Residenza d'Epoca Palazzo Malfatti

Oh, my! What a find!! We only ended up finding the town of Massa Marittima because we couldn’t find accommodations in Populonia, where we were going to explore the Etruscan ruins. And, somehow, we happened on Palazzo Malfatti, a “residenza d’epoca,” an historic residence. The town itself is quite a gem! Interesting culturally and historically, and not touristy. And, as other reviewers have noted, the apartments at the Palazzo Malfatti are grand! Ours was huge, cavernous, really, with high ceilings, cathedral windows, so much space! There was a large, large, think “very large!” bedroom-sitting room, a kitchen, and a modern and well-supplied bathroom. There was an additional loft with two queen or double beds, which we weren’t using and which weren’t made up, but which could accommodate another four people. The entire apartment and the historic building were tastefully appointed, with both traditional and modern art and furnishings. There are many sitting areas in common spaces, which, given more time, we would have enjoyed sitting in. It was, in fact, magical! We paid €80/night and we commented that our accommodations just kept getting better throughout our trip. We met Enrico briefly, on the street, and Vittorio was our main contact, who gave us restaurant recommendations and also parking logistical tips. Since the large hourly pay parking lot is just steps from the Residenza, and since we were driving to see Etruscan ruins during the day, it made sense for us to keep our car there. You pay 1€/hour from 8:00 am till 8:00 pm, but there’s no charge overnight from 8:00 pm to 8:00 am, AND you can pre-pay for the morning (say two hours worth, 8:00-10:00 am). So for people who will be out and about from 10:00 am-5:00 pm, it really only costs €5/day! Otherwise, if you’ll just be parking your car for the duration of your stay and don’t want to pay €12/day, there are free lots a little further out (as with most Tuscan towns). The only downside for us was that, even with all the many wall-mounted and free-standing lamps on, the room was still pretty dimly lit, making it romantic looking but difficult for us to read. There were a few packaged breakfast items, but we went out to eat for all meals. It IS a residence, and, if we were staying longer, we would have bought some groceries and done a little of our own cooking. All in all, I would highly recommend this gorgeous place to anyone lucky enough to be going to Massa Marittima!