Grand Hotel Villa Medici
C. Italy: Tuscany: Florence
Located in an 18th century villa just a 10 minute walk from the historical center of Florence, this deluxe hotel has undergone a significant, multi-year refurbishment completed in 2003. The hotel now has a beautiful new - and fully equipped - fitness center, conservatory for year round dining in the garden, plus an enhanced garden and sundeck, and outdoor swimming pool. The hotel's Lorenza de' Medici Restaurant enjoys a well-earned, first-rate reputation among Florentines and guests. There is also an attractive bar near the lobby called The Jockey Bar, which is overseen by the very capable Alessandro. In fact, the hotel has a truly excellent and committed longtime staff. Rooms are beautiful, suites are magnificent, and all rooms have generous marble bathrooms. There are connecting rooms for families; and the penthouse rooms have panoramic terraces where guests can enjoy breakfast or just the view of the rooftops of Florence. Suite 534 on the fifth floor overlooks the Duomo and has a new big Jacuzzi tub. The suite that Pavarotti prefers has a HUGE balcony! For guests arriving by car, there may be parking available outside the hotel (the facility is owned by the city of Florence) for a fee. Otherwise, the hotel has arrangements with a garage nearby.