In Piazza della Signoria

The Residenza D'Epoca in Piazza della Signoria is a top-quality B&B hidden away on the corner of Florence’s most famous square hosting the imposing city hall, Palazzo della Signoria. Delightful hosts Sonia and Alessandro initially bought the four-story ancient building as an investment but were touched by the magic spell of this very special historic spot just up the street from the house of Dante and decided to restore it and share it with friends. The fascinating restoration project became something of an archaeological adventure, with documents discovered dating back to 1427 along with a pair of woman’s shoes from that same period, and 18th-century frescoes uncovered. Up one flight from street level, Sonia, Alessandro, and occasionally their three sons, greet guests in a small reception area. The ten bedrooms, named after Renaissance masters, are spread about the two floors, with the top floor being crowned with three apartments for those able to enjoy this marvelous city for a full week. To-die-for views from this level include the piazza, Giotto’s tower, and Brunelleschi’s cupola. The new breakfast room with one long table has the same advantage. Impeccably styled rooms with unique personalities display lovely antique furnishings, parquet floors, and rich colors of teal, peach, and rust. None of the innovative designer bathrooms are identical. A real treat.