I have a reservation at JK Place in Florence in the beginning of May. The hotel is located by the Piazza Santa Maria Novella. A friend from Florence mentioned that the hotel was great, but the location wasn't very central. I'm also concerned about the close proximity to the train station. Anyone familiar with the area have any suggestions?

We stayed near S.M.N. the last time we were in Florence, and I liked the area. It's convenient to the Duomo and certainly walkable to the Piazza Signoria. Be sure to spend time in the church. Massacio's Trinity has been restored in recent years, and the wall paintings behind the altar are remarkable.

Hi Christi

It isn't a horrible location. It's close to things like the Mercato Centrale and of course, the wonderful Church of Santa Maria Novella.

May I ask the rate? You may be able to get something better for the same price. I do not know this hotel and it might be wonderful. I am speaking of something "better" in terms of location.

I also meant to add that Florence is a very walkable city, and buses run by the train station, so if you are wanting to be across town in a hurry, both public transportation and taxis will be quite easy to get to.

It will also be good for day trips or a bus ride up to Fiesole.

The rate is 380 euros a night, including tax and breakfast. I live in manhattan and am used to walking quite a bit. Roughly how far is it to the main attractions?

Although I'm always sidetracked by something interesting, I don't think the walk from the train station area to any of the main attractions would take more than 10-15 minutes, with the exception of Piazzale Michelangelo which is definitely worth the extra trek or a taxi ride for the wonderful view.

Your friend is right, it's not really a central location, but if you're a walker, it won't be a problem. I can't give specific recommendations, as I was looking for something far less expensive, but with that budget you could certainly find a great hotel that was more central to the things you want to see (although, yes, Santa Maria Novella is definitely worth seeing!). Do a search here for Florence Hotels and you'll get lots of recommendations.

Christi

I think the rate is too high for the SMN location. It isn't that gorgeous of a neighborhood, and although Florence isn't large, I know you can get a more central location and one in a nicer neighborhood for that price.

We always stay in an apartment in the Santa Croce area, but if I had your hotel budget, the Tornabuoni area, Piazza Repubblica, or Piazza Signoria might be where I would look to start with.

I agree with the suggestion to search here for Florence hotel recs.

Does anyone have an opinion on the Hotel Lungarno? It seems to be highly recommended. They are asking roughly $570.00 (including breakfast) for a river view room in May.

The Lungarno hotel is very nice and in a good location on the Arno across the river. Have not stayed there but did look into it. Smallish luxury hotel. Prefer the Lungarno suites for more room and equally good location on the Duomo side of the river. These hotels and a few others are run by the Ferragamo family.

Have you visited tripadvisor.com? They feature personal reviews of hotels.