In front of Palazzo Strozzi, in the centre of Florence, the Helvetia and Bristol is not only one of the city's finest luxury hotels, but also part of the city's history. Only a few minutes walk from the Duomo between Via Tomabuoni Palazzo Strozzi is one of the worlds most beautiful hotels. Built in the nineteenth century, it was restored to its original glory. For more than a century it has been the home away from home of many a distinguished visitor to the city, from young aristocrats on their Grand Tour to Pirandello and Montale, Stravinsky, and Gorbachev. Owner Luigi de Simone Niquesa restored the historic mansion with meticulous care and respect. As in days past, the Giardino dInverno is a meeting place for local litterati and the Florentine aristocracy, where chef Marco Tremonte serves an innovative cuisine which re-interprets traditional Tuscan recipes. The hotel, which exudes a refined charm, has a magical Winter Garden with its climbing ivy and fountain, antiques, and spacious accommodations that offer a restful refuge like ones own private residence. Other features include a fitness center and business center. Materials and furnishings evoke a world of refined elegance in the antique-filled guestrooms and the drawing-rooms with their fine XVII-century paintings. On the fifth floor, the great windows of the two panoramic suites frame views of Brunelles chis cupola at the top of the Duomo, so near that it seems one need only reach out to brush it with a fingertip. The hotel offers 52 rooms and 15 suites each with rich silks and brocades, authentic artworks, the latest in-room technology including Wi-Fi, and flat screen satellite TV. Some guestrooms have a Jacuzzi, some with balcony.