Villa La Massa

Hotel Description

You know what hits you first at Villa La Massa? It’s not the stunning Arno River views or the 16th-century villa architecture – though those are pretty spectacular. It’s actually the smell of jasmine from the gardens mixed with that particular scent of old stone that you only get in these historic Tuscan properties. I mean, this place has been around since the Renaissance, and somehow they’ve managed to keep all that character while making it feel completely luxurious.

The location is honestly perfect if you want to experience Florence without dealing with the tourist chaos. You’re in Bagno a Ripoli, which locals just call “Bagno,” and it’s maybe 15 minutes from the city center – but it feels like you’re in your own private slice of Tuscany. The hotel sits right on the riverbank, and there’s this incredible terrace where you can have your morning espresso while watching the Arno flow by. I’ve stayed here twice now, and both times I ended up spending way more time on that terrace than I planned. The Wi-Fi reaches out there too, which is clutch if you’re trying to work remotely (though honestly, good luck concentrating with that view).

What really sets this place apart is how they’ve renovated the different buildings. The main villa has these gorgeous frescoed ceilings – we’re talking hand-painted Renaissance art above your bed – while the newer sections feel more contemporary but still authentically Italian. The rooms vary quite a bit depending on which building you’re in, so definitely specify if you want river views when booking. Also, just so you know, the air conditioning can be a bit finicky in the older rooms during peak summer, but the thick stone walls actually keep things pretty cool naturally. The spa is tucked into what used to be the villa’s cellars, and they’ve done something magical with the lighting down there – it’s like being in a beautiful cave. Parking is handled by the staff (thank god, because maneuvering rental cars on these narrow Tuscan roads is stressful enough), and they’re incredibly helpful with restaurant recommendations. Skip the touristy spots in central Florence and ask them about the family-run places in the hills – that’s where you’ll find the real gems. The hotel’s restaurant, Il Verrocchio, is actually worth staying in for dinner, especially if you can snag a table on the riverside terrace during sunset. Just be prepared for a leisurely Italian pace of service, which honestly becomes part of the charm after a day or two.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $568. Deluxe Double Room with 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $625. Prestige Double Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $767. Double Room with 2 single beds and 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $1,041. Deluxe Junior Suite with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $1,041. Remole Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $1,041. Rosano Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $1,041. Rimaggio Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $1,315. Suite with 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Absolutely stunning property with incredible views. But the best was their staff. All so kind and family like. Amazing t – Rima from United Arab Emirates – 9 June 2025 (10/10)

  Real Italian hospitality. Super super kind and family like staff
  
  What could be improved: Everything was amazing. I can’t say one bad thing about them. Best hotel I’ve been to in italy

• Beautiful stay 20 minutes outside Florence shuttle almost every hour – Ammash from Saudi Arabia – 18 September 2024 (10/10)

  From the moment we entered it was five star service. At checkin Adel, Tamara and Nicolo were very cordial. The views of the river and beautiful hills made it hard to look away. All of the resteraunt’s were excellent and especially the very lovely staff. I would especially like to thank Vasilis for his great food recommendations and conversation.

• This is a superb hotel in beautiful surroundings whose team deliver everything that a 5 star hotel should in the best po – Terry from Australia – 22 August 2024 (10/10)

  We have stayed at Villa La Massa previously and returned because it is an exceptional property in a unique location. It is a peaceful haven in close proximity to an historic city.
  
  What could be improved: Everything. The rooms are spacious, elegant and luxurious. The grounds and pool area are very well kept. Excellent indoor and outdoor eating areas serving excellent food and beverages.

• Incredible – Ewan from United Kingdom – 1 July 2024 (10/10)

  Amazing luxury wonderful staff amazing views lovely food excellent spa and gym

• Perfect home away from home – Sam from United Kingdom – 24 June 2024 (10/10)

  Everything. Food, facilities (particularly Arno Spa) and rooms exceptional. Highly recommended.
  
  What could be improved: N/a

• Perfect place for a birthday weekend with lots of friends – Eleanor from Switzerland – 16 June 2024 (9/10)

  Beautiful & many old features kept even though the property had been modernized
  
  What could be improved: Bathroom really big & light with show & separate bath tub & bidet & double basins, a lot of long mirrors in the dressing area so you could see back & side views

• Great people, beautiful villa – Stanley from United States – 21 April 2024 (10/10)

  The facilities and the staff are excellent
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Never forget my stay in this lovely Hotel and it is my one and only in florance – Haiel from Saudi Arabia – 7 April 2024 (10/10)

  Every thing was Amazing the suite very beautiful and the sttaf ver wellcoming
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to say

• Top level relaxation – Lior from Israel – 3 October 2023 (10/10)

  The place is amazing. The view is beautiful, the pool, the garden and room are super clean.
  Food is great. Even the burger was top level.
  The room is cleaned and organized twice a day.
  They offer shuttle to the city (Florence).
  
  What could be improved: A bit expensive

• Exceptional – Itai from Israel – 9 September 2023 (10/10)

  We celebrated a special occasion at Villa la Massa. It was a wonderful place to celebrate and the staff was very helpful! Definitely a place to come back to.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities