The Florence Cathedral is also called the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore or simply the Duomo. This majestic late Thirteenth Century to Fifteenth Century building defines Florence's center. Don't you dare miss this spectacular site. If you are in good enough physical shape you might try to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome for a majestic view of Florence and its surroundings. Here are some hotels that you might consider which are located close to the Duomo. For your convenience we have listed these hotels in approximate order of cost, starting with the least expensive. We have personally verified that all hotels listed have an English-language website where you can obtain more information.

The Albergo Firenze is located only a block from the Duomo. It is in the heart of Florence, between the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, one of the most beautiful squares in all Florence. It offers 57 rooms, many of which are suitable for three or four people. So if you book far enough ahead, especially in the off-season this hotel may be a relatively inexpensive option. The hotel address is Piazza Donati 4, Duomo. It has a breakfast room.

The Hermitage Hotel is situated quite near the famous Ponte Vecchio, one of the world's most famous bridges with goldsmiths and jewelry shops. It only has 27 rooms and 1 suite so you may want to reserve early. You'll love the rooftop terrace and its garden. This is a three-star hotel and is priced accordingly. The hotel address is Vicolo Marzio 1, Piazza della Signoria.

The In Piazza della Signoria has ten antique-furnished bed and breakfast rooms and three apartments that contain a small kitchen. This is part of a Fifteenth Century Palace. The hotel address is Via dei Magazzini 2.

The Hotel Helvetia and Bristol has 54 rooms and 13 suites. Its guest list includes Igor Stravinsky, Bertrand Russell, and Enrico Fermi as well as many Italian artists, but hardly starving artists. There is a restaurant-bar. This hotel's address is Via dei Pescioni 2, Piazza della Repubblica.

The Hotel Savoy is quite near the Uffizi Gallery, a fantastic art museum open to the public for over four centuries, and the Ponte Vecchio. It belongs to the Rocco Forte Hotel chain of 13 European hotels with more coming in the Middle East. This hotel has 102 rooms and suites and offers a children's program and a restaurant. The hotel address is Piazza della Republica 7.

Over the years Levi Reiss has authored or co-authored ten books on computers and the Internet but simply prefers drinking fine Italian or other wine, with the right foods. He teaches a variety of computer classes at an Ontario French-language community college. Visit his Italian travel website http://www.travelitalytravel.com which includes information on Italian wine and food.

Tags: travel, leisure