sicily - Viajes Le Grand

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FAMILY BIKING
SICILY
PREMIERE INNS
There’s so much to learn when you’re in Sicily—especially when you’re a kid. Like how to eat
granita before it melts under the Sicilian sun. (Really, really fast!) And how to appreciate
Baroque architecture from a new perspective. (Hint: hideous monsters and ferocious animals
lurk beneath balconies and above the doors.) That pizza with french fries on top is perfectly
okay. Yes, Sicily is full of surprises. Uncovering them has never been more fun!
14BSIIF1B (8/7/13)
Parent time, kid time, family time. Each itinerary balances
quality time together and apart, with welcome opportunities for
everyone to take a break and recharge—usually impossible on a family
vacation.
We bring families closer together through exciting travel
We had an excellent father-daughter
adventure. It is hard to think of anything that
was not planned perfectly. The guides were
helpful, enthusiastic, and really brought Sicily
to life. We will never forget driving back from
the kids dinner night in Ragusa-Ibla when our
Italian guide played "rubber biscuit" over the
van radio—we were exhausted from a day of
biking and full of the best Sicilian food, but I
have never heard a van of kids and parents
laugh that hard.
Thomas Fine - Washington, DC
experiences and stimulating adventures that let you interact in ways
you’d never encounter back home.
Three experienced Trip Leaders (and as many as five on
Camping Trips) take care of all the day-to-day logistics. They’re
knowledgeable and enthusiastic motivators for your kids, interact with
excitement and are inspiring role models.
A dedicated Kid Coordinator orchestrates activities for the
entire family, plus an hour or two per day of kids-only fun—often
focused on local culture or the natural environment.
No “canned” activities or tourist throngs. You’ll get plenty of
fresh air and outdoor activity together while discovering a whole new
part of the world—and a whole new side of yourselves.
Activities designed with the whole family in mind—
including easier routes to suit kids’ abilities and attention spans and
great longer options for adults and teens.
Multi-vehicle support because we know that families need extra
support. We use two or three vehicles plus a trailer for luggage and
supplies.
More families means more fun and makes the trip enjoyable for
everyone.
6 DAYS, 5 NIGHTS
ROUTE RATING LEVELS 2–4
See below for details.
Our home for the next two nights is Castello Camemi, a
former nobleman’s home located in the countryside
near the ancient city of Vizzini—you’ll know we’re close
when you see imposing Mount Etna in the distance.
When you arrive, take time to settle into your room
before we gather this evening for a reception and
aperitivo, followed by dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.
Lodging: Castello Camemi
Day 1
On the first day of the trip, meet your Backroads
Trip Leaders at 10 a.m. at the Arrivals area of
Fontanarossa Airport in the city of Catania (the
entry point for most flights to Sicily). If you arrived
in Catania early or are coming from another
destination, a taxi from the center of Catania to
the airport takes about 15–20 minutes and costs
approximately $35–$55. Look for your leaders
(wearing Backroads T-shirts) inside the terminal,
just outside the baggage claim area. Please arrive
dressed in your biking clothes and bring a daypack
containing your rain gear and anything else you
might want for today’s ride.
Day 2
Biking Options:
Caltagirone Route: 28 Miles* (1,800’ elevation gain)
Grammichele Route: 38 Miles* (2,300’)
Caltagirone Loop: 45 Miles (2,700’)
Vizzini Route: 59 Miles (3,400’)
Kids: Ceramics Painting 2 Hours
*with shuttle
Today’s ride is quintessential Sicily: rolling green hills,
citrus trees, agricultural fields and hill towns. From the
hotel, follow lightly traveled roads toward the flanks of
Mount Etna. Enjoy an exhilarating descent before
climbing to Mineo, a former Arab stronghold. Then it’s a
brisk downhill to an agricultural area blanketed with
fragrant lemon and orange orchards. The final ascent of
the morning (which kids can skip by jumping in the van)
brings you to Caltagirone, famous for producing
beautiful hand-painted ceramics and terra-cotta
sculptures. Colorful tiles honoring the town’s history
line the 142 steps leading to the highest point in the
city—make it to the top and you’ll be duly rewarded
with spectacular views.
