The cheerful owners of the Hotel Belletini (Gina in particular),a 27-room delight housed in a 15th-century palazzo just five minutes from the Duomo—offer up Italian hospitality like it's part of the package. On the edge of San Lorenzo, this two-star hotel definitely lives up to its rating, with comfortable rooms and cool and cozy common spaces.
Rooms offer sky-high ceilings, gorgeous antiques, and soft, elegant shades of cream and brown. Delicate, classic-style furniture in white-painted wood with brass accents, as well as some amazing views, left our mouths gaping. Bathrooms are spacious with big showers and even a few tubs!
Note the smoker's parlor, which is located on the landing by the elevator. It's complete with reclining chairs and swarms of books and magazines. Another bonus? A fabulous cocktail bar in the parlor and a smattering of stained glass and colorful artwork.
Discounts are available for longer stays. Ask ahead.
» Annie Shapero
Note: This hotel was visited by a EuroCheapo editor and is recommended based on cleanliness, location, price and overall quality. EuroCheapo did not charge this hotel to be listed.
About the Bellettini neighborhood
North of the train station, and decidedly the most colorful neighborhood in Florence, San Lorenzo is home to many of the city's foreign population, many of whom man the stands at the bustling local market. The area is the cheapest place to shop and snack in the center of the city. Peruse the stands wisely for real leather bags and accessories, and be on the look out for fakes. The streets around the market are home to kebab stands and Asian markets galore, as well as cheap clothing and shoe shops. San Lorenzo is also home to Fiaschetteria-Trattoria Mario, the real deal as far as authentic Florentine eating goes, miraculously unruined by fame. There's not one guidebook or magazine that hasn't plastered a logo on the front door.
more about San Lorenzo