We stayed for 2 nights at Francesco's beautiful loft. What we loved the most about the apartment was that it was located in what seemed to be a not incredibly touristy part of town. That said, there is still plenty around to satisfy all your needs, including a great pizzeria just down the hill with a magic unicorn pizza margherita for 3 euro!!! The luxury DOP pizza gets you up to 5 euro, so don't sweat going big! :O)

The neighborhood is very lively with what seemed to be a daily fresh fish market just down the street, as well as Avenue Toledo for everything from elegant cafés (but still only 90 cents for God-shots of espresso!), down-home restaurants, gelaterias (Fantasia was yummy! My BF was told to 'Pay attention, mister!' when he was not watching that his ice cream was dripping in the heat hehe), shops. Near the Montesanto metro station there is a produce market as well.

Centrally located between 2 Metro stations (Montesanto & Toledo), as well as the funiculaire. So you can get to anywhere you want really easily.

The flat is located near the top of a medium-inclined hill, so if you are not in shape it might be tough for you. While generally confortable, the flat can get quite warm and I was uncomfortable so I went downstairs to sleep on the couch, which was fine. A fan would be a nice addition for the summer :O) It is also a little noisy, since the apartment gives onto a courtyard and you can hear scooters starting, some crazy birds cackling, and some people who talk loudly. I had some interrupted sleep, but was ok with it since I was on vacation! But if absolute silence is a must for you, you prob won't be happy! I don't know about you, but I don't travel to sleep!

We were met by Francesco's nephew, Gaetano, who was very punctual and communicated well. He even made a separate trip to the store to get a wine opener, as we were offered a bottle of wine upon our arrival but there was not an opener! Very nice!

Overall we had a very nice experience from the start with Francesco and his flat! We recommend it to anyone who is ok staying in a lively neighborhood.