Quaint food market across the street. Also sells wonderfully prepared food/wine
Location: Santa Maria Novella, Florence, Firenze (Florence) Province, Tuscany, Italy, Europe (On Borgo Ognissanti in the Heart of Florence, Italy) View Map
Accommodations: Apartment, 1 Bedroom + Convertible bed(s), 1.5 Baths (Sleeps 2-4)
Keywords: Apartment
...Light pours through the skylights and open windows of this very lovely, small apartment in the center of Florence.
Situated on the top floor with a private security entrance, up three full flights, this apartment has been completely restored while preserving the beautiful Florentine high-beamed ceilings and tiles.
The apartment is on two levels, divided by an old stairway of Pietra Serena. On the first floor is the living room/kitchen and full bathroom with Jacuzzi tub. Located upstairs is the master bedroom, with a sitting area with a small bathroom. The apartment sleeps up to four as the living room sofa converts into a very comfortable queen size bed. There is also an option for a small roll-away bed and crib if needed.
The master bedroom is air-conditioned for summer months. We also have many fans, for summer days. The kitchen is fully equipped with all modern appliances such a a Bosch dishwasher, microwave and Braun coffee maker. There is an iron,hairdryer and a clothes washer and dryer, which is unique for Italian apartments. The whole apartment is beautifully furnished with handmade furniture made by one of the leading furniture craftsman of the Mugello, the Land of the Medici. Each piece is specially designed for this living space. The kitchen cabinets are made from beautiful chestnut wood, appointed with Pietra Serena, the stone of Florence. The kitchen tiles are Genovese marble. The floors are cool terra cotta, which mirrors the antique ceiling tiles and rustic beamed ceilings. The apartment is luminous with natural lighting,thanks to the skylights, which imparts a feeling of spaciousness. The apartment is filled with a feeling of old world Florentine charm while maintaining a practical comfort with modern amenities.
Located on Borgo Ognissanti, between Via Santa Lucia and Via Massa Fineguerra,you have just a short walk to the train station of Santa Maria Novella and Sita bus station for your day trips to the historic hill towns. It is a block up to the Arno River, Cascine park (Tuesday market) and the famous bridges. It is a few blocks from Piazza Repubblica, Centro/Duomo and the state museums. This is a prime, typical Florentine location filled with great restaurants, small shops, bookstores, enotecas, and fruit markets. The Teatro Communale, home to Zuben Meta's Maggio Musicale, is a five minute walk for opera and theater lovers. The famous Ognissanti church (the Jewel of Florence) is only a block away. There is a big parking center nearby, if you come in by car. The street has easy access in and out of the city, which is a plus from the closed historical center.
To give you some background on the history of the neighborhood, this neighborhood was known throughout history as the neighborhood of the artisan as it continues to be today. When one wanders along this famous street, it is amazing to think how the past echoes the present, knowing famous people lived here and walked this road. Two families stand out above all others, one being the painter Sandro Botticelli who was one of the most illustrious inhabitants of Borgo Ognissanti and the family of Vespucci. The Church of Ognissanti, just up the street from the apartment, reminds us of the point of contact between the universal art of Botticelli,and the international fame of the Vespucci family.
Another bit of trivia about Borgo Ognissanti is that the once famous ancient Palazzo that now houses the Hotel Goldoni, on the corner of Borgo Ognissanti and Via Massa Fineguerra, was home to Wolfgang Amedeus Mozart when he visited Italy. This famous Hotel Goldoni, was already in existence in this ancient palazzo and it had the honor and the pleasure to be his hotel in Florence during his stay in 1770.
The apartment is available year round. There is a three day minimum stay. Longer stays than a month are available upon request. I am also available as a consultant in getting around the city, where to go, sights, restaurants, great excursions, general questions and emergencies. I can also make reservations for state museums. Personalized service is included in the rent.
Please email me for more information. -Mary Rose
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Air Conditioning : In the Master bedroom
- Linens Provided
- Washer : In the unit
- Dryer : In the unit
- Garage : There is a parking garage down the street from the apartment
- Beds
- King Bed
- Twin/Single Bed : Rollaway
- Convertible Bed : Orthopedic
- Crib : Available
- Entertainment
- Jetted Tub in Bath
- CD Player
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen
- Cooking Utensils Provided
- Refrigerator
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
- Communications
- Cell Phone : Pay as you use
- Broadband Internet : Vodafone
- WiFi (Wireless Internet) : Vodafone
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Smoking Not Allowed
- Activities
- Shopping
- Biking
- Antiquing
- Live Theatre
- Hiking
- Restaurants
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
- Other Activities
- Nearby you will find, great restaurants, wine bars, world class museums,food specialty shops, great markets and more
Rate Details (In Euros/US Dollars)
€ 120-140/night- 60 euro cleaning fee
Utilities included.3 night minimun stay.
