Piccolo Hotel Firenze in Florence

I’m leaving this review because I believe travelers deserve transparency. What we experienced during our stay was far from what was advertised, and I hope this helps others make an informed decision.

This was easily one of the most frustrating and disappointing hotel stays I’ve had. What seemed like a simple, affordable option ended up being a confusing, uncomfortable, and stressful experience from start to finish.

Let’s start with the basics:

The temperature in the room was a constant battle. One night the heat was unbearable, and the next it was freezing cold. Unfortunately, the inconsistency led to a family member falling ill.

Hot water was a persistent issue. There’s a posted message claiming it takes a few minutes to arrive—but we never had anything but cold showers.

Wi-Fi access was another letdown. It was unreliable and frequently dropped out, which made even basic communication a challenge.

Room cleanliness and maintenance left a lot to be desired. The furniture was worn out, the bed was uncomfortable, and there was noticeable mold in the bathroom, particularly around fixtures. Although we were told daily housekeeping was included, no one ever came.

Guest services were practically non-existent. Despite assurances that help would always be available, reception was rarely staffed, and messages—whether by phone, email, or WhatsApp—went unanswered.

Facility access felt unnecessarily restrictive. After 5 PM, we couldn’t use the kitchen or even get a cup of coffee. There were signs everywhere emphasizing rules and monitoring, which made the environment feel unwelcoming.

Unexpected charges were a constant theme. After we booked, we received a stream of messages about extra fees and last-minute demands for payment. What initially looked like a good deal ended up costing much more than anticipated.

Checking in late involved being sent to a different location to meet someone in person, who then requested more money in cash. After that, we had trouble accessing the actual hotel—struggling with a malfunctioning front door while standing outside in the dark.

All in all, the biggest issue wasn’t just the building or the systems—it was the way guests are treated. There was a noticeable lack of warmth, support, and basic hospitality.

Bottom line: If you’re traveling with family or just want a hassle-free stay, I’d recommend looking elsewhere. This hotel created more stress than comfort, and it’s not a place I’d return to or suggest to others.