Booked via Expedia (to get Nectar points!). Some reviews were quite negative but mainly related to the fact it was an “old fashioned” hotel but we were pleasantly surprised. (Really think some travellers should ‘lighten up’ – yes the rooms could do with some renovation/updating but it is a very old hotel and we quite liked the quirky old fashioned décor etc.). At least it had some character unlike some of the modern soul-less ones!! We particularly liked all the old photos (& even a framed menu from 1892!) which were displayed in all communal areas of the hotel.
The bedroom & bathroom were spacious and clean – however the shower was not ‘wall mounted’ which wasn’t ideal! As I am a “mozzie magnet” it was great to have fly screens on the windows enabling us to keep them open. Bed was comfortable & there was sufficient wardrobe & drawer space even though the furniture was antique.
Sadly we missed the “aperitifs session” served in the reception area – drinks costing 3 euros each along with some nibbles for hotel guests which was a nice touch. Guests could also choose to have their drinks served on the Rooftop terrace which had plenty of comfortable seating etc. along with some views over Pisa! The Buffet Breakfast was varied – very good selection of cereal, yoghurts, cheese & hams etc. along with pastries and biscuits. Three flavours of juice on offer and soya milk alternative as well as wheat free items available. Tea & coffee served to your table.
We wanted a central hotel but with reasonable costs (£99.00 for B&B which we thought was very good value for money). Even a bottle of Chianti we ordered at the end of the evening was much cheaper than the one we had in the local restaurant and it tasted much better too despite being half the price! This old fashioned hotel been in family for years which might have had an influenced on the service which was very good at reception and at breakfast. The hotel’s position – on a main road near one of the bridges might be too noisy for some but we had a side rear room which was fine. Bus stops near the hotel so easy access for airport journeys etc..
There was a lift to all floors although quite small so we tended to use the stairs. Checkout was 12pm but we wanted to continue sightseeing as we had a late afternoon flight so stored our luggage behind reception. The Leaning Tower was approx 10-15 minutes walk from the hotel and there were plenty of bars & restaurants en route. Parking in hotel garage costs 20 euros for 24hrs so we decided it would be less stressful to return our hire car day early and get taxis to/from airport.
We certainly would not hesitate to return to this hotel!
