The Flora Apartment: The feeling of touching the Duomo

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Apartment

Overview
Amenities
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Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 460.4 sq m

Popular amenities

Washer
Kitchen
Air conditioning
Free WiFi

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Florence, Tuscany

Historic Centre of Florence
‪1 min walk‬
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
‪1 min walk‬
Piazza del Duomo
‪1 min walk‬
Florence (FLR-Peretola)
‪36 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bidet · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen

Dining Area

About this property

We are renovating the building with scaffolding only inside the courtyard until approx. May 2025.

The works take place from Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm and sometime on Saturday morning.

The apartment 'Flora' is situated in Piazza del Duomo in the heart of Florence’s historical centre, on the 4th level ( no lift - 87 steps ) of a prestigious XVI century palace that once belonged to the Ghiberti family, one of Florence’s most important historical families, with easy steps well worth the journey.

From October 25 2009, Piazza del Duomo is a pedestrian area with all the advantages that an area like that can offer

Spending time in my apartment is to be accompanied by the shadow of the magnificent dome of Brunelleschi, the grandeur of Giotto’s belltower and the splendour of Vasari’s frescos, in an unforgettable dream that Florence will dream with you and bring you great joy and an even greater desire to return.
Flora directly faces the Duomo, giving you the sensation that you could reach out and touch its magnificent green and white marble facade.

The apartment has been completely restored in Florentine style, but with all modern comforts. Flora is a charming and elegant apartment comprising: a living/dining room with a comfortable sofa, a modern and fully-equipped kitchenette, 1 bedroom with a double bed (140x200), 1 bedroom with 2 single beds ( 85x200) that can be transformed into a double bed. 1 modern bathroom with shower, complete the description of the apartment. The apartment also boasts a splendid skylight with electronic controls that offers you a bird’s eye view of the famous Brunelleschi dome.
All modern comforts are provided: air conditioning, LCD TV,Dvd, satellite TV, washing machine, dishwasher, microwave oven, safe, WiFi and cable internet dsl, security door and intercom.

CHECK-IN:
I always meet my guests to hand over the keys so I need to make an appointment with you in advance.

CHECK-IN is possible from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
From 1:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. check-in is not allowed.

LATE CHECK-IN:
From 8:00 p.m to 11:30 p.m. there is an additional charge of € 25.00 (check-in/cash).
From 11:30 p.m to 1:00 a.m. there is an additional charge of € 35.00 (check-in/cash).

CLEANING FEE:
Euro 60 in euo cash upon arrival ( check-in ).

STAY TAX:
The city of Florence has decided to extend the “Stay tax” (introduced in 2011) also to private rentals (on top of Hotels, B&B and so on..)
The Tax is 6,00 EURO PER NIGHT/EACH GUEST for a max of 7 nights to be paid in euro cash upon arrival.

ELECTRICITY:
From June 1st to September 30th electricity will be calculated on consumption with counter ( euro 0.60 x kWh ) to be paid on check-out in euro cash.

BEFORE BOOKING:
Please review and agree to my rental agreement and make a secure online payment.
If you need more bedrooms, please see my adjoining apartment at VRBO Property number 88148

Keywords: Apartment, great view, new, elegant,one level, panoramic views, rooftop, Duomo, modern kitchen, 5 star

Property manager

Luca

Premier Host

Languages

English, Italian, Spanish

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Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

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Kitchen
Washer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

House Rules

Check in after 1:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 18

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 3–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Cleaning fee: € 60.00 in cash upon arrival

Electricity consumption charge based on usage. Consumption charged only from June to September (€ 0.60 x kWh).

Stay Tax upon arrival in cash. The tax is € 6.00 PER NIGHT/EACH GUEST for a max of 7 nights (check my rental agreement for more info)

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

This property accepts cash

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

Property Registration Number IT048017B4K9DAO55J

We should mention

All guests, including children, must be present at check-in and show their government-issued photo ID card or passport

Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed USD 5000, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Florence

Located in Florence, this apartment is in the city centre. Uffizi Gallery and Gallery of the Academy of Florence are cultural highlights, and some of the area's notable landmarks include Historic Centre of Florence and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Florence Botanical Gardens and Galileo Museum - Institute and Museum of the History of Science are also worth visiting. Swimming offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling nearby.

View more Apartments in Florence

Florence, Tuscany

What's nearby

Historic Centre of Florence - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
Piazza del Duomo - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
Uffizi Gallery - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
Piazza di Santa Maria Novella - 9 min walk - 0.8 km

Getting around

San Marco University Tram Stop - 8 min walk
Florence (ZMS-Santa Maria Novella Train Station) - 11 min walk
Peretola Airport (FLR) - 36 min drive

Restaurants

‪Bottegone - ‬2 min walk
‪Edoardo SRL - ‬2 min walk
‪Don Nino - ‬1 min walk
‪Mr. Pizza - Piazza del Duomo - ‬1 min walk
‪Caffé Ricasoli - ‬3 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is The Flora Apartment: The feeling of touching the Duomo pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at The Flora Apartment: The feeling of touching the Duomo?

Check-in begins at 1:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Flora Apartment: The feeling of touching the Duomo?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Flora Apartment: The feeling of touching the Duomo located?

Located in Duomo, this apartment building is steps away from Piazza del Duomo, Historic Centre of Florence and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Uffizi Gallery and Gallery of the Academy of Florence are also within 10 minutes. San Marco University Tram Stop is 8 minutes by foot and Unità Tram Stop is 8 minutes.

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca M.

4 Apr 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent Location, Great Host

We enjoyed staying at the Flora Apartment. It’s central (right next to the Duomo) and a 15 minute walk to the train station. Because of the location we were able to see a parade from the window. Although there are stairs, we only found them challenging when we had luggage. Luca was a great host. He met us at the apt and we were able to check in early. When we left our passports in the safe, he met us at the train station to get them.

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lori C.

10 Mar 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location

This apartment is quite nice. Luca was a great host. He replied quickly to ask questions or concerns. The check in was very detailed. The location really couldn't be any better. You do need to be able to walk up several flights of stairs.

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kori R.

15 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay here, memories of a lifetime!

Absolutely the best place I’ve ever stayed! Location was perfect and close to everything. The host Luca was so helpful and he has the best pillows on the bed. You can see the top of the Dumo from the living room Skylight, absolutely amazing!

Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Douglas D

19 Mar 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication

We very much enjoyed our stay at The Flora Apartment! It's in a really neat old building right across the street from the Duomo, yet has been thoroughly updated. Our host, Luca, was very accommodating in meeting us late after our flight was delayed, and took the time to explain how everything works with the apartment. The location is awesome! We would certainly stay here again on our next visit to Florence!

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Cheryl M.

22 Sept 2016

Lucas apartment is beautiful and very modern. The location is amazing, only steps from the Duomo.

We loved staying at Luca's apartment. The cleanliness, modern conveniences and location can't be beat. The only inconvenience is the 87 stairs to get to it. I'm very happy we chose this place for our 3 nights in Florence. Thanks Luca

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2016

10/10 Excellent

Michael J.

20 Aug 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location and history. We loved it!

Our stay in Florence was amazing. Luca is one of the best hosts we have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. He communicated well and handled any questions we asked. His place is a true gem. It is on the top floor of a 500 year old building directly across the dome of the Duomo. You can crack open windows and hear the gentle activity below, or close them up and enjoy peace and quiet. Air conditioning and wifi worked well. The unit is old (think 500 years old) but wonderfully kept up and perfect for our family of four. Prior reviews commented on the steps. Yes, there are steps, but it is worth it. If steps are a concern, then maybe it isn’t for you. Having said that, we are not in shape, and had no issue doing it many times a day. We would certainly return again!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Carla D.

11 Sept 2018

Everything we had hoped for

We spent 11 days in Italy-4 cities-4 rentals. This was by far the best. It is the perfect location! Everything was exactly as described and Luca communicated with me through the whole rental process. Do expect to pay for electricity used - it wasn't much for us (15 euro for 4 days I think?) but a consideration. It is super cute (actually better than pictured), very clean, stocked with what you need, has a clothes washer and dishwasher, the beds were comfortable, and the AC worked great! Luca met us and gave us all the info we needed. We did dine at one of his suggestions and it was wonderful as well. Even with climbing stairs- I would rate it higher if I could. Seriously- I would not even look at anything else if I have the opportunity to go back, I will rent this lovely apartment. I highly recommend

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2018

10/10 Excellent

Kailen B.

12 Mar 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Book this place, you will not regret it!

I am so lucky that I found this place for our trip to Florence! This was by far one of the cleanest places I have stayed while travelling. Not to mention it feels luxurious, the beds were great and the whole apartment is updated. There was a lot of space which was very comfortable especially coming from a place in Rome. The location is incredible, you can walk everywhere. Luca was so friendly, and after we had been travelling for so long it was so comforting to have someone greet us who was so welcoming. There are stairs, but if you are travelling to Italy, this is common in any place that you stay, and keep in mind that this building is very old and has a lot of history so it was worth it. Luca went above and beyond having someone waiting there for our arrival to bring our bags up to the apartment (we didn't have this at any other place we stayed). Being from Canada, we are used to very different living spaces, but this apartment made us feel so comfortable. If you are renting through VRBO and not staying at a hotel you must book this apartment, it was the best accommodations we booked for our entire trip. Thanks again Luca!

Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Frank C.

24 Feb 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Une expérience sans faute !

Le logement est parfait, propre, moderne, decoré avec goût et dans un immeuble authentique. Le localisation est absolument parfaite, à moins de 10' de marche de presque tout ce qu'il y a voir à Florence. Attention toutefois aux personnes de condition physique altérée, il s'agit d'un 4eme étage sans ascenseur (mais à Florence, entre le dôme, les tours et la rive gauche du fleuve, on grimpe beaucoup de manières générale 😊). Le propriétaire est parfait, gentil, serviable, disponible et d'un professionnalisme peu courant. C'est la meilleure location que j'ai eu l'occasion d'expérimenter tout pays confondu.

Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tyler G.

6 Sept 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Florence VRBO

Excellent location in Florence with beautiful views of the Duomo. Luca was excellent host! Highly recommend this apartment for groups visiting Florence. We had two couples, and the apartment was perfect for us.

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Armineh

29 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication

This apartment by far was one of the cleanest places we had ever stayed. Our host, Luca, was very helpful and did a through church-in process for us. He was always wearing a smile and was always reachable. The best part was the location which was in the middle of the tourist attractions surrounded by so many shopping and dining places. If I go back to Florence, I would definitely stay in this place again.

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Lale

26 June 2022

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen S.

18 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location - Great Host!

Everything was as described. Couldn't have asked for a better location or view. There are 4 flights of stairs but Luca had someone there waiting for us to take them to the top for us. Luca took his time to answer any questions. Would stay there again!

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Zenda A., Niceville, USA

16 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Location

The view and location can't be beaten. I'm 66 and had not difficulty with the stairs. With the safe wide stairs, we just took a breather as needed. The manager met us on arrival and helped with our luggage. He showed us how to operate the window shades & A/C. We loved our stay.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kathy S., Clearwater FL

31 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A great property!

Property just as described, if not better. I expected a bit of a smaller apartment but overall great size for 3 of us. A number of skylights so place is quite bright; can be closed with blinds with a dark environment for good sleep. The bathroom was darker, small shower as shown in pictures. Our stay was Tues-Sat and did not have problems with noise from the area although we did hear more people out and about on Friday night. As stated, there are many steps but manageable unless you have mobility issues. The owner Luca was very helpful before stay and met us at the apartment to review all about the place. Could not be in a better location! We easily walked from the train station with our luggage in tow; walked/returned to area for the tram to the airport for departure. Highly recommend this apartment!

Stayed 4 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Matthew M.

29 Mar 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Florence for 4 days

Amazing apartment right next to the Duomo. The building is super old with tons of character. Excellent location. Luca met us for checkin. He also recommended grocery stores and restaurants. Fantastic trip! There is a lot going on in the area.

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Maria M.

9 Feb 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Alle Erwartungen erfüllt

Wohnung sehr sauber, mit allem notwendigen ausgestattet. Vermieter sehr zuvorkommend. Lage traumhaft. Wir werden sicherlich zurückkommen und haben auch schon Freunde und Verwandte davon erzählt! Wir waren begeistert. Appartamento verametne carino in una posizione da sogno. Luca una persona squisita. Abbiamo giá passato parola ad amici e parenti. Se volete stare a Firenze ideale per fino a 4 persone!

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Fabio O.

28 Dec 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ottimo appartamento in posizione strategica con affaccio sul duomo

Siamo stati 2 notti, in questo appartamento curato, nuovo e funzionale. Tutto perfetto, con affaccio direttamente sul Duomo di Firenze. Luca è stato molto cordiale e disponibile. Consigliatissimo!

