Hotel Review: A long weekend at Ville sull’Arno

When planning my trip to Tuscany, I had one vision in mind: staying in a traditional Tuscan villa with a scenic view, but still close enough to explore the iconic sights of Florence. After sifting through countless hotel recommendations, I stumbled upon Ville Sull’Arno, a five-star boutique hotel that appeared time and again in curated lists. It promised countryside charm, riverside serenity, and city convenience and it absolutely delivered.

First Impressions: A Tranquil Riverside Retreat

Set on the peaceful banks of the River Arno, just a short distance from Florence’s historic centre, Ville Sull’Arno instantly transports you into a calm, elegant world. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the fresh scent of lemon trees and blooming flowers dotted around the beautifully manicured gardens. It felt like stepping into a peaceful Tuscan dream.

Top Feature: The outdoor pool surrounded by sun loungers, tucked into lush gardens, is ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

The Rooms: Individually Designed with Tuscan Flair

With 45 rooms and suites, each one is uniquely styled, blending modern comforts with classic Italian design. We were fortunate to be upgraded to a suite in a separate villa just steps from the main building. Our suite featured:

• A Jacuzzi tub

• A spacious dressing area

• River views

• Air conditioning and fast free Wi-Fi

The interior of our room leaned towards modern luxury, while the main villa offered a more traditional aesthetic with 15th-century features, mahogany furniture, and charming pastel florals.

Good to Know: The main villa houses the reception, bar, restaurant, and spa. The suite buildings are nearby and accessible within a one-minute walk.

Breakfast to Remember: A Feast for the Senses

The breakfast experience at Ville Sull’Arno deserves its own spotlight. Served in a beautifully decorated dining space, the breakfast buffet was easily one of the best I’ve encountered in a European hotel.

️ Highlights included:

• Freshly baked croissants, breads, and pastries

• A generous spread of cheeses, cold meats, and hot options

• Seasonal fruits, cereals, and freshly squeezed juices

• A standout honey station with honey served directly from the comb

• Addictive blood orange juice and daily homemade cakes

The setup was so aesthetically pleasing – think fresh herbs, floral arrangements, and rustic décor that made mornings feel magical.

Facilities: Spa, Pool & Wellness

The SPA & Wellness Centre at Ville Sull’Arno is a true hidden gem. While I didn’t have enough time to indulge in treatments, I did explore the space — and it’s stunning.

‍♀️ Key features:

• Heated indoor Jacuzzi

• Steam bath, Finnish sauna, and relaxation zones

• Treatments using products from Farmacia Santissima Annunziata, one of Florence’s oldest pharmacies

There’s also a compact fitness room with basic equipment for those who like to stay active on holiday.

Exploring Florence: Location & Transport

One of the biggest perks of this villa is its strategic location. It’s just a 30-minute riverside walk to the city centre, giving you the perfect balance of tranquillity and proximity to Florence’s major attractions like:

• Piazza del Duomo

• Uffizi Gallery

• Ponte Vecchio

Travel Tip: We often walked into the city and took a taxi back in the evenings — quick and inexpensive.

The hotel also provides Wi-Fi-enabled mobile devices you can use while exploring the city, which was incredibly helpful given spotty mobile data in some areas.

Hospitality & Extra Touches

The service at Ville Sull’Arno was warm, attentive, and genuinely thoughtful. From personalised recommendations to assistance with taxis and bookings, every member of staff made us feel at home.

There’s a cosy bar and lounge inside the main villa — perfect for a quiet evening drink or a board game night.

Parking is available onsite for those driving through Tuscany.

How to Get There

✈️ Nearest Airports:

• Florence Airport (FLR) – ~25 mins by taxi

• Pisa International Airport (PSA) – ~1hr 15 mins (we took a direct bus to Florence centre, then a taxi)

From Florence city centre: A quick taxi ride or 30-min walk
Driving? GPS to Lungarno C. Colombo, 1/3/5, 50136 Firenze FI, Italy – parking is available

Final Thoughts: The Best of Both Worlds

If you’re looking for a Tuscan villa escape without sacrificing access to the heart of Florence, Ville Sull’Arno is the perfect choice. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, indulging in a honey-laced breakfast, or watching the rowers drift down the Arno at sunset, this boutique hotel offers serenity, style, and substance.

Price Range: From ~€220/night depending on season and room category.
Visit their website for more info