Hi, I'm new to this fabulous site and can't tell you how much I've learned by searching and reading through the numerous posts of all the travellers to Italy. I'll be making my first trip to Italy in October... doing an organized bike trip through Tuscany first (though somewhat daunted by the idea of those hills... yikes!), and then spending about 3 days in Florence on my own (provided I still can walk by that point). I'm looking for a 3-4 star hotel that is well-situated and suited to a woman (mid-30's) traveling on her own, and I've narrowed it down -- with the help of many of you! -- to the Hotel Lucchesi or the Beacci Tornabuoni. Any input that would help me make a decision would be greatly appreciated (as would any additional suggestions!) I'm looking for a place that will make me feel like I'm in Florence as opposed to a hotel that you could find anywhere else in the world. Also, do all "singles" have single beds? Do single rooms tend to be very small?

I've also gotten some great recommendations for restaurants and sight-seeing by going through previous threads, but if there are any that you believe are must do's, I would love to hear about them.

Thanks very much in advance. I'm so excited about this trip and want to make the most of it!

--Nicole

At the top of every screen, you will see the word Hotels. Click on that, and it takes you to Fodors Rants'n'Raves - - user contributed "reviews". You will see that the Beacci Tornabuoni has the most positive reviews with the most favorable score.

These were provided by the same kinds of people that come here and read the forum.

It's as good a testament as anything I can think of.

Best wishes,

Rex

Thanks, Rex. Actually, it was in the Rants'n'Raves section that I found a lot of valuable information about these two hotels. What a great resource!

Hi You might want to check out his site www.touristhouseghiberti.com it's a lovely new B&B located directly behind the Dumo.I will be staying there for 4 nights in Sept. I will be posting a detailed review in early Oct. on hotels and restaurants through out Italy, if that is of any help to you.
I have found Claudio and Christlle incredably helpful at T.G. and the hotel web site is wounderful with great reviews on www.eurocheap.com and tripadvisor.com
I have been quoted 145 euro for a double in mid Sept.
la dolce Italy
Fluffy

I don't think you need to worry about any of the hotels you've named. Florence is pretty "overpoweringly" Florence. Especially after biking through the Tuscan countryside.

You've probablly read my rave about Il Ritrovo at Via de' Pucci, 4/A. The best. Also for all of the information you can possibly absorb regarding Italy try Slowtrav.com.

Hi Nicole,

I was in Italy last October on my own too I recommend taking a look at this site for a B&B. You can ask for a double room if you're looking for a bigger bed than a single, of course you'll pay more. I'm going back in May of 04 and will use this site again to book. www.sleepinitaly.com

Have fun! Eileen

Hi Nicsoff

I stayed at the Lucchesi this past May, during my 4th trip to Florence and am one of those who wrote a review. I am also a single woman who was travelling alone (but older than 30's) and found it very comfortable. My room was the hugest single I've ever had in Italy -- it was a "superior". Yes, it had a slngle bed but also a desk and chair, armchair and table, balcony etc. The thing about being on your own is that you want to feel safe returning on your own after dark; as the hotel entrance is right on the Lungarno, this is great.

I did a walking trip through much of Tuscany a couple of years ago in October, and remember those hills. But actually the scenery is spectacular.

Have a great trip

M

Thanks, everyone, for all the great advice. I really appreciate it!

--Nicole