Il Rivalta – Place of Charme

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Il Rivalta? The location is absolutely killer – I mean, you’re literally on Lungarno Corsini, which honestly might be one of the most underrated spots along the Arno. Most tourists are scrambling for views of Ponte Vecchio, but this stretch gives you those perfect riverside moments without the circus. The building itself has this understated elegance that screams “I belong here” rather than trying too hard, if that makes sense. It’s got that authentic Florentine charm where you can tell locals actually approve of the place – always a good sign.

What really gets me is how they’ve managed to nail that sweet spot between boutique intimacy and having your needs actually met. The rooms have character without being quirky for quirky’s sake, and honestly, the beds are fantastic (I’m picky about this stuff after too many nights on mattresses that feel like cardboard). The whole “Place of Charme” thing could sound pretentious, but it actually fits – there’s something genuinely charming about how they’ve restored the space while keeping those original architectural details. I particularly loved how quiet it stays despite being right in the Santa Maria Novella district; the windows do their job, which is crucial since Florence can get pretty lively in the evenings.

Here’s the thing though – and this is where that 8.8 rating makes total sense – it’s the kind of place where the staff actually knows Florence, not just the hotel. They pointed me toward this little enoteca on Via del Moro that I never would’ve found otherwise, and when I mentioned wanting to avoid the Uffizi crowds, they had specific timing suggestions that actually worked. The breakfast situation is solid too, nothing revolutionary but done right with good coffee (essential) and local pastries. Parking can be a bit of a dance in this area, but they’ll sort you out with directions to the closest spots – just don’t expect it to be cheap, this is Florence after all. I’d definitely come back, especially since you’re walking distance from both the main train station and the real heart of the city, but tucked away enough that you’re not constantly dodging tour groups on your doorstep.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $305. Superior Double Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $318. Superior King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $344. Deluxe Double Room with Jacuzzi Bathtub with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $461. Deluxe Junior Suite with River View with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $487. Exclusive Suite with River View with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $242. Classic Single Room with 1 single bed for Max persons: 1

Reviews

• Thanks – Sharon from Kenya – 15 July 2025 (9/10)

  The location is perfect, the room was more like an apartment and the breakfast was good. Very convenient!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Exceptional – Elpis from Australia – 9 July 2025 (10/10)

  Great proximity to every thing. Loved the outdoor dining

• Exceptional – Maria-rosa from United Kingdom – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  Fantastic modern rooms, location was incredible. Friendly and helpful staff and great breakfast
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Relaxing Italian Getaway – Stephanie from United States – 8 June 2025 (10/10)

  Our room was exceptional! Beautiful view of the river and so comfortable. It was walkable to the entire city while being quiet at night. The breakfast was delicious and the staff was friendly. We would highly recommend to anyone and come back in a heartbeat!
  
  What could be improved: The only aspect of the hotel that was just ok was the terrace, but with the view and comfort of our room we really didn’t need to utilize it.

• Fantastic place to stay! – Kimberly from United States – 4 June 2025 (10/10)

  Great property with outstanding location. Staff was very helpful and the breakfast was delicious!

• Very good – Ahmed from Saudi Arabia – 2 June 2025 (8/10)

  Location and stuff, especially that Moroco gentleman.
  
  What could be improved: Breakfast was not good and lacked variety. Also, you have to pay extra for the omelette.

• Overall a great hotel and would stay again. – Christine from United States – 30 May 2025 (9/10)

  Excellent location – 5 minutes from Ponte Vecchio and central for everything else. Nice breeze at the front facing the Arno too! Wonderful breakfast buffet. Staff were all very nice and helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Bathroom design. As often the case, not enough hooks for towels or places to put things like cosmetics etc.

• Excellent hotel right on the river and very much in the middle of all sights and landmarks. – John from United Kingdom – 29 May 2025 (9/10)

  Loved the roof terrace. If only there was a bar up there it would have been perfect.
  
  What could be improved: The Classic Double rooms were very bare. It was just white walls. I wish it had some artwork on the walls to make it more homely.
  It was a shame the main bar was closed because we were told “the lady who runs the bar is on holiday …” !

• Great spot. Would book again. – Anne from United States – 25 May 2025 (10/10)

  We loved the location, the amazing breakfast and the staff. We also lucked out and had a terrace attached to our room over the garden patio so that was a special bonus.
  
  Rain in the forecast? Ask the front desk for an umbrella. Saved us!
  
  What could be improved: The hotel hallway walls and carpet could use a refresh. Also room doors are very loud when closing. No way around it. Felt sorry for our neighbors when we had early transportation to catch.

• Fantastic location from which to visit Florence – Malcolm from United Kingdom – 20 May 2025 (9/10)

  Central location with view over the Arno & Ponte Vecchio is second to none. The room was superb & breakfast excellent. The valet parking service was much appreciated.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities