Residenza Olimpo Firenze City Center

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Residenza Olimpo? The location is absolutely perfect, but not in that touristy-trap way you’d expect. Sure, it’s right on Via Nazionale – which means you’re literally five minutes from the Duomo – but this stretch actually has a nice local vibe. There’s a fantastic little alimentari next door where I grabbed espresso every morning, and the street itself has this perfect mix of actual Florentines heading to work and visitors figuring out their maps.

The hotel itself feels more like a sophisticated apartment building than your typical tourist lodge, which I mean in the best way possible. The lobby’s got these gorgeous original frescoed ceilings that make you stop and stare – honestly, I spent way too much time just looking up. My room was on the third floor (there’s an elevator, thank god, because those stairs are steep), and while it wasn’t huge, everything felt thoughtfully designed. The bed was actually comfortable – not always a given in Italian hotels – and the bathroom had one of those rainfall showers that made me linger longer than I should have. The AC worked perfectly too, which if you’ve been to Florence in August, you know is crucial.

What really won me over though was how the staff genuinely seemed to know Florence, not just the obvious tourist spots. The woman at reception – I think her name was Giulia – told me about this incredible trattoria on Via Faenza that I never would have found otherwise, and she was right about the quieter entrance to the Uffizi too. The neighborhood comes alive in the evenings when locals start their evening passeggiata, and sitting by the window with a glass of Chianti watching the street scene below became my favorite part of each day. There’s some street noise – it’s the city center after all – but it dies down after 11 PM, and honestly, the sounds of Florence waking up are pretty magical. The whole experience felt less like staying in a hotel and more like having a really well-connected friend let you crash at their place in the heart of the city.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $169. Double Room with Private External Bathroom with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $190. Small Double Room with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $295. Junior Suite with Balcony with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Luxury accomomdation in private quarters, very central location. Very good value – Eleanor from Ireland – 14 July 2025 (8/10)

  The privacy, the atmosphere and the comfort. The location is excellent as well.
  
  What could be improved: The lift was not working on one occassion and we had to walk up the steps which was a bit of a problem for us Also I suppose not having the facilities like a bar/restaurant that you can go in at any time, but that wasn't a problem for us really.

• Exceptional – Hiroko from Italy – 12 July 2025 (10/10)

  The owner was really helpful.
  The location is great very close to the station and Central.

• Would definitely stay here again – Hayley from Australia – 3 July 2025 (10/10)

  It was a perfect place to stay, the check in process was very efficient and as we arrived in the morning it was no problem to drop off our luggage before checkin time. The room was clean and comfortable. The included breakfast at a nearby cafe was a great experience too.
  
  What could be improved: There was a bit of noise coming from nearby rooms with thin walls, but this was not a big problem and not dissimilar from other hotels. Guests were considerate of each other.

• Comfort and convenience in the heart of Florence. – Lisa from Australia – 2 July 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, helpful information via WhatsApp, bottled water each day, reliable WiFI, comfortable bed.
  
  What could be improved: It’s a tiny gripe but the curtains didn’t fully close and, as there was a street light directly outside, I had to wear an eye mask to sleep.

• Very good – Carmen from United Kingdom – 25 June 2025 (8/10)

  Good location, clean and comfortable accomodation.
  Easy check in and out.
  
  What could be improved: None of their fault, I should've read the facilities offered properly.
  Being advertised as apartment, I just assumed it had usual basic kitchen facilities; I was looking forward to enjoy breakfast from amazing fresh produce from the market.
  But no cutlery or little hob to get some eggs done.
  
  Also, I was disappointed with left luggage arrangements. They confirmed that I could leave the luggages with them for few hours after check out, but not understood that would be usual public (expensive) lockers.

• Massimo a great host. – Kevin from Chile – 17 June 2025 (10/10)

  Massimo was a great host. Very loving and kind. He is really a great character to stumble upon in the city of Florence. He is very attentive to any kind of doubt. The room was very comfortable and worth the price.

• Really pleased we stayed here. Would come back and recommend to others. – Richard from United Kingdom – 17 June 2025 (10/10)

  Great location near the main station and on the edge of Florence’s historic district. The decor of our room was very nice and the air conditioning unit was effective. There are niches touches like free bottles of water, and we enjoyed the breakfast (a croissant and drink) at a nearby pastry shop.
  
  What could be improved: The bathroom needs a bit of updating.

• I agree, better call Massimo! – Szilvia from Hungary – 17 June 2025 (10/10)

  Communication with Massimo was completely smooth. The location of the accommodation is excellent. 5 minutes from the train station, 10 minutes from the cathedral. The Mercato centrale is also very close.
  The room is small but comfortable and clean. Water, tea and coffee were waiting ready. There is also a tiny fridge.
  The street is busy, but with the window closed the noise is not disturbing and even earplugs are included, very considerate.
  The bed is also comfortable.
  Breakfast at the nearby pasticcieria is fantastic.

• Perfect for a short break in Florence. – Cheryl from United Kingdom – 16 June 2025 (10/10)

  Central location close to the markets and Duomo. Easy to walk anywhere. Lots of great restaurants around.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. Clean, comfortable and was able to check in quickly.

• Exceptional – Berat from Turkey – 12 June 2025 (10/10)

  Massimo, the owner, is the nicest guy ever—so friendly and helpful with everything! The room was spotless, the bed super comfy, and the location couldn’t be more central. We had a great stay!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities