For a central location in Florence, I highly recommend Cimatori. The charming host, Dominico, was extremely welcoming upon my arrival and was available as a helpful resource throughout my stay. The rooms are spotlessly clean, quaint, yet new and spacious, with modern bathrooms. One slight drawback is the pastries at breakfast are prepackaged. However, in light of the Cimatori's many strengths, I found this flaw insignificant. Though I personally prefer locations south of the Arno this is a great choice is you want to stay in the center. Just be wary of the overly touristy atmosphere.

I stayed at the Cimatori B&B for 4 nights with my husband and two young children. The location is absolutely excellent. We were just blocks from the Duomo and Uffizi. There are many restaurants and cafes nearby. There is also a full grocery store on the bottom floor. This was quite convenient. The B&B is in a 14th century building with 20 foot ceilings. There are many, many stairs to climb, so if you have problems climbing or a lot of luggage, this isn't the place for you. There is a small storage area on the bottom floor, and we parked our stroller there one night without incident.

Domenico, the host, is very gracious and knowledgeable. He also makes a mean cappuccino. Our kids unfortunately had some spills and broke a plate at breakfast, and Domenico was very patient. Breakfast was adequate but nothing special.

Having access to a refrigerator, microwave, plates and utensils was great. We don't like to eat out every night with two young kids, so this was very convenient for us. There is a stove but I am not sure if guests are permitted to use it as it was covered.

Our room was just okay. It was on an airshaft so we had almost no natural light. We were out most of the day, but it was still pretty dark and dingy looking. On the other hand, some other guests on the street side were complaining about noisy parties at nights. Our room was very quiet.

The bathroom and shower were tiny. Ladies, don't even think about trying to shave your legs in that shower! Towels are replaced only every 3rd day.

The beds were not very comfortable. Unlike most hotels in Europe where the duvets have fitted covers, these duvets were bare. Our top and bottom sheets were very ill-fitting and kept coming loose during the night. The pillows were really awful. This made for a poor night's sleep.

Overall, this B&B is a decent choice, especially for the location, very kind service, and the access to the kitchen. Ask for a room facing the street if you want some light.

Finally, you are crazy if you bring a car into Florence. Spare yourself the headache and take the train.

Arrived early by train. Walked to Cimatori with luggage. Easy to find, comfortable walk and felt safe at all times. D & V were very friendly and accommodating. Held Our luggage for us Because of early-hr. arrival, and moved it in the room When prepared. Graciously shared Their knowledge of Florence and other Italian towns / cities. Great central location to access everything (Siena, Pisa, and all the beauty of this compact town). They Made Our reservations at the Uffizi and Accademia for us (Requested by email). Room was impeccably clean at all times, and quite cute. Loved the toiletries They supply. Large refrigerator WAS available for all guests to use (wine, cheese, caprese). Restaurant just outside B & B has fabulous dinner, sat outside. Cons-Climbing steps with luggage, and no view (minor issues ... We Were Out and About for Our five days, and luggage was true challenge at Most places, and only Happens on arrival and departure). Loved interacting with D & V at breakfast, and other guests from around the world. Cappuccino was delightful, and breakfast allowed us to start early Our sightseeing in Florence. One of Our fondest Experiences of a 2 wk. stay in Italy.

Great communication before our reservation. Dominico was willing to accommodate our arrival after hours and allowed us to store our bags on check out day, got us reservations to the Academia and to Il Latini for dinner, printed out train schedules. Free WiFi or they have a computer in the breakfast area to use. Rooms pretty basic but clean and comfortable. Breakfast would be easy to skip, except for the cappucino V can make for you, or teach you to make. The best location I can imagine for seeing all the Florence attractions. Very nice people with very good English