We had been to Pisa several years before and stayed at the Royal Victoria then. We didn't really even research anywhere else....but we should have.
We had asked for a room overlooking the River Arno and, despite not being even close to full, we were given a tiny, stuffy cranny overlooking the parking area. We saw the wide open staircases, airy hallways and lovely details on the way to our cell....but certainly this was not reflected in our room.
The location is great....well within walking distance of both the Tower and the lively, urban area across the river. The breakfast was very good with a nice hot buffet included. Our only complaint was the room. We maybe should have asked to be moved, but didn't.

We stayed in the RVH over New Year 2012 and really loved it - it is a very traditional hotel, beautiful features and it feels like its lived a life, really full of history and stories. Its also perfectly located in the centre of Pisa, right on the Arno river and 10min form everything. Perfect location for the fireworks as they are right on the bridge outside.

I would recommend this to anyone who wants more than just a room with a bed.

I recently had the chance to spend another night at the 'Royal Victoria' hotel which I remembered after staying there 7 years ago. and I was astonished to read the long and very interesting history of the place who has been run and owned by the same family since 1837. we had two rooms and they were both large, and decorated with pieces of furniture from the 19th and 20th centuries. quite big compared to modern hotels and full of history and romanticism. they are very good as service, breakfast choice, location, and decor (the windows on the main street ('lungarno? were nicely decorated with skis and old pieces of luggage), and their logo is also very elegant and super original!
the reason why I do not give them 5 stars, but 4 is that they do need some restoration works: in fact they started already some, but they still need to go on with the process (the bathroom ceiling of my room needs some fixing, for example)
next time in Pisa we will be back for sure...
if you come by car to find their garage is not that easy: ask for directions.

A splendid hotel with rich history. The interior, the room decors, the drinks and music at the reception, everything was charming and old, and full of history. If one is looking for a modern hotel with modern amenities, should not come to Royal Victoria, because whatever they have is ancient and full of history. Loved the breakfast lady, she was caring and quick. Great location, the bridge is close, so we could observe both sides of the river. Walking distance from the Leaning Tower. The only inconvenience was the WiFi ( we had to pay for it, even in the lobby). Would go back for sure.