Brunelleschi Hotel

"Set the scene for us: What's the story here?Brunelleschi, with its medieval stone building and gorgeous tower, is a place that drips with history. A location in the very center of Florence, around the corner from the Duomo, makes it a no-brainer. Nice. So who else stays here?Art lovers of all ages. This is a place for those who love Florence and want to be part of its history. How's the arrival process?Standard hotel check-in and seamless tech. Great—we'd like to get up to our room as quickly as possible. Speaking of, how are the accommodations?Rooms are chic and modern, with parquet floors, modernist cube headboards, and light colors with rich accent hues. Suites, meanwhile, are more lavish and baroque, with original architectural elements like exposed brick arches, marble, and resplendent brocades. Anything we should know about other amenities?The wifi is okay. Rooms are stocked with a standard minibar and espresso machine. The art books are a nice touch. While in Florence, we'd love some real local cuisine. Has the Brunelleschi got us covered?Osteria, on the ground level, serves traditional Tuscan dishes, as well as breakfast. In the tower, the minuscule seven-seat Santa Elisabetta offers an intimate, unforgettable dining experience. Any standout staff members?The concierge is excellent. What else should we know about the hotel before booking a stay here?There are great views of the dome; suites include your very own butler and porter; and there's an onsite gym. Best of all, though, is the tiny archaeology museum in the basement. Wrap it up: Why would you recommend this hotel?This hotel offers great value, especially for the views and location." - Erica Firpo