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Local Recommendations
Paris, the City of Lights and birthplace of Accent,
is full of places to stay, eat and shop. From the Rococo style of Paris’ many hotels to the homemade croissants warming in the window of the local boulangerie, this city is never short on beauty and taste. Below are some of our favorite spots to stop and appreciate what Paris can offer.
Hotels
Hotel Ibis Paris Bastille - 3*
A comfortable hotel and part of the international Ibis chain, just a few blocks from Accent Paris.
Auberge Internationale des Jeunes (youth hostel)
Inexpensive youth hostel for guests under 25 years old. Close to Accent Paris in the 11th arrondissement.
Hotel de France Gare de Lyon Bastille - 3*
Located next to the Gare de Lyon, this hotel is only a 10-minute walk from Accent Paris. The Gare de Lyon station houses the metro, RER regional train, and high-speed trains going south.
Restaurants
Chez Paul
This restaurant is très français – a typical bistro with good quality classic French cuisine. Great atmosphere. Steak lovers in particular won’t be disappointed!
Square Trousseau
A great local choice for a nice evening out, this turn of the century French bistro has kept faithful to its history and maintained beautiful, classic interiors. A great value at lunchtime, the restaurant offers classic and creative variations of traditional French cuisine.
Bistro du Coin
Great neighborhood bistro serving traditional French dishes as well as a variety of salads, tartines and plats du jour. Good food and very reasonable prices.
Brasserie Rosie
Brand new brasserie that serves traditional dishes provided for a very reasonable price in a lovely all pink and blue ambiance.
Le 104
This is a favorite lunch spot for Accent students and an excellent value, offering large sandwiches with a variety of fillings, each accompanied by a generous portion of salad. They also have a selection of hot meals, to eat in or take away.
Markets
Marché Beauvau (also known as Marché d’Aligre)
One of the oldest Parisian marchés, open Tuesday to Sunday mornings and just a short walk from Accent Paris. The market is divided into two sections - a covered market with mostly food stalls and gourmet sections and an open-air market with fresh produce.
Marché Bastille
One of the biggest marchés of Paris, the Marché Bastille is a short walk from Accent and includes about one hundred stalls with a wide range of products, set against the Place de la Bastille’s Colonne de Juillet in the background. Open Thursday and Sunday mornings.
Marché des Enfants Rouges
Established in 1628, this historical covered market has become a trendy place for Parisians and visitors alike. A wide selection of market stalls can be visited from Tuesday to Sunday.
Accent does not specifically endorse any of the listed resources and holds no liability with regards to these third party organizations.
Dante’s beloved city is never low on good food or good company. The Accent Florence Study Center, located in the historic Oltrarno neighborhood, is close to open-air markets, restaurants serving traditional Tuscan fare, hotels dating back to the Medieval period, and a genuine Florentine experience typical of the Arno’s south bank. See some of our favorite places to eat, wander, and relax in beautiful Firenze!
Hotels
Hotel Medici - 2*
Clean, comfortable and located between Piazza del Duomo and Piazza Republica. The hotel has a beautiful terrace on the roof for guests. A great choice for visiting family.
Hotel Annalena - 3*
Just steps from Accent Florence and on the same street as the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens entrances, this hotel is the perfect choice for a quiet stay in the Oltrarno neighborhood.
Hotel Palazzo Guadagni - 3*
This hotel, located is a converted 16th century noble residence, has spectacular views and service second to none. Located right next door to Accent Florence on Piazza Santo Spirito, it also offers private, guarded parking.
Hotel California - 4*
This newly restored hotel has a beautiful terrace and is located just 50 meters from the Accademia Gallery.
Restaurants
Trattoria La Casalinga
For more than 50 years, this low-key restaurant near Piazza Santo Spirito has served traditional Tuscan cuisine. This neighborhood staple will make you feel as if you are sharing a meal in an Italian household. You may even find yourself sharing a table with other guests!
Trattoria I Raddi
This restaurant is located on a quiet, residential street in the Oltrarno neighborhood. Owned by a player from one of Florence’s legendary Calcio Storico teams, the restaurant is known for its contemporary twists on traditional Florentine dishes.
Trattoria 4 Leoni
This authentic Tuscan restaurant is famous for its homemade pastas, succulent meats and rich desserts. While moderately priced, it’s not uncommon to dine here next to local and international celebrities.
