B&B Palazzo Tortoli

Recent Reviews: 15

• User:SparkSense

  Trip type: Couples

  A Super Honest Review

  07 Jun 2023

  A Super Honest ReviewI feel compelled to address the earlier low ratings given to this B&B by some travelers. It's important to note that the owner clearly explained on their website and confirmation email that this is not a hotel, so adjusting your expectations is necessary. In my opinion, this place deserves more credit for what it is, and I completely disagree with the claims that it's a scam. Here's a little advice: you're staying in a 700+ year-old structure, likely older than many discovered countries. Therefore, it's unrealistic to expect modern amenities like elevators or top-of-the-line facilities. However, you'll be fortunate enough to have good water pressure and hot water. Keep in mind that this is a UNESCO World Heritage building, and there are limitations on what can be changed or modified in such structures. Some guests mentioned noise, but when booking this place, I'm sure you did your due diligence to check its location. A quick Google search would reveal that it's in the center of town, and as is the case with any place, big or small, the town center is always bustling. If your room faces the town, you might naturally hear some crowd noise. On the other hand, you can also embrace the medieval charm by opening your Italian-style window and observing passers-by, tourists, and the exciting activities in the plaza. If you prefer a quieter room, I recommend requesting one facing the Tuscan hills. Both views are wonderful.During our four-day stay, we had a fantastic experience that aligned with our expectations. We didn't anticipate a hotel-like ambiance; rather, we were seeking an authentic Tuscan experience in a medieval house that has stood for nearly a millennium. We were delighted to find high ceilings, simple yet comfortable rooms with large windows, and beautiful external architecture—all of which we desired.The check-in process was enjoyable as we got to see the other farm property, a 20-minute walk from the main door of the old town. If you're looking for a farm-like setting with olive trees and a hilltop view of the old town, take advantage of this opportunity and visit the farm. You can even use their swimming pool.The place also offers a simple breakfast. Again, it's important not to have overly high expectations for breakfast. If you're seeking a substantial meal, I recommend going out and paying around 30+ euros at a proper restaurant. The breakfast provided consists of decent coffee, bread, cereals, and torte. Anastasia, the lady in charge of breakfast and cleaning, is delightful. She's friendly and always willing to help. Although she doesn't speak much English, it wasn't an issue as our Italian wasn't much better. We used Google Translate for more complex requests, and it worked out fine. It's all part of the experience. Anastasia's constant smile and attentiveness made us appreciate her even more.On different days, we explored San Gimignano and neighboring villages. We also took a drive to Colle di Val Elsa, Volterra, Monteriggioni, and Siena. Additionally, we enjoyed biking around the vast Tuscan farms, hills, and villages, which was a great experience.Overall, our stay was wonderful, and it saddens me to see other guests being harsh in their comments about this place. It's essential to remember that this is a family-owned establishment, not a five-star hotel. We should support independent, family-owned businesses more and adjust our mindset when visiting another country, town, or village. Remember, you're paying a modest price for a hidden gem, and if you desire a five-star hotel experience, you can always pay three times more in neighboring towns or cities.

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• User:Jeffrey F

  Trip type:

  Better places with better management

  01 Nov 2019

  Unfortunately, our high hopes were met with disappointment. The unit managers were hard to contact. When we finally heard from them, they informed us that our reservation through Airbnb was somehow cancelled and that we would be charged a 50% fee, even though we decided to stay and pay for a full night fare. The room itself is uncomfortable and hard to access with heavy luggage. There was no apparent control for the temperature so we had to keep the widows open which meant we heard every sound from the always busy square. Parking is 4-5 blocks away.I suggest other places in this beautiful town.

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• User:amanda673

  Trip type:

  Lovely homebase

  18 Oct 2019

  We absolutely loved our stay at Palazzo Tortoli, part of a group of B&Bs owned by Andrea, Francesco and Carla. We were immediately welcomed into the fold when we walked down from San Gimignano to their farmhouse to check in. While unexpected, this walk down gave us one of our most treasured views of the hilltop from below (and our host drove us back to our car to retrieve luggage, and right up to our door to checkin). But first, we were lucky enough to arrive at the farm as they bottled their vin santo - and enjoyed vin santo and biscotti with the family and another couple staying at the farm. Arriving at the Palazzo itself, we were blown away when shown our room: The views of the Tuscan valley from our room was just stunning -- glorious views of the sunrise each morning! As we added additional nights after arrival, we switched rooms our last night to overlook the Piazza della Cisterna -- and we enjoyed this room just a much! Antonella provided a delicious breakfast of baked goods, yogurts, fruits and cappuccino. We found our stay to feel very authentic and charming, we felt like guests in a home, rather than patrons of a hotel.

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• User:paulandc0

  Trip type: Family

  Nice but a bit disappointed.

  01 Nov 2016

  We paid for a room with a premium price (125 Euros in October) on the understanding that we had a view of Tuscany. Unfortunately the view is only from the upper floor..... and the Manager told us we should have known! This being said, staying in a Palazzo has its charms and breakfast + WiFi were OK. We just had to wake up early to catch the sunrise from the City walls. Parking is free in some places and 2 excellent Trattorias very nearby.

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• User:Kendy S

  Trip type: Couples

  Great location!

  06 Jun 2011

  We stayed in the Il Focalare room. Exactly like the photos on the web site. The Palazzo is facing Cisterna Square, a great location! The room was clean, bright, spacious and very affordable. Francesco picked us up at the car park & drove us to the square. We enjoyed our stay in San Gimignano.