MY FRIENDS, Florence

The hostel sits on a quiet street a five-minute walk from the main train station, giving direct tram connections to the airport and easy rail access to other cities. It is 1 km from Piazza della Signoria and a few steps from the Florence Congress Centre. Most historic attractions-the Duomo, Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio-are within a 10- to 20-minute walk. Numerous restaurants and cafés are within 300 metres. The location is well suited for train travellers and those who prefer to walk rather than rely on taxis or shuttles.

Rooms come in mixed-gender and female-only configurations, with separate buildings for each; female dorms are housed in a quieter, code-secured apartment next door. Beds are single (not bunk beds in many rooms) and are made daily. Each guest has a locker, but space is limited in some rooms-larger lockers are found in the female section. Some rooms offer a balcony. The older building can feel cramped and stuffy in certain rooms, and some dorm rooms lack windows, leading to humidity and occasional odour issues. Road-facing rooms may pick up street noise. Towels and linens are provided and changed daily. The property is more suited to budget-conscious travellers who prioritise location and cleanliness over spacious or modern living areas.

The shared kitchen is the heart of the dining experience, offering pasta, tomato sauce, eggs, bread, jam, cereal, milk, juice, yoghurt, tea, coffee, and sometimes fruit and croissants-at no extra cost. Guests can cook their own pasta, prepare an omelette, or assemble a continental breakfast at any time of day. There is no restaurant or bar on-site. The kitchen is well stocked but can feel crowded at peak times, and its equipment is basic. An outdoor terrace with seating is available in warmer months. Plates, cutlery, pots, and a fridge are provided. For a fuller meal, numerous trattorias are within a short walk.

Wi-Fi is free in all rooms and common areas. Luggage storage is free and can be used before check-in and after check-out, making it easy to explore without bags. Printing is possible on request. The property offers a shared lounge/TV area and an outdoor terrace with furniture. Daily housekeeping includes bed-making and towel changes. A hairdryer is available to borrow. There are no guest laundry machines, but self-service laundromats are within walking distance. The property accepts a wide range of payment cards. Fire extinguishers are installed for safety. No pets, no parking, and no airport shuttle are offered.