Asuka N.
Yelp
For our trip to Florence, my wife and I spent 3 nights at the Hotel Brunelleschi - partially on the strength of the reviews (and some of the pictures, which turned out to be more of the suites), but more because of the very central location of the hotel. I was very surprised that our cabbie made it through the narrow streets to park us right in front of the hotel, and after getting checked in (at a somewhat leisurely pace, compared to what I am used to in the U.S.), we were in the elevator and on our way to the room. Given the architectural layout of this part of the city, it is quite unique how the different parts of the hotel are connected amongst what are clearly different building structures (e.g. the gym is on the south side, and we could only get to the north side of the hotel by either going down and back up a different set of elevators, or by sneaking through the restaurant where brunch is served, which seemed to serve as a bridge). The folks at the front desk were pretty responsive and gave us good tips for seeing the sights, as well as setting up reservations. However, they were the proximate cause of us nearly missing our flight out of Florence...we had called the night before to have a taxi called, and when they were all on strike the next morning, they simply did not tell us until we were checking out (we barely made the bus at the train station after half-running from the hotel). That knocks a solid star of the overall ranking, as that is sheer negligence on their part - given they knew when and what time our flight was at.
The decor of our room was rather straightforward, with modern finishes, a small fridge, and a bathroom that was definitely more on the modern side (which I appreciated). In particular, I liked the ceiling-like showerhead, where you let gravity do the work for the water pressure (as that can sometimes be fickle in Europe). Along with the clear/translucent staircases that we often took to get from the 3rd floor (near the top) to the ground level, it certainly gives the accommodations a bit of a peculiar feel - with more modern finishes and appliances but in a structure that is very much shaped and influenced by a much different era. The room is nice and cozy without being overly tiny (like some European rooms). However, our window looked out right to a building very close by...so not much natural light or anything to look at. I would definitely pay up more for a room with a view of the Duomo next time.
We did eat once here for brunch, and aside from the caveat that at 18 euros/person - which is pricey for Florence - the breakfast buffet food is a cut above what I usually encounter at hotels. The scrambled eggs were delicious, the breakfast meats were excellent (as was the proscuitto, of course), and the orange juice was actually fresh-squeezed (so many places in Europe set out OJ and claim it is fresh when it is clearly from concentrate). It was a very enjoyable experience, and for those looking for a bit of calm while getting ready for sightseeing or whatever else the day may bring - it is a very relaxing and laid-back environment.
Would I stay here again? Quite possibly, because the location is good, the amenities are solid overall, and the price was reasonable. But I would be wary of relying on the front desk to make sure all of your plans are in order - or you need to tell them explicitly to contact you if something goes awry.