This was an amazing experience for our first time in Florence. From the minute we walked in, Mario was professional and kind. He gave us a warm welcome, gave us our room key, and immediately gave us detailed instructions regarding what attractions to see and when to see them. He was very helpful. Simone also worked at the front desk after Mario and was also helpful.
Hotel Santa Croce is a quaint, family owned (Mario and his brother). It has a very old fashioned feel. It is an older building without an elevator. Even though we were on the top floor, we did not find this to be an inconvenience as we are a younger couple. Be warned, if you do not prefer the extra work, request a room on one of the lower floors. If you are on one of the lower floors, Mario will happily assist with carrying your bags up to your room.
The actual room was pretty basic. I don't think there was a refrigerator in the room. There were cold beverages on sale in the lobby, however. Again, our room (Double or Twin Room) was on the top floor. There was no bidet in the bathroom which was different from the other hotels in Italy we had just stayed in. It wasn't a problem for us, but just wanted to inform others who may be used to seeing one in the bathroom.
The location of Hotel Santa Croce was more in the southern part of the city which was ideal for seeing site in that area such as Piazzale Michelangelo and the Uffizi Gallery. The Piazzale Michelangelo was close to the hotel and we got there just in time to catch an amazing sunset over Florence. A must see as you get a great view of the entire city.
All in all, Hotel Santa Croce was a very refreshing experience. I very much value customer service above all and appreciate Mario and his staff and the extra effort they made to make our stay so pleasant. It was a great hotel for the amount of money we spent. If you are looking for something more spacious and modern, Hotel Santa Croce may not work for you. If you love amazing service at a great price, Santa Croce is a good pick. read more