Traditional decor and a quiet atmosphere are the name of the game at Adler Cavalieri -- a family-owned, mid-range option housed in a former private palazzo from the 1600s. Although it may come across as old fashioned to some, original period features -- such as rich wood paneling, frescos, and wood-beamed ceilings -- add to the historical charm. Furniture is well maintained, though looks dated rather than antique. At 60 rooms, the hotel is just the right size: a tranquil veranda garden with a water feature never gets too crowded, and the service doesn’t feel rushed. Though a lack of music and seldom footfall contribute to a lack of atmosphere in the reading room, it’s a haven of quiet compared to the bustling train station around the block. The hotel attracts mostly couples from Italy, the U.S., and other parts of Western Europe, along with some business guests during the low season. 

Adler Cavalieri’s location on busy Via dell Scala is a blessing in disguise: it’s less touristy than other areas, while all major attractions are still within reasonable walking distance. A pharmacy and trattoria are just across the street. The main train station is just a four-minute walk around the block, while great local produce and dining can be found at the Mercato Centrale, a seven-minute walk. For high end shopping, head to the popular Via dei Tornabuoni, about an eight-minute walk. Cultural attractions such as the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery are a 10- and 15-minute walk, respectively. Florence’s airport is only an 18-minute drive from the property.

Rooms at Adler Cavalieri are simply divided into Classic and Superior Rooms, and vary from single to triple configurations. Superior Rooms have special touches, such as original wood beam ceilings, larger floor plans, or balconies. All rooms have traditional decor, but are pleasant and clean, with beautifully polished wood furniture and wood floors. Simple, but elegant, ceiling frescos in many rooms add to the modest charm. Standard amenities include minibars, flat-screen TVs with free Sky channels (including 40 international channels), individually controlled AC and heating, tea/coffee facilities, slippers, and small welcome gifts. Rooms also come with free Wi-Fi and safes. Bathrooms have a classic feel, with ceramic sinks and either showers or shower/tub combos. Bathrobes are also provided in Superior Rooms. While the area around the hotel is busy, double glazing effectively shuts out street noise. 

In contrast to most Florence hotels, Adler Cavalieri has a decent range of facilities, including a cozy traditional bar with a tranquil veranda garden that’s perfect for evening drinks. The bar serves drinks along with a small menu of snacks. A free breakfast buffet is served in the elegant breakfast room with the option of eating in the open-air courtyard. It includes a decent array of cold and hot items, like eggs, bacon, and daily homemade cakes. While the sauna and steam bath come with an extra charge, the small gym has Technogym equipment free for guests to use. Two compact meeting rooms with traditional decor accommodate 70 and 30 people, respectively, and the hotel even has an entire lower ground level devoted to private parking (additional fee). Although Wi-Fi may be spotty, the hotel is changing to a high-speed fiber optic connection starting in the spring of 2018.