We have been renting from HomeAway since it began back in 2004 and from a similar company for many years before that. We spend each September (and sometimes October as well) somewhere in Europe, always staying in a single location to use as a base. In all that time, in all those places, never have we stayed in a place that delighted us more.
First, the location. The photo you see of the Palacio Salimbeni is taken from the living room window. We love city and there were people and events in the square every day. One day a giant chess board was set up with huge pieces for anyone to use to play a game. Another, actors put on theatrical bits. Always something interesting.
The apartment is centrally located, very near everything. A small grocery with wine, meats and cheeses is next door, and there's a larger one two blocks away. It is an easy walk to the bus station to grab a bus into Florence (a little over an hour away).
But, most of all, best of all, is the apartment itself. It is in a building, the Palazzo Nannini, which has been owned by a single family for generations. This apartment was most recently the home of the grandmother who now lives in the countryside. Her elegant, gracious and playful touch is absolutely everywhere, in every room. The artwork, dish-ware, furnishings, all are enchanting. We were there the entire month of September and we threw the windows open to the air. We had missed the great Palio di Siena horse race which was run before we arrived. But we had the great pleasure of a parade, every Sunday, of the winners marching right past our windows, singing and carrying banners heralding their victory. This year, our contrade (neighborhood) won and it was an amazing celebration.
And, finally, we must mention the fantastic attention we received from Gianluca, a bright, personable, energetic young man who greeted us at the garage on arrival, helped us with our bags to the apartment, made sure everything was perfect, then was available to answer questions and offer suggestions throughout our stay.
If you are able, we highly recommend your experiencing this most unique property.
