You will find Alessandro's place comfortable and cozy yet with plenty of room. We had everything we needed in the kitchen which we were grateful for as we planned to prepare the majority of our meals there. Alessandro was 15 minutes late upon check in, but otherwise, he is charming and had helpful tips and information. The bedrooms are very nice but not super private, if that is important to you. The location couldn't be better. The bus stop is a little over a block away and will get you everywhere. Within a three block radius you will find grocery, tobacco shops, post office, cafe's with coffee, wine and pastries. The Esselunga grocery store is three blocks from the apartment. Very reasonable prices on everything from fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses, meat and beer and wine. We spent very little and went "home" with a lot. If you need toiletries or other sundries, you will find right across the street from the Esselunga a dollar store, comparative to that of a Dollar General or Family Dollar in the states. A block away from the apartment, near the bus stop, the La Tortuga Pizzeria has a divine t-bone steak (suggest tender), good pizza and wine. Great prices and plenty of food. Don't over order here! The buses (17, 30 and 35) will run from Ponchielli to the train station (square). They drive fast, keep your luggage close and minimal and hang on tight! You can get anywhere on these. Upon return to Ponchielli, get off at stop Toselli Verracini and the Esselunga is a block over. Getting from the airport to the Santa Maria Novella train station is easy. There are shuttles that run every 30 minutes to and from. 6 euro for each person, pay the driver. Taxis are available as well. 22 euro plus baggage.
We absolutely loved our stay at Alessandro's and in Florence. We hope to return.