Florence: Where to stay in the city of the Renaissance for every type of traveller

Florence, the heart of Tuscany, is one of the most romantic and historic cities in the world. With architectural marvels and art masterpieces on every corner, this city takes you back to the Italian Renaissance. Here you will find some of Italy's most famous attractions, such as Florence Cathedral (Duomo), with its breathtaking Brunelleschi dome offering panoramic city views, and the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces such as Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus".

Stroll across Ponte Vecchio, one of the world's most distinctive bridges, where you'll find jewellery shops reminiscent of a bygone era. Don't miss a visit to Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens, where you can relax in nature and enjoy magnificent views. For art lovers, the Accademia Gallery hosts Michelangelo's original "David", one of humanity's most iconic sculptures.

But Florence isn't just about museums and monuments. It's also a vibrant city full of gastronomic delights. Sample traditional Florentine dishes like Bistecca alla Fiorentina and wild boar pappardelle, and enjoy local wines in small trattorias offering authentic flavours. And when it's time for shopping, the elegant boutiques of Via de’ Tornabuoni await you for a touch of luxury.

Choosing the ideal area for your stay is key to exploring the city to its fullest. In the following sections, you'll discover the five best areas to stay in Florence, along with options for every type of traveller, from budget-friendly rooms to luxury hotels.

1. Florence City Centre (Centro Storico) – Ideal for being close to all the sights

Florence city centre, known as Centro Storico, is the heart of the city and the most popular place to stay. If you want to be within walking distance of major attractions such as the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and Piazza della Signoria, then Centro Storico is the ideal spot for you. Its narrow streets are filled with shops, cafés, and restaurants offering an authentic taste of life in Florence.

Advantages

• Within walking distance of major attractions.
• Variety of shops, cafés, and restaurants.
• Ideal for those who want to explore the city on foot.

Disadvantages

• The area can be quite busy, especially during peak tourist season.
• Accommodation prices are generally higher due to the central location.

Recommended accommodation options

1. Hotel Brunelleschi

Hotel Brunelleschi is one of the most iconic hotels in the centre of Florence. Housed in a completely renovated historic tower, it offers a unique combination of luxury and tradition. The rooms are elegantly decorated, with all modern comforts, and some offer views of the Duomo. The hotel also features a fine dining restaurant and a gym.

• Location: A few minutes' walk from Piazza della Signoria and the Duomo.
• Average cost: 350€ per night.

2. Hotel Spadai

Hotel Spadai is an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and elegance. Located next to the Duomo, it offers large, modern rooms with all amenities, including air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. The hotel is renowned for its customer service and excellent location.

• Location: Just 100 metres from the Duomo.
• Average cost: 200€ per night.

3. B&B Le Stanze del Duomo

For a more budget-friendly option in the centre, B&B Le Stanze del Duomo offers cosy and comfortable rooms, just a few steps from the Duomo. It's the perfect choice for those who want to stay in the centre without overspending. The rooms are fully equipped with amenities such as a TV and free Wi-Fi, and guests receive daily breakfast.

• Location: A few metres from the Duomo.
• Average cost: 120€ per night.

4. Palazzo Alfieri Residenza d’Epoc

This boutique hotel is located in a historic building near the Arno River, offering luxury and style for those seeking something a bit special. With spacious rooms, modern décor, and balconies overlooking the river, Palazzo Alfieri is ideal for couples seeking a romantic stay in Florence.

• Location: Near the Arno River and Ponte Vecchio.
• Average cost: 250€ per night.

5. Hotel Pendini

Hotel Pendini is a historic hotel that combines traditional décor with modern amenities. The rooms are beautifully decorated with antique items and offer views of the city's main square. It's an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy classic Florentine architecture.

• Location: In Piazza della Repubblica.
• Average cost: 180€ per night.

2. Santa Croce – Ideal for history and art lovers

The Santa Croce area, located east of Florence's historic centre, is known for its magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce, which houses the tombs of many famous Italians, including Michelangelo and Galileo. This area has a special charm, with narrow streets, beautiful squares, and plenty of options for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Santa Croce is a quiet place to stay, while offering easy access to the city centre's attractions.

Advantages

• Quieter and less touristy area compared to the city centre.
• Close to the Basilica of Santa Croce and other attractions.
• Many local taverns and small shops.

Disadvantages

• Somewhat further from the Duomo and other central attractions.
• Limited public transport options.

Recommended accommodation options

1. Plaza Hotel Lucchesi

This luxury hotel is situated on the Arno River and offers stunning city views from its terrace, which also features a wonderful swimming pool. The rooms are elegant and spacious, with modern amenities. Its location makes it ideal for couples seeking a romantic stay close to the art and history of the area.

• Location: On the Arno River, near Santa Croce.
• Average cost: 280€ per night.

2. Hotel La Scaletta

Hotel La Scaletta is a charming hotel with rustic décor and an authentic Florentine atmosphere. Located near the Basilica of Santa Croce, it features modern rooms, while its rooftop terrace offers a wonderful bar with city views.

• Location: Within walking distance of Santa Croce and the river.
• Average cost: 180€ per night.

3. B&B Santa Croce

An affordable option in the Santa Croce neighbourhood, B&B Santa Croce offers welcoming rooms in a traditional style with all basic amenities. It is ideal for those who want to stay in a historic area without spending too much.

• Location: Near the Basilica of Santa Croce.
• Average cost: 100€ per night.

4. Palazzo Roselli Cecconi

This luxury boutique hotel combines classic Florentine architecture with modern amenities. The rooms are elegantly decorated with unique furnishings, and the hotel offers a romantic atmosphere for couples. It is located near the main attractions of the area and is an excellent choice for a luxurious stay.

• Location: In a central spot near Santa Croce.
• Average cost: 220€ per night.

5. Residenza La Musa Amarcord

One of the best boutique hotels in the area, Residenza La Musa Amarcord offers elegant and uniquely decorated rooms with great attention to detail. Guests enjoy excellent service, and the hotel is ideal for those seeking peace and relaxation.

• Location: Near Santa Croce.
• Average cost: 240€ per night.

3. Oltrarno – Ideal for an authentic experience and art

The Oltrarno district, located on the other side of the Arno River, offers a more authentic and relaxed Florentine experience. Here you'll find artisan studios, galleries, and traditional shops, and you can also explore the famous Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens. This area is ideal for those who want to avoid the tourist crowds of the centre and discover a more local side of the city.

Advantages

• Quieter and more authentic area away from tourists.
• Artistic atmosphere with many studios and galleries.
• Close to Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens.

Disadvantages

• A bit further from the historic centre.
• You may need to walk or use public transport to reach the main attractions of the centre.

Recommended accommodation options

1. Hotel Lungarno – Lungarno Collection

Hotel Lungarno is one of Florence's most elegant and luxurious hotels, with views of the Arno River and the historic Ponte Vecchio. The hotel's decor is art-inspired, with works by Picasso and other famous artists adorning its spaces. Ideal for those seeking a romantic stay with luxurious comfort.

• Location: Right on the banks of the Arno, near Ponte Vecchio.
• Average cost: 450€ per night.

2. Hotel Palazzo Guadagni

This boutique hotel is housed in a 16th-century palace and offers a tranquil and authentic environment in Oltrarno. The rooms are decorated in traditional Florentine style, and the hotel features a beautiful terrace with city views. It's an ideal choice for those seeking authenticity and tranquillity.

• Location: In Piazza Santo Spirito, in Oltrarno.
• Average cost: 180€ per night.

3. AdAstra Suite

For a more modern accommodation experience, AdAstra Suites offers elegant rooms and suites in a historic building, with views of the beautiful Torrigiani Gardens. The hotel is designed in a modern style, offering all the amenities for a comfortable stay.

• Location: Near the Torrigiani Gardens, in Oltrarno.
• Average cost: 220€ per night.

4. B&B Il Magnifico

If you're looking for a more affordable option in Oltrarno, B&B Il Magnifico is an excellent choice. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms with traditional decor, and is centrally located near the main attractions of the area.

• Location: Near Piazza Santo Spirito.
• Average cost: 120€ per night.

5. Hotel Silla

Hotel Silla is housed in a renovated old palace and offers welcoming accommodation with easy access to the area's attractions. With comfortable rooms and views of the Arno River, this hotel is ideal for families and travellers seeking a quiet yet central location.

• Location: On the Arno River, near Ponte Vecchio.
• Average cost: 150€ per night.

4. San Lorenzo – Ideal for shopping and traditional flavours

The San Lorenzo district is known for its market, Mercato Centrale, where you can find fresh local produce, traditional Florentine dishes, and souvenirs. This area is an excellent choice for those who want to combine their stay with shopping and sampling local cuisine. Furthermore, it is home to the Basilica of San Lorenzo, which houses works by Michelangelo.

Advantages

• Close to Mercato Centrale market and many traditional restaurants.
• Ideal area for shopping and tasting local products.
• Within close proximity to the Duomo and major attractions.

Disadvantages

• The area can be quite busy due to the market.
• Less romantic and quiet compared to other areas.

Recommended accommodation options

1. Glance Hotel In Florence

Glance Hotel is a modern and stylish hotel located near Mercato Centrale. It features elegantly decorated rooms, a rooftop pool, and a bar with panoramic city views. It's an ideal choice for those who want comfortable and contemporary accommodation in a central location.

• Location: Near Mercato Centrale and the Basilica of San Lorenzo.
• Average cost: 250€ per night.

2. Hotel Orto de’ Medici

Hotel Orto de’ Medici offers a unique accommodation experience in a historic building. The rooms are elegantly decorated, and guests can enjoy the hotel's wonderful garden. It is located within walking distance of Piazza San Marco and the Basilica of San Lorenzo, making it ideal for exploring the city.

• Location: Near Piazza San Marco.
• Average cost: 220€ per night.

3. Residence La Contessina

If you're travelling with family or looking for more comfort, Residence La Contessina offers apartments with kitchens and spacious rooms. It's an excellent choice for families or larger groups who want to stay near the centre but with additional amenities.

• Location: A few minutes from Mercato Centrale market.
• Average cost: 180€ per night.

4. Hotel Corona d’Itali

Hotel Corona d’Italia is a traditional hotel located within walking distance of Mercato Centrale and offers comfortable rooms at reasonable prices. It is ideal for those who want to stay close to the city centre without spending a lot of money.

• Location: In the heart of San Lorenzo, next to Mercato Centrale.
• Average cost: 160€ per night.

5. Hotel Palazzo Benci

Hotel Palazzo Benci is housed in a historic building and offers traditional Florentine hospitality at affordable prices. It is a hotel with a warm atmosphere, ideal for those who want to enjoy the city's history in a comfortable and peaceful environment.

• Location: A few minutes from the Basilica of San Lorenzo.
• Average cost: 140€ per night.

5. Santa Maria Novella – Ideal for easy access to transport

The Santa Maria Novella area, located around Florence's central railway station, is ideal for those who want easy access to public transport. The eponymous Santa Maria Novella church is one of the city's most important monuments, while the area offers many hotels, cafés, and restaurants. It is the perfect base for exploring Florence and the surrounding Tuscan cities, such as Pisa and Siena, thanks to quick train access.

Advantages

• Very close to the central railway station and transport links.
• Ideal for those planning to travel outside Florence.
• Wide variety of accommodation, from budget to luxury.

Disadvantages

• Less picturesque area compared to the historic centre.
• May have more traffic due to its proximity to the station.

Recommended accommodation options

1. Grand Hotel Minerva

Grand Hotel Minerva is one of the most luxurious hotels in the Santa Maria Novella area. It features elegant rooms and a wonderful rooftop pool with panoramic views of Florence. It is located right next to the Santa Maria Novella church, offering easy access to both attractions and transport links.

