This is OUTSTANDING. From the apartment, amenities, neighbourhood, and host - this is the spot to experience Florence as authentically and magically as possible. Giulio’s apartment was full of character, and our favourite place to start and end each day. We would travel to Florence again just to stay in his place, and will tell everyone making a trip to Italy to do so too.
The apartment. The place was quaint and totally local, with a sensible lift which brings you to the top most floor (4th floor). There are tall windows in each room (including the bathroom!), where you can see the picturesque view of the neighbourhood. It was so accessible to groceries, and acclaimed local restaurants, but yet the nights were quiet enough to have a good night’s sleep. To add: The king bed was wonderful to sleep in.
The amenities. This came better equipped than a hotel, and the amenities and furnishings were almost, if not, brand new. To give an idea, he provides you with EXTRAS of towels, bowls, cutleries, pots in various sizes, pans, wine glasses, cups, shampoo/toiletries, hairdryer. And Giulio goes ABOVE AND BEYOND and gives you NETFLIX in English, and NESPRESSO capsules/machine. We are amazed speechless. WiFi was seamless, fast, and better than some hotels. It says a lot that we looked forward to retreating to the comfort of the apartment everyday, even despite Florence’s quintessential beauty.
The host. Giulio is the perfect host - he replies fast, is kind, pleasant and clear. He also goes the extra mile to compile a listing of personal restaurant recommendations, description, price range, which was superb for travelers like us who would like a local view on their neighbourhood’s best eats.
The neighbourhood. San Frediano is marvelous. It feels more authentic than any other part of Europe that we have been to before, almost as if you walked out of a Hans Christian Anderson fairytale. Cobbled streets, artisan shops with home made produce, and a lively momentum that was made by the daily routine of the locals and not by tourists. Food is fantastic and more authentic on this side of the river; there are also amenities like grocery, cheese, butcher nearby.
The apartment and the entire experience is a beauty. You need to come here. I would give it 6/5 stars if I could, and would hope for a chance to visit Giulio’s place again.