While we read that the apartment was centrally located in Florance, we were floored to find that it was almost directly across the street from a building that Michelangelo owned and sometimes stayed in. It was only two blocks from the basilica Santa Croce and only a few more blocks away from the Palazzo Vechicco. We were able to walk to all of Florence's major attractions on the "Duomo" side of the river and if we were ambitious, could have walked across the Arno to the other side to see the Medici palace and the gardens. While the building is over 500 years old and our apartment was on the second floor with the only access a very narrow stair case, the electriclly operated front door to the building made us feel very secure when home and secure in our belongings left in the apartment during the day.
We were greeted upon arrival by the host's mother and friend who showed us all of the apartment's features and where to find things. The apartment as a very small balcony where the washing machine is located. The view is of the tile roof slanting upward. However, if the weather would have cooperated, it might have been nice to sit outside and have a glass of wine.
While the location of the apartment is close to most of Florence's attractions it is away from the tourist area and in a quiet neighborhood. Street level stores are little neighborhood restaurants and small markets. A well-stocked grocery store is three blocks away. Bus service is also one block away and frequent. The furnishings are working class but functional. We spent most of our time when in the apartment, sitting at the table if not in bed.
As for Florence itself, we instantly fell in love with the city. And yes, we would definitely rent this apartment again for both the location and general ambiance of being Michelanglo Buonarroti's neighbors.