You can walk down Via dei Benci eight times and not notice the inconspicuous wooden door in the anonymous stone building. In a city rich in charming neighborhoods like Florence, the grey-white building lacks architectural presence. European modesty modestly conceals the hidden wealth and luxury in the elegant and modern suites. Palazzo Bardi was planned in 1420 by the architect Brunelleschi, who also designed the Dome above Florence’s main cathedral. Please note, Florence also has a regular hotel (probably not bad at all…) named Brunelleschi, but that’s not the one we’re referring to.
Palazzo Bardi is located about 50 meters from the historic Arno tunnel, a five-minute walk from the picturesque Ponte Vecchio bridge and the Uffizi Gallery, which houses rare artworks by marvelous artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and others. The hotel features 21 luxurious suites, a typical Florentine restaurant, two courtyard gardens, and underground parking for your Maserati.
In contrast to the unassuming exterior, the suites are meticulously designed down to the last detail. They preserve the original space distribution as much as possible and even maintain ancient frescoes; in several places here, paintings damaged over the centuries have been restored. Large glass windows frame city views, and each suite has been refurbished using state-of-the-art modern technology. Some suites boast a wide loft-like character, while others are styled in the Renaissance fashion that characterized the palace from its earliest days.
Each suite spans two floors, accommodating up to six happy guests. The ground floor features bedrooms, while the second floor includes a guest room, spacious dining area, and a hyper-modern kitchen equipped with basic ingredients. Upon request, the pantry can also be stocked with pre-selected items. For those who enjoy cooking, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience Tuscan kitchen essentials. However, don’t let the self-catering option confuse you; the suite prices are not modest, to say the least.
The palace staff will maintain the suite during your stay and assist with reservations at Florence’s finest restaurants, procuring local delicacies, and other urban arrangements.
In short: luxurious hospitality with a personal touch.
Brunelleschi Suites, Florence, Italy
+44 1242 547705, www.akvillas.com
