Jeff P.
Yelp
This hotel truly deserves a 5 STAR rating - here goes.
It starts with the property. Location could not be more ideal. Literally you are 10 steps from the Ponte Vecchio - prett much the center of tourist for Florence. But the real magic happens inside... The property is part of the Ferragamo Brand, and as would be expected, while expensive, it is superbly appointed. The vibe is totally relaxed in a VERY sophisicated, yet understated way.
It was our 25th anniversary and by using American Express for the bookings, we were 'double upgraded' to a suite. Now this was off the charts - it was an apartment with an entry foyer, a hall way that connected the master suite and en suite (and walk in closet) to the living room / dining room kitchen. A second full bath and walk in closet made the accomodations feel like a true apartment! The 'kitchen' was inside a giant (gorgoues) cabinet off the dining room and included a sink, dish washer and was fully stocked (not that we ever used it!). Very over the top!
When I stay at a place of this nature I expect it to not only be beautiful, but beautifully maintained. And it was. Very little to no sign of the typical hotel 'wear and tear'. Also, the room is filled with Ferragamo swag - toiletries all by Ferragamo - little treats every night with turn down service that are by Ferragamo, and a special VIP card that gets you 10% off purchases at the Ferragamo flagship store - on the next block! Heaven!
But that's just the start. Let's talk about service and the staff. These people could not do enough for us. I mean unbelievable. Every morning all the breakfast crew remembered us, our likes, what we drunk and were setting us up without asking! But it was also the hotel staff - Rapheal, Baja, Leonardo, in particular - who really REALLY went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed, and pampered. So much as, one day while having reservations to the Uffizi Gallery and not being completely sure of how to get there, one of the staff walked us to the gallery! Really? Completely blown away is how we felt. Another day, one of the other staff members came to our room, sat down with us to understand our dining preferences to make recommendations for a restuarant. Amazing (and it was a great recommendation!). This was a daily occurence. We have never been treated with so much care and geniune interest before.
But we also need to talk about guest accomodations - while the property is not large, you are pampered. The breakfast buffet was a religious experience. Again, over the top and exquisitely well done. The lobby and all the common areas were just very well put together. We had one minor problem with a message not getting to us, and the staff literlaly fell all over themselves to make it up to us. Seven days later when we left Florence (and the Portrait) we cried. Yes, we did. It was that good. If we ever find ourselves in Florence again, you can be sure we will stay at the Portrait.