Hotel Alessandra
Borgo Santi Apostoli 17, Florence, Tuscany 50123, ItalyWhy We Like It
This simple hotel is steeped in Renaissance history, located in the center of town, and has a budget-friendly price point that goes way beyond its central locale. The staff here is incredibly warm and helpful and the street is very quiet. There aren’t a ton of amenities, but you do get what you pay for and the breakfast is hearty and savory. For a less-expensive trip without the frills, Alessandra is a solid option.
Fodor's Expert Review
Originally built in 1507 as a private house, this small family run hotel focuses on guests that will also make them feel at home. Located in what’s locally known as the Ferragamo Triangle (for its proximity to the fashion house’s headquarters and multiple hotels), Alessandra sits a block from the river on a quiet alleyway that’s close to nearly every major attraction in town. You won’t find a ton of amenities here, but the price point is low for tourists who like spending less while being in the middle of the city.
Recommended Fodor’s Video
Room
Rooms are classically styled with simple floral prints and tasteful art on the walls. Each room is unique as the hotel had to be built around the historically preserved complex it resides in.
Bathroom
Unremarkable tile-floored bathrooms come with rain shower/tub combos (some shower only) and bidets.
You Should Know The cheapest room in the hotel is a single, and it’s cheap because there’s no bathroom. You’ll have to walk out to the hallway for cleaning purposes.
Lobby
The lobby is more of a sitting room with red leather couches, ornate area rug, a communal computer, and a help-yourself bar filled with beer, wine, and sodas.
Dining
There’s no formal restaurant, but they do serve a continental breakfast with freshly made pastries and made-to-order eggs.
Tip Ask the helpful staff about deals on cooking classes and wine tastings.
Drinking
In the lobby/sitting room is a small bar where you can fix yourself a glass of wine or cold beer and take it up to the hotel’s quaint and peaceful rooftop terrace which is decked out with terracotta floors and misters on hot days.
What's Nearby
Getting Around
Because Florence is small, walking around is really easy, especially in this central location. The hotel is only a minute away from the St. Trinity Bridge for easy access to the south side of the river and within 5-10-minutes-walk you’ll be at the biggest attractions in Florence.
Restaurants
Since you saved money staying at the hotel, splurge a little by eating at nearby Caffé dell’Oro (2-minute walk) a Michelin-rated spot on the river. For cheap and delicious paninis, check out Il Vinaino (4-minute walk).