PORTA SAN FREDIANO

  We chose the Poggio Imperiale Apartments as part of a package vacation deal through Expedia. We really didn't want to stay in downtown Florence, thereby avoiding the crowds. The Poggio Imperiale is owned/managed by Clara who proved to be an excellent host and truly accommodated many, if not most, of our needs and questions. The Poggio Imperiale is located on the street of the same name and just a short walk from the Porta Romana which is the most direct, walking or bus route into the city. To walk to the Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River is but a brief 20 minute walk. The bus is even quicker. The bus stops along the route but ends up at the main train station which is the Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station. This is within easy walking distance from most of the historical places in Florence. The apartment we had included a bedroom with a king equivalent size bed, an en suite bath (shower) and a combination sitting room and kitchen. The kitchen/dining area has a microwave, refridgerator, dishes, flatware and pots. While not modern, (the building was originally built in the 1850s), it was comfortable, and very quiet. A taste of traditional Italy. There are several restaurants of very good quality within a short walk, a pasticherria (for morning coffee and pastry), grocery markets, and many little shops along the way. Highly recommend this venue for a stay in Florence. "