Florence is one the world's epic
destinations. Birthplace of the Renaissance and home to enough
artistic treasures to make even the Louvre blush crimson, it's a
must-see on any Italian itinerary. That said, it can also be so
overrun with visitors that it takes a trained artistic eye just
to spot the sights through the crowds. A quiet place to lay your
head here is a necessary balm to the frenzy. Hotel
Lungarno is one of those remedies and, for lovers of art in
fashion form, a well-connected one at that.

Tucked inconspicuously on the
south side of the river Arno, just one block west of the Ponte
Vecchio, Lungarno is a serene retreat from the elbow-jostling
madness of Florence's busy streets. Guests enter the hotel via a
small courtyard and the calming effect is instantaneous. An...