Hotel & SPA Duchessa Isabella Collection by GSA Hotels
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Summary of reviewsThe Hotel & SPA Duchessa Isabella Collection by GSA Hotels is highly praised by guests for its enviable location in the historic heart of Ferrara. Nestled in a palace, the hotel provides easy access to key attractions like Estense Castle and Ariosto Square with the added convenience of nearby shops, parks and public transportation. The available parking facilities further enhance its appeal, despite being an additional cost. This prime location, coupled with the charming ancient building and spacious, clean rooms, makes it an excellent base for exploring the city.
Guests generally enjoyed the breakfast experience, commending the excellent selection and variety of both sweet and savory options. The elegant, historically luxurious breakfast room added to the positive dining experience, despite a few comments about minor areas for improvement. However, the lack of an on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner was noted, which may require guests to seek nearby dining recommendations.
The rooms are appreciated for their spaciousness, charm and distinctive decor with themed suites and unique features like spiral staircases contributing to a fairy-tale-like atmosphere. Despite some signs of wear and tear, such as outdated furniture and occasional maintenance issues, the historical allure of the rooms remains a significant draw for many visitors.
Cleanliness is generally upheld to a high standard with many guests praising the impeccable condition of rooms and well-maintained bathrooms. There are sporadic mentions of areas needing more attention, particularly in communal spaces, but overall, the hotel maintains a satisfactory level of cleanliness.
The staff at Duchessa Isabella Collection receives mixed reviews, though the majority describe them as courteous, friendly and accommodating. The professional and helpful nature of the receptionists and breakfast team is frequently highlighted, even though some guests encountered less favorable interactions with certain staff members.
Wi-Fi service varies, performing well in public areas but less reliably in guests' rooms. Guests might need to utilize common areas for better connectivity. The spa facilities also received mixed feedback, praised for their ambiance and quality services but sometimes criticized for limited functionality or being under maintenance.
For families, the hotel offers a welcoming environment with suitable accommodations and amenities such as bike rentals and stroller allowances. The overall tranquil and polite atmosphere adds to the appeal for family stays.
Although some guests found issues with bed comfort, such as short or outdated beds and hard pillows, many others appreciated the spacious and generally comfortable sleeping arrangements. Concerns regarding bed cleanliness were less common but noted by a few.
The hotel's five-star rating has been questioned by some guests, who feel it aligns more closely with a three to four-star experience due to the need for updates and improved service quality. Nevertheless, the hotel's opulent historical style and luxurious ambiance, particularly in the breakfast experience, continue to create a memorable stay for many.
In summary, the Hotel & SPA Duchessa Isabella Collection by GSA Hotels offers a blend of historical charm, prime location and elegant ambiance, making it a recommended choice for those seeking to experience the heart of Ferrara, despite some areas that could benefit from modernization and improved service consistency.
Categories
Guests generally enjoyed the breakfast experience, commending the excellent selection and variety of both sweet and savory options. The elegant, historically luxurious breakfast room added to the positive dining experience, despite a few comments about minor areas for improvement. However, the lack of an on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner was noted, which may require guests to seek nearby dining recommendations.
The rooms are appreciated for their spaciousness, charm and distinctive decor with themed suites and unique features like spiral staircases contributing to a fairy-tale-like atmosphere. Despite some signs of wear and tear, such as outdated furniture and occasional maintenance issues, the historical allure of the rooms remains a significant draw for many visitors.
Cleanliness is generally upheld to a high standard with many guests praising the impeccable condition of rooms and well-maintained bathrooms. There are sporadic mentions of areas needing more attention, particularly in communal spaces, but overall, the hotel maintains a satisfactory level of cleanliness.
The staff at Duchessa Isabella Collection receives mixed reviews, though the majority describe them as courteous, friendly and accommodating. The professional and helpful nature of the receptionists and breakfast team is frequently highlighted, even though some guests encountered less favorable interactions with certain staff members.
Wi-Fi service varies, performing well in public areas but less reliably in guests' rooms. Guests might need to utilize common areas for better connectivity. The spa facilities also received mixed feedback, praised for their ambiance and quality services but sometimes criticized for limited functionality or being under maintenance.
For families, the hotel offers a welcoming environment with suitable accommodations and amenities such as bike rentals and stroller allowances. The overall tranquil and polite atmosphere adds to the appeal for family stays.
Although some guests found issues with bed comfort, such as short or outdated beds and hard pillows, many others appreciated the spacious and generally comfortable sleeping arrangements. Concerns regarding bed cleanliness were less common but noted by a few.
The hotel's five-star rating has been questioned by some guests, who feel it aligns more closely with a three to four-star experience due to the need for updates and improved service quality. Nevertheless, the hotel's opulent historical style and luxurious ambiance, particularly in the breakfast experience, continue to create a memorable stay for many.
In summary, the Hotel & SPA Duchessa Isabella Collection by GSA Hotels offers a blend of historical charm, prime location and elegant ambiance, making it a recommended choice for those seeking to experience the heart of Ferrara, despite some areas that could benefit from modernization and improved service consistency.
Hotel for Honeymoon
This hotel offers a luxurious experience with its historical setting and elegant decor. Its spa services and proximity to city center attractions make it ideal for a romantic and memorable honeymoon.
Family Friendly Hotel
As part of a 'Collection,' it suggests a higher standard of accommodation and service, potentially including amenities tailored for families. Its location in Ferrara allows for easy exploration of the city's cultural and historical sites suitable for family outings.
Dog Friendly Hotel
This hotel permits small pets up to 12kg. There is a fee charged per accommodation per stay for guests bringing pets.
5-Star Hotel
Located in Bologna, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations and a range of amenities. Its prime location and exceptional service make it a standout choice.
Luxury Hotel
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Hotel with Spa
Romantic Hotel
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Hotel with Parking
About Hotel & SPA Duchessa Isabella Collection by GSA Hotels
License: 038008-AL-00053, IT038008A1U6965BVS
Guest Reviews
Location
The proximity to shops, parks and public transportation adds to the convenience, making it ideal for both sightseeing and business errands. Visitors also appreciate the available parking facilities, which are a rarity in such a central spot. The charming ancient building, combined with spacious and clean rooms, creates a delightful ambiance that complements the hotel's prime location. Overall, the Duchessa Isabella Collection offers an excellent balance of historical charm, convenience and accessibility, making it a highly recommended choice for anyone looking to experience the heart of Ferrara.
Breakfast
However, some reviews pointed to areas that could be improved. A few guests mentioned that the breakfast lacked variety and did not fully match the hotel’s prestigious reputation. Specific complaints included items such as cold scrambled eggs, burnt croissants and the occasional limited space in the breakfast room. Despite these shortcomings, the overall sentiment remains positive with descriptions of a very good, rich and varied breakfast frequently used to sum up the experience.
In conclusion, while there are some minor areas for improvement, the breakfast at Duchessa Isabella generally leaves guests satisfied, providing a delightful and varied array of options in a charming and elegant setting.
Dinner
Rooms
However, the hotel shows signs of its age. Reviews commonly mention outdated furniture, peeling wallpaper, worn upholstery and damaged carpets, which suggest a need for refurbishment. Some rooms have issues such as broken tiles, insufficient heating or air conditioning and non-functional fixtures. Cleanliness is often noted positively, but a few guests experienced lapses in attention to detail.
Despite these flaws, the historical charm and uniqueness of the rooms create a fairy-tale-like atmosphere that captivates many guests. The spacious bathrooms and large, welcoming rooms also contribute to a comfortable stay, though some complain about poor soundproofing and small spaces. The friendly staff and excellent breakfast further enhance the overall experience, making this hotel a place of contrasts between historical allure and the need for modern updates.
Beds
Cleanliness
Staff
However, not all feedback was favorable. Some guests reported encounters with unprofessional, untrained and unaccommodating staff. There were mentions of unfriendly and mean behavior from certain staff members, particularly at reception. Issues such as a lack of attentiveness to room cleaning and indifferent service during breakfast were also noted.
Despite these criticisms, the prevailing sentiment among many reviews is that the majority of the staff strive to ensure a pleasant stay for the guests, often going out of their way to be helpful and attentive. While there are areas for improvement, especially regarding consistent professionalism and training, the overall impression is of a team that is generally dedicated and caring.
Wi-Fi
Spa
Parking
However, parking at the hotel is an additional cost with prices around 18 euros per day, which some guests found to be on the expensive side. Motorcycle parking is available at a reduced cost of 9 euros. While the parking facilities are generally praised for their security and ease of access, there are limited spaces available inside the hotel premises and the parking fee is not included in the room price.
For those who prefer not to use the hotel's parking services, there is nearby city parking and free parking available in a nearby square. Despite the extra charges, the overall sentiment suggests that the parking is convenient, safe and accessible. However, the limited internal parking and the lack of valet service are noted drawbacks.
Family
The hotel is accommodating to family needs with amenities such as bike rentals and allowing strollers. Even slightly older children seemed to enjoy their stay and the overall experience was enhanced by the polite and peaceful ambiance created by other guests. While the spa was closed during some visits, the night porter's helpfulness compensated for any inconveniences. Overall, Hotel & SPA Duchessa Isabella Collection by GSA Hotels is highly recommended for families seeking a tranquil and accommodating place to relax and create lasting memories.
5 Star
The limited staff and service quality have been points of contention, as numerous reviewers believe these aspects fall short of luxury hotel norms. The amenities provided did not meet the expectations associated with a higher-class accommodation. Photographs of the rooms appear more appealing than the actual experience and breakfast offerings were described as subpar for a hotel of this claimed caliber.
Overall, the feedback conveys a consensus that while the hotel may have a five-star appearance at first glance, the reality of the experience suggests a more modest rating of three to four stars.
Luxury
Romantic
No, Hotel & SPA Duchessa Isabella Collection by GSA Hotels doesn't have any pool.
Yes, a spa is available at Hotel & SPA Duchessa Isabella Collection by GSA Hotels.
Yes, Hotel & SPA Duchessa Isabella Collection by GSA Hotels welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Hotel & SPA Duchessa Isabella Collection by GSA Hotels.
No, Hotel & SPA Duchessa Isabella Collection by GSA Hotels doesn't have a gym.
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