What a wonderful way to start our Italian vacation! Antonio’s apartment was incredible. It had all the modern amenities needed and at the same time provided an architectural beauty and artistic decor that was both cosy and spacious- high vaulted ceilings, wonderful art and photographs on the walls, creative decor that reflects Antonio’s obvious artistic talent.
The creative use of glass walls provided a sense of openness while retaining the privacy of the individual bedrooms using heavy drapes that could be closed at night and opened during the day. The kitchen was well stocked, there are multiple seating areas, the furniture was very comfortable, and there is a small enclosed courtyard off of the common area that provided natural light. Another important point is that it is a ground floor apartment on one level, no stairs to climb! It is also very quiet, no street noise. Antonio also provided a bottle of wine and sweets which we enjoyed. Thanks Antonio!
But there is more. The location is on a primarily residential street in the “Oltrarno” neighborhood (south of the Arno river which is much less touristy than the north side of the river). The neighborhood has wonderful small artisan shops and markets, many restaurants popular with the locals (and with us), all within easy walking distance. The apartment is very close to the Piazza Santo Spirito with several restaurants overlooked by the lovely (on the inside) Church of Santo Spirito. The Piazza is a “happening” place at night with locals and some tourists and there is an outdoor market in the Piazza every morning.
All of the cultural sites north of the Arno are within easy walking distance of the apartment (buy tickets in advance to the sights to keep from standing in long lines). The north side of the river is crowded with tourists and it was a pleasure to return to the apartment after a full day of sightseeing. Antonio provides a list of things to see and restaurants to try. Restaurants we enjoyed included In Santo Bevitore just south of the river (reservations a must), Borgo Antico on the Piazza Santo Spirito, Trattoria Za Za near the San Lorenzo Market, Osteria Vinci e Vecchi Sonora north of the Ufuzzi (very small, popular with locals, charming hosts, and reservations a must),, and finally, not to be missed is the Gelateria La Carrara just south of the river (near Il Santo Bevitore) for great gelato!
I don’t think you can find a better place to stay than Ore e Colore while in Florence. Also thanks to Antonio when we were leaving for getting us a taxi when our poor knowledge of the Italian language prevented us from ordering one by telephone.