A Few Steps From Duomo Cathedral and SMN train station
Principio Apartment is located in Via dell’Alloro, a little street within walking distance from the Duomo (Florence Cathedral) and the historical centre. The Apartment is on the first floor of a classic Florentine building, you can reach it with only 23 wide and easy steps. It is perfect for two people. Principio Apartment has been totally refurbished in July 2016 and is equipped with all the necessary conveniences. Everything is brand new. - In the kitchen/living-room: dishwasher, microwave with grill, italian and american coffeemaker, kettle, induction stove and induction cookware, toaster, Italian coffee machine, bluetooth Speakers with embedded radio to connect your Smartphone/Tablet and play your favorite music. - In the bathroom: a spacious shower for two people, towels, hairdryer. - In the utility room: washing machine, clothes dryer, iron and board. There are many laundromats in the center of Florence, too.
Principio Apartment is provided with high speed WiFi connection reachable from all the rooms in the apartment.
You can find maps of Firenze, guides and brochures of museums and entertainment places. It is a non-smoking apartment.
Via dell’Alloro is a street in the heart of Florence, just a few steps from Piazza del Duomo and walking distance from Santa Maria Novella Train Station. It is the perfect base for a day trip to Siena, Pisa, Lucca, Bologna. Even Rome, Venice and Milan are just a couple of hours away thanks to the high speed train that stops in Santa Maria Novella Train Station, 2 steps from the apartment.
Within walking distance from the apartment you can find all the major sites and squares: Uffizi Gallery, Accademy Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, Giotto’s bell tower, Piazza della Signoria, Piazza Santo Spirito, Piazza Santa Croce, San Lorenzo Old Central Market, and others places. Two steps from home, you can visit magnificent shops: Officina del Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, the Richard Ginori shop, a porcelain brand renowned all over the world, and walk the very same streets as the most important Renaissance artists: Dante, Leonardo da Vinci, Brunelleschi, Giotto, Michelangelo..
And don’t pass up a visit to the church of San Miniato al Monte and the breathtaking views from Piazzale Michelangelo! You can begin your “climb” at Piazza Ferrucci
Nearby Principio you can find plenty of food stores, gelaterias, bakeries, and other shops where you can buy all the delicacies you need for a delicious dinner at home. Or if you prefer, you can take a stroll to one of the many typical Tuscan or international restaurants nearby. Plus, there are so many terrace bars with a view where you can grab a cocktail before dinner that you won’t know which one to choose... you will love them all and we'll be happy to show them to you at your arrival.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
CHECK-IN: 1pm until 5pm. Early check-in is often possible, please ask for it.
-The apt green key is a code key. In case of loss 40€ are due from you.
--When you leave the apt turn off the light and AC
-Animals aren't allowed.
-The city tax is due in cash at the check-in.
-For booking longer than one week, a cleaner will come to clean the apt
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number IT048017C21WHIE32G
Property # 896240vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts cash
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
About the area
Florence
Located in Historic Centre of Florence, a neighbourhood in Florence, this apartment is in a rural area. Uffizi Gallery and Pitti Palace are cultural highlights, and some of the area's notable landmarks include Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Ponte Vecchio. Torrigiani Garden and Florence Botanical Gardens are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and cycling.
Piazza di Santa Maria Novella - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Basilica of Santa Maria Novella - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Central Market - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
Piazza del Duomo - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
Getting around
Unità Tram Stop - 3 min walk
Florence (ZMS-Santa Maria Novella Train Station) - 6 min walk
Peretola Airport (FLR) - 26 min drive
Restaurants
Starbucks - 4 min walk
Antica Sosta degli Aldobrandi - 2 min walk
Lorenzo de'Medici - 2 min walk
Alibi Craft Beer & Kitchen - 2 min walk
Osteria Cipolla Rossa - 2 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is A Few Steps From Duomo Cathedral and SMN train station pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at A Few Steps From Duomo Cathedral and SMN train station?
As of 14 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at A Few Steps From Duomo Cathedral and SMN train station on 31 July 2026 start from AU$549, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at A Few Steps From Duomo Cathedral and SMN train station?
This property doesn't offer parking.
What time is check-in at A Few Steps From Duomo Cathedral and SMN train station?
Check-in begins at 1:00 PM.
What time is check-out at A Few Steps From Duomo Cathedral and SMN train station?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is A Few Steps From Duomo Cathedral and SMN train station located?
Located in Historic Centre of Florence, this apartment building is within a 5-minute walk of Medici Chapels, Piazza di Santa Maria Novella and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Ponte Vecchio and Piazza del Duomo are also within 10 minutes. Unità Tram Stop is only a 3-minute walk and Valfonda - Stazione Santa Maria Novella Tram Stop is 6 minutes.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
As advertised. Very good location between Duomo and San Lorenzo. A bit noisy with renovations nearby but all of Florence is under construction it seems. Lucia was very good, don’t hesitate to ask for anything.
James F.
Stayed 13 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 11 May 2026
James thank you very much for your review. I really hope you will always have a fond memories of Firenze. Take care, Lucia
This is a superb rental property in the heart of Florence, one block away from San Lorenzo and two blocks away from the Duomo. The living room is spacious with a well equipped kitchenette. Both, the bathroom and the bedroom are large for european standards. Lucia is a great host. She checked with us frequently to ensure that our stay was pleasant. She booked us with a fantastic wine tasting experience at Poimbaia winery in Montalcino( highly recommended). We couldn't be happier and would definitively recommend this rental property. The paid parking garage is just around the corner as well as a supermarket and a number of fantastic restaurants.
Piotr K.
Stayed 14 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Apr 2026
Thank you very much for your review, I'm so glad that you enjoyed your stay. It was a pleasure meeting you and suggesting some places I personally love, which I felt you shouldn't miss given your interests. I'm glad you appreciated them. All the best, Lucia
Location of Lucia’s comfortable spacious apartment made our week long vacation to Florence most memorable. Large variety of great restaurants and shopping in close proximity. Lucia was quick to respond and kept in contact during our stay to ensure we were having a good time. Comfortable bed & pillows, quality linens, large shower great water pressure and fast efficient WiFi.
Mary S.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Feb 2026
Thank you very much for your review, I'm glad that you enjoyed your stay. Best, Lucia
Contact and check in from Lucia was easy and well supported. The apartment was very clean and well stocked for a short stay. The bed was really comfortable. Excellent location. Thank you for a lovely stay.
The apartment was very comfortable and clean. The host was kind and responded quickly. Location to the all the main spots was perfect and easy to get to by walking.
Crystal C.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Oct 2025
Thank you for reviewing my apt, I'm glad you liked it and that you found it comfortable. Lucia
We loved this apartment! It was conveniently located and had everything we could need. The hosts were very helpful and prompt for getting back to us with any questions we had. They had a great book of info. We would definitely stay here again.
Kim H.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Apr 2025
Kim thank you very much for your review and visit. I will be happy to host you again! Best, Lucia
We had a great time staying at this place. It was mostly quiet and centrally located in historic downtown. Easy walking to most places. We had everything we needed and Lucia does a great job coordinating check in and out. Lots of tourist resources and books in apartment. Lucia will also provide recommendations and help you with anything you may need-she was always checking in on us. Easily stay here again!!
Verified traveller
Stayed 6 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 May 2025
Dwayne thank you very much for your review! I' m glad that you enjoyed your stay, thank you for choosing my apartment. Best, Lucia
What a perfectly located apartment in Florence. We have been many times to Florence, staying in hotels and apartments but this tops them all! The large shower and bathroom was awesome and the A/C was phenomenal and an unexpected delight!Everything anyone would need is right here. A few nights we had wine and fresh pasta, from the nearby local grocery, and enjoyed dinner in our "home away from home".Our flight was delayed by hours and we stayed in touch with Lucia, who was waiting at the apartment when we finally arrived.Lucia and Walter were always available whenever we had a question or needed assistance. They were very very easy to communicate with before and during our 6 day stay. What a great place for enjoying Florence!Thank you Lucia!!
M Linda W.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Sept 2025
Thank you for your wonderful review : )
I’m so glad you had a pleasant stay, that you particularly enjoyed our apartment, and that you felt at home! You will always be welcome whenever you wish to come back. Lucia
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Allison S.
28 Mar 2018
great apartment and location!
great apartment and location!
Allison S.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2020
Thanks Allison, very glad that you liked and enjoied the apartment and the location, Lucia
The apartment is in a great location. All the main attractions are within walking distance and it is close to the train making day trips outside of Florence easy.
Katie G.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Apr 2024
Katie thank you very much for your review! Hope to host you again, Lucia
Lucia was a great host. The property is in the perfect location to everything one could want to see in Florence. Also as a solo traveler, this felt very safe and secure which is important. I can’t wait to come back. Grazie mille Lucia!!!
