Beautifully appointed living room, top quality stereo for your enjoyment.
Location: Florence, Tuscany, Italy, Europe (Oltrarno-Via Santo Spirito-Ponte Santa Trinita-Ponte Vecchio) View Map
Accommodations: Apartment, Studio, 1 Bath (Sleeps 2)
The Anna Florence rental apartment delights the visitor with comfortable, elegant furnishings and amenities. A rare find in Florence is the delightful terrace off the living room. The terrace overlooks the tile rooftops and cupola of the Santo Spirito church. Planted window boxes hang from the wrought iron railing, adding a touch of greenery.
You will be hard-pressed to find a more romantic Florence apartment. The Anna Florence vacation apartment is located on Via di Santo Spirito just a few blocks from the Ponte Vecchio on the gentrified Oltrarno side of the river. It’s a romantic, beautifully decorated apartment that will make for a special stay in Florence. Via di Santo Spirito is a charming street lined with elegant antique shops, artisan workshops and boutiques in an ideal location for exploring Florence. The Uffizi Gallery & Duomo are just across the river, the Pitti Palace is five minutes away. Or take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Boboli Gardens, which were once the private, palatial gardens of the Medici family during the Renaissance.
Location
Two blocks from the apartment Piazza Santo Spirito welcomes you with cafes and restaurants along the piazza. Several fresh produce stands are open in the piazza in the morning where you can buy provisions for lunch or dinner. Enjoy rummaging through the houseware vendors' stalls and spot the local signore shopping for kitchen utensils, dishtowels, bedroom slippers, tablecloths and an interesting assortment of household bric-a-brac. You’ll start to feel like a local! Mid-day the stalls close up and the noon time crowd emerges to enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants in the piazza and and along the streets of the neighborhood. Presiding over the piazza is the Santo Spirito church, designed by Brunelleschi and completed in the late 1400’s. Next door to the church is the Cenacolo di Santo Spirito, a small museum that was once the refectory of the Santo Spirito church. The quiet side streets that crisscross the neighborhood are a welcome refuge from the busy streets just across the river and are lined with fine old Medieval buildings and small artisan workshops that craft beautiful Florentine furniture. A personal favorite is the bespoke men’s shoe shop located diagonally across from the church where you can see custom shoe forms lining the wall. Peer through the window to observe a craftsmen hand sew shoes for his elite clientele, usually with an apprentice or two peering over his shoulder. Clients of this store come back year after year for elegant custom shoes. Only a few minutes walk away is the church of Santa Maria del Carmine, famous for the Brancacci Chapel where you can see Renaissance masterpiece, The Life of St. Peter frescoes. If you are up for a bit of exercise, head out for an invigorating walk up to the Forte di Belvedere or Piazzale Michelangelo to take in gorgeous views of the city of Florence. In addition to the historic sites, the neighborhood has a wealth of good restaurants, food shops and a favorite bakery just down the street.
Exterior
The Anna apartment is in a 15th century apartment building located on a street lined with many artisan workshops.
Interior
The butter-yellow fresco style walls of the apartment give a soft hue and provide a warm backdrop for the elegant style of the apartment, complemented by high ceilings with exposed beams. Great care has been taken in the thoughtful remodeling to make excellent use of the space, capped by decor that is tasteful, comfortable and elegant.
The living room sofa is flanked by a comfortable wing-backed chair and an ottoman. Good reading lights, custom cabinetry and charming decorative touches add to the comfort and appeal. The antique dining table has seating for four, in the event you want to invite friends over for a meal. Step up to the small but efficient kitchen, which is up a half-level and overlooks the living room. It is fully furnished with pots, pans, dishes and is decorated with hand-painted Italian ceramic tiles and a marble countertop.
At the opposite end of the living room is the sleeping alcove, partially hidden behind soft, sheer linen drapes that hang from behind the arch that leads to the alcove. While this is a studio apartment, the layout still provides some measure of privacy and space given the separation between the living areas.
The tiled bathroom has been fully updated and has a large step-in shower with glass doors, sink and toilet.
A special characteristic of this apartment is the feeling of light and space due to the high ceilings which contribute to the overall volume of the apartment. Add to that the easily accessible outdoor space on the terrace, the draped sleeping alcove and the step-up kitchen, and this doesn’t feel like an ordinary studio apartment. What a romantic getaway for a very special vacation in Florence. The apartment building does not have an elevator and is located on the 5th floor (4th floor European) so guests have an opportunity to work off pasta and gelato indulgences. Guests are advised to plan their luggage accordingly since it is a hike to get heavy suitcases up the steps, and, because it is a studio apartment, there is very limited storage space for large luggage. Once at the top though, you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with splendid views, a quiet and beautiful apartment for a memorable Florence stay.