Shuttle to Buccheri 1½ Hours
Biking Options:
Vizzini Route: 16 Miles (500’ elevation gain)
Militello Route: 35 Miles (1,300’)
Benvenuti in Sicilia! After meeting in Catania, we shuttle
to quiet and charming Buccheri, a small town nestled in
the hills. Following a feast of Sicilian specialties, your
Backroads Trip Leaders fit your bike and give a brief talk
on biking techniques and safety. Then head out on a
lovely warm-up ride along country roads through the
verdant hills of the Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The valley’s eight towns (Caltagirone, Militello
Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo, Ragusa
and Scicli) were rebuilt after being destroyed by an
earthquake in 1693. They represent innovations in urban
planning and are impressive in both their architecture
and artistry.
After lunch at one of Caltagirone’s best Sicilian trattorie,
consider taking a tour of a ceramics studio. Kids get a
chance to paint their own piece while adults hop back on
their bikes and pedal toward the town of Grammichele,
following the ridgeline between two valleys. After the
1693 earthquake, Grammichele was rebuilt and divided
into six sections by streets emanating from the main
piazza. Pass through the square, then pick up a quaint
road that takes you back to our hotel.
If you’re up for an extra challenge, ride the scenic Vizzini
Route downhill before climbing a series of hills in a
quiet agricultural area. Return to the hotel for some
much deserved downtime before dinner. Later we enjoy
a festive evening of Sicilian culture and cuisine at
Castello Camemi. Lodging: Castello Camemi
3
Day 3
PREMIERE INNS
Biking Options:
Zottopera Route: 23 Miles* (700’ elevation gain)
Donnafugata Route: 47 Miles* (1,800’)
Eremo della Giubiliana Route: 61 Miles (3,200’)
Marina di Ragusa Route: 74 Miles (4,400’)
Kids: Biscotti Baking Class 1 Hour
*with shuttle
After breakfast, grab your bike and set your sights on the
southern province of Ragusa. Our ride highlights the
varied Sicilian landscape, from the volcanic zone to the
Mediterranean seaside. Coast down from Licodia Eubea
along tranquil roads that follow a virtually abandoned
railway line toward the town of Chiaramonte Gulfi.
Beautiful cherry trees shade the route as we near our
lunch spot at a picturesque agriturismo (country retreat
and working farm) on the outskirts of town. Here we
break for a delectable Backroads picnic that includes
samples of the delicious olive oil produced on the farm.
CASTELLO CAMEMI 2 NIGHTS (ABOVE)
An impeccably restored 15th-century fortified
castle that was once home to a noble family. (pool)
Vizzini Scalo
phone: +39-093-3010998
www.castellocamemi.com
After lunch, the younger set shuttles to our next hotel for
a class on preparing delectable biscotti. Meanwhile
adults pedal along roads lined with muri a secchi (stone
walls) to the village of Donnafugata, best known for its
wine and 17th-century castle. From here, head out on
an undulating route with a few challenging hills through
a landscape of olive trees and farmland, taking in views
of the sea along the way. Afterward, if you’re not quite
ready to retire your bike, ride the loop through Santa
Croce Camerina for some extra miles and more Sicilian
farmland landscapes.
EREMO DELLA GIUBILIANA 2 NIGHTS
With expansive ocean vistas and orchards of
almonds, figs and olives, this elegant property
dates back 900 years when it was a hermitage and
fortress. (pool, spa)
Ragusa
phone: +39-093-2669119
www.eremodellagiubiliana.it
DES ETRANGERS HOTEL & SPA 1 NIGHT
With a great location in the center of Ortygia, a
Sicilian Neoclassical-style inn with sea views from
the guest rooms and rooftop terrace. (pool, spa)
Our home for the next two nights is Eremo della Giubiliana. Originally a 12th-century Arabic fortification and later
a convent used by the Knights of Malta, the castle has
been thoughtfully restored with many historic architectural elements. The former friars’ rooms are now comfortable
guest rooms, the medieval vault is a well-stocked wine
cellar and the lookout point from which Barbary pirates
were once spotted is now perfect for simply enjoying the
view.
Siracusa
phone: +39-093-1319100
www.desetrangers.it
This evening we shuttle to the World Heritage site of
Ragusa Ibla known for its Sicilian Baroque architecture
such as the Duomo San Giorgio. Kids split off with the
leaders for dinner at a local pizzeria, while adults have a
chance to try out one of several wonderful restaurants
in town. Your leaders are happy to make suggestions!
