Episode 27: Palazzo Belfiore: Feel At Home In Florence

Since the day we started podcasting about Tuscany, our advice has been to stay away from hotels and immerse yourself into Italian and Tuscan culture by staying at a villa or an apartment. We have always stayed at villas in the country. When we visited Florence for a one or two night stay, we opted to be unadventurous. We stayed in rather predictable hotels that excelled at customer service but lacked true Florentine character. To be honest, we were just too lazy to look for an apartment that rented night-by-night.

Our prayers have been answered! Okay, we really didn't get down on our knees and ask for this, but everyone at Palazzo Belfiore must have been reading our minds from thousands of miles away. Out- of-the-blue, we get an email from them wanting to discuss their apartments and the unique experiences renters will have while staying in a "different" part of the city center.

Palazzo Belfiore is the orginal residence of a 14th century family and is located near major attractions like the Ponte Vechhio, the Uffize Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Gardens and Santo Spirito. There are seven fully furnished apartments at Palazzo Belfiore ranging in size but sure to fit the needs of couples, families or smaller groups. Each apartment is named after a famous Florentine.

You'll be in the heart of the Florentine culture on both the inside and outside of Palazzo Belfiore. One of the apartments has an original fresco dating back to the 15th century! Palazzo Belfiore is located on the "other" side of the Arno. Here you'll find handcraft shops, antique shops and typical restaurants. You will also experience the renaissance atmosphere of Florence you read about in books, blogs and magazines. 

There are a number of complimentary services that are included with your rental, free Wi-Fi, daily newspaper and Concierge service. If you want to splurge from some extras, you can! Like a personal shopper, personal driver and Italian language and cooking courses.

You can book your apartment online or email them directly for a more competitive rate. Palazzo Belfiore is a 2014 Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence winner.