At first check in, we thought "oh no, why did we pick this hotel". There is no elevator, so be prepared to walk up stairs or request something on a lower floor. We stayed 4 nights, and to be honest, it ended up being an nice place to stay (I would stay there again). It was within walking distance to downtown, just far enough away to be uncrowded (which I like). It is "old school" style, so don't expect modern decor. They have old fashioned keys and turn of century decor (20th not 21st). The front desk was very helpful, the night person has a sharp sense of humor, which some may find unpleasant (nice guy once you get past the rough edges).

The rooms were small but clean, the receptionists were friendly, the breakfast was good, the price was reasonable. The leaning tower and shops aren't far away and the train station is 5 minutes walk. Totally okay to stay here as a base for sightseeing.

We spent a very pleasant night at the Minerva Hotel we had a nice room on the first floor; the shower was a little strange you stepped up to it but worked fine. The manager gave us directions to a few good restaurants and was really helpful. Breakfast was basic but one of the best cups of coffee I've had.

We found this hotel by chance when forced to stay in Pisa after Ryanair cancelled our flight home due to bad weather. The day receptionists Simone and the lady referred to in other reviews were excellent but John the night receptionist was surly to the point of rudeness. We arranged to leave early in the morning for our re-arranged flight. He was most unhelpful and needs a customer relations course. We were also recommended to the Gallileo restaurant which was good. We also tried the Lissus restaurant across the nearby roundabout and found it very good and quite inexpensive for Pisa. The hotel is noisy if you get a room at the front. No lift is a problem. The room was spotless. We liked the garden and the dog. The hotel is conveniently located for sightseeing. we paid 240 euros for two nights which for a three star seemed a bit excessive.