Palazzo dal Borgo—Hotel Aprile

The Palazzo dal Borgo–Hotel Aprile, owned by the Cantini Zucconi family for almost four decades, is located in a 15th-century Medici palace behind the Piazza Santa Maria Novella, near the train station and many fine restaurants and shops. The historical building was restored under the strict ordinance of Florence’s Commission of Fine Arts. Guests are invited to three complimentary evening lectures a week on Florence’s art and history by a professor of the University of Florence. The small and charming hotel is full of delightful surprises: from 16th-century paintings and a bust of the Duke of Tuscany to the frescoed breakfast room and quiet courtyard garden. The old-fashioned reception and sitting areas are invitingly furnished with Florentine Renaissance antiques, comfy, overstuffed red armchairs, and Oriental carpets worn with time. There are 34 bedrooms that vary widely in their size and decor, all with private bathrooms, telephones, mini-bars, carpeted or tile floors, and high vaulted ceilings. A recent extensive renovation has made improvements in facilities while maintaining the original overall charm. Request one of the quieter rooms at the back of the hotel, overlooking the garden. At the desk you find Roberto Gazzini and Sandra Costantini looking after guests’ needs.