Hotel Balestri - Wtb Hotels, Florence
About the Hotel
Hotel Balestri is strategically located on the north bank of the Arno River, just east of the iconic Ponte Vecchio. This four-star hotel combines Thirties glamour with modern updates, offering views of the Duomo through unique oval windows. Its central position makes it an ideal base for exploring cultural highlights in Florence, while also providing a retreat from the tourist crowds. With a recent renovation by the dynamic Florentine hotel group Why the Best, the hotel balances contemporary aesthetics with historical grandeur.
Location
Hotel Balestri's location places it close to notable destinations such as Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery. Via Tornabuoni, a district known for high-fashion brands, lies within easy reach. The hotel is located just 1 miles from Florence Santa Maria Novella, with Peretola Airport situated 9.5 miles away. Its strategic position allows guests to explore both the main city attractions and the vibrant Oltrarno area across the Ponte Vecchio.
Rooms
Guestrooms at Hotel Balestri come equipped with premium bedding and air conditioning for comfort. Each room includes a private bathroom, featuring a hairdryer and a selection of free toiletries. Unique 'love nests' on the fifth floor boast honey-colored velvet drapes, glowing parquet floors, and breathtaking views of Florence. The hotel also offers family rooms and suites, accommodating various guest needs.
Eat & Drink
The breakfast room at Hotel Balestri features tall, arched windows overlooking the Arno, embodying a gentleman's club vibe with its dark wood paneling and velvet-covered chairs. Guests can enjoy a buffet that includes freshly-prepared fruit salad, cheeses, and a variety of hot options. A stylish bar serves light snacks and drinks, making it a perfect spot for post-sightseeing relaxation.
Leisure & Business
The hotel's streamlined public spaces feature a muted color palette accented with rich hues and contemporary decor. A roof terrace offers lovely city views, enhancing the leisure experience for guests. The helpful young staff are ready to assist with personalized recommendations and bookings for local attractions, ensuring a convenient stay. Business travelers can utilize various amenities to facilitate their needs.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- Express check-in/ -out
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Luggage storage
- Lift
- Currency exchange
- Electric vehicle charging station
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Valet parking
- Pet amenities available
- Room service
- Laundry
- Dry cleaning
Dining
- Bar/ Lounge area
Business
- Business centre
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Cots
- Babysitting/Child services
Spa & Leisure
- Leisure/ TV room
Room features
- Air conditioning
- Heating
- Soundproofed rooms
- Terrace
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Parquet floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
Staying at this hotel felt like being in a cozy house rather than a standard hotel room. My room had a balcony with a table and chair, which overlooked the plaza, although it resembled more the parking lot. The rooms, dating back to the 1980s, are in desperate need of a makeover. Despite this, they offer a nice view of Brunelleschi's dome.
I had a pleasant stay at the hotel. The rooms were comfortable and well-equipped, although the dining options were average. The service was exceptional, and the location was perfect for exploring the city.
The hotel offers clean and modern rooms with beautiful views, friendly and helpful staff, and a convenient location near major attractions. However, dining options could be improved for the price paid.
The hotel is ideally located right by the Arno river, just a short walk from major attractions like Ponte Vecchio and Uffizi Gallery. The rooms are spacious, clean, and comfy, offering a good night's sleep, but the dining options could be more varied. The service is exceptional, with incredibly friendly and helpful staff making my stay memorable.
I had a mixed experience at the hotel. The rooms, although plain, were spacious and comfy with stunning views over Piazza Santa Maria Novella. However, the assigned room was disappointing compared to others. The service was excellent overall, with helpful and knowledgeable staff guiding me to great local spots. The location was amazing, just steps away from major attractions in Florence. The dining was average, serving a basic breakfast spread. The facilities met my needs during the stay.
I just had a stay at this hotel, and let me tell you, it's a mixed bag! The rooms, although beautiful and large with a small balcony overlooking part of the Arno, didn't match the pictures on the booking site, which was a bit disappointing. However, the service was top-notch, especially from the housemaid and the front desk staff who were always super helpful. The location is great, just a few blocks from the iconic Ponte Vecchio and other must-see spots in Florence. The dining experience was amazing, offering a buffet with a variety of delicious options. The facilities are spotless and well-maintained, making for a comfortable stay.
My stay at this hotel had its ups and downs. The location was fantastic, just a few steps from the Ponte Vecchio and Galleria Uffizi, making it easy to explore Florence on foot. However, the room was small and could get a bit noisy being next to the road. The service was a mix of friendly and accommodating with a couple of hiccups, and the dining experience was decent with a variety of tasty options.
I had a wonderful stay at the hotel! The rooms, although on the side of the building providing a 'so-called' view of the river, were newly remodeled and offered fantastic views of the Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio. The temperature control was a bit challenging as the room felt quite cold despite efforts from reception. The presence of 2 double or queen beds like in the US was a great comfort.
The hotel has a charming old-fashioned vibe with comfortable sofas and red curtains in the rooms. While the presence of bugs was a downside, the spotless bathroom added an exotic touch. The hot temperature at times could be uncomfortable, so be prepared for that. The location by the Arno River offers easy access to key attractions, but the dining experience, although tasty, lacked a wide variety. The staff, while not overly friendly, were always courteous and helpful, providing excellent service when needed. Facilities were adequate but nothing extraordinary.
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