Tourist House Ghiberti

The chic Tourist House Ghiberti offers five simply decorated but luxuriously equipped rooms in central Florence. With extras like a Jacuzzi, sauna and sunny terrace, this B&B is a relatively affordable deal.

The bright guest rooms are large and done up in antique wood and wrought iron furniture. Small techie touches abound, such as fiber-optic lights, mounted flat-screen TVs with DVD players and bedside headphone jacks and speakers. Each room even has a computer with free Wi-Fi and a connection to the reception’s printer.

Spacious modern bathrooms are covered in large white tiles with black borders. A few have tubs (ask ahead). Complimentary and luxurious toiletries are made from olive oil, and full sized bottles are available for purchase.

The Ghiberti’s central location is near the Duomo and not far from Santa Croce. Do note that it’s across the street from the city’s central hospital, which means that you may to hear a siren despite the soundproof windows.

We loved the Tuscan accents, like paintings by local artists and mosaic-and-terracotta floors. The highlight, though, was a vine-covered terrace just off the reception, with its wooden chairs, outdoor couch and, to our delight, a hot tub and sauna.

Breakfast is included.