Residenza d’Epoca Visacci Valori Rooftop

Hotel Description

You know what’s funny about Florence? Everyone assumes you need to stay right by the Duomo to get the “real” experience, but honestly, some of the best spots are tucked away where actual Florentines live and work. That’s exactly what you get with Residenza d’Epoca Visacci Valori Rooftop – it’s on Borgo degli Albizi, which is this lovely street that feels residential but puts you maybe a seven-minute walk from all the main action.

The building itself is one of those converted Renaissance palazzos that makes you feel like you’re staying in someone’s elegant family home rather than a hotel. I mean, the lobby area has these original frescoed ceilings that are actually stunning – not the overwrought touristy kind, but the subtle, lived-in beautiful kind that you’d find in a well-preserved Florentine home. The rooftop situation is what really sets this place apart though. Most hotels in the historic center can’t offer proper outdoor space because of all the restrictions, but somehow they’ve managed to create this terrace where you can actually see the terracotta rooftops stretching toward the Arno. It’s especially lovely in the early evening when the light hits the buildings just right and you can hear the church bells from Santa Croce (which is literally around the corner).

What I really appreciate is how they’ve handled the whole “historic building meets modern comfort” thing. The rooms feel authentically Tuscan – we’re talking exposed beams, carefully restored original details – but the bathrooms are completely updated and the air conditioning actually works, which trust me, matters in August. The street can get a bit lively on weekend evenings since there are some popular bars nearby, but it’s not the kind of chaos you’d deal with closer to the tourist center. Parking is tricky like everywhere in Florence, but they can arrange something at a garage about five minutes away, and honestly, once you’re there you won’t need a car anyway. The walk to the Uffizi is maybe twelve minutes through these beautiful old streets, and you pass some of my favorite local spots – there’s this tiny alimentari where the owner still wraps your prosciutto in brown paper, and a wine bar that doesn’t even have a sign but serves the best Chianti Classico in the neighborhood. The staff seems to actually know Florence rather than just reciting tourist information, which makes a huge difference when you want restaurant recommendations or need to know which markets are worth visiting. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’re experiencing Florence the way it’s meant to be experienced – not as a museum, but as a living, breathing city where people have been making beautiful things and living well for centuries.

Rooms

• Suite with Terrace with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Two-Bedroom Suite with 2 × 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults

Reviews

• Anna from Russia (10/10)

  Amazing 2 floors apartment with the outstanding view from the terrace and very helpful staff. Very clean and well equipped.

• Lori from United States (10/10)

  Everything was wonderful, mini bar was stocked with all sort of goodies. View from the terrace is amazing. Room super clean, staff professional and very helpful with any questions we had. I would stay here again.

• Lori from United States (10/10)

  Location is terrific, close to everything. Room is cozy, clean and the terrace is beautiful. Management and staff were always available to answer any questions, restaurant suggestions etc. We very much look forward to staying here again

• Vanessa from Australia (10/10)

  The terrace was fantastic with stunning views. The apartment was more than I needed as a solo traveller but it was great to have the space for a 5 night stay. The staff were incredibly helpful and understanding. Great recommendations. Location was extremely convenient to everything and easy to access by taxi with luggage.

• Parekh from United States (9/10)

  Excellent location, very responsive staff (Donatella), terrific AC units, very quiet. Nice views!

• Dana from United States (10/10)

  We loved this property!! The location was fantastic. Close to everything. Our view of the city & mountains was spectacular! It was very clean and well appointed…and the host, Donatella was absolutely incredible! She helped us with everything we needed, no matter the time of day…and made dinner reservations for us that were superb!! She is truly wonderful…and made our stay absolutely perfection!

• Rachel from United Kingdom (9/10)

  This apartment is utterly beautiful. So spacious and perfect for couples. There are two bathrooms, a spacious bedroom, a little dining area and a lovely terrace with a stunning view that is hard to believe when you first arrive. Donnatella could not have been more helpful or lovely when we arrived.

• Abel from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Beautiful location – stunning views!! So peaceful but central location,
  Most special stay in Florence x

• Samer from United Arab Emirates (10/10)

  Nothing beats the terrace.. it will be one we will remember our whole lives. It made the stay in Florence extra special. Donatella and Naomi and the team were wonderfully helpful and attentive. Our AC had an issue one night, but they solved it the next morning. The snacks offerings was very kind. The daily cleaning service was great. The location is unbeatable.

• Laura from Ireland (10/10)

  The balcony, the rooms and the cleanliness

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities