Villa Camerata Youth Hostel

This was one of the most beautiful hostels I had the pleasure of staying in on my travels. Beside a vinyard, the hostel itself has gorgeous architecture (that it was even noticable sets it apart from most hostels). The smell in the garden - whatever flowers were creating it - is one of the best memories I have. They show free movies in the basement (though the sound quality was bad when I went), and the store doubles as a bar in that you can buy your drinks there and enjoy a leisurely tipple in the garden.

One of my favourite things about this place was that it was a slice of Tuscan countryside. However, some people might find this off-putting as it means you have to catch a bus into town. The buses come quite frequently, though, and are cheap. There is a curfew, as with many hostels, and they separate the men from the women (which I found more common in Italy than in some other countries). If these things bother you, then this is probably not the place for you. However, if you're looking for a nice quiet bit of tranquility at bargain prices, I recommend staying here.

Unique Quality: If I recall correctly, they have laundry facilities here, which, if you're backpacking, is a godsend.

Some hostal or 'Albergos'
but Florence Tuscany at Europa-Villa Camerata
Youth Hostel is a beautiful place to stay.
US$12 Dlls breakfast include

Unique Quality: The Villa containing the hostel dates from the 16th century and is within a huge green park. But that's not all. The garden that surrounds it is a very precious botanical garden containing rare and unusual essences of vegetables, patiently cared for by the elderly owner.

EUROPA - VILLA CAMERATA YOUTH HOSTEL

Viale Augusto Righi 2/4. 50137 FIRENZE. Tel. 055 601451. fax 055 610300
Opening time: 7,00-24,00. Railway station at 5 km. Public transports: bus 17 A-B - 400 m. International airport at 10 km. Bed & breakfast rates: 25.000 lire.
The Villa containing the hostel dates from the 16th century and is within a huge green park. The garden that surrounds it is a very precious botanical garden containing rare and unusual essences of vegetables, patiently cared for by the elderly owner. The hostel offers guests a full calendar of cultural events.
Though is not in the city center, the Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signoria and the other classic Florentine places are all easily reachable by public transit.