We (couple from Calif.) have 4 days in Florence in May. I booked at Hotel Goldini (off a website)but now I have anxiety...Any advise for a small, fabulous,charming, authentic,great location hotel for about $160 eur (or less is even better).<BR>I appreciate all advise.

Do a search on this board. Many, including my brother stayed at the Hotel Casci (they have their own website) and the Hotel Belletini and loved both. I know the Casci is relatively inexpensive and offers great hospitality. It's also in a convenient location. I stayed at the Locanda di Servetti (more expensive) but loved the antiquity of the place. Built in the 12th Century. If you do a search, you will find many recommendations. Good luck,<BR><BR>Denise

I don't know about the Hotel Goldoni but I just returned from a stay at the Beacci Tornabuoni in Florence. It was very charming, good location and very nice people. Our room was small but comfortable at 175 euros (about $153 US Dollars). See the rants and raves section and their website (you'll have to do a google search as I can't remember the web address).

Toni, See above and add Morandi alla Crocetta. Both fit your bill.

Thanks for the suggestions. The websites for crocetta and Tournaluoni look fantastic. Toni

Hi Toni, I stayed @ the Goldoni last October and it was fine - nice breakfast room that was also good to take a break in during the day, write a postcard, plan the day's activities...room smallish but very clean, quiet, pleasant. Only negative about the Goldoni was the guy at the front desk when I checked in - a real prick. Just callin' em like I see 'em! But the hotel itself was just fine. Also - FYI - wasn't crazy about how they didn't change the sheets daily! (Every other day). Got some spiel about how this was SOP in Italia. Hmm.

thanks for info about Goldoni. I don't want to encounter a prick. Maybe I should make a switch to one of the others. I appreciate all of the wonderful advise.