Lodging: Eremo della Giubiliana
Sicily Family Biking
4
Day 4
ROUTE RATING INFORMATION
Biking Options:
Eremo to Scicli Route: 19 Miles* (400’ elevation gain)
Donnalucata Route: 25 Miles* (800’)
Scicli Loop: 39 Miles (2,600’)
Modica Loop: 54 Miles (3,500’)
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2–4.
LEVEL 2
21–30 miles
2–4 hours
Guided Walking Tour of Scicli 1 Hour
Kids: Jeep Adventure 3½ Hours
*with shuttle
LEVEL 3
31–40 miles
3–5 hours
Soak in valley and ocean vistas along tranquil roads—
including a nice long downhill—that give way to rolling
hills en route to the Late Baroque town of Scicli, one of
the eight towns in the Val di Noto designated as World
Heritage sites. From here adults can opt to take on the
heart-pumping climb to the town of Modica for a visit
to the famous duomo or even a stop at the oldest
chocolate shop in Sicily, Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, for a
sample of chocolatier Pierpaolo Ruta’s tempting
creations. When you’re ready, relish the breezy descent
through a lush valley all the way back to Scicli. We all
reconvene for a guided walking tour of town and the
chiafura (cave dwellings inhabited until the 1960s).
After exploring this unique insight into Sicily’s vast and
varied cultural history, you’re free to enjoy lunch at one
of Scicli’s trattorie. Your leaders can point out some of
their favorites, including one that’s located in a grotta
(cave).
LEVEL 4
41–55 miles
4–6 hours
Review the “Route Rating” section on the web for
more details on daily route options.
Kids are in for an exciting afternoon as they embark on
a 4x4 jeep excursion in Ragusa’s rugged backcountry.
Along the way we stop to explore caves and learn about
the ancient history of the pristine Irminio River Valley.
(Please note that kids must be at least 9 years old for
the jeep excursion.) Meanwhile, adults can choose to
pedal to the charming fishing village of Donnalucata.
After parking our bikes, we walk along the waterfront to
a favorite gelateria for a tasting of delicious homemade
gelato. Here you can choose to hop in the van or hit the
road again, taking on the hefty uphill back to the hotel
to complete the Scicli Loop. This evening we sit down in
the Eremo’s private dining room for a gourmet Mediterranean meal. Lodging: Eremo della Giubiliana
KEEPING YOU UP TO DATE
We are always seeking opportunities to enhance this
itinerary. We’ll be certain to notify you of any
important changes prior to departure; other changes
may be communicated on trip by your leaders.
5
Day 6
Walking Tour of Ortygia 1½ Hours
Shuttle to Catania 1½ Hours
This morning you can opt for a walking tour of Ortygia
followed by a visit to the lively fish and produce market.
Or if you prefer a more relaxed start to your day, sleep
in and have a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Later this
morning, Backroads provides transportation to the
Catania airport. See “Arriving & Departing” for end-oftrip logistics.
Day 5
Kids: Scavenger Hunt in Ragusa Ibla 1½ Hours
Biking Options:
Ragusa Ibla to Giannavi Route: 16 Miles* (1,000’ elevation
gain)
Ragusa Ibla to Solarino Route: 36 Miles* (2,000’)
Solarino Route: 50 Miles* (3,000’)
Ortygia Route: 63 Miles (3,100’)
*with shuttle
This morning, kids head to Ragusa Ibla with their
leaders for a Sicilan scavenger hunt in town. Meanwhile
adults bid farewell to Eremo della Giubiliana, and follow
a westward route through a less populated part of
Ragusa and into the Sicilian countryside. Cruise along
rolling hills, past Greek ruins and small towns, then
pedal to an agriturismo for a picnic lunch featuring the
property’s cheeses and produce.
Afterward, take the shuttle or hop back on your bike to
coast your way to Siracusa. Spin through the modern
part of the city and across the small bridge directly to
our hotel on the island of Ortygia, Siracusa’s old city.
After checking in at the waterfront Des Etrangers Hotel
& Spa, explore the island’s shops and sights. Later, we
make our way to the main piazza where we celebrate
our week in Sicily with a superb fine dining experience.
Lodging: Des Etrangers Hotel & Spa
Sicily Family Biking
6
Arriving & Departing
Climate
See Day 1 for meeting time and location.
