Florence is a city of beautiful contrasts. Old world elegance mingles with cutting edge design, timeless tradition meets youthful energy and the frenetic pace of city life is tempered with a glass of wine enjoyed over a long afternoon. It’s these qualities that draw over 10 million visitors to Florence each year and travelers in the know are choosing the bohemian Oltrarno district, named one of the “Coolest Neighborhoods to Visit” by Lonely Planet . The Oltrarno is also home to the Hotel Horto Convento which offers timeless luxury in the heart of Florence.
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Walking through the gates of Hotel Horto Convento transports you, stepping away from the traffic and pedestrians of Florence I was greeted by the gardens and an overwhelming sense of calm and quiet. The peaceful grounds have long served as a convent before being reimagined as a boutique hotel. A small area of the property continues to serve as a convent and you may glimpse a group of nuns or a priest as they go about their business.
Upon arrival we were warmly greeted by name. Check in was fast and courteous and the front desk was great about making a reservation for us for the Accademia to see the David. Throughout our stay the entire staff, from concierge to the breakfast room staff, was gracious and could not do enough to make sure we enjoyed our time in Florence.
While the Hotel Horto Convento may have started out as a convent today the property is far from austere. The renovation was done with care to maintain the architectural charm of the original convent while the decor has a decidedly modern touch. Our room was spacious with a supremely comfortable king sized bed and the fluffiest pillows we had throughout our time in Italy. The bathroom was bright and updated with a rainfall shower head as well as a large modern soaking tub that I sadly did not have time to enjoy. Our room also came equipped with a Nespresso because in Italy access to a good espresso is practically a birthright.
One of my favorite things about the Hotel Horto Convento is the location, close enough to walk to all of the sites in Florence’s historic center while being far enough from the action to be a true respite at the end of the day. A pleasant 15 minute walk through the Oltrano neighborhood will bring you to Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens; or head across the Arno River to Florence’s historic center to explore Uffizi Gallery, climb to the top of Florence’s famed Duomo or gaze upon Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia . After a day full of sightseeing return to the Oltrarno neighborhood (one of the best neighborhoods to take a food tour in Florence) where each evening locals fill the plazas before heading out to dine at some of the best restaurants in Florence.
With a great location, thoughtful design and superb service the Hotel Horto Convento is the perfect place to stay for your next trip to Florence.
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