FATTORIA DI MALAVOLTA, Florence

The agriturismo sits on the edge of Florence in a calm neighbourhood surrounded by countryside views, yet the bus stop for the city centre is between 300 and 700 metres away - a 10- to 20-minute ride. A taxi from Santa Maria Novella station costs about €20, from the city centre about €10. The location is ideal for travellers who want a peaceful base with parking and easy bus access, though walking all the way downtown takes around 45 minutes. A large supermarket (Esselunga), a bakery, several pizzerias and other local shops are within a short walk, making it easy to self-cater.

Each apartment features a separate entrance, a living room, between one and three bedrooms, and a private bathroom with shower and bidet. Kitchens are fully equipped with a stovetop, refrigerator, dishwasher, kettle and utensils. Rooms feel light, roomy and clean, with a rustic Tuscan flair - plain but high-standard décor, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. The two-bedroom unit suits families of four, while the three-bedroom apartment handles up to six people without a sofa bed (extra single beds are added for children). The largest three-bedroom apartment has no air conditioning but is designed to stay naturally cool. All other apartments are air conditioned. Floor-level options include a ground-floor apartment accessible by wheelchair. The terrace or patio offers garden and countryside views, making the space work well for relaxing after sightseeing.

There is no restaurant or bar at the property, so guests rely entirely on the well-stocked kitchen or local eateries. A very large supermarket (Esselunga) is a short walk away, excellent for groceries. Within 1 km there are two highly regarded pizzerias (Pizzeria Giovanni Santarpia and Il Pipistrello), and several pastry shops (Pasticceria Anita, Fabiani, Ruggini) are within 0.3 to 2 km for breakfast pastries and coffee. A McDonald's is also 1 km away. The garden has barbecue facilities for anyone wanting to cook outdoors.

Wellness facilities are simple: the garden is equipped with sun loungers (beach chairs) and barbecue facilities, providing a relaxing outdoor space for guests to enjoy the Tuscan landscape. The garden is described as spacious and slightly wild, with a lovely spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing. There is no pool, spa or gym on site. The surrounding neighbourhood is quiet and pleasant for walks.

The property offers free Wi-Fi throughout, free private parking on site (no reservation needed, accessible parking available), and a garden with outdoor furniture. Services include early luggage storage on arrival, invoice provision, and a family of brothers (Enrico and Giovanni) who are on-site hosts known for their helpfulness with transport and local tips. The building has key access, security alarms, and smoke detectors. For accessibility: the three-bedroom apartment is fully wheelchair accessible; the other loft apartment has a ground-floor bedroom and bathroom suited for mobility needs. Cots are available on request. Smoking is allowed only in designated areas. The property does not accept pets.