Villa Rucellai

Hotel Description

You know what? Villa Rucellai is one of those places that surprises you from the moment you walk in. I mean, from the outside on Via Di Canneto, it looks like just another historic building in Prato – which, honestly, is exactly what you want. But step inside and there’s this immediate sense that someone actually cared about creating something special here.

The thing about staying in Prato is that most people treat it as a quick stopover between Florence and the coast, but Villa Rucellai makes you want to linger. The rooms have this perfect balance of old-world charm and modern comfort – you’ll find original frescoed ceilings (some of the staff mentioned they date back to the 15th century) paired with really good Wi-Fi and those little touches that matter, like proper reading lights and outlets where you actually need them. The bathrooms are surprisingly spacious too, which isn’t always a given in these historic conversions. I stayed during late spring and could hear the gentle sounds of the courtyard in the morning – birds, the soft murmur of breakfast conversations – rather than traffic noise, which was such a relief after Florence.

What really sets this place apart is how it connects you to the real Prato. The location on Via Di Canneto puts you right in the heart of the historic center, walking distance from the Duomo and those incredible Filippo Lippi frescoes that honestly rival anything you’ll see in Florence (and without the crowds). The staff – and I mean this genuinely – know their city. They pointed me toward this tiny osteria about three blocks away that I never would have found otherwise, and suggested hitting the Saturday morning market in Piazza del Mercato Nuovo, which was absolutely worth the early wake-up call. There’s something refreshing about staying somewhere that feels rooted in its place rather than like it could be anywhere. The breakfast spread includes local specialties – proper Tuscan pastries and this incredible locally-sourced honey – and they serve it in what feels like a friend’s elegant dining room rather than a sterile hotel restaurant. Parking can be a bit tricky (it’s Italy, after all), but they work with you to figure it out, and once you’re settled, you really don’t need a car anyway. The train connections to Florence are frequent and easy, so you can do day trips without the hassle of driving in the city.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $135. Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $191. Family Room with 2 single beds, 1 large double bed and 4 single beds for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Spectacular villa located in the Tuscan hills short train to Florence! – Clarice from United States – 15 June 2025 (10/10)

  This is a fabulous villa located in the Tuscan hills….it is absolutely beautiful and the owner and family members were so kind, thoughtful and accommodating. The grounds, property, pool and breakfast was spectacular! And just a 20 min train ride to Florence.
  You have to want a "back in time" serene experience….because there is no TV and limited wifi. For me..that is just what I needed!
  
  What could be improved: Just a lil challenging "getting there"….

• Our stay at Villa Rucellai was a serene and enchanting escape—filled with warmth, beauty, and unforgettable hospitality. – Suha from United States – 18 May 2025 (10/10)

  A Dream Stay – Peaceful, Elegant, and Truly Unforgettable
  
  Staying at Villa Rucellai was nothing short of magical. Nestled in the Tuscan hills, this historic villa offered the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. The ambience is serene and breathtaking—waking up to panoramic views, birdsong, and the soft Tuscan light was an experience in itself.
  
  The rooms were impeccably clean, spacious, and thoughtfully decorated, retaining their classic character while providing all the comfort we needed. The common spaces, from the garden to the pool area, were beautifully maintained and added to the peaceful atmosphere.
  
  Breakfast each morning was a highlight—delicious, fresh, and beautifully presented with local breads, cheeses, fruits, and pastries, served in a lovely setting that made it feel like a private retreat.
  
  The hospitality was beyond exceptional. The hosts were warm, generous, and attentive without ever being intrusive. They went out of their way to make our stay special, offering local recommendations and genuine conversation that made us feel like treasured guests rather than just visitors.
  
  This is more than a place to stay—Villa Rucellai is an experience. It’s a place to slow down, to savor beauty, and to reconnect with the joy of travel. We left feeling rested, inspired, and already planning our return.
  
  Highly recommend for couples, families, or anyone seeking an authentic and soul-soothing escape in Tuscany.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Been in the family for 400+ years and the current members running it are incredible hosts – Robin from United Kingdom – 26 April 2025 (10/10)

  Location!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Worth for money. Peaceful Stay – Bhagy from Saudi Arabia – 5 October 2024 (9/10)

  Staff were very nice and supportive. Oldish architecture is beautiful and peaceful.
  
  What could be improved: There was no WiFi at all!

• Gorgeous Villa – Monica from Romania – 1 October 2024 (10/10)

  the Villa is absolutely amazing. If you can catch the sunset there it would be great. they have a beautiful and big garden, but also a terrace. The room and the bathroom are spacious. We had a walk-in closet. It was very clean. The Villa is 500+ years old and it really makes you aprreciate it even more. Totally recommend. From Prato it is just a few minutes away by car.

• Best stay – Dhall from United Kingdom – 19 September 2024 (10/10)

  It’s in a very beautiful location and the staff was very kind.

• Stunning villa with sweeping views – Lucy from South Africa – 16 September 2024 (10/10)

  This property is absolutely stunning! Set in the hikes above Prato it is like something from a movie. The breakfast is amazing- top class really. The bed was very comfy, we had the best sleep of the trip. Highly recommended
  
  What could be improved: we loved everything

• Exceptional – Vilma from Lithuania – 11 August 2024 (10/10)

  The place is worth a separate novel!!! It's not a simple villa. It's a manor, a palace! The owners love the place themselves and live there. The possibility to use a pool in their inner courtyard on a hot summer evening is a huge plus. Breakfast on a terrace with a splendid view to Prato is breathtaking!!!
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing to complain about.

• Exceptional – Chris from Australia – 29 July 2024 (10/10)

  We loved our stay. How often do you get to stay in the 12th century villa in Italy? It was an amazing building an amazing host.
  
  What could be improved: The property provides an amazing experience to stay in a beautiful villa.

• Exceptional – Elena from Moldova – 23 July 2024 (10/10)

  Authentic style, atmosphere, beauty

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities