......:))) Ask for Sandra...she was a wonderful tour guide. Malissa Lakin-Watson in Savannah, Ga USA 03/25/2009 We just returned from Siena using your 2008 guidebook. At the Duomo, you suggested skipping "the Crypt". We found it fascinating to see the frescoed rooms that were recently discovered.(Early 2000's) Well worth it! Mary Ann Bernauer in Plymouth, WI USA 01/23/2009 If you are travelling to Florence in winter, do not underestimate the cold there. Otherwise, it's quite okay even if it rains on a couple of days. RK in San Francisco, CA USA 01/14/2009 The Rick Steve's Italian Phrasebook & Dictionary was an invaluable addition to our travel resources. And my experience with Italians is that they are patient and helpful when trying to communicate with a tourist that struggled with the native language. As Rick suggests, they seem to appreciate the effort in you speaking in their native tongue and I learned a bit more about their culture in doing so. Va molto bene! Curt Whitmire in Corvallis, OR USA 11/03/2008 I would like so suggest a charming hotel in Tuscany that we stayed at in 2001 and again in 9/08. It is the Villa Sangiovese in Panzano which is a great location as a base for traveling through Tuscany as it is centrally located. Panzano is very small but a delight and relaxing. The hotel is immaculate and the restaurant there is very good also. The owners are available and very helpful in planning road trips around the area. Villa Sangiovese is located at Piazza Bucharelli 5 50020 Panzano in Chianti,Firenze Tel 055 852461 and the owners are Uldericko and Frederika Bleuler. pat saxton in cassopolis, mi USA 10/14/2008 Pienza has the most amazing cheese that I have ever put in my mouth. The hills in Montepulciano gave me the best workout that I have ever had. TRY TO SPEAK THE LANGUAGE. The Italian locals were so kind when I made an effort to speak to them only in Italian. Also, expect to pay to use a public toilet in a big city. It sucks, but it's the way they do it over there. Lauren Mackenzie in Atlanta, GA USA 09/26/2008 Stayed in Florence at the B&B Novecentro, 10 Via Ricasoli. Spitting distance from the Duomo, and run by two delightful people. Excellent breakfast, private bathrooms, charming. Only thing is you have to walk up 61 steps (yes, I counted them), although they have a hoist for luggage. Also, spent a delightful half day in Vinci -- the museum is fabulous (especially since the science museum has been closed in Florence) and the people there lovely. Really enjoyed both the museum and the little town. Celia Strickler in Palmetto, FL USA 09/24/2008 I have just returned from ten days in tuscany and umbria and discovered one of the most memorable evenings in all my travels. In the little town of Castel de Fiori high atop a hill outside Montegabbione is a medieval village that i will never forget. On August 2nd the Castel de Fiori association presented the opera Cinderella in their beautiful piazza. The outdoor presentation under the stars brought together an eclectic group of people. During the intermission, around a street lined with tables and local delicacies prepared by the townfolk, I met business and philanthropic leaders from Palm Beach, South Carolina, New York, California, London, Paris, and locals from Rome, Naples, Cortona and all over Europe. It was an amazing gathering of Contessas and titans of industry mixing with the wonderfully welcoming farmers and locals. the opera was run by a group from Oxford England who were just fantastic. The whole event was organized by association president Kip Keenan who organized one of the most beautiful evenings i have spent on vacation in years. I would not miss the opera next year and plan to make my travel to Italy around the Castel de Fiore event E. McMullen in Columbia, SC USA 08/12/2008 We stayed at Hotel Casci, Via Cavour, very central and convenient to everything, room fine, AC, huge bathroom. In July it cost 150E per night, perhaps steep, but that covered everything, museum reservations, dinner reservations on request, suggestions for out-of-the-way churches to visit, internet access, etc. All the suggestions were good, and they were always pleasant and helpful. Plus there's an elevator.
Kathleen in Oakland, CA USA 08/05/2008 In May, 2008, we stayed in Sienna at the Albergo Bernini for four nights. We were very disappointed. The rooms are downright shabby with bad, bumpy beds. The worst part of all was the very bad but undefinable smell in the bathrooms of the two rooms we rented that also had their own baths. No reading lights, just a dangling uncovered lightbulb in a fan over the bed with a ceiling fan that you had to practically break your neck to reach to pull the very short cord on the string. The people and the view were really great, but that bathroom smell was so, so bad. Would not stay there again. Bonnie Kamp in Thousand Oaks, CA USA 07/30/2008 We had two great meals at Osteria de' Pazzi, just North of Sta Croce at the corner of via dei lavatoi and via giuseppe verdi bill catlin in st. paul, MN USA 07/12/2008 parking in Montepulcino by the tourist office was easy. We found parking right away. Great winery Poliziano right outside of Montepulcino head out towards Montepulicino Stazione...Marqarite gave us a great tasting of many of their wines...no charge. they were small and very friendly. Also they serve lunch (reservations required) Loved them!! Shari in Sherman Oaks, Ca USA 07/07/2008 Castel di Fiori is a tiny, but beautiful village that we stumbled upon just driving around looking for scenic out-of-the way places. By chance we met Kip Keenan, the unofficial mayor who unlocked the door to the tower so that we could climb up and get an amazing 360 degree view. The village is putting on an outdoor opera as a fundraiser for restorations. From there we drove to beautiful Montegabbione and enjoyed that untouristy town as well. Charlotte Whitney in Ann Arbor, Michigan, MI USA 06/25/2008 We like touring the Pitti Palace and gardens. We also enjoyed the hop on hop off bus that took us to Fiesole. The area was beautiful. Other major attractions were very beautiful. Michael de la Pena in Shingle Springs, CA USA 06/22/2008 Please include Antonio and Gabriella's little bottega, La Buca di Enea next street over from Il Giardino Secreto. Via della Buca, 10- 53026 Pienza Tel. and fax:0578-748653. This is a 6 table , small, family run restaurant which serves Bruschette e Crostoni, Crepes, Insalate e Primi piatti, Caffe, Cappuccino... and lots of wonderful attention. Antontio and Gabriella do not speak much English, but they are warm, willing to help you with any little bit of Italian you know and provided us with many fun nights, reasonably priced Tuscan zuppas and pasta, crepes better than the ones we had in Paris...lovely vin santo and lots of fun exchanges in pigeon Italian, minimal English, some German and lots of sign languge. Do try it out and also check Il Giardino Secreto again when you or one of your reps is in Pienza. You'll love it!!! This was our best stay in our month long trip. Barbara Prickett in Tucson, Az USA 06/16/2008 Go to Mercato Centrale! Eat there, buy picnic supplies. Experience the local culture. This should not be missed. Nancy Casey in Olean, NY USA 06/04/2008 I stayed four lovely days in Florence at a place called Florence Dream Domus, which was in your guidebook in 2007 and not in 2008. This place was charming and very centrally located to everything necessary to visit in Florence. Perla, the owner, was wonderful and would do anything you want and her concierge Jeffery and his sister were at your beckon call. Breakfast was light and tasty, perfect for weary travelors who just need a little something. I recommend you revisit this B&B, it needs to be put back in the book. As a side note, Perla has revisiting patron whom we met and it was delightful. Ana Miner in Novato, CZ USA 06/04/2008 Just reiterating a tip from the book. If certain museums are important to you book or get a reservation in advance. We breezed into the Academia and Ufizzi past hundreds of hot miserable tourists with a 2 hour wait in line. Also don't overlook the smaller museums, San Marco and Ospedal degli Innocenti in particular. There are also some free concerts in the evening in various churches. Stop by the tourist office near Santa Maria Novella and you'll find posters for local events plus maps and other info. Maggie Flynn in Florissant, MO USA 05/29/2008 500 Touring Club - 23R Via Vinegia, Firenze 50122 Tel: 055 286 886. Tours of Florence in a self-drive "convoy" of vintage Fiat 500's. Alex in LA, CA USA 05/11/2008 Hotel (Soggiorno) Magliani Linda in McAllen, TX USA 04/18/2008 Hi...Just wonder why you haven't mentioned the Friends of the Uffizi membership. It's an annual card, giving unlimited access to the national museums... for anyone here for more than a few days, it's a great investment... gets you to the head of the line, even ahead of those with reservations! http://www.florenceforfun.org/index.php?lng=1&id=31 Gloria Harman in Oakville, ON Canada 04/14/2008 The free podcasts for Rome and Florence were brilliant. We traveled with a 10 year old and a 15 year old and both remained engaged throughout all the museums with the help of your podcasts! Thank you Lisa Drage in Rochester, MN USA 04/09/2008 The Boboli Gardens are the best spot in Florence- you should include it in your guidebook as a tour. Meredith MA USA 03/22/2008 Two tips: first, in Florence you really need to get reservations for the museums, especially the Uffizi. I was there in late January, a very slow time, and the line for the Uffizi on a Saturday morning was well over 100 people long (I skipped the line thankfully). Second tip is to get away from Florence and Siena. Volterra and Montalcino are both excellent hilltowns, and there are many more both in the book and not. Even by bus, just go. Brian Gulledge in Woodbridge, VA USA 02/11/2008 After my study abroad program ended, my mother and I had an amazing 10 day stay at the Hotel Casa Rabatti. My Italian improved greatly through the many conversations that I was able to have with Marcella. I was stranded in Italy for a few days with no money and Marcella allowed me to stay at her place AND use her phone and was nothing but comfort in what were some of the worst days I have had yet. So I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for mentioning her in your book. April West p.s. On the day that I was leaving Marcella was very excited to receive your latest family Christmas card :) April West in Ithaca, NY USA 01/26/2008 Lucca Ian Turner in Oakes Denver, CO USA 01/16/2008 The Siena chapter didn't include the lovely little Synagogue in Siena. It's worth checking out, but it's only open for a few hours on Sunday. Andy Garlikov in Los Angeles, CA USA 01/02/2008 We stayed at Una Hotel Vittoria. We loved the place where it's hip and yet in the locals area. Approx. 20 mins walk to central. It may cost more in the high season, but we got a bargain traveling in winter time. Amy in Oakland, CA USA 01/02/2008 "Tasty Tuscany", fabulous Tuscan Villa/Cooking School run by a super nice couple, Patrizia and Paolo. www.tastytuscany.com Paul Mazur in Spring Lake, NJ USA 12/28/2007 Hotel Colomba, Via Cavour 21, 50129 , Florence, web site www.hotelcolomba.com, tel. 0039055289139, fax 0039055284323. This family run hotel was perfect for our stay in Florence. great breakfast,very helpful staff, great location a short walk from the Duomo, rooms are quiet and clean. We felt like home, receiving a perfect 3 star service . Michael Baker in Austin , Te USA 12/15/2007 The airport in Florence does not open until 5 AM. We ended up outside a locked airport at 4:40 AM with a huge crowd of tourists (many elderly and suffering in the freezing wind)in 8 degree Celsius weather in mid-November of this year. Eventually at 5 AM, the staff showed up and opened the airport. Had we known, we would have not arrived at the airport until after 5 AM for our flight. I suggest that you warn travellers about this. Tracey Mantrone in Queens, NYC, NY USA 11/28/2007 I suggest you add Discover Tuscany to your list of tours. They have wonderful extremely knowledgeable guides for guided walking tours of Florence, as well as wine tours, hiking, skiing, biking, abd cooking lessons. They will pick you up at your accomnmodations and take you into Florence if you are staying in the countryside. Contact Donna Scharnagl Discover Tuscany srl www.discovertuscany.biz Italian Cell: +39 346 78 92 693 Italy Office & Fax: +39 055 65 80 862 USA Office: +1 305 517 7992 UK Office: +44 020 8 133 64 71 I also recommend adding Vinci as a destination. The Leonardo museum has models of many of the drawings Leonardo has in his Codex. It's a nice destination for when you're tired of looking at art and Duomos. We rented a villa in the area near Montaione, and your guidebook has very little listed in that area. We discovered a great restaurant, Casa Masi, Mura, 50050 Montaione. Tel 39.0571.677170. www.sanbenedettovacanze.it. It is family owned and has superb food, ambiance, and the owner speaks excellent English. Margaret Volpe in Clifton, , VA USA 11/13/2007 Hotel: Il Guelfo Bianco Via Cavour 29-50129 Firenze tel.0039 055288330 fax 0039055295203 e-mail: info@ilguelfobianco.it This lovely hotel is a welcome respite in downtown Florence. It has several courtyards for guests use. Each room is unique and well appointed. The breakfast room is large, and welcoming, with excellent offerings. We paid 110Euros/night for this delightful hotel. The staff is helpful and friendly. jody in seattle, wa USA 11/12/2007 We spent one day with the Accidental Tourist in Florence wine tasting, olive oil tasting and learning to make pasta. We ended the day with a huge meal in a Tuscan farmhouse. What a great day, great price and great people. It truly was one of my best experiences in Europe. Cheryl Huff, Germany Cheryl Huff in Ansbach Germany, WA APO, AE 11/08/2007 Tanti saluti da firenze a Rick and all at ETBD! I just discovered and wanted to let all your future Florence traveller's know that the State Museums in Florence are now selling tickets on line! Tickets are payable by visa or mastercard at the same cash rate as with calling directly--no whopping service fees as with some of the private sites. A very good thing! The new website is http://www.b-ticket.com/b-ticket/uffizi/ Ciao! Kelly Soggiorno Battistero Firenze
Kelly Raye in Florence, Italy 11/02/2007 The maps our hotel gave out had the McDonald's locations. We learned real quick to use the free toilet. Michael Sherwood in Prescott Valley, AZ USA 10/29/2007 [1] Hotel Europa: About 1.5 blocks north of the Duomo. Seems like a hotel that one would find in your book. Very friendly, family-run, and a good value. [2] I would suggest adding the information that at the Accademia Gallery one needs to pay in cash. At least that is what the sign says. Not sure what happens if one doesn't have the exact amount. The Uffizi Gallery may be the same. Not sure since I made sure we had the exact amount for that museum. [3] Suggest stating that with a reservation at both Accademia Gallery and Uffizi Gallery it is 13 euros. Maureen in Alexandria, VA USA 10/27/2007 My biggest discovery on Tuscany trip 10/10/07 to 10/20/07: For hotels, going direct via email or phone and paying cash in Italy saves a lot of money. I know the book says this , but being used to making reservations in the U.S. where the "online deal" is always better than what they will give you if you call. It took a while for this concept to sink in -- I spent a weekend online and reading books trying to figure out why the guidebook lists such lower prices than what I found on www.venere.com, expedia, etc. Duh! Maybe it would help to specify this very clearly -- that it's the opposite of the U.S. in this way. I still have my 1986 copy of Europe Through the Back Door, which convinced me I could travel Europe by myself at age 26 and it was the BEST EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE. Thank you. These days, it seems less adventurous, with so much English spoken and so many Americans, and being so old! but I still go to your guidebooks when I travel there and they are still the most useful and helpful. Barbara Powell in Lakewood, CO USA 10/21/2007 The Hotel Il Bargellino was a great find. Carmel and Pino welcoming hosts and made our reservations for the the museums which saved us time and energy. Carmel really knows Florence. Thanks Rick for the information. Our trip to Italy and France did not have one negative experience. Everything you said in the guide book down to directions to restaurants was exactly as you described. We are very grateful for all your edpertise. This was our first trip to Europe and we will "keep traveling." Linda Cherek in White Bear Lake, MN USA 10/19/2007 I had an excellent guided tour with a company called All Tuscany Tours. www.alltuscany.com Owner/operator is Euan and originally from UK, fluent in Italian too. He seemed to know all the best spots and was very helpful in suggesting the best places to dine. He also introduced us to a brilliant little shop in Florence called Teresa Cambi where they have wonderful leather goods and clothes. Sonia Ottosen in Vancouver, BC Canada 10/18/2007 We recommend Artviva's Florence tours: Original Florence Walk, Masterpieces of the Uffizi Gallery and The Original David Tour. The guides are native English speakers, easy to understand, enthusiasic and knowledgeable. We enjoyed learning about Florence’s history, art, architecture and major monuments on these tours. Entrance to the Uffizi Gallery via the tour group reservation entrance took less than a half hour, a big time saver. Uffizi and David tours discussed the artistic transformation of important figures (Mary, baby Jesus, Venus)in paintings from the medieval period through the Renassiance. Insights into artists and their patrons were valuable. Victoria Watkins in NEW YORK, NY USA 09/15/2007 Osteria Nonna Gina Piano dei Mantellini, 2 53100 Siena (Toscana), Italy +39 0577 287247 This restaurant was the best of any that we ate at on our two week trip. The two pasta dishes, named after the mom and pop of the place, were both delicious. I am certain that if we had stayed in Siena longer than one night we would have eaten there again! Allison Hardin in Atlanta, GA USA 09/13/2007 Favorite tips - making reservations for the Uffizi and Accademia. Simply a MUST! It felt a little like cheating, seeing all those people in line for tickets when we had our place in a much, much short and much, much faster line with others smart enough to make reservations and show up with their vouchers. We made reservations as soon as we finalized our trip (about 3 months in advance). Tiphanie in Benoit, MI USA 09/08/2007 The Relais Uffizi was very clean, conveniently located right off the Piazza Signoria with a great view from the breakfast room onto the Piazza. Prices for a family suite was reasonable at 200 EUR. Contact info is : http://www.relaisuffizi.it/ Doyle Johnson in Medfield, MA USA 08/27/2007 We highly recommend "Pensione Bencista' at via Benedetto da Maiano 4-50014, in Fiesole outside of Florence. This place was heaven. It overlooked the Tuscan hills and Florence. It is run by a family with great history in the area and they are all involved with the daily management. The family has dogs roaming the grounds that are so friendly and loving. My kids just loved the fact it was like being home, but just on a larger level. While we stayed there we met so many great and fantastic people like professors, families with small children touring Europe, a senior group and a culinary club, just to name a few. It was a 5 to 10 minute trip on a bus to downtown Florence, and less than a 5 minute walk to see the small town of Fiesole. While it is not a cheap place to stay, we had the VERY BEST meals and wines during our whole trip at this place. Our stay included two meals daily (breakfast and family style dinners) and our room for 4. The rooms were HUGE, clean and had very comfortable beds. We had a whole yard to park our rental car in and that was well worth the extra cost to stay there. Christine Morrissey in Campbell, CA USA 08/23/2007 Restaurant Taverna Il Grappolo in Montalcino. Excellent cuisine, warm ambiance, magnificent Brunello de Montalcino 2000. Recommended to us by our waiter, Gennaro, at the restaurant La Torre at the Abbazio (Abbey) Monte Olivetto Maggiore near Asciano. Gennaro even took the time to let the restaurant in Montalcino know that we might be dropping in; hence the extra special reception. Maureen in Victoriaville, QC Canada 08/14/2007 I found a great "Drive through the Chianti Countryside" map with sights from the National Geographic Italy tourbook. I changed it to a "Scoot through the Chianti Countryside". It was hard to find journals/info about renting scooters, so I am determined to share the experience after my trip. We rented 2 scooters for 80 euro from Perozzi Rental (Via del Gazzani 16, www.perozzi.it, tel 0577 288387, near main bus stop in Siena). We reserved the scoots the evening before and they simply asked for the drivers license and if we had scooted before. We took off into the Chianti Region from Siena. We took route SS408 (continued on in a loop to SS222) and made stops in: 1. San Gusme (the cutest walled town you ever did see) 2. Castello di Brolio (owned by the Ricasoli family since the 12th C) 3. lunched in Badia a Coltibuono (11th C abbey now a restaurant/wine cellar) 4. scooted through Radda in Chianti 5. stopped in Castellina in Chianti. A great wine tasting at Mazzei winery wwww.mazzei.it proved to be fantastic and I brought two bottles of wine and olive oil home. My sister was my passenger, so she tasted all 8 wines! We didn't drink and scoot! The countryside was fantastic. The roads were well maintained with many curves and many cyclists were present as well. It was a beautiful scoot that lasted all day, about 50 miles. We went in mid May, and wore jeans and tees. I think being a tuesday was