Residence Hilda, Florence
The deal: €225 ($284) for a standard suite in July; €190 in August
The hood: Three blocks from the Duomo and a two-minute walk to the Accademia Gallery, the site of Michelangelo's David.
What you'll get: A pristine apartment in one of the most desirable locations on earth. All rooms here are suites, with a bedroom, separate living area, and fully equipped kitchen. The decor is spare and modern—the better to contrast with your ornate Renaissance surroundings, we suppose—done up in shades of white with blond wood floors and upscale fittings (Carrara marble, Frette robes). Smaller apartments are adequate for two, but the larger ones will have you befriending locals so you can invite them up. If that happens, know that groceries and wine can be ordered in.
Near and not so dear: Acquacotta will serve you a Tuscan-style dinner for about €30, including its eponymous signature soup—a mix of egg yolk, spinach, Parmesan, and porcini mushrooms. Red checkered tablecloths confirm the traditional ambience.

Residence Hilda
40 Via dei Servi
Tel: 39 055 288 021
Fax: 39 055 287 664
Email: info@residencehilda.com

Acquacotta
51r Via dei Pilastri
Tel: 39 055 242 907