4 NIGHT MINIMUM. REALLY. Sorry we are unable to reply to inquiries for less then 4 nights.
EASTER, CHRISTMAS, NEW YEAR'S 1 WEEK MINIMUM
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Washer
- Linens Provided
- Beds
- Queen Bed
- Entertainment
- Stereo System
- Music Library
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen
- Cooking Utensils Provided
- Refrigerator
- Outdoor Features
- Balcony
- Communications
- Telephone
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Smoking Not Allowed
- Activities (on site and nearby)
- Shopping
- Sightseeing
- Restaurants
- Antiquing
- Museums
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
$US DOLLAR PRICES = GOOD VALUE!!
$1295/7 nights; $1165/6 nights; $1035/5 nights; $910/4 nights
Final cleaning & utilities included up to a generous 15 Kwh/day
4 NIGHT MINIMUM. Easter, Christmas, New Year's 1 WEEK MINIMUM.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
Credit Cards Accepted:
Map & Owner's Profile
Honeymoon Haven, Romantic Florence Apartment-Balcony-Views
Year Purchased: 2007
Why the Owner Chose Florence
Dreamy views from the balcony
Ultra romantic decor
Walkable to the sites
Charming Oltrarno neighborhood with its many Florentine craft workshops
The Unique Benefits at this Apartment
Excellent historic center location is ideal.
Owner's Map of Florence
This apartment is offered by Italy Perfect. We are a family business with a mission! We want you to love visiting Italy as much as we do. We are sisters Lisa and Pat Byrne who lived in Italy in our youth and now travel there frequently for business and pleasure.
Property Photos
- Beautifully appointed living room, top quality stereo for your enjoyment. - Florence Apartment Rental
- Toast the sunset from the balcony with views of the Santo Spirito church. - Florence Apartment Rental
- Cheerful flower boxes adorn the terrace. - Florence Apartment Rental
- Imagine relaxing and enjoying this balcony view from the living room.
- Candlelight dinners or leisurely breakfast at the dining table.
- Entry welcomes you to this special Florence apartment. Original beamed ceilings.
- Very roomy for a studio apartment due to thoughtful design.
- Dreamy draped sleeping alcove...buona notte!
- Angels over bed steal a kiss...champagne wishes & caviar dreams
- Small but perfect kitchen has green marble countertops, top-quality appliances.
- Well equipped kitchen has charming hand-painted tiles
- Bathroom has large walk-in shower, good lighting.
- Neighborhood is known for artisan workshops, this one makes custom shoes.
- Stroll a few blocks to the serene Arno river & drink in the views.
- Stroll the grounds of the beautiful Boboli Gardens just a few minutes walk away.
- Anna Florence apartment floor plan. Very room for a studio apartment.
Guest Comments (21)
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #114840
There have been 15839 visitors to this page since the counter was last reset in 2008.
This listing was first published here in 2007.
Date last modified - November 09, 2009
Positive Rating
This was our second stay in Anna. We absolutely love staying there and look forward to returning every year. We are fortunate enough to be able to spend time in Firenze each October and Anna is a large part of that joy. The collection of music and books is an adventure in itself. I have spent many afternoons in the apartment traveling to distant places engrossed in the music and stories that live there. The location of Anna is absolutely perfect, the decor is comfortable and inviting, and the peace and quiet found there is a rare gem in Firenze. Having a washing machine makes it so easy to pack and makes me feel like a local when I hang my things out to dry on the line. The bells are so much fun to hear and the bed is very comfortable. Our favorite tratoria by far in Firenze is PANDAMONIO. We have been going there for 10 years. The address is on Via Dei Leone. You will completely enjoy staying in Anna while in Firenze. It is a fantastic spot to return to after a day in the city. Courtney Bosca, Gahanna, Ohio
Positive Rating
We were very impressed with the apartment. It had everything that was promised in the description and more. We enjoyed all the books on the area, as well as the music collection (it is great if you love jazz). The only problem was that it was so comfortable that my wife did not want to go out of the apartment. The location was nice. Adam C, Cottonwood, AZ
Positive Rating
We had TWO greeters when we arrived in town, one via the phone (he was GREAT) and one at the apartment itself. She was a sweetheart. Upon arrival, (and after climbing six staircases), she explained where EVERYTHING in the apartment was. The location is absolutely FABULOUS. It is in a QUIET area, but close enough to all the tourist attractions. The VIEW is GREAT. It is a quiet, tucked-away view that shows a Duomo glowing at night. The apartment has ALMOST everything you could ever want. One suggestion would be to have at LEAST some bottled water in the fridge for guests who have just arrived in town and haven't yet been to the market. We only had one complaint with the apartment: due to the heat (yes, in October it was still warm out) we WANTED to be able to leave the door to the porch OPEN at night ... but due to the CRAZY MOSQUITOES, we were UNABLE. The one little fan really did NOT do it for us. So, we were hot in the evenings/at night. An additional fan or two, or A/C would REALLY REALLY help. Except for that ONE glitch, we LOVED the apartment and would DEFINITELY stay there again, except only in COLD weather next time. Enjoyed our stay and HIGHLY recommend it. Michelle, Daytona Beach, F
Positive Rating
It's all in the details and full of style. Cozy, private, with that European chic lived-in flavor. The location provides church bells ringing, but not screaming scooter traffic noise. I would and will recommend this flat to anyone visiting Firenze. The only detail I would have enjoyed was a bathtub. And..the mosquitoes were a nuisance if we wanted the door to remain open at night for fresh air. Grazie! Lucy R. Portland, Oregon [Note: Anti-mosquito plug in's are provided & an electric fan too.]
