Hotel Croce Di Malta

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Hotel Croce Di Malta? The entrance is so understated on Via Della Scala that I almost walked past it – which is actually perfect because it means you’re not dealing with tour groups clogging up the lobby every morning. The building itself has this worn-in elegance that feels authentically Florentine, not like someone tried to Disney-fy a historical property. When you step inside, there’s this immediate sense of calm that’s honestly rare in central Florence. The floors have that particular Italian marble that’s been walked on for decades, and the lighting is warm enough that you don’t feel like you’re in a hotel so much as someone’s well-appointed home.

The location is what really makes this place special, though. Via Della Scala puts you right in Santa Maria Novella, which means you’re literally a three-minute walk from the train station – incredibly handy if you’re doing the Italy rail circuit – but you’re also tucked into this quieter pocket where locals actually live and work. I mean, there’s a proper neighborhood gelateria two blocks down (not the touristy one on Via de’ Tornabuoni), and you can grab morning coffee at the bar around the corner where the barista will remember your order by day three. The Santa Maria Novella church is practically your neighbor, and honestly, walking past it on your way to dinner never gets old. You’re close enough to the Arno that you can stroll to Ponte Vecchio in about ten minutes, but far enough from the Duomo crowds that you can actually breathe.

The rooms themselves are what you’d expect from a solid four-star – well-maintained, decent size by European standards, and the beds are actually comfortable (not always a given in Italy, let’s be real). The bathrooms are modern without being sterile, and the shower pressure is surprisingly good. What I really appreciated was the attention to noise control – the windows do a solid job blocking out street sounds, which matters because Florence can get pretty lively at night. The staff genuinely knows the city and will point you toward places that aren’t in every guidebook, which is worth its weight in gold. They helped me find this incredible little trattoria in Oltrarno that I never would have discovered otherwise. Is it perfect? Well, the elevator is tiny and vintage Italian, so if you’re traveling with massive luggage, be prepared for some maneuvering. But honestly, that’s part of the charm – you’re staying in a real Florentine building, not some modern chain hotel. The 8.5 rating makes total sense to me; it’s the kind of place where everything works well, the location can’t be beat, and you’ll actually want to come back.

Rooms

• Junior Suite with 2 single beds for 2 adults, 1 child
• Double Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 2 adults
• Single Room with 1 single bed for 1 adult
• Double or Twin Room with Garden View with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for 2 adults
• Family Room – Split Level with 1 sofa bed, 1 large double bed and 2 large double beds for 3 adults
• Triple Room with 3 single beds, 1 single bed and 1 extra-large double bed for 3 adults
• Family Room with 2 × 1 sofa bed, 2 large double beds and 4 single beds for 6 adults, 2 children

Reviews

• Joanne from United Kingdom (9/10)

  This beautiful hotel was very centrally located – near to the station so we didn't have carry our cases far – and only a ten minute walk to the main attractions in Florence. It is also has lots of bars and restaurants on the doorstep and the roof-top bar was a delight with amazing views over the city. We also had excellent views from our bedroom (and bathroom!)
  Breakfast had a huge variety of food and there was something for everyone.

• Claudia from Brazil (8/10)

  The room is very spacious and I had a balcony that I would live open at night just to have the feeling of being in Italy. Location is very handy and you can see most of the sightseeing by foot. Staff at the reception are very kind and respectful. Breakfast was really amazing.

• Richard from United States (7/10)

  Nice balcony and location to the train station and other parts of Firenze. Great breakfast assortment and service from Katerina!

• Lior from Israel (7/10)

  Location

• Lesley from United Kingdom (9/10)

  The support of staff was exceptional. We arrived 4 hours before checkin time and our room was sready so we could go straight there. The lady who looked after our floor was equally exceptional in taking care of use, helping us to understand the digital 'do not disturb' sign and ensuring our tea and coffee were kept replenished.
  The hotel had a flood and staff kept us up to date with the progress of dealing with that. The breakfast was varied and full and plentiful.

• Karen from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Perfectly situated for central Florence. Bedroom had ample space for a city centre hotel.

• Steph from United Kingdom (7/10)

  The location was excellent. Very clean room, good breakfast and the roof terrace bar had stunning views at night

• Scott from United States (9/10)

  Everything – room, staff location, rooftop bar, breakfast

• Belinda from United States (9/10)

  Location, very clean, staff was engaging
  I also love a lobby and courtyard/common area

• Erica from United States (9/10)

  The hotel was a short walk from the train station and easy access to the city in general. We walked everywhere! The room was cozy and had a great balcony. Breakfast was included and was great. The roof top bar overlooking the Duomo was a great bonus. The staff was very friendly and helpful.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities