5-stars. Here is why...
Marco....
Marco is a host that goes the "extra mile" (or Kilometer if you will) for you. We were concerned about being able to get a reservation at some authentic Tuscan restaurants. When I contacted Marco ahead of time, he provided what proved to be the best meal of our Italian trip (La Giostra). We also choose another restaurant from his recommendations and had a wonderful Bistecca Alla Fiorentina. Marco is open to help with any pre-visit requests that helped make our trip easy and complete, without the anxiety of unknowns.
Marco also prepared a wonderful illustrated guidebook which was a great resource for our touring as well. Use it! It is well worth your time to spend some moments looking at it and taking advantage of his recommendations,. It is literally a piece of art as well as a wealth of information.
Marco was helpful in securing a taxi at the end of our stay to the train station which lessened the anxiety from that aspect of our journey.
When in a foreign country, the little things count (like ordering a taxi to show up at the proper time). Marco was more than willing to help in what ever way he could.
Location.....
Loved, loved, loved the location. Situated with a view of the Uffizi out the large windows, the place is within all the sites in Florence. With traffic limited in the area, strolls are easy and carefree. The neighborhood has cafes, grocery stores for water and snacks, a pharmacy, my wife needed a scarf. She found one steps from the front door in a little shop. There were a number of pizza and panini places, and bars for casual eats just around the corner. We enjoyed the more formal restaurant on the corner just steps from the front door. We left early, could come back for a refresh later, and headed back out without feeling we missed a beat or wasted time. Location. Location. Location is important in Florence. Marco's place has it.
The Place....
Marco's place is unique in it's old world charm with modern amenities. High ceilings, interesting features including a loft in the bedroom (not accessible) and a stairway to his office (also not accessible) gave depth to the space that just made you feel comfortable. There was a little patio in an internal courtyard of the building which was great for a morning espresso or late afternoon Aperol Spritz. The kitchen was perfect for the traveler and well equipped. The bedroom was spacious and comfortable. No problems sleeping. AC provided comfort when needed, as the temperatures were in the 90F's during our stay.
Overall, the host, location and place are important in making a choice for your accommodations when booking on AirBNB. We certainly were not disappointed with our selection in Florence.