The Travelista

  • Home
  • About
    • Collaborations
    • Press
    • FAQ
    • Contact
  • Travel
    • Destinations by World Map
    • Hotels
    • Airlines
    • Restaurants
    • Itineraries
  • Life
    • Yorkshire
    • Style
  • Motherhood
  • Inspire Me
    • Adventure
    • Beach
    • City
    • Culture
    • Mountain
    • Tropical
  • Shop
    • E-mail
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube

A Romantic Stay at Hotel Brunelleschi, Florence | Hotel Review

03/06/15 ᛫ 11 Comments

As one of the most historic cities in the World, it comes as no surprise that Florence is home to an abundance of luxury hotels where character and Firenze charm come as standard. But how many hotels in Florence can say they sit upon ancient Roman baths, were mentioned in Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code and are just a stone’s throw away from the cities’ famous Cathedral di Santa Maria? The answer is only one. Welcome to Hotel Brunelleschi in Florence.

DSC_0157

The Tower Suite, the Brunelleschi’s most exclusive suite that is popular for honeymooners and special occasions

I was lucky enough to enjoy a two-night stay at Hotel Brunelleschi at the end of my Tuscan road trip that went through Pisa, San Gimignano, Casole d’Elsa and Siena. Florence was the fifth and final stop of our tour. Here’s my experience of The 4* Hotel Brunelleschi in Florence…

DSC_0118

The Travelista arriving in Florence

 Getting There

After dropping off our hire car near Florence airport, my boyfriend and I were met by a charming driver from the Brunelleschi who collected us and whisked us off to the hotel. As the streets got narrower and the crowds got bigger I could tell we were getting close to our destination. The car turned down a small side alley, which opened up into a walled courtyard called Piazza Santa Elisabetta. This was the charming entrance of the Hotel Brunelleschi.

DSC_0170

The Brunelleschi’s Osteria Restaurant which is located on the ground floor. Outdoor seating for the restaurant is located in the quaint courtyard entrance of the hotel.

First Impressions

Upon arrival we received a warm welcome from Sefano, the hotels Front Office Manager. After checking in we were personally shown the way to our room by the Sergio, the hotel’s Golden Keys Head Concierge. He also showed us around the room and pointed out all the room features, which was a friendly and personal touch that immediately made me feel at home.

hotel-brunelleschi-lobby-florence

The grand lobby of the Brunelleschi with original exposed brickwork and luxe furnishings

 Quirky Rooms and Luxurious Extras

Because the hotel itself spans through a series of connecting buildings, some of the rooms have rather quirky layouts. Our room was a series of 4 connecting rooms, which made it very long and narrow but still very spacious.

DSC_1402

The bedroom of our suite with traditional Italian shutters and a view that looked out on to Via del Corso

The separate rooms started with an entrance lounge and went through to the bedroom, washroom and bathroom. There was also a walk-in wardrobe connected to the bedroom, very Carrie Bradshaw I thought.

DSC_1413

The lounge area complete with sofa, chairs and wide screen TV

DSC_1410

His and hers sinks in the wash room that connected to a large bathroom

DSC_1411

The bathroom with standalone jacuzzi bathtub and large rain-shower around the corner.

Additional extras within the room that I loved were a Nespresso machine, two bottles of water, fluffy robes and slippers and luxurious toiletries.

DSC_1405

Homely extras such as the Nespresso machine made all the difference

The best bit of all was discovering a beautiful bottle of prosecco on ice with two glass flutes ready to celebrate our arrival in Florence. Did we crack it open? Of course we did!

DSC_1401

A welcome bottle of prosecco on ice along with a personal welcome letter addressed to Ms Gibson

Location, Location, Location

When looking for a hotel in a city like Florence, I believe that location is everything. The city is small enough to discover everything on foot, so being centrally located is one of the biggest luxuries. I loved that Hotel Brunelleschi was located so close to the Cathedral and Piazza del Duomo, but the entrance was through a small hidden piazza, which gave it a private and exclusive feel away from the masses.

DSC_0035

The Brunelleschi is under 5 minutes walk from the stunning Piazza del Duomo

In terms of walking distances from Hotel Brunelleschi, you can reach the Piazza del Duomo in under 5 minutes, the Palazzo Vecchio in under 10 minutes and the river and Ponte Vecchio in under 15 minutes. It’s also 1 minute away from a fabulous Gelato shop called Fiesta del Gelato which is located on Via del Corso (perfect for an after dinner treat!).

DSC_1318

Santa Elisabetta Restaurant

On the second night of our stay at the Brunelleschi my boyfriend and I managed to get a table at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant Santa Elistabetta, which is located in the hotel’s Pagliazza Tower. The tower is the oldest building still standing in the historical centre of Florence that dates back to the 6th and 7th century. Wow!

With only 7 tables in the restaurant catering for 24 covers, the restaurant feels exclusive, lavish and incredibly intimate and I loved how we were dining in a place with so much history.

DSC_0162

The timeless white decor of the Santa Elisabetta restaurant felt stylish and luxurious

We were greeted by our waiter who served us a welcome glass of prosecco in ornate cupped champagne glasses. He ran through the wine list with us but as we were being a little indecisive, he allowed us to do a mini tasting of 3 different red wines before we chose our bottle (another personal touch that made the experience feel very tailored to our needs).

DSC_0186

My main course – fillet of beef cooked medium rare with red wine jus, potatoes and chickpeas

I started with a light grilled calamari ‘primi’, followed by a delicious ragu duck and gnocchi ‘secondi’ before the main course of beef fillet. The duck dish was rich, flavoursome and melt-in-the-mouth. The beef was a premium cut that was cooked exactly how I liked it. Along with the delicious red wine, it was an deliciously indulgent dining experience.

DSC_0163

A romantic table for two

The Breakfast Buffet

Another thing I loved about the Brunelleschi was the breakfasts! Breakfast is included with every booking, which is great when you’ve got a busy day of sightseeing ahead. It was a help-yourself buffet with cooked breakfasts, fresh pastries, yoghurts, toast, breads, meats, cheeses and lots more. There was even a bottle of prosecco on the go!

prima-colazione-3

The Brunelleschi’s breakfast buffet has the traditional cooked favourites as well as lots of healthy choices

The choice was endless and friendly waitresses are quick to serve you your morning coffee made fresh to order.

brunelleschi-florence-prima-colazione-13

The Prima Colaziona breakfast buffet at The Brunelleschi

A Fascinating History

As well as being home to the beautiful Pagliazza Tower,Hotel Brunelleschi is built on top of some of Florence’s ancient Roman baths. The sites include a Calidarium and Hammam, both of which have been perfectly restored and are now part of a small museum that brings the ancient history to life.

The hotel was also mentioned in Dan Brown’s famous novel The Da Vinci Code and many Dan Brown fans flock to stay at the hotel because of it’s mention in the book.

DSC_0172

The original Roman baths and museum hidden perfectly preserved underneath the Brunelleschi Hotel

The Verdict

The Hotel Brunelleschi Florence is laced with history around every corner but modernised with timeless decor, luxurious extras and friendly service. So many elements of the stay gave it a real personal touch, from the mini pre-dinner wine tasting to bespoke walking tours recommended by concierge. If you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Florence with a brilliant location and charming history,Hotel Brunelleschi is for you.

What did you think of my review of Hotel Brunelleschi? Are you planning to book a hotel in Florence? If you enjoyed reading this post or need any more advice about this hotel, please comment on the box below and let me know! x 

Rooms at Hotel Brunelleschi start from €248 including breakfast based on two people sharing. Wifi is also free of charge. www.brunelleschihotelflorence.com. 

