B&B El Duche

Fillipo and his wife were kind and hospitable, and welcomed us with fruit and gluten-free food. Everything was clean. It’s a perfect base for exploring Tuscany, with good connections to trains and the highway.

The room here feels like a tiny bit of heaven after the loud, smelly, overpriced hostels and the stress of getting around Florence. I was nearly at my breaking point, then somehow landed on Empoli and booked this place. The staff were lovely: they handed me the keys and let me get settled. It’s spotless and quiet, the air conditioning actually works, and there are towel warmers and a toiletries kit. After days of musty feet and creepy stares, that felt like a gift. Just move here and leave Florence behind.

We got unlucky with noise on one morning of our three-night stay. The rooms aren't well soundproofed, and with the kitchen in the middle, one early riser can wake everyone. Some guests were having breakfast at 6:00, so a kitchen time slot might help, along with a bit more consideration from guests. The B&B itself was welcoming and clean, with all the basics. There's no breakfast service, but the big kitchen has what you need to make your own, plus drinks, juices, snacks, and biscuits.

We were tired when we arrived, so the little guidebook in the room, with takeaway suggestions for lunch or dinner, came in handy. We ordered pizza and ate it on the terrace in the quiet garden. Mr. Filippo showed us to the room and patiently explained the different spaces. It was fresh, clean-smelling, comfortable, and carefully looked after. Private parking is a rare bonus here. This place was a lucky find, and we'll be staying two more days. I don't know if I'll return to Empoli, but if I do, I know where I'll stay. Thank you, Mr. Filippo!