Ristorante Accademia
Located in Piazza San Marco, next to the Accademia Gallery and only 2 minutes away from the Duomo, this restaurant’s location is crucial to join the main sightseeings. The founders of the restaurants have unified culinary traditions from Tuscany and Abruzzo (another region in Central Italy) for a successful fusion that travelers get to taste everyday.
Markets
Mercato Centrale
Located near the church of San Lorenzo, this is Florence’s largest market. Downstairs, you will find stands selling fresh produce, meats, bread, wine and olive oil, while upstairs the market features a stylish restaurant area.
Mercato Sant’Ambrogio
An excellent market with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, breads and cheeses, Sant’Ambrogio is smaller than Mercato Centrale and many of the vendors are genuine farmers who bring their produce to the city to sell.
Piazza Santo Spirito Market
Piazza Santo Spirito hosts a daily market with stands and sellers changing every day. Just outside Accent Florence’s front door, the market offers a selection of fresh produce, cheap clothing options, and household products.
Accent does not specifically endorse any of the listed resources and holds no liability with regards to these third party organizations.
London is a bustling, truly global city that offers both a traditionally British and a multicultural experience. See below for some of our favorite spots in London, including sprawling open-air markets, hotels with old English charm, and restaurants serving international cuisine.
Hotels
Bedford Corner Hotel - 4*
This design hotel is located on the same road as Accent London, and is popular with visiting faculty. It’s a modern hotel with contemporary rooms.
St. Giles Hotel - 3*
St. Giles Hotel is located less than a five-minute walk from Accent London, Tottenham Court Underground Station and Oxford Street shops. A moderately priced option, ideal for a short stay.
The Kenilworth Hotel, Radisson Edwardian - 4*
Part of the Radisson Blu chain, this 4-star hotel is located a five-minute walk from Accent London in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Holiday Inn, Bloomsbury - 4*
Close to Russell Square Underground Station and the Brunswick Shopping area. Well located for Kings Cross and Euston stations. A 10-minute walk to Accent London.
The Thanet Hotel - 3*
The Thanet Hotel is a quick walk from Accent London past the beautiful British Museum. It has many of the original features of the house which enhances the character of the hotel.
Regency House Hotel - 3*
Reasonably-priced hotel with warm and friendly service. Conveniently located in the heart of the Bloomsbury district near Accent London.
Restaurants
Great Court Restaurant
The restaurant is located inside the British Museum above the old British Library under the canopy of the Great Court. Afternoon Tea in this setting is a fantastic experience.
Dishoom
This small chain of Indian restaurants have quickly become a London favorite, paying homage to the Irani cafes and food of Bombay. The Covent Garden location is closest to Accent, with other sites in Kings Cross, Carnaby Street, Kensington, Shoreditch.
Sartori
This Italian restaurant, between Covent Garden and Leicester Square, is popular for pre-theatre meals and meter long pizzas.
The Marquis Cornwallis
This pub is located around the corner from Accent, has adequate space to host large groups and serves traditional British food in a bustling environment.
The Life Goddess
An Accent staff favorite, this deli and restaurant offers tasty fresh Greek food for eat-in or takeaway customers. Though a favorite lunch spot, The Life Goddess surprises in the evening when the space transforms for candlelit dinner.
Markets
Covent Garden Market
Famous for its markets since the 1670s, today, the Apple Market and the Jubilee Market Hall both sell an unusual and imaginative range of antiques, handicrafts, china, jewelry, clothing and gifts.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Every Sunday morning, this picturesque cobbled street is packed with traders selling bulbs, herbs, shrubs, bedding plants and bucketfuls of cut flowers.
Borough Market
This historic market has become a crucial foodie hang out for locals and tourists alike. From artisan cheese to locally made baked goods, this place has everything to satisfy the self-confessed gourmet.
Bloomsbury Farmers’ Market
Open on Thursday mornings, this food market is popular with local students and offers a selection of farm produce and hot food to take away. The market sets up just behind Birkbeck University of London and only a few steps from Accent.
Portobello Road Market
Portobello Road is home to hundreds of independent antique traders. Fridays and Saturdays are the main trading days, but be warned it gets very busy! Movie fans will recognise the area as the setting for Notting Hill.
Camden Market
Head to the Camden Lock and Stables Markets for food, drink, antiques, arts and crafts, fashion, and if you still have the energy, wander the famous high street which is jam-packed with independent retailers.
Accent does not specifically endorse any of the listed resources and holds no liability with regards to these third party organizations.
Accent Madrid is located in the picturesque Chamberí neighborhood, a popular residential neighborhood for madrileños filled with sunny squares and local cafes. Shop the local markets and try the restaurants until you find your favorite menú del día. Chamberí is conveniently located in the center of the city, with Madrid’s university area and historic center just a short walk or metro ride away.
Hotels
Hostal Persal - 3*
Located in the heart of Barrio de Las Letras, Hostal Persal has a very central location, friendly staff, and functional, clean rooms.
Hostal The Hat Madrid - 2*
Stylish, well located and economical hostel that opened its doors in 2014. Its terrace is open to all and definitely worth a visit for a snack and views of Madrid’s rooftops.
Hotel Roommate Mario - 3*
This boutique hotel has a central location in the Sol area and designer rooms at reasonable prices. Roommate Hotels offer various hotel options within central Madrid.
Hotel Catalonia Atocha - 4*
This hotel, one of the many that the Catalonia hotel group manages in Madrid, offers all the comfort of a 4-star hotel in a beautiful historical building just steps away from the main city attractions.
Hotel NH Zurbano - 4*
This 4-star hotel is located in the Chamberí district and within walking distance to Accent Madrid, offering modern, spacious rooms and an excellent buffet breakfast.
Hotel Miguel Ángel - 5*
An excellent 5-star hotel located in the financial district of Madrid and within walking distance to Accent Madrid. Traditional rooms, excellent service, and fitness facilities.
Restaurants
La Manon
Boulangerie with many different options for both breakfast (bread, pastries) and lunch (salad bar and menú del día).
VIPS Miguel Ángel
This favorite Spanish chain has an extensive menu and is great for American style sandwiches and salads. Outside terrace seating available.
Sushita Café
Modern sushi restaurant offering dine-in and take-away options.
Lateral
Restaurant with a wide variety of traditional and fusion tapas and small plates. This great option for dinner has both an outside patio and inside dining room.
La Zaguina
Traditional restaurant that serves a wide variety of local dishes with a typical daily lunch offering (menú del día).
Markets
Mercado de San Miguel
An elegant food market located in a 20th century iron structure in downtown Madrid. The market houses many stands each serving gourmet tapas and a wide selection of fresh produce. Rarely quiet, but truly madrileño.
Mercado de Chamberí
A more traditional food market located nearby Accent Madrid where you will see locals doing their daily grocery shopping. This is an excellent option for a casual bite to eat.
Parque del Retiro
Originally a retreat for royalty, these 330-acre grounds have been open to the public for over 100 years. A great place to stroll or jog, the park houses numerous gardens, fountains, sculptures, exhibition halls, and even a puppet theater. Especially lively on Sunday!
El Rastro: Sunday Flea Market
A Madrid favorite, El Rastro takes place on Sundays and bank holidays from 9am to 3pm. You can find just about anything, but watch your wallet, as pickpockets abound in this crowded street market.
Chocolatería San Ginés
Madrid’s most famous chocolateria serving hot chocolate and churros. The batter is deep-fried in long strips, perfect for dipping into your chocolate! Open 24 hours a day.
Madrid Teléferico
The Madrid Teléferico is a cable car, providing the opportunity to fly high above the gardens of Casa de Campo and enjoy beautiful views of the city.
Accent does not specifically endorse any of the listed resources and holds no liability with regards to these third party organizations.
It’s la dolce vita in Roma! Our Accent Rome Study Center is within walking distance of not only Rome’s most iconic monuments, but some of the city’s best alberghi, ristoranti, and gelaterie! See below for some of our favorite places to sample the treats and treasures of Italy’s capital city!
Hotels
Hotel Smeraldo - 3*
Located near Campo De Fiori and Largo Argentina, Hotel Smeraldo offers a cozy and quiet stay in a central area within walking distance to major attractions, public transportation, and taxi stands.
Hotel Navona - 3*
Located in the heart of the historic center, this hotel enjoys a privileged position a few steps from Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, Campo de' Fiori, and other main tourist attractions of the Eternal City.
Hotel Sole Roma - 3*
This centrally located tourist hotel is located on a quiet street in the lively area of Campo de' Fiori. The hotel has 50 rooms with air conditioning and internet access.
Restaurants
Fatto In Casa La Danesina
Roman-style restaurant with great food and a lovely staff. An Accent Rome favorite, the antipastini misti are a must before your entree. Great pasta, second courses, and pizza.
Il Corallo
Roman style restaurant with high quality of products and simple but delicious dishes. Large menu with seasonal highlights and daily specials.
Antica Trattoria Due Colonne
This restaurant gets its name from the two imperial columns from Ancient Rome in the dining room. The seafood dishes here are particularly good.
