We will be staying in Bellagio for 2 nights in May. We were thinking of Hotel Florence or Belvedere. Can someone recommend which would be better for a short stay? Are they comparable? Also, does anyone have a web address for Hotel Florence?
Thank you.

I know many love the Belvedere and I've been up there and it was a pretty place. But I far prefer being down by the edge of the lake and not having that climb up and down. We stayed at DuLac almost next door to the Florence (we didn't stay at the Florence because of lack of air in August -- but wouldn't worry about it in May). During the day, I popped in and out of the hotel several times. You can't do that if at The Belvedere. I checked out the Florence while there and would definitely do that the next trip.

I've lost track of their website, but it is on several. Their email is [email protected]

Thank you Patrick for your information. That was what I was thinking as to the location for the Belvedere. I will e-mail the Florence hotel for availability.

Cheaper than the Florence and the Du Lac are the three-star Metropole and the three-star Excelsior Splendide, both on the "promenade" in Bellagio, but not as "up to date" as the two previously mentioned. No air conditioning, so avoid during hot weather.

Here's a solid vote for the Belvedere. It has two great assets:
*Outstanding staff--helpful, friendly, accommodating, etc., etc., etc.
*Incredible view of the lake from your room.
Since you're only going to be there for a couple days, I don't think the location away from the lake is that much of a disadvantage. For one, I would think for that short a period, you'd spend very, very little time at the hotel.
We kept on the go during our stay and never found the walk up and down the hill to be that much of a handicap or ordeal.

Without a doubt the Hotel Florence is the first place on my list when staying in Bellagio. Renovated chic, hip and with an excellent location on the promonade. The hotel ristorante is just about the best in Bellagio too!

The Belvedere is a bit out of town and more for a slower crowd.
Make sure to visit Villa Balbaniello. Worth it 110%. ANnother FAI property ( Italian National Trust) it is the quintessential Italian lakeside villa with a wonderful history.
Buon Viaggio.
IC

Another vote for staying in town closer to the water, and for the grand old Excelsior Splendide. Yes, a little dated, but that's its charm. My room there was huge, by the way.

Gee, I never thought I was part of the slower crowd.....slower, maybe, but perhaps healthier for that walk up the hill!

Eat dinner at the Bilacus!