Les points faibles : Communication et emplacement
Cute apartment just south of the main bridge is the nicest thing I can say about it. The building is up a steep hill and the unit is further high up a narrow staircase, this is not for the weak or those with limited mobility. Your reward for this trek? The most uncomfortable and dated mattresses available in Italy. I cannot overstate just how brutal these amenities were - it felt like I was sleeping on a palette of wood. The pillows arent much better. The sofa bed is a mild improvement but has seen better days. After a sleepless night I decided to move accomodations and was better off for it. After working with the host to change the reservation dates and navigate a partial refund I received less than the agreed amount. You have been warned.
We stayed at the property for 3 nights and it was perfect for what we were looking for; close enough to sights but far enough away to not be right in the city center. Vanni was super easy to communicate with via WhatsApp. If you canât do stairs then this apartment is not for you. The apartment is up a small hill and about 45 steps between 2 narrow stair cases. With heavy luggage itâs a challenge but if your up to it then this apartment is in a perfect location!
Vanni was a really great host! The apartment was in a convenient location, safe, clean, and just as the description shows. We really enjoyed our time here!
We stayed here for 8 days and enjoyed every minute. If you're looking for a place in Florence close to all of the main sights, look no further and book the Gemma apt! Vanni was responsive and very helpful, even when he wasn't available to meet us in person at the apt for check-in we had no problem getting in and out. All of the key sights of Florence are within walking distance. As other reviews note -- the apt is on a steep hill with several flights of steep stairs leading up to it. It takes some effort to climb home every day so perhaps not ideal for guests with more limited mobility.
Our stay in Gemma overall was a very good experience. We were very close to Ponte Vechio which allowed us to be within walking distance of almost everything Florence has to offer! We had a couple of issues with the VRBO, nothing major. There were mosquitoes in the armoires and I would wake up with new bug bites every morning. Additionally, some of the dishes were dirty, but this was not a huge deal for us. Overall we enjoyed our stay, just a couple of things I wanted to share so the owner can make sure the next personâs experience is even better!
My husband and I were overwhelmed with the lovely home & location of the apartment. The host was welcoming, and everything was clean. Walking distance to all the major sights in Florence. Would absolutely go back!
Incredible place to unwind and decompress before heading back to the states, especially after spending 4 months with 12 students in a cramped apartment.
Nice Location but Challenging for Anyone with Mobility Issues
The apartment was in an excellent location to walk to many of the sites in Florence.
It would be a challenge for anyone with mobility issues, as there is a relatively steep hill that needs to be climbed to get to the main door of building and then 3 flights of fairly steep stairs to get to the apartment. Vanni advised us to take a cab to the apartment so that we wouldn't have to drag our suitcases up this hill.
There is a mosquito problem as well. If you open the windows that don't have screens, it lets in mosquitos that seem to congregate in the sleeping area. Vanni did warn us of that, and provided us with some plug in mosquito repellent (this worked if you don't mind breathing in the chemicals used to repeal the mosquitos while you are sleeping).
The washing machine is a nice addition, however, our clothes didn't dry on the drying rack provided as it had rained and the air was humid.
Florence was fabulous!! We loved all the history, beauty and charm. It didnât disappoint!
We loved our apt. It was spacious enough for two and offered all the amenities we needed. Vanni, our host was very helpful, pleasant and gracious. We would book this apt. again.
Due to travel complications we were only able to stay 1 of our 4 nights booked at the property. The locations was great and close to many of the historical sites. The apartment itself was extremely basic and dated, especially the bed which had no extra sheets and was a bit stiff. The apartment was mostly clean but we noticed some cobwebs.
Very close to ponte vecchio, yet in a very quiet area. Walking distance to SMN train station, main sites in centro storico, lots of restaurants, etc. Vanni was easy to communicate with, accommodating and quick to respond. Property as described. Washing machine was a big plus for us. Highly recommend.
Vanni was a great, communicative host. Check in was easy. We loved the location - walking distance to everything, and on a quieter part of the city. Having the washing machine was a lovely perk as we had already done some travelling in other cities. About 20 minute walk to the Accademia Gallery, Piazzele Michaelangelo, just a few minute walk to Ponte Vecchio. A great grocery store and gelatos shop just down the street. Thank you Vanni!
I'm florentine and I've always lived in my city. I'm in charge of property management and I like my job which mainly takes place in the historic center of Florence. I like acting theathre and play sport even if the time is less now with two children. Hope to host you in Florence soon.