During late spring and early autumn, Sicily generally
enjoys sunny skies and warm temperatures during the
day and comfortably cool evenings. In early spring, Sicily
can be quite chilly—extra layers are essential that time
of year. Rain showers are possible year-round, so don’t
forget to come prepared with quality rain gear that is
waterproof and breathable. Please see “Suggested
Packing List” in your Travel Planner for more recommended clothing and gear.
All prices are in U.S. dollars and subject to change. The
standard unit of currency in Italy is the euro. At the time
of printing, 0.75 EUR = 1 USD.
CONCLUSION OF THE TRIP
On the last day of the trip, Backroads provides a private
coach back to Fontanarossa Airport in Catania, arriving at
approximately 1 p.m. Please schedule your departure
flight for no earlier than 3 p.m. If you’re departing from
Palermo, your leaders can help you arrange transportation
from Catania; keep in mind that this option will take 2½–
3½ hours and cost $350–$375.
Catania
FLIGHT ARRANGEMENTS
Because there are no direct flights from North America
to
Catania
(airport
code:
CTA;
www.aeroporto.catania.it), you’ll need to fly into a
gateway city, such as Rome or Florence, and then take a
domestic flight to Catania. Meridiana Airlines
(www.meridiana.it) offers flights from major Italian
cities as well as other European hubs, including London
and Madrid. Alitalia (www.alitalia.com) has several daily
flights from Rome to Catania.
Average:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
High °F
59
60
63
68
74
82
Low °F
42
42
44
48
54
61
Precip. inches
3.6
2.3
2.2
1.5
0.7
0.2
Average:
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
High °F
88
88
84
76
67
61
Low °F
67
68
64
58
50
44
Precip. inches
0.2
0.5
1.6
3.7
3.6
4.0
Temperatures in Europe are measured in degrees
Celsius. Zero degrees Celsius is 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
For a quick conversion when you’re traveling in Italy,
double the Celsius reading and add 30 to determine the
approximate temperature in degrees Fahrenheit.
For help arranging air transport to and from your
Backroads trip, please work with your own travel agent
or you may choose to work with the Backroads Travel
Desk. Call us at 800-GO-ACTIVE (462-2848) to be
connected with an advisor. Please note that consulting
or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services
requested. The Backroads Travel Desk is open Monday–
Friday from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pacific time.
7
Liberty Hotel
Where to Stay Before
& After Your Trip
An intimate boutique hotel set on a quiet street within
walking distance of Catania’s center. Nice-sized rooms
are tastefully appointed, and the attention to detail and
loyalty to the Liberty style is evident. The staff couldn’t
be more pleasant and helpful—ask for the best restaurants in town and someone will point you in the right
direction. The jasmine-filled garden is a lovely place to
have breakfast or relax with a drink at the end of the
day. Via San Vito 40 | www.libertyhotel.it | +39-095311651 | 18 rooms & suites | Rates: 
For help making hotel reservations for before and after
your Backroads trip, please work with your own travel
agent, or you may choose to work with the Backroads
Travel Desk. Call us at 800-GO-ACTIVE (462-2848) to be
connected with an advisor. Please note that consulting
or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services
requested. The Backroads Travel Desk is open Monday–
Friday from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pacific time.
Villa Romeo
Of course, we also recommend extending your stay at
any of the hotels we visit on this trip; see the accommodations sidebar for details.
This charming restored 19th-century palace is conveniently situated near the railway station and less than 2
miles from Fontanarossa Airport. Spacious and comfortable guest rooms feature wireless Internet access
and plasma televisions. The inviting vine- and bougainvillea-covered terrace is perfect for coffee and
conversation. Though the Villa Romeo isn’t lavish, its
simplicity, location and warm hospitality make it a great
place for an overnight stay. Via Platamone 8 |
www.hotelvillaromeo.it | +39-095-534714 | 25 rooms |
Rates: 
Refer to the Hotel Room Rate Guide for starting
double-occupancy rates. Note that the chart reflects the
internet and/or best available rates, which were
accurate at the time of printing, but hotel rates are
always subject to change. Also be aware that some
hotels may require a minimum stay. We recommend
that you consult directly with the hotels for specific
details, as these requirements can change depending on
the season and time of the week. Book early, especially
during peak travel season!