50% Deposit to book, Non-Refundable.
Payable in Euros cash or USD
I accept Credit cards, Visa and Mastercard for deposit, fees apply
Balance due upon arrival
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
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Credit Cards Accepted:
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Map & Owner's Profile
Year Purchased: 2001
Why the Owner Chose Santa Maria Novella
My husband and I chose to buy an apartment is this location because Florence is our home. We understand the historical and international significance of this remarkable gem of a city and feel a sense of pride and privilege to be able to share it with our family and friends.
The Unique Benefits at this Apartment
My apartment is located in a very special neighborhood that is filled with historical significance. I especially enjoy visiting the difference sites, such as the Cascine Park on a Tuesday morning, where one finds the largest and most interesting market in all of Florence. There you will find anything your heart desires, plus the freshest of fruits and vegetables to take back to the apartment to prepare a sumptuous meal. Also, if you are a music lover, this neighborhood boasts of the Teatro Communale, which hosts Zuben Meta, yearly in Operas and concerts, plus ballet and symphonies. This Teatro is only a five-minute walk from the apartment. In addition, Borgo Ognissanti has some of the best and interesting shops, filled with eclectic items for all tastes. Next door is a wonderful home bakery and coffee bar that is a delight for your morning breakfast, as well as many convenient food and vegetable markets nearby. An important benefit of this area is its accessibility and ease to get in and out of the city while still being close into the historical center. As a traveler, this is beneficial and the location of the apartment meets this need.
Owner's Map of Santa Maria Novella
Italy is a country full of glittering treasures and Florence is one of its brightest jewels. I am delighted to be able to offer a comfortable and beautiful ambiance to my guests. My husband and I choose to restore this apartment as if we were going to live there ourselves. It is important to us that what we offer ourselves we would offer others. Every amenity and comfort is well thought out and we make sure that the apartment is clean and in excellent condition at all times. I take pride in meeting the needs of my traveling friends while helping to make their stay in Florence a memorable one. As I am a teacher, I enjoy imparting my years of experience through giving suggestions on food, wine and day trips to other Italian cities close by. It is important to me to put the needs and comfort of my guests first and I am honored to say that this is gratefully reflected back to me through referrals and returning guests. My apartment is truly a 'home away from home'.
Property Photos
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- Quaint food market across the street. Also sells wonderfully prepared food/wine - Florence, Tuscany, Italy Accommodations - Better than a Hotel!
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- Light pours through the open windows and sunny skylights........ - Florence, Tuscany, Italy Accommodations - Better than a Hotel!
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- First class appliances are housed in old world charm........ - Florence, Tuscany, Italy Accommodations - Better than a Hotel!
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- Charming master bedroom with half bath- Air-conditioned in summer months
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- Master Bath with Hydromassage bathtub
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- The entrance to the master bedroom
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- Half bath in Master Bedroom
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- window reflections at the top of the stairs
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- View of Skylight from the stairs going to the Master Bedroom
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- Antique Pietra Serena Stairs leading to the second floor
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- Stairs from the living room leading up to the second floor
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- Street View of Borgo Ognissanti from front window
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- Roof Top View from top floor
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- Fantastic pastry shop and coffee bar next door for your morning breakfast
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- Famous Ognissanti Church...... just down the street
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- View of the Arno River and bridges near the Piazza Ognissanti
Traveler Reviews (50)
Fantastico!
Guest: JKH MTH
(Gainesville, Florida, USA)
Date of Stay: 10/26/09
Review Submitted: 11/04/09
I can only echo all of the positive comments of previous reviews. This was a wonderful place to stay. The apartment was very comfortable. We loved the cafe next door as well as the market directly across the street. Our favorite restaurant (il Profeta) was just down the street. I highly recommend this place and would definitely stay here on a return trip. Grazie!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.
Home away from home
Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/26/11
Review Submitted: 01/05/12
This well appointed apartment sealed our great experience in Firenze. The location was perfect - we could walk to all the sights. After each good night's sleep we went over to the coffee bar next door for our daily treat of pastries and java. The market across the street had the fresh ingredients we needed for all our meals. The host's attention to detail and amenities provided in the apartment provided a very comfortable and hassle-free stay. We would recommend the Bellisimo Apt as "your home away from home." while visiting Firenze.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.
Your Ideal Italian base
Guest: Susan
(Grand Rapids, Michigan)
Date of Stay: 10/02/11
Review Submitted: 11/20/11
You won't regret choosing this charming apartment for your base for your Italian vacation. It's location within two blocks of the train station and close to bus transportation means you may not even need a car. We traveled where we needed to go easily. The apartment itself is well appointed, with a large bedroom, main bath with jetted tub/shower, even a unique "night bath" upstairs off the bedroom. Washer and dryer is even supplied if needed. Since we stayed a month, we made use of it. Mary Rose and Fabio greeted us with all the information we needed for our stay, including helpful tips on local shopping and restaurants and "tourist info". When we had questions,or help was needed, they responded quickly and graciously. The four flights of stairs are a challenge, but you can consider it your "gellato tax". As two single women, we need both sleeping areas, and the sofa bed is not ideal for a long stay, needing to pull it out each night. However, both beds were comfortable. The apartment is complete, clean, convenient, and secure, if that is of a concern to someone. We certainly felt we lacked nothing. There are books, a radio/cd player, and Wi-Fi so we could keep in touch with family. Who needs TV when there is a beautiful city to explore!
Recommended for:Tourists without a car.
A Perfect Month
Guest: Fred
(Cleveland, Ohio USA)
Date of Stay: 09/01/11
Review Submitted: 10/18/11
My husband and I chose this property as our base to explore Tuscany. This was our third trip to Italy and we decided that we would not drive on this trip. The 5 minute walk to the bus or train station was perfect and we were able to visit every place on our list. The location is central to everything you need and just far enough removed to be out of the crowds. The apartment is spacious enough for two and filled with wonderful light, comfortable furniture and is very clean. My husband is an early riser and I like to sleep in, so the having the bedroom upstairs was great for us. It was also surprisingly quiet in the bedroom. Our 23 year old neice come to stay with us for 6 days, and though it's not a private room, she was perfectly happy on the comfortable pull-out sofa in the living room. However, I don't think this would be an ideal solution for a long term stay. The kitchen is fully equiped with everything you need to prepare all meals. The apartment is a 5 minute walk to the Central Market and we loved shopping there but there are three other markets even closer on the street and we used them to fill in as needed. It was unusually hot while we were there and the air conditioner in the bedroom made for perfect sleeping. The fans in the living area provided sufficient relief at the end of the day. We were happy to have a washer and dryer and made use of them every few days. There are plenty of towels and linens. The main bath is large and has a great shower and jacuzzi tub, and plenty of hot water. Having the half bath in the upstairs bedroom was great for the middle of the night and a morning shave. We did rearrange the furniture a little while we were there so we could fully open the dining table and not have to move it every day, and we put it back in order before we left. Mary Rose and Rocco were the perfect landlords, we only heard from them if we asked for assistance and when we did, they responded immediately. We are able to arrange lenghty stays of travel because we can work remotely, and a speedy wireless connection is a must. We found that here. Mary Rose also very graciously accepted and delivered overnight packages for us and helped us to arrange a meeting at the consulate when we need it. The only down side to this apartment is having to carry heavy luggage up the 5 flights of stairs. I guess that would not be an issue if we would learn to pack lighter! All in all, I'd say a party of two could not do better in Florence
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.
The Perfect Apartment in Florence!!