Karina R.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Mar 2025
Grazie mille to you Karina! So happy you enjoyed your stay and my apartment. Hope to host you again! Lucia
Great location close to the train. We loved being able to open the windows during the day to let the light and fresh air in. It was nice to close the shutters at night too. Lots of great coffee bars and restaurants within a block or two. We also enjoyed the big shower. Lucia was a great host and we appreciate the good communication!
Haley H.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Mar 2025
Haley thank so much for your review! I'm very glad that you appreciated certain comforts of the apartment. Hope to host you again, ciao Lucia
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Vanessa
12 Aug 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
We loved our stay at this beautiful apartment. The location is perfect as well. We are thankful for the wonderful hospitality and gift of cookies from Lucia. We would recommend it to our family and friends.
This apartment was cozy, comfortable and so clean. It really is steps from the Duomo,v so convenient to everything. We were so comfortable there. Lucia was a great host - very helpful and responsive. Would definitely stay there again.
libby r.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Oct 2024
Libby thank you very much for your review, I 'm so glad you enjoyed your stay and my apartment. Should you visit Florence again, i' d love to welcome you back! Lucia
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Marc R.
15 Apr 2017
Nice one bedroom, well located
Clean, well situated, nice owners, nice bathroom, comfortable bed and pillows in a safe area, near the train station and El Duomo.
Marc R.
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2020
Dear Marc, thank you for your kind review, it will be useful for our guests. Hope to host you again! Lucia
Location, location, location! This was a perfect flat for our 4 night stay. Plenty of space and well appointed. We were grateful to have a washer and dryer (and not in a combined unit). Our only concern was that the entrance was in an alley and not on a main street. The host was gracious, helpful, and communicated thoroughly - a really lovely person!
Kevin S.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 May 2025
Thank you so much Kevin for your review : ) It was a pleasure meeting and hosting you ! Lucia
Stayed 3 nights during a very hot spell. It was our first time in Florence and the apartment is within walking distance for everything we had time for in that period (Duomo Plaza, Pitti Palace & Boboli Garden, Academia, Michelangelo Plaza at night, lunches and dinner all around town, and even a 9-mile hike up into the hills. The apartment was a welcoming respite from the extreme heat and allowed us to recharge before evening activities. We had everything we needed at the apartment and Lucia checked in to make sure we were all set. Definitely recommend for a single or couple.
Mickey H.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2025
Mickey thank you very much for your review. It was a pleasure to know that you enjoyed your stay. Thanks for choosing my apt , Lucia
About the host
Hosted by Lucia Poggiali
I'm Lucy, full time host, and owner, for Principio and Regina Apartments, in the same building. Organizer for my guests of private daily tour to the Chianti countryside with lunch and wine taste in wonderful wineries. Or Touts to Lucca and Pisa or where you prefer go. I provide also tourist guide for an walking tour of Firenze or for a walking tour to Uffizi and Galleria. She will take care to reserve the tickets for you. I love to take care of our guests by showing them Florence's particular locations frequented by Florentine. To be present at their arrival and departure, to host people from every part of the world is for me a big pleasure. My greatest satisfactions is to know their fully satisfaction and desire to come back here.
Why they chose this property
We traveled a lot (and still do!), for business reasons and for leisure, and we really like to get in touch with people coming from other cultures. That's how we came out with the idea of buying Principio apartment. "Principio" means "beginning", and we hope that it will be the beginning of your wonderful stay here in Italy, and at the same time, a very good beginning of our activity.
What makes this property unique
Principio is in the perfect location both for visiting Florence and for travelling around It. Via dell'Alloro is a very quiet street. The apartment is at the first floor of an ancient Florentine building and you can reach it with only 20 stairs. It is a lovely apartment with all the amenities, furnished with the typical Italian taste. I also organize PRIVATE DAILY-TOURS TO THE TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE WITH WINE TASTING: Duration about 9/10 houres. A private driver will be available for you for movements from a place to another. - Visit of the medieval town of Siena, famous for the Palio horse race taht taks place in the particurar square Piazza del Campo. -Visit to the Monteriggioni fortress Afterwards you will travelling to one of the beautiful wine estate to enjoy a wine cellar tour , a lunch or snack and wine tasting while sitting surrounded by vinegards. Possibility of buying or booking wine, oil, balsamic vinegar from the estate at advantageous prices -Visit to San Gimignano, the Unesco World Heritage Site, famous for its 14 towers and its artisan shops. Return to Florence, stopping to take some pictures on the road surrounded by hills. I arrange also daily tour to Lucca and Pisa, or everywhere you will prefere to visit. A professional tourist guide is at your disposal for a walking tour of Firenze or to accompany you to the museums, booking for you the entrance tickets.
Languages:
English, Italian
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests