Elisabetta was an AWESOME hostess. She was always in great contact with us leading up to our arrival, and also after we were settled in. The apartment is stunning, including magnificent ceiling frescoes from the 16th century in the first floor bedroom. She gave us a complete tour of what was her childhood home, still owned by her and her family, of the place.

The location of the apartment really couldn't be better. It's a stone's throw from the Santa Croce Basilica, which is one of the most beautiful churches in Florence. It's also a very short walk to the Duomo, Uffizi and other piazzas of interest, as well as the Ponte Vecchio.

The apartment is truly unique, as it is built up around the core living room with vaulted ceilings (that was the old arms room of a 600 year old palace). The spiral stairs are truly one of a kind, and while maybe not appropriate for young children or elderly guests, make staying at this apartment feel like living in Renaissance Florence from the days of old.

However, don't let the authentic experience make you think that you'll be faced with medieval amenities; the apartment is fully upgraded where it counts in the kitchen and bathroom, and the beds were very comfortable in all three bedroom areas.