Deciding between 2 Florence apartments--location advice
 

I've narrowed it down to these apartments--in completely different neighborhoods. We'll be there in early December for one week (first visit). I'd appreciate any opinions on the pros/cons of both locations--we're 50+ museum goers, don't mind walking, try to avoid intense crowds, use public transit or walk rather than cabs.

http://www.vrbo.com/407757

http://www.vrbo.com/274235

Thanks--

274325, better place.

Cabs in Florence. :-)

This is a no-brainer. San Lorenzo is much more centrally located than anything in the San Niccolo neighborhood.

Both look great but with different neighborhoods. The first in the Oltrarno will be much more quiet and less active--still within reach of all museums and sights. Its a bit off the beaten path and suggests a bit of calmness.

The second is in the heart of the action. We've stayed within a stone's throw of its location and aside from the potential noise factor, loved the location for its easy access to the Mercato Centrale, San Lorenzo market stalls and several restaurants we always frequent (Mario's and others in the mercato). As stated in the website, noise could be a factor with the movement of the portable stalls early and late, stocking of the mercato and restaurants etc. but the location could not be more central with great energy. We always felt safe in the area.

Early december is a fabulous time to visit--we walked into the Uffizi without a line or reservation. Christmas lights and decorations start to appear and it is largely uncrowded.

how long are you planning on staying in florence? - if it's only for a few days, the San Lorenzo one might be better as it's closer to most of the things that you'd want to see in a short time, but for a longer stay, I'd pick the Oltarno one as it is quieter and in a less touristy district.

As bilbo says, there are always cabs, though with the traffic in Florence, you can often walk more quickly.

You do have a lot of time to decide - and to research other options. I wouldn't restrict myself to just these two or to this one company. There are loads listing apartments in Florence in al price ranges; some are listed on TA and booking.com which has reviews or you could look at SlowTravel which also has reviews of accommodation.

Thanks everyone--it's the noise of the first one that concerns me a bit but I like the idea of being so close to everything. At least in December we'd have all the windows shut.

I have looked at SlowTravel--it doesn't seem to be as up-to-date as VRBO/Homeaway. And I've looked at booking.com and Venere (I make the majority of my hotel reservations through booking.com).

I'm looking for fairly low-budget accommodations (part of the reason I'm looking so early--sometimes the budget places get booked up more quickly).

<i><font color=#555555>"it's the noise of the first one that concerns me a bit"</font></i>

IMO, the hum and buzz of an ancient city center is far more invigorating than some quiet place on the outskirts, but I'm a city gal. IMO, Florence is not as loud as Rome (especially if you avoid staying on streets that permit truck traffic), but it is possible the apartment overlooks the outdoor Lorenzo Market, which goes all day. Of course you want a good night's sleep, and the bedroom could be located on the inner side of the building. It doesn't cost much to bring and sleep with a good pair of earplugs, just in case.

Any stay further away from the action can cost a lot. It can cost you time. It can cost you in taxis. It can cost your feet in painful blisters. Pick your poison with care, and don't hesitate to ask the owner questions.

Oltrarno is not the outskirts of Florence.

We are staying here next month; just to add to the mix :)

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/662667

Definitely the second one. As long as the creepy guy doesn't come with it! ;-)

I would prefer San Niccolò over San Lorenzo. Not as central, but much quieter and upscale area.

Thanks everyone--I'm really leaning towards the San Lorenzo apartment. I've had good email communication with both owners but I think the combo of nicer bathroom/more central location (which if the weather is bad will really be a benefit) plus extremely friendly owner makes the San Lorenzo apartment my choice.

I don't think you'll regret it. If December brings very cold weather, you'll be glad you're further away from the Arno and walking distance to everything.