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

John F.

23 Nov 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

As good as it gets!

This apartment was as good as it gets. The location is superb, being litterally next door to the duomo in historic Florence. The entire town was steps away. The apartment was extremely clean with very comfortable bedding. There were all the imenities you would want including a washing machine (with detergent!), coffee, great wi-fi, and even a dishwasher. It's on the top floor of the building so there are a lot of steps to get up to it, but that'll just help you burn off all the carbs and wine you'll consume at dinner every night! Most importantly the host. Luca provided excellent communcation during the booking, pre-arrival, and during checkout. He was on time (actually early) to meet us during check-in and explained everything we would need to know about the apartment. He even brought a man to carry all of our luggage upstairs. After the tour he offered excellent suggestions on where to eat and answered all of our questions about Florance. (His restaurant suggestions were A+++!) I highly recommend this apartment and I can honestly say this was the best short term vacation rental we've ever rented in Europe.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Patricia D., Libertyville, IL

13 Aug 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location

Our stay went very well. Luca was very helpful in getting us settled in and the flat was as described. Location was key in this rental! We were LITERALLY within the main plaza of the Duomo and it was perfect for walking to all of the nearby spots (Medici, Academia, etc.).

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kuswadewi K.

3 Aug 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Truly the best!

This was our second time staying at Luca's apartment. There was really nothing negative we could say about Luca and his place. You simply can't beat the location, being in the same plaza as the Duomo. Plenty of good restaurants around, and the best gelateria in Firenze (Gelateria Eduardo) is just on the other side of the Duomo from the apartment. The stairs can be a problem for people who have issues with climbing stairs. When we got there, Luca was there with a helper to get our suitcases up. That was definitely really helpful. Everything else was great. The apartment had skylight windows in the bedrooms and in the living room to let lights in, but they also have electrically controlled blinds that you can close if the sun becomes too much. When we stayed at Luca's place the first time in 2018, we promised we'd come back, and we were so glad we could stay there again this time. Hopefully we'll have many more chances to enjoy Luca's hospitality in the future!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Christine T.

25 July 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Well worth the extra steps!

I could not believe it would be possible to stay this close to the Duomo when I booked this apartment in October. Not only is the location and view amazing, this home is completely updated and in pristine condition. It was perfect for our family of four adults. Yes, you climb many steps to get to it but we are an active family. In fact, one day we climbed the 463 steps to the top of the dome, 414 steps to the top of the bell tower and 150 steps to the terraces. Steps do not stop us. The only complaint I have is that my sons’ room had the better view of the Duomo. ;-) Looking out the window and watching people down below was a favorite activity. Luca was amazing. He explained everything thoroughly to us and was always available for questions. We asked for a restaurant recommendation and tried it on our last night there. We all loved our meals there. When the menu is handwritten and not with English translations you know it will be great! We didn’t want to leave Florence and this beautiful apartment! We will definitely return and spend more time exploring. Luca - plan on our return in the future for a longer stay!

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Emily W.

23 July 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Disliked: Listing accuracy

Great location, read the fine print

We loved staying here! The Duomo is right outside your window, and it is in a very central location in the middle of Florence. Despite being in a hub, there wasn't much noise at night. Luca was also fantastic, and helped us in the apartment and climbed the stairs even though he had a hurt knee. That being said, make sure that you read the fine print on the listing description! Luca charges an additional 60 euros for cleaning, and we were charged an additional 15 for electricity for our two nights (and we didn't use that much). There is also the additional 4 euro/person/night in city tax, so it really adds up quickly.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Ashley P.

28 June 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location!

Central to everything. Luca was a great host and was very helpful!

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

8/10 Good

Caterina F.

18 Apr 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Vacanza in famiglia

La casa è molto carina e la posizione perfetta in pieno centro. Una vacanza bellissima.

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020

About the host

Hosted by Luca

My name is Luca and I was born in this magnificent palace in front of the Duomo and now with pleasure I propose my apartment for those who are attracted by the beauty of Florence and its history.

Why they chose this property

The entire top floor of the building belonged to my family for over 200 years and whether you're a newcomer to Florence or a regular visitor, I'm always on hand to give advice on everything you’ll need to get the most out of your stay.

What makes this property unique

The best location in the Florence’s historical centre.

Languages:

English, Italian, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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The Flora Apartment: The feeling of touching the Duomo

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Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

About this property