Vecchia Locanda
Set in a secluded arched street near the Pantheon, this is a small, family-run restaurant with impeccable service.
Markets
Campo de’ Fiori Market
Rome’s most historical market sells flowers, as well as fruit and vegetables, poultry, fish, and meat. Open mornings from Monday to Saturday.
Piazza delle Coppelle Market
Near the Pantheon, this small and very picturesque market sells food and flowers. Open mornings from Monday to Saturday.
Mercato Campagna Amica al Circo Massimo
Near Circo Massimo, centrally located and offering local fresh food from farms near the area of Rome. Food stands available at lunchtime. Open Saturday and Sunday mornings.
Accent does not specifically endorse any of the listed resources and holds no liability with regards to these third party organizations.
Enjoy the small-town feel of Syracuse, Sicily! Tucked behind ancient Roman and pre-Roman ruins are small, family-owned caffès, open-air markets, and a tight-knit community of Sicilian locals ready to welcome visitors. Below you can find some of our recommendations for local hotels, restaurants, and markets where you can sample the unique flavors that sunny Sicily has to offer.
Hotels
Hotel Posta - 3*
A close walk from the Temple of Apollo, this laid-back family-run hotel in a pastel low-rise building features casual rooms with Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minibars. The hotel provides a complimentary breakfast buffet in an inner courtyard.
Residence Hotel Alla Giudecca - 3* superior
Located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, the historical building hosts in its basement the oldest Jewish ritual bath in Europe and its courtyard still shows traces of the Arab influence.
LOL Hostel
Cheap yet stylish accommodation next to the bus and train station, and only a 15-minute walk to Ortigia. Group and double rooms available, shared kitchen and common indoor and outdoor spaces.
Algilà Ortigia Charme Hotel - 4*
This hotel stands on the ancient “Mastra Rua,” a preferred residential area for the nobility since the 14th century. The elegant historic setting preserves the original double-building structure, creating an intriguing distribution of the rooms.
Ortea Palace Luxury Hotel - 5*
Overlooking the entrance of Ortigia, this upscale hotel in a 1920’s palace features bright and distinguished rooms and suites. Amenities include a lounge bar and a restaurant with panoramic views, a gym, a sauna and an indoor pool.
Restaurants
Schiticchio
Pizza and sandwich place, ideal for an easy and quick meal out. Lively and young atmosphere, carved out from the ancient rock of historical building walls.
DiVino Mare
This fish and seafood restaurant (with a selection of vegetarian dishes) welcomes guests in an informal, friendly setting, next to Ortigia’s street market. Raw oysters and gorgonzola mussels are the most popular items on the menu.
Kaos
Tasty pizza in a beautiful outside terrace facing the side of the Cathedral of Syracuse. Outdoor dining only, perfect stop during an evening stroll in Ortigia.
La Sicilia in Tavola
Easy going trattoria serving exclusively fresh made pasta following traditional Sicilian recipes. The place is rather small, so advanced booking is highly recommended.
Le Vin de l’Assassin
Innovative, French-Sicilian fusion restaurant inspired by exotic influences. Bohemian inside setting and charmingly lit outdoor courtyard. Superb desserts.
Markets
Ortigia Street Market
Every morning the street market of Ortigia attracts locals and tourists and offers vegetables, spices, dried fruits, seafood, meat, cheese and much more, all directly from the producer to the customer, along with a lot of colorful shouting and genuine smiling. Monday to Saturday.
Fratelli Burgio
Established as a small bottega shop over 40 years ago, Fratelli Burgio is still today a family-run business selling traditional Sicilian preserves and tomato sauces. Their tasting platters are a great way to sample a variety of delicious Sicilian foods in one seating.
Nonn’Angé Bakery
From Sicilan cakes to cheesecakes and cookies, from salads to bagels and eggs, hot chocolate, smoothies and teas, Nonn’Angè offers a variety of foods in a stylish, cozy and romantic setting. A preferred spot for students; laptops are welcome, too.
Bar Pasticceria Artale
Simply the most traditional bar and pastry shop in Syracuse. When referring to a bar, Italians mean cafè, i.e. the go-to place for breakfast, which in Italy involves only sweet flavors: a croissant with cappuccino or granita and brioche, depending on the time of the year.
Antica Giudecca
At Antica Giudecca, for less than 2€ each, you can find a variety of arancini in different flavors, the highest example of Sicilian street food. A perfect take-away for lunch!
Accent does not specifically endorse any of the listed resources and holds no liability with regards to these third party organizations.