The Hotel Casci is in a fifteenth century building, and fantastic original frescoed ceilings remain in many of the public areas, including the pretty breakfast lounge. The breakfast lounge decor is homey, with a pink and white checkerboard tile floor, pink tablecloths, and fresh flowers. The bar lacks atmosphere, but a look up at the elaborate ceiling fresco says pure Florence. The building has history -- the composer Rossini lived there for four years, late in his life. Located one floor above the street, the lobby is reached via a small, worn-looking elevator, or a wide but unremarkable stairway. Once arrived, however, guests will find an informal, cozy, welcoming inn that could not be better located, with a library of travel books, and an attentive staff who take pride in their business and are invested in giving their guests a great stay in Florence.

The Hotel Casci is located on Via Cavour, a pretty old street in central Florence, a two-minute walk from the Duomo. The Uffizi and Ponte Vecchio are less than 10 minutes away on foot. The spot couldn't be better for tourists wanting to be near everything, but is still quiet enough for a good night's sleep. The railway station is 500 yards away, and the hotel has arrangements with several parking garages for those who drive.

Rooms at the Hotel Casci are basic, simply decorated, and spotlessly clean. Single rooms are available for solo travelers, and quintuple rooms for families traveling together. Rooms offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, electronic charging stations, and DVD players. Soundproofing keeps noise from the streets from disturbing guests, but some noise can be heard from the hallways. Non-smoking rooms are available upon request. Bathrooms are smallish, and some have showers only. The decor is plain, with homey printed bedspreads and functional wood furniture.

The Hotel Casci offers guests a free buffet breakfast each morning, served in a homey breakfast lounge. There is a bar on the premises, and a coffee shop with a collection of travel guides and maps for guests to borrow as they plan their visit. Passes are available to a nearby fitness center. Free Wi-Fi is offered in the lobby and in the rooms.