It’s difficult to get any closer to Florence’s massive Duomo than the Hotel Pendini, which is situated on the historic Piazza della Repubblica. The hotel’s location lies in Florence’s original grid, where Romans set up a military camp that today would encompass eight central city blocks. When the city flourished during the Renaissance, the piazza was renovated to serve as the capital of Florence. (The building’s arched entry into the piazza has seen notable arrivals of military figures for generations.) Since 1879, the top floors of the hotel’s building were owned by the Pendini family and have always served as a hotel.

The hotel occupies the third and fourth floors of the building, and its Bellepoque-style gives it a luxurious feel, yet one that still welcomes families. There are 42 rooms available, and families can find family suites that accommodate up to six people — a rarity in Europe. Steps from the doorway, families will find Florence waiting, in all her glory, with the most historic, must-see attractions within blocks of the hotel.

Of the 42 guestrooms at the Hotel Pendini, the Family Suites are the best choice. The suites can accommodate up to six people in two bedrooms. They only provide one bathroom to share, but also come with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV and air conditioning. Other room options include singles, doubles and triples. Unfortunately, bathrooms only provide stand-up showers.

As a city hotel, the Hotel Pendini does not offer more than a comfortable and charming place to rest after a day of sightseeing, but step into the piazza any time of day to enjoy the spoils. A merry-go-round is frequented by the younger kids, who also love the freedom of running around the piazza (this is also why there are many vendors attempting to sell cheap toys that attract a child's attention faster than you can say "no"). The hotel is also blocks away from Florence's main attraction: the Duomo.

A lobby with free Wi-Fi is filled with an array of couches, so families can sit and relax while they make their next plan of action.

The hotel provides a free continental breakfast daily from 7:30 to 10 a.m. The options are limited to pastries, fruits, cereal and yogurt.

All About the Extras
The hotel is located on the third and fourth floors of the building and an elevator is available. However, there are two steps leading up to the elevator platform, providing a literal big bump for strollers, wheelchairs and wheeled luggage.

Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi access can be found throughout the hotel.

Parking
Valet parking is provided through a service. If you park a car, you will need cash for the final payment.

The Art of Smart Timing
Florence is a great place to visit any time of year. It can be hot and humid in July and August and on the cooler side November through March.

Getting There
The hotel is located along the pedestrian Piazza della Repubblica. To get to the hotel, travel along Via Strozzi.

Getting Around
The hotel is a 10-minute walk from the train station and a 20-minute taxi ride from the Florence airport.

For Mom and Dad
The adults can unwind with a cocktail in the foyer until 11 p.m.