Anyone know of the place? Considering for end September. Any/all comments appreciated. Any comments re: other great centrally located hotel choices @USD$100-$150 also appreciated.

I have heard good things about this hotel and was considering it myself. It is across the Arno, which is supposed to be great for restaurants and less traffic. We have stayed at the Loggiato di Serveti and absolutely loved it for atmosphere, service, everything! The price last year was Lit 325,00 double (just slightly above your price range). I felt it was worth it. However, for a triple it was just too high this year for us. Great location-quiet yet near everything. This year we are staying at the Hotel Splendor in a quiet, nearby area to the Loggiato. It got great reviews on this site and in Cheap Sleeps in Italy. I was also considering the Hotel Torre Guelfa, but didn't find anyone who actually stayed there. It is in a 13th Century tower with outstanding views by the Ponte Vecchio and supposed to be full of atmosphere. The price should be in your range. It is a 3 star, ready to change to a 4 star. I know the Hotel Belletini is always booked and very reasonable, close to everything. Always gets high marks in Frommers (so does the Hotel Torre Guelfa). Many people will splurge for Hotel Hermitage (may be a bit more than you want to spend, but they feel it is worth it.)If you check out Cheap Sleeps it is very insightful and you get a sense of what you may like. I just recently had to find a hotel for my daughter ($80-$100.00) and had terrific help from the Hotel Nuova Italia, Marios,Dei Mori, and Pension Alessandra. They were the nicest, helpful people, all willing to go out of their way to help her. Also, do a search on this forum, it really helps. You have time so don't worry. <BR>If I can be of help, email me. <BR>Denise

Stayed here twice - 20 years apart. Hadn't changed much. Very convenient, but very noisy if on the alley/street - motorcyles all night. Probably good value if your ears can take it. I'm trying something else this trip.

I hated that shitty hotel...it was hella nasty. Roaches and mice everywhere...the noise was dispicable!!!

... I think Jeff is mixing up hotels.... He can't be serious... <BR>We were there 2 years ago, was warmly recommended by Karen Brown, the guru of small quaint european hotels... <BR>It's not a fancy hotel, and so is the rate. But its a graet location, outside city center and its (typical Italian) terrible noise, we walked everyday about 10-15 minutes across the river to the center of the city. It serves a nice continental buffet breakfast on the balcony qverlooking the city (weather permitting, of course) it has its own garage, and nice atmosphere. Mice? Roaches? Maybe got into Jeff's suitcase during his previous hotel stay... no offence, but sounds weird. <BR>A couple of friend of ours stayed there a few months ago and were satisfied. <BR>Go for it. <BR>Amik

Dave, <BR>You can try the Porta Rossa. Syayed there last October and I was very happy. The location's great (off of Via Tournabuoni), quite charming, and the price will be within your budget. Sorry, but I don't have tel/fax numbers. "Eyewitness" guide to Florence/Italy will have it (my apologies to Fodors) or it may be listed under Italy hotels. Good Luck

Would highly recommend the Morandi alla Crocetta in Florence where I stayed last Sept for approx $140/night. 5 min. walk from the Duomo, quiet side street, in every guide book, great atmosphere (old convent), helpful friendly staff, and can book online.