The Westin Excelsior Florence

Absolutely fantastic grand hotel along the Arno River in Florence. Never more than a 15 minute walk from anything, spectacular service, and updated public areas to give the hotel a nice mix of classic and modern. The concierge was fantastic - Andrea helped us get tickets to the Duomo when a misunderstanding deep-sixed our scheduled tour, despite the fact that it was impossible. And don’t miss the newly renovated rooftop bar/restaurant for a spectacular sunset. Not even remotely affordable at full rate, but part of the Marriott family of hotels, so deals (relatively speaking) are occasionally possible, and no matter what you definitely get value for your money. A real winner!

Pros: -Location; close to restaurants and shopping but quiet -Rooftop; AMAZING views of the river, Duomo and all of Florence for breakfast or dinner -Marriott property -Exceptional and diverse staff -Not far from train station; there is a cab line just as you exit the station or hotel can arrange a car where the driver will wait for you inside the train station with your name of a sign Cons: -Downstairs bar being renovated; currently not open. Will be beautiful when finished -No coffee machine in room (During this trip, I stayed at 3 other properties (Four Seasons, Castiglione Del Bosco, and a property in Sirmione) and this was the only hotel with no machine in the room) -No door separating toilet from rest of the bathroom -No outside pool

The hotel is beautiful and is in an ideal location. From the moment we arrived we felt at home. Beatrice from guest services was incredibly kind and helpful throughout our stay. The entire team in the dining room made us feel welcome and taken care of. The food was absolutely delicious, and cocktails were terrific. Loved the Eleanora! Breakfasts were amazing — Michale and Francesco went out of their way to accommodate our daughter’s gluten allergy, offering alternatives and one night a gluten free tiramisu. And, Kozetta in housekeeping took good care of us. The team at the Excelsior are all so gracious and professional. We can’t wait to visit again. Thank you for a wonderful vacation.

It was wonderful to return to this stunning hotel, ideally set on the banks of the river Arno, just a 10 minute stroll from the Ponte Vecchio. The hotel is quiet, beautiful and the epitome of 5 star. The beds are sumptuous. We opted for a premium guest room with an Arno view, and felt it was definitely worth the extra cost. My only criticism is that the rooms lack a coffee machine, something that’s quite important to me. Unfortunately the roof top bar was closed on this visit but we have enjoyed that on a previous stay at the hotel. It did however give us the opportunity to try the elegant lobby bar. The gym in the basement has everything you need, and feels reasonably airy for a hotel gym. We would definitely return in the future!

This is the premiere hotel in Florence. Better than any other! Great location, great rooms, fantastic service and staff. Over the past 18 years I have stayed close to 50 times and it never disappoints. Particularly fantastic are the Concierges and the Doormen. Always attentive and extremely welcoming, accomodating. Being in Florence is always Magical and the Excelsior just makes it better! Can’t wait to get back!