I had an opportunity to look at a classic room at the Belvedere. There was nothing remotely Grande Dame about it, it struck me as very bland.
http://www.belvederebellagio.com/hot...classiche.aspx

For the same price, my room at the Florence had a four poster bed, antique furniture, a beautifully tiled bathroom, and a wrought iron balcony with a lakeview. FYI, yes, anyone can eat at the restaurant, but priority is given to guests. When I lunched there on a particularly beautiful day in May, only a handful of tables were available to non guests and they didn't have the same views as the tables set aside for hotel guests.

Of course people can have different opinions, but you made it very clear that calling it a "Jennifer Anniston" was meant as a putdown that I don't think is justified. As for the building being continguous to other buildings, I'm surprised that anyone would expect otherwise considering that it's in the heart of the lakefront area. The Florence has never tried to hide that.

I think the above poster is absolutely right. There is no " wow factor" about the classic rooms at The Belvedere. But the hotel does have a stately presence on the lake, and the grounds are gorgeous. That being said, the main reason I'd choose one over the other is what used to be the lack of AC at The Florence. IF that's in place, go with whichever one appeals most.

We have stayed at the Hotel Florence twice and absolutely love it! We were there in August 2005 and the breezes were perfect. Never had need of air conditioning. Make sure you get a room facing the lake, preferably a corner room with crosswinds. The outdoor restaurant is a fabulous lunch stop. The insalata caprese with burrata was the best. They only have it if the cheese comes in fresh that day

Here is a photo of room #45


./Users/ralstonlan/Pictures/iPhoto Library/Originals/2005/italy2005/P8290092.JPG

AAArgh, I mispoke. Mea culpa, mea culpa. I had my names confused. All my posts above referencing the Belvedere were meant to be about the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni. I believe it is a 5 star property. Here is a link with photos:

http://www.villaserbelloni.com/Bella...ery/rooms.html

So sorry for the confusion.