• Location: Next to the Santa Maria Novella church.
• Average cost: 300€ per night.

2. Hotel Ambasciatori

Hotel Ambasciatori is a stylish hotel with modern rooms, ideal for business trips or for those seeking comfortable accommodation near the station. It also features a spa and restaurant on site, making it a great choice for those who want to relax after a day of exploring.

• Location: Very close to the central railway station.
• Average cost: 200€ per night.

3. B&B Hotel Firenze Novella

For those seeking a more affordable option, B&B Hotel Firenze Novella offers comfortable rooms at economic prices, without sacrificing quality. It is ideal for travellers who want to stay near the station and enjoy an affordable stay in Florence.

• Location: Near Santa Maria Novella railway station.
• Average cost: 120€ per night.

4. Hotel Londra – Firenze

Hotel Londra is a modern hotel with spacious rooms and contemporary amenities. It is located a few minutes from the railway station and offers excellent services for business travellers and tourists. The hotel features a gym and sauna, ideal for relaxing after a tiring day.

• Location: Very close to Santa Maria Novella station.
• Average cost: 170€ per night.

5. Hotel Palazzo Dal Borgo

Hotel Palazzo Dal Borgo is housed in a renovated 15th-century palace, offering a traditional Florentine experience. The rooms are elegantly decorated in a classic style, and its central location makes it ideal for exploring the city.

• Location: A few steps from Santa Maria Novella church.
• Average cost: 180€ per night.

How to get to Florence

Florence is easily accessible from both Athens and Thessaloniki, with direct and connecting flights throughout the year. From Athens, there are direct flights to Florence Airport (Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola) from airlines such as Aegean Airlines and ITA Airways, with a flight duration of approximately 2 hours. From Thessaloniki, you will usually need a short connection through other major cities, such as Rome or Milan, with a total travel time of approximately 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on the flight you choose.

To find the best prices on flight tickets, we recommend visiting our website, travelo.gr, where you will find offers and tips for your trip.

In addition to flights, you can also reach Florence by train from other major Italian cities. If you are in Rome, the high-speed train (Frecciarossa) can take you to Florence in just 1.5 hours. From Milan, the journey takes approximately 2 hours, while from Venice, the train journey takes about 2.5 hours. Italian trains are fast and comfortable, making them an ideal choice for those who want to travel between Italy's major cities.

Florence is a destination that offers everything: history, art, gastronomy, and magnificent landscapes. Whichever area you choose for your accommodation, whether in the historic centre or in the quieter neighbourhoods, you will find plenty of options for every taste and budget. We hope our guide helps you find the perfect stay and enjoy your Florence experience to the fullest.

For more information and to book your flight tickets, visit travelo.gr.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which area is best for accommodation at the destination?

The ideal area depends on the type of trip. If you are looking for vibrancy, restaurants, and easy access to attractions, choose the historic centre. For a quieter stay at a good price, prefer neighbourhoods slightly outside the centre that are served by public transport. Families usually prefer accommodation with space and easy access to parks or beaches.

How many days do I need to visit the destination?

For a first acquaintance with the main attractions, 2 to 3 nights are sufficient. If you want to explore the surrounding area, enjoy the gastronomy, and truly relax, allow 4 to 5 days. For a base trip with day excursions, a week is ideal.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) usually offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation prices. Summer is the busiest period, while winter suits those who want an authentic experience without tourist crowds.

How can I book accommodation at the best price?

Booking through Booking.com offers flexible cancellation policies, reviews from real guests, and often the best available prices. Book 2-3 months in advance for the peak tourist season and compare prices between neighbourhoods, as a few minutes further from the centre often means significant savings.

Is the destination safe for tourists?

Yes, it is a visitor-friendly destination. As with any trip, it is advisable to be mindful of personal belongings in crowded areas and on public transport, and to use reliable means of transportation. Highly-rated accommodations are usually located in safe neighbourhoods.