Hotel Calimala is a luxurious boutique 38-room hotel in Florence’s bustling Centro Storico neighborhood.
Mirror view of Room 312
After almost a year since our last trip to Porto visiting Exmo Hotel and Duas Portas, we were able to hop on a plane and get to slowly discover the world again. Over the last days of June, we were headed to the ever bellissima city of Florence. There, we had an intense schedule filled with new projects and a little bit of pasta in between. It wasn’t the first time we had visited this stunning part of Italy, but we got to experience it in a very different way. In fact, Hotel Calimala gave us a new approach to the city and let us live it from its very heart.
Hotel Calimala is a luxurious boutique 38-room hotel in Florence’s bustling Centro Storico neighborhood that was opened back in 2019, after a big renovation directed by celebrated architect, Alex Meitlis. The aim was to preserve the essence of the city and the original Palazzo degli Angeli that houses the hotel now. Meitlis’ team made sure the building shone in all its splendor – ‘sgrafitto’ motifs included. Arriving at Via Calimala 2, the ever helpful staff of the hotel explained all their amenities and the history of the hotel.
Stone walls and cozy sheets
A tribute to Battistero di San Giovanni
As art lovers, we really appreciated the modern art focus the hotel had. In fact, we were very impressed with their curated (and tasteful) selection of pieces that were displayed both inside the rooms and on the walls of the hallways. Mosh Cashi was carefully lit by the stairs and our bedroom’s door was guarded by a big Tzachi Nevo’s eye mask. It felt delightful to be surrounded by so much creativity.
When it comes to the interior design choices of Calimala, there’s a vivid contrast between the immaculate renovated classic facade of the 16th Century building and an overall contemporary design both in furnishing and fabrics. Meitlis also designed every furnishing piece from coffee tables to lighting fixtures, so the hotel had an unique style and personality. However, the modern elements don’t distract from the main features of the inner spaces such as the high ceilings, the thick stone walls and all the noble materials like velvet and marble.
The exquisite views from the bathroom
Bustling streets of Firenze at 8 am
Loads of natural light coming in.
Room 312 was our headquarter for three nights and we couldn’t help but smile the first time we entered. Bright colours popped from the lounge chair and our headboard; two picture windows let all the beautiful natural light in. Firenze was boiling just a few metres aways and the traditional market stalls were being set for a new day.
The bathroom featured a generous and beautifully designed walk-in shower all covered in white, black and green terrazzo tiles that resembled the iconic Battistero di San Giovanni. Although we were hypnotized by the sweeping views and our king-size bed was also very tempting, we rushed to get all the work done just in time for a Prosecco at their rooftop bar.
Noelia Blass discovering the art corners of Hotel Calimala
Hotel Calimala from the 4th floor
On our way to the rooftop, we discovered one of the absolute gems of the hotel. We had never seen private cinemas set on lounge areas, but there’s a first time for everything. ‘The artist’ or ‘Nights of Cabiria’ were playing just a few steps from our room. What else?
However, when you step into their Angel Rooftop you understand why everybody in the city talks about it. Every morning, we were fortunate enough to have our breakfasts with stunning views of the Tuscan skyline, the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio and pretty much every main attraction of the city. Breakfasts were carefully served in separate boxes following strict measurements and included croissants, scones, cheese, jam, and of course, cappuccino.
Our favorite table at Angel Rooftop
‘The Artist’ playing next to room 312
Centro Storico from the heights
Views to Duomo
Just in time for the aperitivo, Angel Rooftop’s indoor and outdoor bar welcomes internationals and Florentines for a glass of wine. The experience of enjoying a Prosecco while overlooking the floral garden mixed up with the golden light that was hitting the buildings around is something to cherish after this (surreal?) year.
Overall we loved our stay at Hotel Calimala and would certainly return when we meet Florence again. Staff throughout the property were incredibly kind -with a special mention to Danielle, who guided and helped us every time. We can definitely recommend this hotel if you’re looking for a property that’s excellent located, but also provides the customer a remarkable experience. Special recommendation goes to those who are passionate about contemporary art and beautiful interior design. Grazie e a presto, Calimala!
Cappuccino and some news catch up
Tuscan hills
Golden hour at Angel Rooftop
Disclaimer: The hotel stay at ‘Hotel Calimala’ is a gifted invitation. Opinions and reviews are completely reserved to editors’ real experience.