PALERMO
Villa Igiea Palermo
Keep in mind that even in first-class hotels, rooms are
smaller than those in typical U.S. hotels. Rooms on the
street tend to be noisy, so you might want to request a
room overlooking the hotel’s garden or courtyard.
Nestled in the suburb of Acquasanta, 1½ miles from the
city center, this historic Art Nouveau hotel sits amid
tropical gardens overlooking the sea. (It was once the
private villa of the Fiorio family, known for inventing the
concept of tuna in a can.) Guest rooms are adorned
with antiques, including cozy wrought iron beds. Kick
back on the terrace for incredible views before heading
to romantic Donna Franca Florio Restaurant for local
and Mediterranean specialties. (pool, tennis) | Salita
Belmonte 43 | +39-091-631-2111 | www.villa-igiea.com
| 116 rooms | Rates: 
CATANIA
UNA Hotel Palace
A chic fixture in Catania’s downtown, the modern Hotel
Palace invites you to slip into Sicilian-style luxury and
comfort. Guest rooms are minimalistic yet elegantly
adorned. Fantastic views of Mount Etna can be had
from the roof garden—order a cocktail and a cool
breeze, and settle in for a while. Shops and restaurants
are a short stroll away, but if you feel like staying in,
enjoy Sicilian and international cuisine at UNA restaurant. Via Etnea 218 | www.unahotels.it | +39-0952505111 | 94 rooms | Rates: 
SPECIAL HOTEL SAVINGS
Backroads has negotiated special rates for our
guests at many hotels around the world. To find
hotels with these exclusive Backroads savings,
please visit www.backroads.com/hotelsavings.
Sicily Family Biking
8
Massimo Plaza Hotel
This wonderful palazzo is located in the heart of
Palermo, across the street from the stunning Teatro
Massimo. Overflowing with subdued Sicilian elegance,
yet warm and welcoming, it offers comfortable and
tastefully furnished guest rooms. All rooms have been
soundproofed, so no need to worry about traffic noise.
Some rooms have a balcony overlooking the plaza. Via
Maqueda
437
|
+39-091-325657
|
www.massimoplazahotel.com | 15 rooms | Rates: 
ROME
Hotel Eden
Welcoming royalty and dignitaries since 1889, Hotel
Eden has earned a new following: Hollywood A-listers.
But you don’t have to be a celebrity to appreciate the
lavish touches of this Leading Hotels of the World
member. Modern décor is enhanced by traditional
details, from rich fabrics, marble bathrooms and gilded
cherubs to bronze statues and terrazzo floors. Its
acclaimed rooftop garden restaurant, La Terrazza, offers
spectacular views of the city and the seven hills.
Request a room on the fourth floor to take in the vistas
from the privacy of your own geranium-filled balcony.
Via Ludovisi 49 | www.edenroma.com | 800-543-4300
(from the U.S.) or +39-064-78121 | 121 rooms & suites |
Rates: 
Hotel Hassler Roma
Hotel Hassler shines with gorgeous panoramic views
and superb service. You’ll find the hotel atop the
Spanish Steps, just a stone’s throw from the stunning
Borghese Gardens and many other attractions. With a
state-of-the-art fitness facility, Michelin-starred Imágo
restaurant, exquisitely decorated guest rooms and a
romantic ambience, it’s no wonder that it’s considered
one of the world’s finest hotels by industry mavens.
(spa) | Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2013; Travel +
Leisure World’s Best Award 2013 | Piazza Trinità dei
Monti 6 | www.hotelhasslerroma.com | +39-0669934755 | 95 rooms & suites | Rates: 
Hotel Sole al Pantheon
Hotel de Russie
Best known for its outstanding view of the Pantheon,
Hotel Sole is one of Rome’s oldest hotels, in operation
since 1467. Guest rooms are simply decorated with
antique wooden beds and arched doorways, accented
by restored 15th-century hand-painted ceilings. Charm
and history aside, the hotel’s true value lies in its prime
location. Ask for a room away from the piazza if you’re
sensitive to noise. (spa) | Piazza della Rotonda 63 |
www.hotelsolealpantheon.com | +39-066-780441 | 31
rooms & suites | Rates: 
Set on Piazza del Popolo, the salmon-hued Hotel de
Russie feels more like an elegant private home than a
hotel. Trendsetting designer Tommaso Ziffer has
employed a palette of celadon green, violet and ice blue
to complement streamlined furnishings. Every detail has
been thoughtfully considered, from divine Italian linens
and carefully selected artwork to the magnificent
gardens. (pool, spa) | Condé Nast Traveler Gold List
2013 | Via del Babuino 9 | www.hotelderussie.it | 888
667-9477 (from the U.S.) or +39-063-28881 | 122 rooms
& suites | Rates: 
Hotel Alimandi Tunisi
If you’d like to stay close to the Vatican Museums, an
Alimandi brothers’ hotel may be the perfect choice.
