Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is one of the most incredible cities in Italy. With its stunning architecture, art, and delicious Tuscan cuisine, choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference in your trip. In this guide, I’ll tell you about the best areas to stay in and recommend some hotels.
1. Historic Center: Perfect for being close to everything
Florence’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best option if you want to be just steps away from the city’s main attractions, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), Piazza della Signoria, and the Ponte Vecchio.
It’s the most touristic area of Florence and where you’ll find the highest concentration of accommodations.
Recommended accommodation in Florence’s Historic Center:
- Relais Piazza Signoria: Located in one of the city’s most iconic squares, this property offers elegant rooms with spectacular views. Perfect for those seeking a central location close to everything without sacrificing comfort. Click here to see photos and prices.
- Antico Centro Suite: Situated near Piazza della Repubblica, this boutique hotel combines an excellent location with modern and cozy rooms. Ideal for travelers looking for comfort in the heart of the city. Click here to see photos and prices.
- Arte’ Boutique Hotel: One of the top-rated hotels in the area, offering stunning views of the Duomo and the entire city of Florence.Click here to see photos and prices.
2. Santa Maria Novella: Convenience and Connection to Other Cities
For those looking for practical and well-connected accommodation, the Santa Maria Novella area—close to Florence’s main train station—is an excellent option. It’s ideal if you’re planning day trips to other Tuscan cities like Pisa or Siena. It also serves as a good alternative to the Historic Center, as it’s very close to major attractions but tends to offer more budget-friendly lodging options.
Recommended accommodation in the Santa Maria Novella area:
- Adler Cavalieri Hotel-Private Spa & Gym: A stylish 4-star hotel in central Florence, near the Santa Maria Novella train station. It features a private spa, gym, and classically styled rooms. Click here to see photos and prices.
- Hotel Leonardo da Vinci: A hotel with all the essentials, located about a 15-minute walk from Florence’s center. Rooms are basic but offer everything needed for a comfortable stay. Click here to see photos and prices.
- Hotel Argentina: Just steps from the Arno River and Santa Maria Novella station, this hotel offers simple rooms and is a practical option for exploring the city. Click here to see photos and prices.
3. San Marco and Piazza della Libertà: Budget-Friendly Accommodation Close to the Center
San Marco and Piazza della Libertà are ideal areas for travelers looking for affordable accommodation without being too far from Florence’s city center. This neighborhood offers a peaceful residential atmosphere while maintaining good access to the historic center, either on foot or by public transport. It also features a good selection of local restaurants, supermarkets, and services.
During my trip to Florence, I stayed in an apartment near Piazza della Libertà and really liked the area because it was very quiet, and we could walk to the center in just 15 minutes.
Recommended accommodation in San Marco and Piazza della Libertà:
- Residenza d’epoca Poliziano: I stayed at this property and really liked it. The rooms are spacious and modern, located in a renovated historic building. It’s a self-service accommodation, so there is no staff or reception—everything is done automatically. It’s located a 15-minute walk from Florence’s center. The only downside is that the building has no elevator (it’s on the first floor), so it’s not ideal if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage. Click here to see photos and prices.
- Ruby Bea Hotel Florence: A modern 4-star hotel located in Piazza della Libertà. It has excellent ratings on Booking and the rooms appear to be spacious and comfortable. Click here to see photos and prices.
- Relais Dante e Beatrice: A charming and traditional hotel located in the San Marco area. It can be a good option if you’re looking for a central and budget-friendly place to stay. Click here to see photos and prices.
4. Santa Croce: History and Authentic Florentine Atmosphere
Santa Croce is a neighborhood with a calmer vibe than the historic center, yet it’s still very central and close to the Duomo. Here you’ll find the Basilica of Santa Croce, as well as traditional markets and restaurants.
Recommended accommodation in Santa Croce:
- Palazzo Firenze by Baglioni Hotels & Resorts: If budget isn’t an issue, this hotel is an excellent choice for staying in Florence. It’s a luxurious 5-star hotel located in an 18th-century building—a perfect blend of classic charm and modern comfort. Click here to see photos and prices.
- Boutique Hotel La Casa di Morfeo:A hotel located about a 15-minute walk from Piazza della Signoria, offering reasonable prices and the option to include breakfast. Click here to see photos and prices.
- Palazzo Doni by Florence Art Apartments:Renovated apartments with a modern look. Ideal for travelers who want more comfort and independence than a hotel can offer. Located 800 meters from the Ponte Vecchio. Click here to see photos and prices.
5. Oltrarno: bohemian and local Florence
If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, Oltrarno is an excellent choice. This neighborhood—whose name literally means “beyond the Arno River”—is known for its art galleries, bars, and a less touristy atmosphere. It includes districts like Santo Spirito and San Frediano. During the day, it’s a peaceful area, but at night it becomes lively, full of bars and restaurants frequented by locals.
- Hotel La Scaletta al Ponte Vecchio: A 3-star hotel located in Florence’s historic center, between the Ponte Vecchio and the Pitti Palace. It offers comfortable rooms in a 15th-century building and a panoramic terrace with spectacular views of the city. Click here to see photos and prices.
- Oltrarno Splendid: A high-quality hotel located very close to the Arno River. It offers an optional buffet breakfast. Click here to see photos and prices.
- Casa Botticelli:A boutique hotel housed in a Renaissance palace, with rooms decorated with artwork and antiques. It’s located just steps from the Pitti Palace and Ponte Vecchio. Click here to see photos and prices.
Tips for Booking Accommodation in Florence
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Book your hotel as early as possible. Prices vary significantly depending on your travel dates and how far in advance you book. That’s why I recommend making your reservation as soon as you can.
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Make sure the hotel has an elevator: Some hotels in Florence are located in very old buildings that don’t have elevators—like the place I stayed at (Residenza d’epoca Poliziano). It wasn’t an issue for me because I was traveling light, but if you’re carrying large or heavy luggage, it could be a big inconvenience.
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Read other guests’ reviews: On Booking.com, you can read reviews from people who have already stayed at the hotels. Make sure to check the overall rating and specific categories like cleanliness or location. I personally always try to book places rated 8 or higher.
Other useful posts about Europe:
- Florence in 2 days itinerary
- Things to do in Rome in 3 days
- What to do in Milan in 3 days
- What to see in Copenhagen in 3 days
- What to see in Barcelona in 3 days
- What to see in London in 4 days
- How to spend 2 days in Amsterdam
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