Built as a convent in the 17th century and later becoming a nobleman's residence, this central Florentine building is steeped in history and underwent careful alterations in order to become the Hotel Machiavelli Palace while retaining many original features including carved wooden ceilings and frescoed walls.

The air conditioned guestrooms preserve a sense of old Florence with antique style furniture, period artworks and heavy fabrics and floor length curtains. All are equipped with safes, direct dial telephones, televisions and minibars.

Located in what used to be the convent's refectory, the frescoed dining room is open for buffet breakfasts each morning, while drinks and cocktails are served at the lobby bar. In fine weather, guests can enjoy their drinks outside on the roof terrace garden and take in views of the city. The front desk is open round the clock and has a safe deposit box for valuables and knowledgeable staff can provide local insights and tour information. The hotel offers room service, currency exchange and dry cleaning; guests with cars will find garage parking nearby. Located right in the centre, the hotel is just a short walk from many of the Florence's key sights; San Lorenzo is just 300 metres away and both the Duomo and the Piazza della Indipendenza are within 500 metres.

Santa Maria Novella train station is 300 metres away and Florence Airport is four kilometres and about a 20 minute journey from the vicinity of the hotel.

The airport is a short taxi ride from town (costing Ç13 16); it is also possible to take the half hourly bus, which transports passengers to Santa Maria Novella Station, just 300 metres from the hotel.