Hotel Palazzo San Niccolò & Spa

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Hotel Palazzo San Niccolò? It’s actually right there on Via Roma – which sounds fancy but is honestly just Radda’s main street – and somehow they’ve managed to make this old palazzo feel both authentic and luxurious without trying too hard. I mean, you’re literally in the heart of one of Chianti’s most charming hill towns, and when I say heart, I’m talking about a five-minute walk to everything that matters. The building itself has this weathered Tuscan stone facade that looks like it’s been watching over the town for centuries (because it probably has), but step inside and there’s this perfect balance of restored frescoes and modern comfort that doesn’t feel forced or museum-like.

The spa is honestly what sets this place apart from the other converted palazzos you’ll find scattered around Chianti. It’s not huge – this isn’t some sprawling resort – but it’s thoughtfully designed with treatments that actually incorporate local ingredients like grape extracts and olive oil. I spent a good hour in their Turkish bath after a long day of wine tasting, and honestly, it was exactly what I needed. The rooms vary quite a bit since it’s a historic building, so don’t expect cookie-cutter hotel uniformity, but that’s part of the charm. Some have those incredible arched windows that frame the rolling vineyard views, others look out onto the medieval streets below where you can hear the morning bustle of locals heading to the market. The beds are genuinely comfortable (not always a given in these historic properties), and they’ve managed to fit modern bathrooms into spaces that were definitely not designed for plumbing – impressive engineering, really.

What I love about staying here is how it puts you right in the rhythm of Radda life. You’re not tucked away in some isolated resort; you’re part of the town. The breakfast room overlooks the main piazza, so you can watch the daily drama unfold while sipping your cappuccino – locals arguing about football, tourists consulting their maps, the occasional wedding party posing for photos. The staff actually knows the area too, which seems obvious but isn’t always the case. They steered me toward this tiny enoteca just around the corner that I never would have found otherwise, and their dinner recommendations were spot-on. Parking can be a bit tricky since you’re dealing with medieval street layouts, but they have a small lot and honestly, once you’re settled in, you won’t want to drive anywhere anyway. The 8.6 rating feels about right – it’s not perfection, but it’s got character and genuine warmth that you can’t manufacture. If you’re looking for that authentic Chianti experience without sacrificing comfort, and you want to actually feel like you’re experiencing an Italian hill town rather than just observing it from afar, this place delivers on that promise.

Rooms

• Superior Double Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Deluxe Double Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Family Mansard with 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for 4 adults
• Suite with 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Small Classic Double or Twin Room with 2 single beds and 1 large double bed for 2 adults

Reviews

• Gabriele from Italy (9/10)

  Amazing place, hotel, spa and location. Stuff was very friendly and helpful. Exactly what you need if you want relax, excellent food and view of Chianti hills.

• Daniel from United Kingdom (8/10)

  The reception staff were welcoming and helpful throughout our stay.

• George from Australia (7/10)

  Location
  Staff relocated us after our original neighbors made an absolute racket…

• Jeremy from United Kingdom (7/10)

  Staff excellent, friendly and helpful. Location great

• Margaret from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Typical Tuscany charm

• Matthias from Switzerland (7/10)

  Friendly/ helpful staff. Great location in the village with access the swimming pools of sister hotels in the area.

• Julie from United Kingdom (9/10)

  I really enjoyed the breakfast, it was well presented and plenty of choice. Most lovely coffee.
  Staff were so attentive and helpful.
  Room was lovely.
  Radda in Chianti is a beautiful town, views over the Tuscan landscape are exceptional! You do need a car though to explore other areas.

• Amy from Ireland (8/10)

  Charming little town with nice staff and spacious bedrooms. The staff gave us lots of recommendations for restaurants to try. The private pool was a lovely addition.

• Aminah from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Really good location, staff were super helpful very clean, room was very spacious & decorated and just an amazing atmosphere

• Teodora from Montenegro (8/10)

  Nice location, clean and spacious room. Staff was super helpful and pleasant.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities