We stayed at Misia's place in the second week of September and we were not disappointed. We were travelling by train from Verona and Misia kept in touch for our arrival, meeting us at the apartment on arrival. Misia gave us the lowdown of how to get about and recommended the restaurant Centocanti which was about 50 yards away as we got in at about 8 o'clock which was very nice.
Misia's apartment is about a 25 minute walk from the centre of Florence which did not bother us at all, a straight walk from the apartment to one of the gate's of the city. The train station Firenze Campo di Marte is about a 10-15 minute walk which will get you to the central station Firenze Santa Maria Novella. There is a supermarket about 5 minutes from the apartment, can't complain about a bottle of wine for 3 euros!
The apartment itself was very clean and the balcony was lovely for having breakfast on and have a couple of drinks before going out for dinner. The area itself is pretty quiet, there are a few bars and restaurants and the street the apartment is on so there is some noise but this does not go on late.
Florence itself is a beautiful city. Would thoroughly recommend. The views from Piazzale Michelangelo are beautiful but I would recommend going slightly further up to San Miniato al Monte which is a beautiful church and a bit quieter but the view is spectacular.