Positive Rating
What an amazing place. Just got back from my honeymoon there and I couldn't be happier. The apartment is exactly what you'd expect from the pictures, and an exceptional home base for exploring Florence. Lots of great restaurants around (particularly loved Dante on the corner, plus Gelateria La Carraia a few doors down from that!), easy to access everything but still feels like a real neighborhood. The stairs are painful but I'm happy to say I managed to have gelato twice a day and not gain any weight thanks to the forced exercise. Service was terrific overall, although not allowing for a late check-in is inconvenient if (like us) you get jerked around by the airlines and then have to end up paying for the apartment and a hotel as well [Latest check in time is 10 pm - Lisa]. However, overall I thought extremely highly of Italy Perfect and of the fabulous Anna Apartment and can't wait for my next visit! Melissa, Palo Alto, CA
Positive Rating
The Anna apartment was perfect and had everything one could possibly need. The service from booking to exit was great. Location of the apartment is also perfect; close to everything, yet away from the crowds. Kristine Miller, Kapaa, HI
Positive Rating
If you need any sort of endorsements, wildly positive opinions or whatever, we stand ready to give them. My God, the apartment was fantastic! And the Anna diet (66 stairs, I think it was) was a great bonus, too. We have told everyone about Italy Perfect, or at least those whom we deem Worthy. You have an absolutely wonderful, elegant service. Thank you so much! Elaine & Bob Nerrie, Emerald Hills, California
Positive Rating
It was absolutely perfect !!! So charming and our time was complete magic. We would take time in our day to return to Anna just to enjoy the apartment. The location was fantastic. We walked everywhere and loved being in that neighborhood. Your service was great. There was not one complaint. I look forward to using your company again. Thank you for everything!!! Ciao!!! Blair St. John, Los Angeles
Positive Rating
Staying in the Anna apartment was the highlight of our month long European trip. The apartment is exquisite! The furnishings, the colors, the light, the view out the balcony. Even the climb up the stairs wasn't nearly as bad as we feared. The location was perfect: close to everything but not in the midst of the crowds of tourists. I think it was the most satisfying accommodation I've ever experienced traveling. The one thing that I think would improve the apartment is an internet connection. I would definitely stay there again, and I would definitely book through Italy Perfect again. Your service and information was magnificent. Altogether a great experience! Thank you! Robert Jessup, Denton, TX
Positive Rating
We had a fabulous time staying in Anna. We have rented many apartments in Florence through the years and this is by far our most favorite! It is quiet, beautifully decorated, perfectly located, has a comfy bed, a fabulous window to look out from, church bells nearby, a workable kitchen, a great book, map, info collection and is a wonderful place to return to after a day of working in the leather tanneries or sight seeing.The shower has a nice strong spigot and hot water (sometimes unusual in Italy). Having a washing machine is a real treat and the laundry line really give you the feeling of being in Europe.Anna is located in a safe and quiet neighborhood and is near all of our favorite places. The view out the window is spectacular and there is great hanging space and places for clothes to be put away (this is also unusual in Italy). The hot water in the bathroom sink did not work when we were there. We were hoping that it would be fixed when we were there but it was not. I am sure that it has been fixed by now. That is the ONLY problem that we had and we managed just fine.The fact that there is no elevator might be a problem for some but we loved having that exercise after big meals. I even used it for exercise in the mornings going up and down many many times.The CD collection is a great plus. My late afternoons were often spent listening to beautiful Italian opera, reading my book on the comfortable couch with the window opened, and having a cup of tea. This is paradise to me. We love to cook at home when we are in Florence and did that quite a few times on this trip. We would go to the market in the mornings and come home and make dinners or lunches in the apartment. The kitchen is small but very workable.The apartment is not large but has the most well thought out floor plan and has everything that you might need. The way it is layed out makes you feel like it is much larger. We could easilly spend a month or two in Anna and love every minute of it.We completely enjoyed ourselves in Anna and will most definately stay there again as we travel to Florene twice a year.Lisa from ItalyPerfect was great and incredibly helpful. She talked over different choices with me and helped me to choose. We were met at the apartment right on time and everything was explained to us. Lisa was very helpul to us when I forgot all of my info that she had provided us with before our departure. She was quick to make sure that we received what we needed.Thank you for everything! Courtney and Chritopher Bosca, Ohio