Velona's Jungle Luxury Suites
Via Montebello, 86, Florence, Tuscany 50123, Italy
Why We Like It
A lot of places claim they’ll make you feel like home, but Velona’s Jungle lives this mantra as each guest is truly treated like a family member. It helps that there are only four rooms, and that allows Veronica to give each guest personalized service that’s hard to find elsewhere. Rooms are stylish and modern and spacious, and the free minibar is a nice touch. The place is a bit far from the center of town, but it’s manageable and the warmth of the B&B makes coming back worth the trek. If you like being a bit off the beaten path and really love the familial feel of a small B&B, then you’ll love it here.
Fodor's Expert Review
Quirky, cute, sweet, petite, are many ways to describe this adorable B&B on the outskirts of the city center. This jungle-themed boutique is run by the affable Veronica who has transformed her family’s old house into one of the most stylish stays in town. It's a design-lovers dream that was featured in Architectural Digest (quite an accomplishment with only four rooms) and has a heavy focus on sustainable living, organic eating, and warm and friendly hospitality.
Recommended Fodor’s Video
Room
There are four different rooms named after famed explorers and naturists: David Livingstone, Dian Fossey, Charles Darwin, and Gerald Durrell. Each are individually designed with small touches that represent the rooms’ namesake. You’ll find animal prints, jungle themes, and more in these spacious spaces. All rooms have complimentary mini bars, kettles for tea or coffee, flat screen TVs, and super comfy beds.
Tip The Durrell suite and the Livingstone suite are the only two with a balcony.
Bathroom
We’d argue the rain showers with wood slats are the best in Florence (yes, better than the 5-star hotels). Beyond that are bidets, raised sinks, and fully organic bath products by Laboratori Hur.
Lobby
The lobby is a living room space featuring marble floors, foliage wall paper, cheetah print chairs, an uber comfy blue couch, and antique furniture. It’s the perfect setting for reading in the afternoon with Veronica’s perfectly blended coffee.
Tip Pet lovers are more than welcome at Velona’s Jungle and Veronica will provide them with food, water, and bedding – no matter the size!
Dining
Breakfast is included and is a fully organic and vegan feast with fresh-made pastries, croissants, and locally sourced jams, fruit, smoothies, and more.
What's Nearby
Getting Around
While Florence is small, and most attractions are walkable from the B&B, it’s a bit of a hike as the hotel is on the far west side of the city center. One option is to hop on the tram just outside the property and take it to the main train station. From there, most major attractions are five minutes away.
Restaurants
Just around the corner from the hotel is Trattoria Baldini (2-minute walk) which has excellent pastas and traditional Tuscan cuisine. If you want some cheap but great pizza and vino, head over to Paperorosso (5-minute walk).
Bars
There’s not a lot in the immediate vicinity, but not too far is Mercato Centrale (16-minute walk), a food hall with a dozen food options and some great wine and beer spots. Right by the Mercato is La Ménagère (17-minute walk), a fun local’s joint with good drinks and live music.
Quick Facts
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