If you’re looking for a great city break in Florence and you’re unfazed by such luxuries as room service, an in house restaurant and a 24 hour concierge, then a self catering vacation could be the ideal option. Self catering is a great way to save money if you’re travelling in a group or with the family, as the accommodations are able to offer far greater value for money when they don’t need to provide staff! You’ll have far greater privacy and independence and when you do choose to be waited on and served top quality cuisine and fine wine there’s a multitude of restaurants, trattorias and other eateries on every street in Florence’s town centre.

As for security issues, or the simple peace of mind of having somebody you can contact if you have a problem - well not all self catering accommodations are apartments, where you never see a member of staff from the moment you get the keys. Many accommodations now offer self catering facilities in rooms, suites and small apartments within a larger complex, combining the service of a distant yet present concierge with the freedom of being completely independent. Check out our suggestions below for self catering accommodations in Florence that offer value for money along with peace of mind and security.

Il Pogggio di San Ruffino Hotel
(http://ilpoggiosanruffino.com) Via del Molinaccio Casciana Terme, Lari Pisa 56035
Per le tariffe aggiornate, controllate sul sito.
Self-catering apartments in Tuscany with full kitchen facilities, but guests are also welcome at the resort bistrot for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Resort San Ruffino Hotel
(http://sanruffinoresort.com/) Via di San Lorenzo, 1 San Ruffino, Casciana Terme, Lari, Pisa 56035
Per le tariffe aggiornate, controllate sul sito.
XVIII century castel with self-catering apartments.

Relais Ugolini
(www.relaisugoliniflorence.com) Via Masaccio, 191, 50132
See website for latest rates.
Great little 4 star guest house-cum-self catering accommodation in the northern part of Florence’s small city centre, the Relais Ugolini is family run and provides a warm and homely welcome, with breakfast included. Each suite has a living area sectioned off from the bedroom area, with kitchen facilities and fold out beds for children or extra guests. Bar and lounge area and a back garden with kiddie pool make this an ideal combination of hotel and self catering.

Residence Ricasoli
(www.hotelricasoliflorence.com)
Via Mantellate, 2, 50129
See website for latest rates.
The ‘Residence’ is actually a set of self catering apartments in the city centre. Ideal for larger families or for those who prefer the independence and anonymity that private apartments give. One of the great benefits of staying here is that you can shop for local produce in Florentine markets and cook up your own dishes. It is therefore highly recommended for amateur chefs. Apartment sizes vary studios to two bedrooms with living areas. Book early.

For more accommodations in Florence try www.FlorenceHotelsDirect.com