Palazzo Vecchietti

This discreet property in the centro storico has just fourteen chicly designed rooms, suites and apartments and a top-floor lounge; it gives the feeling of staying in a luxurious private home.

• The top-floor lounge where a delicious breakfast is served each morning
• The feeling of staying in a friend’s ultra-chic home
• The central location, yet tranquil atmosphere inside

Two stylish European friends told me about Palazzo Vecchietti, raving about this hidden-away hotel located near Piazza della Repubblica. Situated in a restored fifteenth-century palazzo, the hotel has a barely marked entrance, and the small hallway visible from the street leads to a large bookcase stacked with fashion titles and oversized photo books. Once you turn the corner inside, you find yourself in a soaring atrium centered around a cozy living room with a roaring fireplace. The check-in and concierge desks are hidden away behind a set of doors, furthering the sense that you have arrived at a private abode.

Owner Alessandra Giusfredi hails from nearby Montecatini, where her family operates a hotel, and her concept for Palazzo Vechietti was that of a high-end but family-run city retreat. Each of the fourteen rooms, including three large suites and two apartments, is unique and was created by star designer Michele Bönan, who also masterminded J.K. Place (in Florence and Capri) and Palazzo Tournabuoni in Florence. His signature look–sleek but comfortable, modern but referencing the city’s history–prevails and other amenities in the rooms include Nespresso coffee makers, kitchenettes, and high-speed Internet access. Vechietti doesn’t have its own restaurant, but guests won’t miss it, because excellent options as Osteria Tournabuoni, longtime favorite Il Latini and hot spot La Buca dell’Orafo are within walking distance. The hotel serves breakfast in an elegant lounge on the top floor, where diners sit at a communal table, completing the feeling of the ultimate Florentine house party.

For independent travelers who want to be based in the midst of the action, but in a small, elegant and serene hotel, Palazzo Vecchietti is an excellent option, especially when J.K. Place, on Piazza della Santa Maria Novella, is booked. Note that the hotel does not have a restaurant, gym or spa.