My wife and I will be in florence for 2 or 3 nights in October. We are first timers. Can I get your votes for nice hotels for couples that offer the true taste of Florence.

Like a number of others who may chime in, my husband and I were very happy with Hotel Casci. Great location. Friendly and helpful owners.

Not sure of your budget but how about:

Il Villino
Relais Cavalcanti
Alloro B&B

These would offer a more personal experience IMO.

For a hotel, I like the Berchielli for the views over the Arno if you can get a good rate. Also the Pierre is a very nice smaller hotel on the Arno.

My splurge hotel is Antica Torre Tournabuoni. Large, lovely rooms, a wonderful rooftop terrace and the perfect position in the center.

We really liked Hotel Aprile. It's a former palazzo, breakfast is included and the coffee is good.

DeiMori B&B. It's in the heart of the city and the hosts are wonderful. We stayed there last October and are staying again this year. One drawback- it's on the second floor w/ no elevator. But then again, it helps to work off all that gelato!

Another vote for the Relais Cavalcanti. Very centrally located; quaint and homey, with a personal touch.

Here's my trip report, which includes details and also restaurant and day-trip ideas:

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34813784

We loved Florence!