Planning on a couple of weeks in Florence. We are looking to rent an apartment. Any suggestions on an area that would give us a good feel of Florence we will not have a car so we would want a location close to transportation.

There apartments are a 15 minute walk from the train station (or you can take a bus).

http://www.residenzailcarmine.com/

The Residenza Il Carmine is in the Oltrarno section of Florence, across the river from the Duomo, the Uffizi, the Accademia, etc. It is, generally, a quieter section of the city and is where many of the artisans live and work.

The agency Windows on Italy (formerly Windows on Tuscany) has a very nice selection of apartments, including many in the Oltrarno. http://www.windowsonitaly.com/ Typically, their multi-week rentals are very good value.

We rented the "Flora Apartment" which I think my friend found via VRBO. If you want central, this is it. You're right across from the Duomo! You have to be able to walk up about 90 steps to the 5th floor, however. There are two bedrooms a kitchen and a nice small living room. Very clean. It was perfect for us.

I second kybourbon's recommendation for residenzailcarmine. We stayed there last month and thought the location was excellent!

I agree with kybourbon , IdyllicItaly and italy2012.

Love, love LOVE Residenza Il Carmine. Caterina is a joy, and we were shocked at the low prices considering the location, beautiful accommodations and lovely hosts.

http://www.residenzailcarmine.com/