great and there was hardly any traffic and no crazy drivers. I owned a scoot before this trip so I had recent scoot time under my belt. Take an international drivers license and a credit card to rent, and a back pack to carry back your wine! i felt this day really caputured a lot of what the tuscan countryside has to offer. Paige Woodman in los altos, CA USA 08/11/2007 If you want a view, climb Giotto's tower instead of the Duomo's dome. The line was much shorter and we had an amazing view, including a view of the Duomo. The book says you can't get very good pictures because of the cage like top, but you can put your hand with your camera through the wire and get unobstructed pictures. Also, I suggest walking around Florence rather than using other transportation. Everything is a lot closer than it seems on the map. And stop often to eat lots of gelato. Devin in Olympia, WA USA 08/06/2007 The Oil Shoppe was a great sandwich place. Very fresh ingredients. Wonderful bread. Great price. 4 euro for a large sandwich with Parma ham and cheese and a cold bottle of water. Via S.Egidio, 22R 50122 +39 055 2001092 In the area behind the Duomo. Kathy Arcangeli in Oak Ridge, TN USA 08/05/2007 Franco Fadda's Wine Tour francofadda@hotmail.com The full-day tour of the Tuscan countryside by Franco was the highlight of our trip. It included a bit of everything - old villages, wine tasting, gourmet lunch, shopping. I highly recommend. Marie in Oak Park, CA USA 07/27/2007 I would recommend a Pitti Palace gallery tour. The Pitti Palace is wonderfully uncrowded compared to the Uffizi, no reservations needed and is filled with Titians, Raphaels, Van Dycks and Rembrandts. kath in los angeles, ca USA 07/16/2007 Consider staying in Fiesole. Wonderful and views and cool breeze There are more hotels and restaurants than the one restaurant and one hotel mentioned in the guidebook. Hotel Bonelli, Hotel Aurora, two b&b's and 12 trattorias, restaurants, cafes and a quiet wine garden and restaurant on the path to the view areas. Craig in Salt Lake City, Ut USA 07/11/2007 We stayed at the Hotel Brunelleschi, on Pza Elizabetha and it was marvelous. Dan in Boise, ID USA 06/27/2007 In Florence, to book a guided tour of Vasari's Corridor contact Context Florence on 064820911. Costs approx E28 per person and tours are only at certain times in the year. Debbie NZ 06/08/2007 My husband and I loved Rick Steves's prose-style, his attention to detail, and his charming humor. This book really made our trip special. I want to say also that the people we met along the way who had this book were really wonderful people! Kathrine Douthit and John M. Anderson in Boston, MA USA 06/07/2007 For beautifully handcrafted,inexpensive journals see Dimitri at Via degli Alfani 129/r near Academia. These arebooks for people to use unlike the others I saw in Florence.He has some with leather covers and some with his beautiful handmade marble paper. He makes to order as well no extra charge. This was the only real bargin I found in Florence Joseph Hilton in Los Angeles, CA USA 05/28/2007 For Florence you need to add going to the Piazzale Michelangiolo on the hill for the beautiful lookout of the city. Bus lines 12 and 13 circle around the city and go there following basically the same course, 13 clockwise and 12 counter-clockwise. Bus line A also goes there and is more accessible from the other sites, but it stops earlier around 18:00 while the other two go until about 21:00. Craig Caldwell in Kaysville, UT USA 05/09/2007 I was able to get into the Uffizi very quickly and without a reservation merely by showing up at 5:20 last Sunday evening. The next evening the line at the Accademia (David) was very short at about that same time. There was still more than an hour left for the museums at that time. Shana Woodfield in Calistoga, CA USA 04/30/2007 Villa Vistarenni www.vistarenni.com I have been there with some friends, in the main apartment of the Villa. The place is in the middle of the Chianti area, really wonderful and unique throughout the Tuscany, very peaceful and with great views (most of all from the swimming pool). We also played tennis and made great jogging in the hills around. Ms Elisabetta (the owner) was really very kind. marco in rasponi, italy 04/27/2007 Katti House Via Faenza,21 Florence Tel./Fax 055 21.34.10 This is a very clean & spacious place to stay with extremely nice & helpful hosts. Excellent