Hotel Snapshot
No doubt the Renaissance marvel of Florence delights, amuses, and astonishes. But its ubiquitously swarming crowds can daunt the most robust traveler. When in town to sip an Aperol Spritz hand-delivered from medieval wine windows, see the Botticellis at the Uffizi Gallery, or line up for an Instagrammable affogato at storied Vivoli, you’ll need a place to catch your breath. Look no further than regal Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi, an artful sanctum just around the corner from the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, and a short walk from most of the city’s attractions. Forged from two side-by-side 15th-century palaces, now connected as one building, bedecked in an array of original frescoes, stucco-work, paintings, lush fabrics, and statuary, the splendorous small hotel lives up to its past life as the 16th-century residences of distinguished aristocrats. Its stunning rooftop bar frames the Duomo, which looks close enough to touch.
Design and Character
With maximalist flourishes and period lashings, the cleverly designed palace plays up its captivating common area nooks, some of which offer wunderkammer-like displays, each seductively show-stopping. Though awash in Renaissance—even Baroque—references, Palazzo Gaddi doesn’t feel stuffy, intimidating, or old school. Rather, contemporary and cosseting, it reads like a private party with just a few lucky souls and hepcats on the guest list.
The Rooms
Choose from 86 rooms, including 8 suites, spread between the two blended houses and six stories. More modern in mood than the downstairs lobby and bar areas, the rooms feature some original elements, and many have views that face the Duomo. Reached by private elevator, the Presidential Suite opens to an expansive personal terrace.
Food and Drink
Breakfasts at the palazzo follow the cabinets of curiosity theme with deftly laden tables, dramatically festooned, holding fresh-baked breads, homemade jams, Prosecco, and perfectly-brewed coffees. Taste the creative cuisine by Chef Iside de Cesare, of the Michelin-starred restaurant La Parolina, who oversees the menu at Terrae. She’s known for her bucolic outlook and connection to the earth. Meanwhile, Chef Salvatore Canargiu Terrae executes her vision with his own spin, drawing from seasonal bounty. Two standouts: roasted lamb with preserved lemon and sardines, and risotto with black chanterelles. The Milton Bar & Bistrot, with masculine vibes, is named for the famed English poet who visited the palace in 1638 and was inspired to write Paradise Lost during his tenure. The menu offers stunning cocktails (try the Paradise Lost, awash in floral notes from the hotel’s Secret Garden) and comfort food from burgers to ravioli. A Tea Room, complete with delectable offerings, makes for a civilized place to sit and study the guidebooks. On the roof, Aria Rooftop, the most gorgeous al fresco bar, floats atop the city. Make a reservation for sunset. Sip craft cocktails as the sky turns candy marshmallow pink.
Amenities
You’ll experience all the classic five-star amenities, including special turndown gifts and twice daily housekeeping. But, the hotel excels with concierge suggestions and immersive in-house activities, such as cooking classes, as well as off-property VIP outings from helicopter rides over Tuscany to Chianti wine tasting excursions. Meeting rooms are atmospheric and historic, and a centuries-old ballroom with majestic frescoes by Giacinto Fabbroni, ideal for weddings. The hotel is pet-friendly and also features an outstanding indoor/outdoor area, a verdant city space known as the Secret Garden.
Location and Neighborhood Recs
You can walk to everything from the hotel, which is located in the Centro Storico, including the Ponte Vecchio and the city’s most prominent galleries. The hotel offers immersive experiences both on and off property, including cooking classes and wine tasting tours further afield in Chianti. A favorite off-property restaurant located five minutes from the hotel is family-owned Brandolino Firenze, a personable, romantic, old-world eatery set beneath vaulted ceilings. They do Tuscan food with contemporary flourishes—think pistachio-crusted veal and truffle-smothered burrata. Shop Via Tornabuoni for new fashion with big-name labels, but hit the side streets for stunning vintage garb. For those who love to stuff their closets with vintage finds, fret not. Try C’est Chic in the Santo Spirito neighborhood and Boutique Nadine on the Arno near Ponte Vecchio.
Fast Facts
Location: Florence, Italy
Rating: 5-star
Room Count: 86 rooms
Starting Nightly Rate: $327
Dining: An epicurean restaurant, a casual bistro and bar, a tea room, and a buzzy rooftop bar.
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: Aria Rooftop for the vibe and view.
Amenities: Classic Five-Star Amenities, Immersive in-house and off-property activities, meeting rooms, historic ballroom, wedding facilities, pet-friendly
Airport: Amerigo Vespucci Airport
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