Lights, camera, check-in. Fun, flamboyant and dressed with finesse – when it comes to a central Florence hotel with a modern touch, look no further than Hotel Calimala, says editor Sophie Ritchie
Built for the explorer who wants to drop their bags and head straight to the next itinerary pitstop, Hotel Calimala is a 4-star boutique hotel divided into two buildings – Calimala The East and Calimala The West, the latter of which opened to guests in late 2023 with 65 brand-new rooms.
Located in Florence’s trendy Centro Storico neighbourhood, the properties are so close they’re practically neighbours – located just mere steps apart in the heart of Firenze’s buzzing centre.
Fear not if you’re staying in East or West – all guests are granted access to the other building’s facilities, including the option to breakfast until one’s stomach gives up at both properties’ restaurants. Keep your comfy clothes at the ready, there’s little chance of going hungry here.
I stay in the original Calimala The East, which sits on Via Calimala 2, occupying an entire block between Via dei Lamberti and Via Porta Rossa in the spectacular Palazzo degli Angeli.
Housed in a landmark 19th-century building with a design courtesy of acclaimed architect Alex Meitlis, the 35 rooms and suites are fairly petite in size but gorgeous – kitted out with intricate details and a mix of velvet, brass and marble textures that will leave you drooling.
Featuring modern interiors with a classical foundation, I reside in a Superior Room – a snug but incredibly stylish abode kitted out with an eye-catching butterscotch yellow bed, unique artwork, high ceilings and exposed brick walls.
The tall window overlooks the bustling street below, but my favourite view actually comes from behind another door – the immaculately glamorous bathroom, which I would happily move into given half the chance. Decked out with impressive zigzag marble, full-sized lavish toiletries and a powerful walk-in shower, getting ready for the day has never felt so glam.
Inspired by the rich cultural traditions of the city, the ambience of Hotel Calimala’s cleverly-designed spaces will leave you feeling you’ve stepped into your own swanky film scene. Small details complete the in-room experience – a Nespresso machine (offering espresso-sized capsules in true Italian fashion), closet space, handy desk and complimentary water provide all the essentials required for a chic Firenze base.
The Food & Drink
The original hotel building is also home to ANGEL Roofbar & Dining, the hotel’s experiential rooftop destination which occupies the fifth, sixth & seventh floors of the building. In summer months, I imagine it’s absolutely heaving – the beautiful venue consists of a rooftop patio, floral garden and breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks. Tick, tick and tick.
A place to see and be seen, think seasonal Southern-Mediterranean cuisine with a delicious mix of pasta, fish, vegetarian and meat dishes. Ideal for sharing, order up a storm and relax within the swish interiors – the friendly staff are all too happy to let you linger for as long as you wish. The diverse cocktail menu is also worth trying, especially when accompanied with one of the best views in the city.
It’s within these glass walls that breakfast is also served each morning, presented as a buffet of fresh breads, pastries, yoghurts, meats and a few hot items. It’s a varied and sumptuous spread, but if you prefer your meals ordered via menu then head over to Calimala The West’s ground floor restaurant instead for something modern and mouth-watering.
A number of a la carte options await to be devoured across the street, with the traditional avocado toast and porridge options thrown out of the window in favour of a more unique array of breakfast sandwiches. If you’re partial to a little gluttony on holiday, you’ll also love that there’s no limit on choice or quantity at either dining venue.
Things To Try
1 The basement gym at Calimala East features a small selection of machines and equipment to help burn off the gelato – plus there’s also handy towels and complimentary water bottles for working up a sweat.
2 Make the most of the hotel’s incredible location and go shopping at the nearby Big Names – there’s practically more designer brands than tourists lining the streets here.
3 Being located in the city centre means a number of world-class attractions are just a short Google Map journey away. The Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and Giotto’s Bell Tower can all be found on-foot from this central stay.
The Wordrobe Verdict
Lights, camera, check-in. Fun, flamboyant and dressed with finesse – when it comes to a central Florence hotel with a modern touch, look no further than Hotel Calimala. A boutique property that simply brims with contemporary glamour, pack your gladrags and get ready for your main character moment at this flamboyant Firenze stay.
Make it happen
Wallet: Rates start from €300 EUR (currently approx. $327 USD / £258 GBP) per night on a B&B basis.
How: For more information on Hotel Calimala and to make a booking, please visit hotelcalimala.com.
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
