Hotel Residenza Castiglioni (Florence, Italy)

Guests rave about the historic building's architectural features, including very high ceilings with original, impeccably preserved frescos. The suites are particularly large and airy, and most guests enjoy a comfortable night's rest in the plush beds with high-end linen.

The daily continental breakfast buffet is included in the nightly rate, and most guests find good value and variety in it; homemade yogurt and freshly baked bread seem to be the stand-out items. The moderately-priced minibar is much appreciated, and guests note there are tonnes of excellent, casual dining options just a few steps from the hotel.

The reception staff are widely described as kind, helpful, and knowledgeable about the surrounding neighbourhood's many attractions. Many guests opt to explore the area on foot, noting that the Duomo, Mercato Centrale, San Lorenzo leather market, and Medici Chapel are all very close by, as is the main train station. Speedy walkers can get to the Uffizi, Accademia, or the Rialto in about fifteen minutes, though the city seems to be tailor-made for leisurely strolls.

Though the majority of guests seem to enjoy the continental breakfast, others miss American standards such as bacon and eggs. Similarly, though most embrace the more traditional decor and layout as appropriate for the historic building, others wish the rooms were a little more "modern," particularly in terms of their smallish bathrooms.

Some guests have been disturbed by the level of street noise, particularly in the front-facing room; however, most recent travellers note the windows have been upgraded to double-glazed panes.

A few guests have reported a weak or unreliable Wi-Fi signal. Others had trouble finding the place, noting the exterior signage is not particularly bold.