I am late in posting this review of Palazzo Cinotti Luxury Living in Siena. I rented this fabulous apartment with a friend of mine for two nights (25-27 October 2014), www.palazzocinotti.it.
We
stayed in the Family Suite, which is located on the fourth floor. There is no
elevator in this old historical palazzo, but Antonio (his family owns the
palazzo and he and Alexandra manage the four apartments) has a neat electric
dolly, which does the moving/heavy work up the flight of stairs.
The apartment: As you walk into the apartment through its heavy wood door, you will find the first bedroom (with twin beds) on the left and a contemporary kitchen on the right. Further down is the living/dining room on the left and second bedroom (queen bed) on the right. At the end of the hallway is the bathroom, which has a few steps down, so make sure you have the lights on.
The
twin bedroom is simply decorated and faces via di Citta. The queen bedroom and
kitchen has views of the cathedral tower. We didn’t really hear any noise at
night.
The living/dining room is spacious and comfortable. There’s a TV but we never used it. There is also complimentary wifi in the apartment, which worked well. There is a small dining table and hutch with dishes and wine glasses.
The
kitchen is long/narrow and has a contemporary look versus the other areas of
the apartment.
The
bathroom was very large with toilet, bidet, sink, and a huge walk in shower
with a ‘rain’ shower head. There’s a window to open in the shower to let out
the steam. I do warn you the shower floor is very slippery when wet, so I would
suggest you bring flip flops. This room also has a washer/drier (never used
them since we were there for just two nights),
The
building is secured. You will receive a key to the outside door and of course,
the apartment. We never felt uncomfortable or unsafe.
Location/Dining/Shopping:
You simply cannot beat the location of the apartment. Just steps away is the
beautiful il Campo, which is always filled with people. The Duomo (one of my
favorites in Italy) is also nearby. Via di Citta has lots of shops for leather
goods, jewelry, souvenirs, etc. My friend and I bought purses a block or so
away.
There
is lots of dining opportunities in Siena to include: Locanda Garibaldi and
Trattoria da Dino. Both are family run and serve excellent Tuscan dishes.
Directions
to the apartment: We flew into Rome (FCO) and drove to Siena via the coast
(E80), passing Civitavecchia and Grosetto, and E78 to Siena, rather than going
via Rome and its beltway. I wanted to avoid the morning traffic near Rome. I
found it to be a pleasant drive and it gave me time to refresh myself with
driving among the speedy Italians.
On
E78 as you near Siena, follow the signs towards Firenze (Florence), and take
exit Siena Sud (south). You will arrive at the Porta Romana Gate. Continue
through the gate and continue on the same street. The name of the street
changes to via Pantaneto, to via Banchi di Sotto and finally to via di Citta,
#122.
You
will need to contact Antonio or Alexandra prior to arrive with the car’s
license plate number if you intend to drive into the city and drop off your
luggage (as well as what time you plan to arrive – it took us close to three
hours, as we made a short stop to pick up lunch along the way). Siena is a
no-driving zone except for residents. They will contact the police and will
give your license plate number so that you do not get a ticket. Once you drop
off your luggage, simply park at the nearby garage.
Antonio and Alexandra are wonderful hosts. If you have any questions about sightseeing, dining recommendations, or anything else, just ask them. If you are new to the area you can make arrangements with their tour company – Country Tours, www.country-tours.com/ for a day out in beautiful Tuscany for great sightseeing and wine tasting.
I would recommend this place in a heartbeat! Fabulous apartment, excellent location, and warm, friendly service from Antonio and Alexandra. Grazie mille!
I will get some photos posted soon.
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