I would pick Fiesole only if you want to spend some time relaxing. It is less convenient if you are planning days filled with visiting the major sights of the city of Florence.

I liked this upscale B&B, ideally located in the center of Florence historic core, very much; high-season prices run about 280 Euro with breakfast and internet included, as well as drinks and the run of the kitchen for snacks.

www.inpiazzadellasignoria.it

I liked Hotel Bavaria, great prices, great location, beautiful large old rooms. There is no private bathroom though if that's an issue. I don't think fiesole is a good idea, there is only one bus that goes there and it does not run that often and it stops at night. As I recall it takes about 30-40 minutes from Fiesole to the center of town.

I love Tourist House Ghiberti, centrally located in the foundry that Ghiberti occupied when he made the famed doors

http://www.touristhouseghiberti.com/

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g187895-d261518-r5524649-Tourist_House_Ghiberti-Florence_Tuscany.html

I think with three couples, you are much better off in the center of Firenze. Surely you will want to split up in various ways at various times, and it will be easier to regroup later with a centrally located hote. Also, you won't want to be committed to taking the bus (or a taxi) all the time (Italians taxis don't easily hold six people), and who doesn't want to run back to the hotel in the middle of the day sometimes?

Thank you for your input. I have ruled out Fiesole and will concentrate on Florence, using your recommendations as starting points. I'm so excited about this trip. It's been a long time since I've seen any part of Italy.

I can highly recommend the Relais Cavalcanti, a charming little boutique hotel in the center of Florence, near the museums and the Arno.


Here's the link to my Florence trip report, including details about the Relais Cavalcanti, and some restaurants and sites:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=2&tid=34813784

My brother and his girlfriend stayed at the Bavaria about a year ago, and they gave it a good review.

I've stayed at the Tourist House Ghiberti a couple of times. It's perfect for our needs, but FYI it isn't a hotel in the traditional sense. There is no real lobby and only five guest rooms. It fills up quickly, so if the THB is your choice contact them ASAP.

We just stayed in Residenza Il Villino for our last 3 nights this last weekend...the rooms are fairly spacious, very clean, well furnished, w/ a little fridge. The courtyard where we ate breakfast and drank wine in the afternoons was delightful. Most of all, Sergio and staff were very accomodating and made many helpful suggestions...highly recommend this place!