“A step back into Art Deco”

The Hotel Ulivi, Florence was initially hard to find due to the lack of any sign externally advertising the fact that it was a hotel. The hotel itself had great character and history dating back to 1400. The grounds were lovely and peaceful and for lovers of art deco, the furnishings and fittings were amazing. The feel of this hotel was more that of being a houseguest. The owners were helpful if asked but otherwise left residents to their own devices and no manned reception desk. It was rather a long hike into Florence itself from this hotel but the buses were frequent and a taxi ride only 10 euros from the centre of Florence. Breakfasts could be taken in the dining room or on the terrace and were typically continental and certainly adequate although without meat or cheese options. Rooms were large with pleasant views and reasonable storage. Hairdryers were available if asked for although there was no TV or air conditioning in our room. For something a little different this hotel must be experienced and now knowing what to expect I would be happy to return here.

“Real Italian Charm”

It was a real treat to stay in an authenic Villa in Florence. Sure, it might have been nice to stay in a more "traditional" hotel within the city itself but at Villa Ullivi the guest felt like a part of the family since you are actually staying in someone's home. The included breakfast was wonderful! You are also on the #25 bus line so you can easily take the bus from just across the train station (just remember to get off at "La Pietra" bus stop as if you get off at the next stop you will not have a path to walk on!)However,they do need to work on some upkeep as some of the interior ,and our room in particular, was showing signs of age.

“A Beautiful night in a Villa in Italy.”

I could not stop taking photographs. This truly a Villa that has become a B&B. The room was very large as was the bathroom. Old style bathtub. The furniture was a little dated but nice. There were enough working outlets and free wifi. It is own a main street into town. Take the 25 bus from the stop a hundred yards back towards town. Stand on the side of the crosswalk opposite the bus stop and on the same side as the Tabachi shop sign (now a cafe). 10 minutes gets you to St. Marks square and only a few paces from the Academia and David. The rest of the main sites are a only several blocks further away. Stop and have a cappuccino at the cafe (Tabachi) and a great cannoli. This is not for those who want the sameness of the holiday inn or the Ritz. This is a fun and beautiful and very inexpensive place for a room with breakfast. We loved our stay. And, oh there was hot water and a clean and comfortable bed.

“9 Star setting but 1 Star Service”

There is no doubt that the Hotel is in a very beautiful setting, with a regular bus connection to the city. However, we found the "Hotel" type service somewhat lacking and not the 3 star status it claims to be. Once you are given your room and keys for the Villa gates. You are very much left to your own devices. There are no phones in the room. TV facilities and reception poor. No one mans a desk in the reception. No information leaflets concerning the bus are available. The only time you able get attention is when breakfast is being served. Then you can ask the serving assistant to get in touch with the owners/caretakers of the Villa. The breakfast was also below par of a 3 star status, and this is coming from some one who regularly stays in 3 and 4 star hotels. There should have been more variety. The rooms do get cleaned and tidied every day. But simple things like sachets of shower gel or shampoo are not replenished you have to ask for them. Also there are no hair dryers available in the room. As I said the Villa's outside appearance and setting is stunning and we found relaxing in the gardens. If they could just make a few simple changes on the service, they will have their hands on a little gold mine.

“Villa Ulivi Review: I would not come back”

The 4oo year-old villa has a very good looking, but, the service is horrible. 1) The key to the front door does not work, so if you come back late at night, you cannot enter the front door. If you were early enough to come back, you get waken up by other guests who tried to open the door. 2) The owner plays music so loud at midnight so you have to come down to tell him to shut down the radio. 3) They double book and force you to stay at other hotel. It's been just a little over a year since they stared the hotel business, and they have a lot to learn about running hotel business. I would not come back again. Sincerely