I have finally experienced the city of Florence, Italy and there is no place like it anywhere. I want to learn from other cultures and by staying at Palazzo Belfiore I was able to live and breathe Florence like a local. I wish it could have lasted longer and I’m already thinking of when I will return.

Your Home Away From Home: Palazzo Belfiore

The seven fully restored apartments that make up Palazzo Belfiore were once the residence of a 14th century family. Each one is elegantly furnished, heated and air conditioned, complete with kitchens and living spaces which are perfect for traveling with friends or family (your pet is welcome too). Additional services include wifi, satellite tv and a concierge which is more like having a good friend nearby. They are happy to make arrangements for day trips and upon request they will take care of anything else you may need such as laundry, breakfast, car rental, etc.

The location couldn’t be any more ideal. Being in the historic heart of Florence (on the opposite side of the Arno River from the main city center) you are in a most charming and authentic neighborhood filled with artisan workshops, antique shops and traditional old restaurants. What is great is that you are just minutes from the Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Gardens and most of the city’s main attractions.

Meet Federico, Your Florentine Friend and Host

Federico Bonechi is a born and bred Florentine who is your host at Palazzo Belfiore. With eyes that light up when he sees his guests, he is genuinely eager and proud to offer you the best of his city. One benefit of staying here is having custom itineraries for local experiences he has curated, be it cooking or pottery classes, painting or drawing workshops, or cheese and wine tastings in the countryside. After having met Federico and receiving his city map with his recommendations (the monthly flea market would be the next day) I was surprised to find a welcome gift basket with champagne, custom-blended tea, locally made cookies, and ooooh, the Aqua Flor local line of luxury toiletries and perfumes!

The Clarice Apartment

Named after Roman noblewoman Clarice Orsini, this beautiful 265 square foot apartment has terra cotta floors, vaulted ceilings with centuries-old wooden beams, and walls covered with 15th century frescos. Incredible! While I might normally set down my bags and have a power nap, this time I sat in the living room and just admired the history on the walls surrounding me. The rest of the apartment features a kitchenette, dining area, master bedroom, bathroom fully stocked with toiletries and a bathtub, as well as a washing machine. On the second floor is another bedroom with twin beds and private bathroom with shower—this one is called the “secret room”. Upon arrival we said we’re going to sleep up here one night! Yeah, that didn’t happen but it was a fun idea.