Hotel Alimandi Tunisi, the original establishment, has
“Roman kitsch” décor, with frescoes, statuary, illuminated fountains and even a white baby grand piano.
Take in the spectacular view of St. Peter’s Basilica while
enjoying breakfast on the hotel’s veranda. Via Tunisi 8 |
www.alimanditunisi.com | +39-063-9723941 | 35
rooms | Rates: 
Capo d’Africa
This hotel benefits from a great locale just steps from
the Colosseum, between the Forum and Domus Aurea
palace. Bright furnishings, original modern art, a rooftop
terrace and a charming garden make it a welcoming
place to return to at day’s end. Via Capo d’Africa 54 |
www.hotelcapodafrica.com | +39-067-72801 | 65
rooms & suites | Rates: 
9
Hotel Alimandi Vaticano
FLORENCE
Located across from the Tunisi is the luxurious Hotel
Alimandi Vaticano, whose spacious Liberty-style guest
rooms face the Vatican Museums’ entrance. A rooftop
terrace offers views over the Vatican walls. Viale
Vaticano 99 | www.alimandivaticanohotel.com | +39063-9745562 | 24 rooms & suites | Rates: 
Palazzo Magnani Feroni
A few blocks from the Termini train station, this 19thcentury home offers clean modern rooms and fantastic
views of the Colosseum and Santa Maria Basilica from
the rooftop garden terrace. Via Carlo Alberto 3 |
www.mecenatepalace.com | +39-064-4702024 | 72
rooms & suites | Rates: 
For more than 500 years this regal residence has been
at the center of Florence’s aristocratic life. Sumptuous
suites, opulent furnishings and beautiful frescoes make
this renaissance palace fit for Florentine nobility, and
now it’s yours to enjoy. Just a 5-minute walk from the
Ponte Vecchio, Magnani Feroni is perfectly situated for
exploring San Frediano, one of the city’s most historic
neighborhoods. As the sun sets, sip a cool drink on the
expansive terrace while taking in views of the city and
surrounding countryside. Borgo San Frediano 5 |
www.palazzomagnaniferoni.com | +39-055-2399544 |
12 suites | Rates: 
Hotel Splendide Royal
St. Regis Florence
Mecenate Palace Hotel
One of Europe’s finest hotels, the historic Grand Hotel
reopens as St. Regis Florence after a complete renovation in 2011. This Florence landmark displays a noble
Renaissance style highlighted by lavish Italian fabrics,
ornate brass chandeliers, marble details and frescoes
spanning the guest room walls. The extraordinary staff
ensures that your every need is met. For an even more
special stay, request a room with a view of the Arno
River. (spa) | Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award 2013.
Piazza Ognissanti 1 | www.stregisflorence.com | +39055-27161 | 100 rooms & suites | Rates: 
This boutique hotel housed in a 19th-century palace
features extravagant guest rooms and an elegant warm
feel. It’s situated near Villa Borghese, three blocks from
the Spanish Steps. Don’t miss dining at the Michelinstarred rooftop restaurant, Mirabelle. Via di Porta
Pinciana 14 | www.splendideroyal.com | +39-06421689 | 69 rooms & suites | Rates: 
Hotel Teatro di Pompeo
This quaint, simple property resembles a Tuscan
farmhouse, with wood-beam ceilings and red-tile floors.
It was constructed over the ruins of the Theatre of
Pompey, the site on which Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 B.C. One section of the theater excavation
includes a cave-like room that now serves as a breakfast
nook. Guest rooms are spacious, pleasant and quiet.
Largo del Pallaro 8 | www.hotelteatrodipompeo.it |
+39-066-872812 | 13 rooms | Rates: 
Hotel Helvetia & Bristol
Considered by many to be the quintessential Florentine
hotel, the Helvetia & Bristol has a timeless sophistication. A lengthy restoration and a wealth of period
pieces, including carefully selected antiques and oil
paintings, have returned the hotel to its original
splendor. Guests love the ideal location between Piazza
della Repubblica and Via de’ Tornabuoni. Via dei
Pescioni 2 | www.hotelhelvetiabristolflorence.com |
+39-055-2665555 | 67 rooms & suites | Rates: 
Hotel Regency
This Leading Small Hotels of the World member has the
feel of an exclusive private villa, with luxury accommodations and a tranquil setting. The hotel overlooks
Piazza d’Azeglio, framed by monasteries, ancient
cloisters and famous museums. A retreat for high
government officials and ministers of state when
Florence was Italy’s capital, the Regency still serves as a
serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Piazza
Massimo d’Azeglio 3 | www.regency-hotel.com | +39055-245247 | 32 rooms & suites | Rates: 
Sicily Family Biking
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Hotel Savoy
Palazzo Niccolini al Duomo
With one of Florence’s most enviable addresses on
Piazza della Repubblica, just steps from the Duomo,
Hotel Savoy wins over guests not only with its outstanding location, but also with superior service. The décor of
white chaise lounges, brightly colored pillows, graphic
prints, sleek glass and steel furniture appeals to those
who appreciate playful yet elegant contemporary
design. Request a room at the corner or on the top floor
for spectacular city views. Piazza della Repubblica 7 |
www.hotelsavoy.it | 888-667-9477 (from the U.S.) or
+39-055-27351 | 102 rooms & suites | Rates: 
In 1532 the Naldini family began transforming a collection of 14th-century houses near Piazza del Duomo into
this lavish palazzo. Painstakingly preserved 18th-century
frescoes, antique furniture and plush décor give the
hotel an almost museum-like quality, yet a welcoming
atmosphere pervades. Its prime centro storico address
is another plus: the Duomo can be seen from many of
the hotel windows. Via dei Servi 2 |
www.niccolinidomepalace.com | +39-055-282412 | 16
rooms & suites | Rates: 
J.K. Place
If you’re looking for pleasant no-frills accommodations
in the heart of Florence, the Guelfo Bianco—just 200
yards from the Duomo—is hard to beat. Individually
decorated guest rooms—many overlooking the quiet
courtyards and roofs of the Via Larga—feature marbletopped desks, antiques and exposed-beam ceilings.
Some rooms feature painted wood or frescoed ceilings
and carved wooden doorways. On the ground floor
you’ll find a bar and a reading room. Via Cavour 29 |
www.ilguelfobianco.it | +39-055-288330 | 40 rooms |
Rates: 
Hotel Il Guelfo Bianco
This delightful and unexpected find, ready to treat you
with “precious details and impeccable service,” is
situated in the heart of Florence on Piazza Santa Maria
Novella. Chic cream-and-gray furnishings and fashionable 1950s-style lamps combine with traditional
elements, such as classical sculptures and a marble
Louis XVI fireplace, to exude old-world warmth. After a
day out, retreat to this industry insider favorite to relax
and take in the view from the rooftop terrace. Piazza
Santa Maria Novella 7 | www.jkplace.com | +39-0552645181 | 20 rooms | Rates: 
Room Mate Isabella
A former gathering place for European literati, this
delightful hotel is in a recently renovated classic 19thcentury building. Light wood floors and lilac carpets
provide a fresh lift, while classic Florentine furnishings
combine with modern fabrics to lend a warm air to
spacious guest rooms. With a superb location on the
fashionable Via Tornabuoni overlooking the magnificent
Palazzo Strozzi, the hotel is a great base from which to
explore this fascinating city. Via Tornabuoni 13 |
www.isabella.room-matehotels.com
|
+39-0552396464 | 23 rooms & suites | Rates: 
Davanzati Hotel
The three-star Davanzati is a wonderful family-run hotel
earning accolades for its attentive helpful staff. The
décor is pared-down Tuscan elegance with terra-cotta
tile floors and wrought iron beds. It’s housed in a typical
15th-century Florentine building right next to the
Museo Palazzo Davanzati. Via Porta Rossa 5 |
www.hoteldavanzati.it | +39-055-286666 | 21 rooms &
suites | Rates: 
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