This is one of the most amazing places I've ever stayed at in Florence. This has been my third visit to Florence, one of which I lived in the city for 9-10 months, so I've seen many different kinds of apartments and hotels all over the city at various prices and locations. I can honestly say that this one takes the cake, just for the view alone! The photos in the listing are nice, but don't even come close to how spectacular every view is. Almost every room has some kind of view of a monument. The main bedroom has a picture window view of the Palazzo Vecchio and was wonderful to wake up to every morning. When you are in the roof deck, all the monuments look about 10x bigger than what comes across in photos. It's one of those places you need to see to believe! Claudio was always very responsive and accessible. I never had an issue trying to get in contact with him. He is also very forthcoming and knowledgeable with information and tips, especially being that he is a true Florentine! He is a very gracious host, and had we needed anything, I'm sure he would have been able to provide us with anything as quickly as we would have needed it. The apartment was clean and comfortable and has great access to all parts of the city. Santa Croce is one of my favorite locations for its vibrancy and proximity to all the sites with less tourists. Via dei Benci is full of life at night, but this isn't a problem because you are so high up and the windows are very good so it isn't too noisy. The air conditioner and WiFi also work VERY well. Internet can be spotty in the city sometimes, but it was great to have access to solid wifi when we needed to look something up really quick. And the air conditioner is a God sent in the summer when it can be very hot and humid. We were MORE than grateful to have a cool refreshing place to relax after long days. One thing to note, is that there are stairs. It was not a problem for us being young, but you do have to go up some stairs to the lift, and then one more very small flight of stairs after the lift. I was REALLY grateful to have the lift available, especially after long days of walking. Most of the apartment is in a single level, with only a step or two between certain parts. The loft area is only reachable by stairs, but it's quite nice because there is a good bathroom up there and a small fridge so you wouldn't have to come up and down stairs in the night. The roof decks are also accessible only by stair, but it is SO worth it! This place has so much quirk and charm, it's left an indelible impression on my trip to the...