Guest: Andrea
(New Orleans, La)
Date of Stay: 07/01/11
Review Submitted: 10/03/11
Stop your search you have found the perfect apartment in Florence!! This summer I had the opportunity to live like a local and discover all that Florence has to offer. I rented Mary & Fabio’s beautifully appointed apartment on Borgo Ognisianti for 2 months. The apartment with it’s spaciousness & old world charm was conveniently located to everything, from the coffee shop downstairs, market across the street, train station 2 blocks away, and Florence at my doorstep. Florence and 84 Borgo Ognisanti are a perfect location to explore the entire Tuscan region. If you choose to rent a car and explore the region the parking garage is just next door with several car rental agency located on the same street. The train station is located just 2 blocks away with several fast trains daily to Rome, Venice, Milan and small villages in Tuscany. Spending 2 months allowed me to not only see the sites of the Renaissances’ greatest treasure, but to truly understand the culture of the region, meet new friends, stock up on stationary & leather goods and realize that Chianti Classico is my new preference for Red. Waiting for me as I arrived where Mary & Fabio ready to introduce me to the neighborhood and all of the information I would need to discover every nuance of the city. The Apartment has every amenity you could think of but what I appreciated most was Mary’s handpicked homemade travel bible. The reference guide quickly became my newest obsession! I found no rock unturned, from perfectly prepared spreadsheets on Local Markets, museum locations & hours, restaurant suggestions, wine tours, art history, culinary musts haves, walking tours, train schedules you name it, it was in the bible. Mary & Fabio have certainly poured their hearts into making sure their guests have everything they could possibly need to enjoy their vacation. Thank you for sharing your home and all of your wonderful ideas. I will return to my home away from home on Borgo Ognisianti and another long visit to see my new friends!! -Andrea Must Do's - Ristorante Parione on Via del Parione - Borgo Antico Piazza S. Spirito ( next door drinks @ Volume ) - Le Volpi e L'uva Piazza del Rossi ( My favorite spot for appetif!!) -Olio & Convivium on Via Santo Spirito 4r ( wine & dine) -Il Rifrullo via san Niccolo 55r ( wine & dine ) -Vivoli ,the Best Gelateria Via Isola delle Stinche 7 -Farmacia Santa Maria Novella ( a must see Via della Scalla 16 ) - The Straw Market! daily 9 - 5 has everything but straw..
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing, age 55+.
Anniversary in Florence
Guest: Anniversary in Florence
(Carpinterta, CA)
Date of Stay: 06/12/11
Review Submitted: 06/30/11
From the moment we arrived, we felt very much at home. We were greeted at the door by Mary and Fabio. Both Mary and Fabio went above and beyond to help. The location was perfect and the apartment lacked nothing. This was a very specail trip for us, as we were celebrating our 25th. If I had to do it all over again, I wouldnt change a thing. Perfect place, location and hosts. "Just Do It "
Recommended for:
Guest: Deb
(-)
Date of Stay: 06/06/10
Review Submitted: 06/30/11
Mary and Fabio and their lovely apartment were a the most welcoming and wonderful of our trip. This was our family's first trip to Italy. We looked forward to this for many years. Mary helped us in multiple ways - making reservations at museums, suggesting a special restaurant for our anniversary, and helping us in general when we first arrived in Florence. The apartment is bright, cheery and spacious. They take excellent care of it. It was especially nice after a rather unpleasant flat in Rome. I will recommend Mary and Fabio to anyone traveling to Florence.
Recommended for:
Guest: Carol and Rob
(-)
Date of Stay: 06/16/10
Review Submitted: 06/30/11
We loved the villa, private, safe,comfortable, right across the street from a fresh market and deli, we walked everywhere from the train station to the Pitti Palace, Uffizi gallery et. hope to stay there again.
Recommended for:
Guest: Wendy
(-)
Date of Stay: 06/13/11
Review Submitted: 06/30/11
I wanted to write a comment regarding the wonderful hospitality that we received by leasing the beautiful apt in Florence. Staying there was one of the highlights of our trip. The accommodations were homey and comfortable and a good location from which to set out on sightseeing walks. We loved being in the neighbourhood and hearing all the life around us in the neighbourhood. Your husband made us feel at home when we arrived. The book of helpful information was also lovely. We really enjoyed the Il latina restaurant that was recommended. Thanks again for arranging the reservations for us. The one day was very busy with the president speaking at the square and I am sure we would have had to wait a long time if we had not had the reservations ahead of time. Our vacation to Italy was one of the highlights of my life. We just loved the sights, the scenery, the art, the people and of course the food and wine. We look forward to returning one day! Thanks again, and we will be happy to recommend your apt. to friends who will be traveling your way.
Recommended for:
Wonderful Apartment, Terrific Owners
Guest: Dave
(Columbus OH USA)
Date of Stay: 12/23/10
Review Submitted: 01/06/11
We thoroughly enjoyed our five-day stay at the apartment & cannot say enough about the the owners. The property was spotless, chock-full of amenities, and exceeded our expectations in every way. Mary & Fabio have gone to great lengths to make the experience a pleasant one & it shows -- from the fully equipped kitchen to the books in the library to setting up museum reservations. The location is terrific -- many very, very good restaurants and shops are quite close, and the city-center is a five-minute walk. In short, this place is a gem. Highy, highly recommended!
Recommended for:Tourists without a car, sightseeing.
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