Hotel Review: The Westin Excelsior Florence
Location
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Florence, the Westin Excelsior Florence boasts an idyllic location for indulgent travellers seeking to uncover the city’s timeless charm. With the magnificent Duomos a mere 10-minute stroll away, and the picturesque Arno river just steps from the hotel’s doors, this luxurious haven provides an unparalleled gateway to the city’s enchanting wonders. If that isn’t enough to convince you that the hotel’s location is perfect, the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge lies within easy reach, adding a touch of allure to the hotel’s already captivating surroundings.
Rooms
The 171 rooms exude an understated elegance, boasting a refined aesthetic with a harmonious blend of taupe, grey and white tones. The seamless combination of these hues creates a subtly sleek ambiance throughout the space, providing a contemporary charm to the otherwise traditionally styled room amongst the historic building.
During our stay, we opted for the deluxe room river view, which offered magnificent views of the glistening Arno River, providing the perfect way to wake up every morning. The room itself embraced us with an invitingly plush king-size bed equipped with our pillow preference which they made sure to know prior to arrival, providing the perfect recipe to tempt us to surrender to a restful slumber. The beige and dusty pink tones of the marble bathroom welcomes you with a fittingly elegant bathtub. While it was undeniably pristine, its traditional style didn’t quite align with my personal taste as I tend to prefer more neutral toned bathrooms with separate showers and bathtubs, a touch of modern convenience that was missing here. Nonetheless, it is essential to acknowledge that the bathroom’s traditional design complemented the overall charm of the historic building. Any attempt to infuse a more modern look could risk disrupting the cohesive ambiance of the hotel. The blend of traditional and classic elements lent a certain timeless allure to the space, which some guests may appreciate.
Finally, the generously spacious room was thoughtfully stocked with all the essential amenities, and as if that wasn’t enough, a small treat awaited us during the turn-down service every evening, adding a touch of sweetness to our experience. Indulging in the lavish embrace of these rooms will transport you to a realm fit for A-list celebrities, assuring you that they will exceed your expectations.
Dining
Breakfast
With a strong belief in the importance of a good breakfast, I was pleased to find that the hotel offered a variety of options to cater to different tastes. There was an abundant spread of classic continental delights, from fresh pastries to an array of cheeses and meats, but if that wasn’t to your taste, the a la carte menu boasted a variety of options, including a range of egg dishes. For those seeking a healthier start to the day, the hotel didn’t disappoint. A healthy breakfast option was available, providing a selection of nutritious choices to satisfy health-conscious guests. Additionally, the wide variety of fresh juices and smoothies offered a refreshing and invigorating way to accompany the meal.
Of course, as any breakfast connoisseur knows, coffee plays a vital role in the morning routine. At the Westin Excelsior, the Italian reputation for outstanding coffee was upheld with perfection. The carefully brewed coffee offered the perfect blend, ensuring a satisfying and authentic experience.
Rooftop Bar
The real showstopper at the Westin Excelsior is undoubtedly the rooftop bar. From its elevated vantage point, guests can indulge in sweeping views of Florence while enjoying the refreshing taste of a well-crafted Aperol Spritz. Escaping the scorching afternoon heat becomes an effortless pleasure as you find respite here, with a cold drink in hand to cool you down.
In addition to the fantastic drinks, the rooftop bar also offers a selection of small bites, including nuts and olives, perfectly complementing your chosen beverages. For those feeling a bit more peckish, a bar menu is readily available, catering to various appetites and preferences.
Service at the rooftop bar is attentive yet unintrusive, ensuring that you can fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery and the company you keep. The ambiance is relaxed and inviting, inviting you to linger and enjoy the moment.
In a Nutshell…
The Westin Excelsior in Florence offers a perfect blend of historical charm, an ideal location, and inviting rooms, making it an excellent option for travellers seeking a luxurious yet unpretentious experience in the heart of the city. Though it may lack some of the lavish facilities commonly associated with five-star hotels, such as a swimming pool, large gym, and spa, the Westin Excelsior makes up for it with the city’s attractions just steps away.
Ultimately, the Westin Excelsior in Florence strikes a perfect balance between luxury and practicality, offering a sophisticated haven for those who wish to immerse themselves fully in the captivating charm of this historic Italian city.
If you want to book this hotel, visit LaTrouvaille or send me an email.
5 responses to “Hotel Review: The Westin Excelsior Florence”
This looks like an absolutely stunning hotel and I will make sure to add it to my bucket list!
My husband and I love Florence. While we didnt’ stay at this hotel, we did stay close to the Duomo and found it amazing to stroll through the streets.
Great review, can’t wait to book a trip one day!
I was just on a European cruise that included Florence. Can’t wait to go back for a hotel/air trip.
Great post!