Hotel San Francisco

Last year we stayed at Hotel San Francisco in Viareggio, and it was a no- brainer to stay there again when we returned this year. Again, an outstanding experience from start to finish. Owner Davide is on site, and there’s a family- feel to the place. The receptionists are all very friendly and helpful, advising, answering our endless questions and offering to print out train timetables. Gabriele and Dori were outstanding. The hotel’s location right on the promenade offers breathtaking views of the sea, and it’s well worth getting a room with a private balcony. Each morning, waking up to the sight of the sparkling Mediterranean was an absolute delight. The beds were very comfortable, and the housekeeping staff did an amazing job keeping everything immaculate throughout our stay. This is old school Italy, with the ladies buzzing around looking very smart in their uniforms, and noticing what you’re using and the lovely Bettina leaving more of it on a daily basis. One of the highlights was the breakfast, on the sunny roof with sea views. With a spread of fresh fruits, pastries and cheeses, the stand out was the made to order traditional Italian coffee. It was wonderful to see the same team again. Gianluca, Silvia and Carmen take a real pride in looking after their guests. The staff truly made the experience special. Location-wise, you can’t beat it as it is on the beach. Viareggio’s vibrant promenade, with its shops, cafes, and charming atmosphere, is right at your doorstep. It’s a wonderful base for exploring Tuscany’s other gems like Pisa and Lucca, yet there’s plenty to enjoy without leaving Viareggio itself.

What a wonderful hotel. We were made to feel very welcome from the moment we arrived . Davide ( manager?) was so charming and helpful. The breakfast on the roof terrace was delicious . A choice of Italian pastries , hams and salamis, hard boiled egg, fresh fruit salad the best blood orange juice ever coupled with freshly made ( to order) coffee and tea made for a memorable start to the day. Carmen , Giacamo and GianCarlo welcomed us with a smile and helped, very patiently, with our attempts to order in Italian . We appreciated their kindness immensely. Another highlight was collecting a glass of wine from the bar down stairs and sitting on the roof terrace to watch the sun set over the sea, as recommended by Davide. The terrace has a glorious view of the mountains behind and the sea straight in front. An idyllic setting. The hotel its self was spotlessly clean. Immediately opposite are many shops and restaurants . Even though we were there early October and many had closed for the winter there were still plenty to choose from. Fiona and Freyja

First impression is somehow modest. Still, you get used to it and then you see that it is clean (I believe they are changing the sheets every other day), the staff is really friendly and helpful. The location is good, next to the beach (you would better choose Bagno Amore instead of what they recommend - even with the discount - Bagno Elisabetta - a bit cheaper and more space next to the water to play). If the weather is nice, the breakfast is on the roof (which is super nice). Some enhancements could be done: a more diversely breakfast, management could see some things that need to be addressed such as part self service breakfast to reduce frustration, shower space and shower hose not only shower head, extra space in the bathroom for toothbrush, nicer light fixtures and so on. All in all, the price is fair for what you get.

The room was a bit basic and we thought a bit of a refurbishment was due.Breakfast is served on the roof terrace and served by the staff, this is the only time it's in use for any kind of service. Our room was to the side but one of the bars across the road played very loud music from early evening until around midnight. Rooms were cleaned to a very good standard, all the staff are very friendly

Very helpful and friendly staff. The night porter was a great help in finding us somewhere open for food when we arrived from the airport late after a delayed flight. Rooms and hotel were spotless. Slept very well as bed was so comfortable! Good location, only approx 15 minutes walk from the centre of viarragio but plenty still close by. Also only 25 minutes walk from the train station. Only fault would be the walls between rooms are a bit thin. Overall would recommend.