value. Rachele Hemphill in Napa, Ca USA 04/12/2007 We watched the PBS shows before we left, which were great help. We found that if the bread was bad, so was everything else. We wish we would have stayed in a place recommended by the book- Instead, we used our travel agent and the place smelled like raw sewage (hotel fenice palace) luckily, we really weren't at the hotel very much. We were so pleased with the guide and the information in it~ it was an excellent companion and a wealth of solid information. Next time we will be "A" students and read the entire guide before our journey is planned. My husband and I both found the book invaluable and we kept inadvertently swiping it from each other! Getting reservations for the sights was key in saving time- Catherine Harper in Littleton, CO USA 04/01/2007 A small restaurant called VYNO located on Via Paolo Lilla 41 Livono Tel. 0586 444249 This was one of the best meals that I have every eaten. The owner has a passion for pairing Italian regional wines with great food. Although Livorno is not an area frequented by tourists, I would definitely go out of my way for another meal at this restaurant.
Jeff Lucas in Goose Creek, SC USA 03/27/2007 There is a weekly English language mass held at the Duomo on Saturdays at 1700. Enter from the south side entrance (bell tower side) Mark Derrick in Chattanooga, TN USA 03/27/2007 Greve in Chianti was a great side trip from Florence Jimmy in Fairhope, AL USA 03/08/2007 Hotel Pendini in Florence was nice and the staff was friendly, but even with a courtyard room, it was noisy at night. Could not beat the location, however, as it was in the center of everything. Tom in St. Louis, MO USA 02/28/2007 My friends and I asked our Chianti wine tour guide (a Siena resident), to recommend her favorite restaurant. She suggested, Osteria Sotto le Fonti, which is about 300 meters from Piazza del Campo. This is definately a back door restaurant - it was off the beaten path where we normally wouldn't stroll in Siena, and there appeared to be only locals dining here. It was a quiet night so we enjoyed some conversation with the hostess and owner, Britta. The food was excellent - they offered homemade pasta, wild boar, and goose breast which was outstanding. The owner's 2 year old son gave us the pleasure of his company during part of dinner, and Britta and her husband even joined us for a glass of wine later in the evening. This is a true back-door tuscan restaurant, just what we were looking for! I recommend it to all travelers to beautiful Siena. You can find location info at their website, www.sottolefonti.it. Jason Calcitrai in Cincinnati, OH USA 02/07/2007 Although we took Rick's advice about making reservations at the museums (Academy and Uffizi), they were not needed. We traveled in January and there were virtually no lines. Our hotel made the bookings for us but before we left for the museum, we were told if you arrive and don't see any lines, don't go through the reservation door. Go through the regular ticket door. If you go through the reservation door, they will still charge you an extra 3.50 per ticket for "using" the reservation even though there are no lines anywhere. We ended up both times bypassing the reservation and went in the regular ticket door. Kathy Mooney in Ashland, OR USA 02/07/2007 While aimlessly ‘strolling’ through a number of web sites looking for something different to do in Florence, I came across ‘Jewish Florence Tours’ (www.jewish-florence.com) This was definitely different. I checked the site and then got in touch with Giovanna Bossi Rosenfeld. After a few e-mails we arranged to meet her at Ruth’s Kosher restaurant for a four-hour private guided walking tour. We realize that such a tour is a splurge, but we highly recommend it. She gave us the most interesting, informative, and enjoyable tour we have had in the seventeen trips we have made to Florence. She even managed to present the David in a new and refreshing light. Giovanna was born in Florence and is an architect and historian. Her delightful personality blends her background and education into a unique mix ideally suited to being a private tour guide. We are most eagerly looking forward to our next visit to Florence and our time with Giovanna. S. A. Zalk USA 02/07/2007 great discovery in Pieve di Chio, Casa portagioia at www,tuscanbreaks.com Dr. Michael Banks in New York, NY USA 01/24/2007 |
