Sweetly Home in Florence

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Sweetly Home? The name actually makes sense once you’re there – it’s tucked into this lovely converted building on Largo Fratelli Alinari, and honestly, it does feel more like staying at a well-appointed friend’s place than a typical hotel. The location is pretty brilliant, actually. You’re right in Santa Maria Novella, which means you can walk to the Duomo in about ten minutes, but you’re not dealing with the absolute chaos of being right in the thick of tourist central.

The staff here really gets it – they seem to understand that people want local insights without being overwhelmed with brochures. When I asked about dinner spots, the front desk guy (I think his name was Marco?) didn’t just rattle off the usual suspects. He mentioned this little osteria on Via Faenza that I never would have found otherwise, and it turned out to be one of those places where locals actually eat. The rooms themselves are what you’d expect from a solid 4-star, but with thoughtful touches that suggest someone who travels stayed here and made notes. The beds are genuinely comfortable (not just hotel-speak comfortable), and the bathrooms have that perfect water pressure that’s surprisingly hard to find in older Italian buildings.

Here’s the thing about the neighborhood – Largo Fratelli Alinari puts you close enough to Santa Maria Novella station that you can easily day-trip to other Tuscan towns, but far enough that you’re not hearing train announcements at 6 AM. The street itself is pretty quiet, especially in the evenings, though you’ll get some morning activity since there are a few local businesses nearby. I actually liked that – it felt authentically residential rather than like a tourist bubble. The 9.6 rating isn’t just inflated review enthusiasm; this place genuinely handles the details well. Check-in was smooth even when I arrived earlier than expected, and they stored my luggage without any fuss. Small thing, but the WiFi actually works throughout the building, which… well, if you’ve stayed in historic Italian buildings before, you know that’s not always a given. The breakfast setup is more continental than elaborate, but the coffee is proper Italian coffee, and there’s usually fresh pastry from somewhere local. I mean, you’re in Florence – you should probably be wandering out to neighborhood cafés anyway, but it’s nice to have a decent option when you want to ease into the day slowly.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $184. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $185. Junior Suite with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Exceptional – Joseph from United States – 27 June 2025 (10/10)

  Location was great — 2 minute walk from train station. 10 minute walk into the heart of Florence for sightseeing. Great cafes/restaurants/markets only 2-5 minutes away in the neighborhood, after walking down 5 flights of stairs (or elevator).
  
  Room was perfect. Comfortable bed, good pullout sofa for our 2 kids. Air Conditioning worked well on a very hot day.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Super apartment in the heart of Florence! – Umbleon from Norway – 8 June 2025 (10/10)

  The location was perfect. Central, next to the train station, and in walking distance to everything you'd need. The apartment itself was roomy, clean and modern. And the bed was very decent, with several pillows to choose from. This is not something I'm used to when travelling – my neck was happy.
  
  Claudia was so sweet to meet, and went through everything we'd need to know to check in and out. Additionally we got some good recommendations for stuff to do. Would book here again if I return in the near future!
  
  What could be improved: Could maybe have the option for two sheets/duvets. This might be possible if you just request it, which we forgot to. Maybe more mirrors to get ready with, and something to sit on outside on that amazing balcony?

• Exceptional – Alberto from United Kingdom – 27 May 2025 (10/10)

  Everything, this place is truly a gem and managed incredibly well.
  
  What could be improved: Slight smell when windows closed, but completely acceptable considering the historic building.

• Claudia’s home was comfortable, conveniently located, and perfect for exploring the area. – Jacklyn from United States – 25 May 2025 (10/10)

  Claudia’s home was very comfortable and spacious! She was available to contact via WhatsApp in case anything went wrong or you wanted suggestions. Everything was within walking distance, and it was incredibly easy to get a taxi at the nearby train station (Santa Maria) in case you wanted to explore the Chianti region without renting a car!

• Super convenient location, quiet comfortable stay – Jessie from Canada – 16 May 2025 (10/10)

  Very spacious room close to everything but still feels like a quiet oasis. The room was very clean and had everything you needed. Would definitely recommend!

• Exceptional – Helen from Canada – 16 May 2025 (10/10)

  Great location close to the train station and great view. The host is very welcoming.

• Picture perfect view of Florence – Angus from Australia – 17 April 2025 (10/10)

  Great location and amazing view of Duomo complex and Giotto’s Bell Tower, just as you see in the pictures. Apartment was very clean and modern. Not many amenities such as a kettle or iron, etc however if you are in Florence for 2-3 days, it’s a perfect place to stay. Claudia was a fantastic host – very informative with what to see and very responsive.

• Superb – Peck from Singapore – 9 April 2025 (9/10)

  Claudia was responsive to our queries and allowed us to deposit our luggage before the check in time. Convenient location, short walk to the train station. We had a comfortable stay. Florence and the countryside is beautiful.

• Amazing beautiful city of Florence – Jennifer from United States – 30 March 2025 (10/10)

  The host Cynthia is the sweetest and very kind when I arrived to Florence. She advised a lot of options on what to see and do while in florence. The home itself is just as pictured in the description. The view is exceptional of the duomo. It was nice stay for being close to the train station and by most bus stops. There is an elevator to get to your room since its on the top floor. Very nice and quiet area and walking distance to alot of things. I would highly recommend this place for couples, solo or a few friends.

• Pleasant – Filippo from Italy – 13 March 2025 (9/10)

  Splendidly located in a very convenient location for both facilities, rail station and tourist attractions

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities