Corte Calzaiuoli Elegant Suites

Though it rather modestly styles itself a bed and breakfast, Corte Calzaiuoli, situated in a palazzo built by Florence’s De’ Macci family, offers uncommon luxury in its eight lavishly restored rooms and suites. It’s surrounded by the incomparable Renaissance architecture of the city center, in the central restricted-traffic zone between the Piazza del Duomo and the Piazza della Signoria, which means an extra measure of quiet. Even the substantial foot traffic, brought to Via Calzaiuoli for the endless blocks of brand-name shopping, is no issue; the Corte’s rooms are soundproofed.

The interiors show a contemporary touch, but the style is classic all the same, and the tactile elements are chosen for luxury: all feature walk-in rain showers, some add rolltop baths, and in all, Frette linens adorn Simmons mattresses. They’ve got espresso machines as well, but that shouldn’t stop you from visiting the substantial breakfast buffet. A proper restaurant is beyond the ambitions of a place like Corte Calzaiuoli, but central Florence, naturally, is supplied with an abundance — the old city’s most salient attractions, too, are an easy walk from the hotel, whose staff is happy to help with reservations, tours, and anything else you can think of.