11 Comments

Related Posts

  • 10 Things I Loved about Hideaway Resort & Spa, The Maldives
  • A Decadent Stay at One Aldwych, London
  • A Baby Free Night at The Grand, York
« How to Spend A Day in Siena, Italy
The Tower Suite at Hotel Brunelleschi, Florence »

Comments

  1. Jenny says

    26th August 2015 at 8:44 am

    I’ve never stayed at a European hotel, but your photos definitely surpass my expectations! You’re so lucky to have stayed at such a beautiful place.

    Reply
  2. tarahsaint says

    11th August 2015 at 6:23 pm

    Everything looks so amazing! I can’t wait to visit Europe again!
    http://adornedinarmor.com

    Reply
  3. Emma Hart (@EmmaHart7) says

    30th July 2015 at 7:26 pm

    Oh Florence is just beautiful! I visited when I was in high school but I think I’d appreciate it a bit more if I visited now. And I’d go back any day for an ice cream that looks as delicious as that 🙂

    Reply
  4. Cicely says

    12th June 2015 at 10:39 pm

    I’m new to the blogging scene. What is the proper procedure for contacting a hotel or other establishment for permission or is this even necessary? Especially if you are new and don’t have credentials or experience. Thank you!!

    Reply
  5. Follow Your Sunshine says

    8th June 2015 at 9:17 am

    Jess this hotel looks divine! Rich and I are heading to Florence as part of our honeymoon tour of Italy in a month’s time and we’ve already booked accommodation but I’m seriously considering dinner at Santa Elizabetta restaurant after this!

    Polly xx
    Follow Your Sunshine

    Reply
  6. Jess Dante says

    7th June 2015 at 9:47 am

    I remember when I was living in Florence that I would walk past here everyday, and at the time it was being renovated and I would always think “What is that place because it’s gorgeous and reminds me of Rapunzel!” Glad you had a nice stay, it’s definitely one of the nicest hotels in Florence.

    Reply
  7. denimfish says

    3rd June 2015 at 5:47 pm

    Sounds amazing!

    Reply
    • thetravelistablog says

      4th June 2015 at 8:25 am

      Thanks Denim Fish! Hope you enjoyed the post x

      Reply
  8. Angie Silver (@SilverSpoonLDN) says

    3rd June 2015 at 2:25 pm

    Oh Jess, how lovely. I always prefer something rustic over modern in Italy, it just feels so much more authentic.
    Lots of love,
    Angie

    Reply
    • thetravelistablog says

      4th June 2015 at 8:25 am

      So glad you agree Angie! The best hotels in Italy are rustic, charming and full of history. It doesn’t mean they can’t be luxurious though 🙂 Brunelleschi ticks all the boxes.

      Thanks for your comment lovely x

      Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Sneak Peak: The Tower Suite at Hotel Brunelleschi, Florence | The Travelista says:
    8th June 2015 at 4:18 pm

    […] Thinking of staying at this hotel? Check out my full Hotel Brunelleschi hotel review. […]

    Reply

Spark a conversation! Cancel reply

Jess is an an award-winning UK travel blogger based in North Yorkshire, providing you with inspiration for both local and global adventures.

Read More

Looking for something in particular?

Subscribe

Never Miss a Post!

Latest Posts

Mediterranean Cruise Itinerary: Visiting 6 ports in 7 days

Family-friendly glamping in the Lake District with Feather Down Farms

An Indulgent Escape at Columbia Beach Resort, Cyprus

Follow on Instagram

What can I say, ya gals a foodie 😝🍴 #trave What can I say, ya gals a foodie 😝🍴 

#travelfoodie #eattheworld #globaleats #worldeatery #eeeeats #worldfood
Hello 2023! 🤍 A clean page, a fresh start. I h Hello 2023! 🤍 A clean page, a fresh start.

I had too many words about 2022 for a caption, so I’ve put them all into a blog post. 

My “2022 year in review” is live on The Travelista. It’s a longer, personal blog post about lessons, learnings, achievements and travels from year just gone, as well as my hopes and goals for 2023. I’ve put a link on stories for anyone interested. 😊

Wishing you a healthy, happy, adventure-filled New Year ✨

Photo: collecting shells on Cleethorpes beach during Twixmas 🐚
My 2022 travel recap ✨ 17 destinations across My 2022 travel recap ✨ 

17 destinations across 9 countries. My son stepped foot in 3 new countries and I got to bring him on 6 trips with me, including his first cruise. Wow ♥️

I’m finding a new rhythm for travelling with (and sometimes without) a little one and can’t wait for what’s to come in 2023.

Whether you’re new here or you’ve followed my journey for years, thank you so much for being here, for every like, comment and share. It is this amazing, supportive and loyal community that has enabled me to quit my job this year and return to doing this full time again post Covid. 

What was the most memorable place you’ve visited in 2022? ♥️

Where I went in 2022: 

Abu Dhabi
Cyprus 
Marbella 
Bruges 
Amsterdam
Guernsey 
Lake District 
Newcastle
Edinburgh 
Whitby
Lake District II
Almuñécar
Barcelona 
Gibraltar 
Marseille 
Rapallo
Florence

That’s a wrap! See you in 2023 🎥
A little snapshot into our Christmas, the first on A little snapshot into our Christmas, the first one in our new home, blending our families and hosting for 9. ☺️🥂 Hope you all had a lovely day 🎄

Merry Christmas from my family to yours ♥️.
Before I sign off for a little Christmas social me Before I sign off for a little Christmas social media break, here’s a festive photo dump of the past week + sharing my favourite poem🕯🎄🥂

Featuring 

➕ A lunch to @bettys with the girls. Making a new tradition. 
➕ A family visit to @castle_howard for their spectacular #IntotheWoods Christmas experience. Phenomenal. We go every year and it just gets better and better.
➕ Carols by candlelight at our local church - magic - but so many layers because the heating was broken!
➕ Dust if you Must by Rose Milligan. The perfect tonic in the (potentially stressful) build up to Christmas. 

We are hosting family this year and I’m excited! I’d love my house to look like a festive show home but it doesn’t, and that’s ok. (I have a 4 year old making mess twice as fast as I can tidy it). 

Fellow hosts, don’t be so busy ‘dusting’ that you miss all the little moments of magic! I’m reminding myself of this too. Swipe to read the poem and you’ll get it. ♥️

Wishing you a perfectly imperfect Christmas 🎄 

Love Jess x
ad Come with me and my Mum to do some last minute ad Come with me and my Mum to do some last minute Christmas shopping at @junction32. 🎁 

We are all feeling the pinch this year with the rising cost of living, so I set myself a challenge to find gifts for under £30. By shopping at outlets like Junction 32, which has over 80 brands offering up to 60% off the retail price, your money truly does go so much further. ♥️

What gifts I bought;

✔️ Slippers from @radleylondon RRP £40 J32 Price £20
✔️Himalayam charcoal gift set from @thebodyshop RRP £36.00 J32 Price £29.50
✔️Wax cheese wheels from independent retailer @themousehouse_lincoln £3 for £16
✔️Children’s cutlery set from @procookuk RRP £10 J32 Price £7

As usual J32 had some brilliant items on offer and a huge amount of choice, even this far into December.

Have you got any last minute Christmas shopping to do? I think I am finally done! 🛍 

#outletshopping #junction32 #junction32shoppingcentre #j32 #yorkshireoutletshopping

Subscribe

Never miss a post! Subscribe for Travelista updates and newsletters

The Travelista on YouTube

  • 3847likes
  • 19680followers
  • 9865followers
  • 2060subscribers

Copyright © 2023 · Design by Gatto

Copyright © 2023 · The Travelista on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

  • Privacy Policy
  • FAQ
  • Contact