Santa Maria del Fiore (more commonly referred to as the Duomo) is, without question, the most iconic and photographed landmark in Florence.
While most visitors join the hordes of snap-happy tourists attempting to get a great shot in front of the famous Filippo Brunelleschi-engineered Renaissance cupola, there is another, more private way to soak in all the splendour — and it even offers a better vantage point.
This luxury suite offers the most stunning view of Florence’s Duomo
Just imagine waking up from a restful slumber on a plush king-size bed and drawing back the drapes to reveal unobstructed views of the largest masonry cupola in the world. The Duomo Presidential Suite at Hotel Savoy, the impressive Rocco Forte property that reigns over Piazza della Repubblica, offers unparalleled panoramas of Florence Cathedral.
But it’s not just what’s outside the large windows that matters. Occupying a separate wing, this 1,630-square-foot, two-bedroom sanctuary commands attention by virtue of its size and dazzling design — sophisticated and regal yet playful, typified by the blend of antique sculptures, sylvan wallpaper, and joy-eliciting textiles. The aesthetic feels decidedly fresh and modern for Florence, while still showing deference to Renaissance elements.
The light-filled sitting area flaunts sumptuous sofas, fanciful armchairs, bespoke bookcases accented with precious ornamental objects, and whimsical Timorous Beasties-covered cushions. Elegant white statues by Ceccarelli Ceramics and eye-popping art add to the sense of gallery-esque curation.
In keeping with the grandeur of it all, there’s a separate dining room with a dinner-party-size table, striking crystal chandelier, and bar stocked with top-shelf spirits. The Carrara marble-clad bathroom gives off a spa-like atmosphere with a jetted tub, walk-in shower, and organic, plant-powered Irene Forte Skincare toiletries.
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Guests staying in the Duomo Presidential Suite also get to enjoy some posh perks, including a round-trip airport transfer, in-room check-in treatment, a welcome bottle of bubbly, unpacking service, a half-day Maserati chauffeur, and a personalised experience, which might look like a private cooking class or guided tour of Officina Profumo Farmaceutica Santa Maria Novella.
Can’t swing the USD 5,600-a-night price tag for the Duomo Presidential Suite? Every suite at Hotel Savoy is truly resplendent in its own right and has lovely views of Florence’s historic city centre. Plus, guests keen on seeing the Duomo up close only have to walk around the corner.
Book your stay at Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy via Booking.com
Book your stay at Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy via Agoda.com
(Feature image credit: Rocco Forte Hotels)
This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com
All currency conversions were done at the time of writing
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