Alessandro is the sweetest host you will meet. He is genuinely kind to his core and loves people. It shows in how he treats his guests - like family. He and his wife both welcomed us with open arms and huge smiles. We spent 3 nights here at the end of our trip. By then, we were a bit tired and knew we had some more challenging aspects coming up (returning the rental car, navigating Florence, finding our train station), but Alessandro made it so easy. He provided everything we could need. The apartment shares a courtyard with Alessandro's home, but he and his wife wanted us to enjoy the patio areas overlooking the beautiful country and city, as well as their personal garden area. They have a beautiful garden and flowers. They have added so many personal touches to the apartment. We had been enjoying the fresh air, but it was especially hot at this time of the trip so we took advantage of the A/C. We closed the curtains so it stayed cool and felt private. We slept so good and felt like a much needed rest. We woke up so refreshed. Alessandro also shared some fresh vegetables from his garden. We picked up a few other items from the small local grocery store, and we cooked 2 of the nights with fresh pasta and veggies and cheese - and enjoyed with local wine on the terrace. It was even better than going out! Alessandro also recommended Bar Vida next door, which we came to love as our own neighborhood cafe. We had a lovely lunch there the first day, then coffees and pastries each morning. We also got take away for our train ride when we left. The owners speak mostly Italian (and we speak mostly English), yet they made us feel at home and so welcome. The town of Settignano is small, but it was a nice respite from any busy nightlife. There is some noise from local restaurants when you are outside, but it is not in any way disruptive. It just made us feel like we were part of this village. From inside the apartment with the windows closed and A/C running, we could not hear a thing. The bathroom is long with necessities provided. Alessandro also had olive oil and vinegar and basic kitchen items there for us to use.
Also, Alessandro had a close friend who passed away the day before we left, but he had offered to take us to the train station the next day (already above and beyond) and went further out of his way to make sure he still could even though we told him we would take a taxi. He sent us off with hugs and much love, and made us want to come right back and stay again.
Also, the #10 bus to San Marco Square is a 30 second walk and a 10-20 minute bus ride into the center of Florence. You can buy bus tickets in our favorite little shop, Bar Vida. Try the ricotta pastries and the ham and cheese paninis (I'm sure it's called something else) - and of course, enjoy a spritz on the patio!
You will love this little home away from home! Please go see Alessandro and tell him we said hello.