Locanda de’ Ciompi

What can I say about owner and host ALessio other than he’s one of the nicest people on the face of the earth. Locanda de’ Ciompi is located in a terrific local’s neighborhood. The neighborhood gathering area is Piazza Dei Ciompi which is conveniently located just a few steps from the front entrance. Of all the things to see and do in Florence, my wife and I most enjoyed spending evenings at a Piazza street café (Vagalume, separate review). Every evening by 5pm the local residents walk the small streets around the Piazza to see and greet old friends. Sitting at the café we could watch and hear this happy parade of locals, again just outside entrance to our B&B. Locanda de’ Ciompi is very clean, comfortable and quiet. I couldn’t think of a better place to stay in Florence.

This was one of my favorite places to stay in all of Italy. The owners, the Alessios, were so warm and welcoming and really made me feel like I was at a home-​away-​from-​home, not just a hotel. The rates were very reasonable, and the room was extremely well appointed. Not only was the bed very comfortable, but the bathroom (with its beautiful exposed wood beams) was massive, and there was even a screen on the balcony door — all welcome rarities in Europe. There’s no breakfast room, but you’ll get a voucher to eat at a nearby café — in typical Italian style, a roll, juice, and coffee. Location was perfect — just a 10 – 15 walk to the Duomo and Accademia areas, and closer to 20 minutes to the Ponte Vecchio. Wifi was complimentary and lightening fast. Room was spotlessly clean (and I notice everything). I would definitely stay here again.