Named after the beautiful, Baroque-style 17th-century church just next door, Hotel Relais Il Cestello is a humble and pleasant family-run option in the quiet Oltrarno neighborhood. The reception area is warm and welcoming, where rustic white wood furniture pairs well with terra cotta floors and an original brick-and-wood-beamed ceiling. Just 10 rooms helps keep the attention of the hotel staff squarely on guests, and they're happy to help with any local advice. While not a fancy place, there’s charm in this property's simplicity, and an authentic Italian feel. It’s the little things that count: fresh coffee delivered at breakfast with a smile, and a peaceful setting away from tourist mayhem in the center of town. Those qualities make this hotel popular with anyone from families in summer, to couples and single travelers year-round. Most visit from Western Europe and the U.S.

Hotel Relais Il Cestello is on the south side of the river in the Oltrarno district, known for its good restaurants, quiet atmosphere, and local Florentine population. There’s a decent seafood restaurant just downstairs, and a good handful of local restaurants about a four-minute walk away. Palazzo Pitti is a 12-minute walk from the hotel, and so is the Ponte Vecchio. Both the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo are roughly a 15-minute walk across the river, while Florence’s airport is a convenient 15-minute drive. 

In keeping with the classic feel of the rest of the hotel, most rooms have traditional decor with beautiful antique furniture and a homey vibe. There’s no tea or coffee facilities, but all rooms have individually controlled air-conditioning and heating, minibars, flat-screen TVs, and free safe and Wi-Fi access. All are furnished with desks and chairs, and Superior Rooms have picturesque river views, while others overlook charming Florentine rooftops and the neighboring Baroque church. Some feature more modern decor, so check ahead if you'd like something a bit less classic. Bathrooms are clean and include modern fixtures; some have classic Florentine mosaic tiling. Rooms also have original architectural features, including vaulted or slanted brick and woodbeam ceililngs, and are divided according to occupancy. While things here are pleasant overall, we did spot just a touch of wear and tear during our 2017 visit.  

As is standard with most Florence city hotels, facilities are kept to a minimum: a cozy bar in reception serves both hot drinks and alcoholic beverages, while the simple continental breakfast includes freshly prepared coffee and savory options such as cold cuts and cheese. There are no hot options, but past guests have found the spread -- which also includes brioches, marmalade cake, cereals, and yogurts -- adequate for a long day of sightseeing. There’s free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, and the paid meter parking is available at a reasonable rate.