8 TOP Areas & Hotels

Florence (or “Firenze” in Italian) is the capital city of Tuscany region in Italy, a superb area renowned for its incredible history, culture (this is the birthplace of the Renaissance, after all!) cuisine, landscapes, and of course, wine! It’s safe to say that Florence is one of the most culture-rich cities in the entire country and a great destination for all types of travelers out there!

Even though the city is far from huge (it has a population of only 382 000 people), figuring out where to stay in Florence can be a tough task, as there are several different areas, each of them with its own charm and advantages. But how can you make a decision? Don’t worry, I’m here to help!

In this complete guide I’ll tell you everything you need to know about the best areas and top hotels in Florence. The only thing left to do is choose!

NOTE: As always, make sure to book your accommodation in Florence as far in advance as possible. Considering this is not the cheapest destination in Italy, prices will only get higher with time, especially during high season!

Are you ready? Let’s go!

If you’re in a hurry…

The best area to stay in Florence for first-timers is the Duomo and the area around Piazza della Signoria. This is considered to be the city center or Florence Downtown, also known as the most attractive and interesting area for all types of tourists out there.

Even though Florence is not that big, it’s divided into different neighborhoods and each of them has its own character and vibe. I know that choosing only one of them all is a hard decision, but I hope that my personalized recommendations below will help you with this:

1. Florence city center – for first-timers
2. Ponte Vecchio – for one night
3. San Lorenzo and San Marco – on a budget
4. Oltrarno, Santo Spirito and San Frediano – for foodies
5. Santa Maria Novella – near the train station
6. Santa Croce – for nightlife
7. Sant’Ambrogio – with family
8. Florence Hills – with a car

1. The Duomo & Piazza della Signoria / Florence city center – for first-timers

The heart and soul of the city lies in the area around the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, so this is definitely an unmissable spot and the best area where to stay in Florence for people visiting for the first time!

Rest assured that you’ll visit the historic city centre during your stay in Florence nevertheless, as it’s the most famous area. But also having your hotel here is a big advantage, as here is where all the main attractions are located, like the Dome (also called Duomo di Firenze or Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore), Palazzo Vecchio, the famous Uffizi Gallery etc.

Here you’ll also find tons of restaurants, designer shops, cute cafes and souvenir shops… all nestled in cobblestone streets and a classic, Italian atmosphere – charming, right?

Luxury (US$160 and up)

• Hotel Bernini Florence Palace – In case you’re looking for a superb, luxurious hotel in Florence where you can truly experience Tuscany, this one’s for you! I truly believe this is THE best hotel in the entire city and, of course, it’s right near Firenze Duomo!
• Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy – Here’s another great option located in the historical center of the city, near all the main landmarks and events. During your stay you’ll enjoy a daily breakfast and an excellent 5-star service!

Middle-priced (US$110 to US$160)

• Hotel Alessandra Florence – Looking for a very good mid-range stay in the heart of Florence, in the best neighborhood out there? This one’s for you! This awesome hotel is right near Uffizi Gallery, less than 250m away – such a nice advantage!
• Hotel Davanzati Florence – Next in line is another superb accommodation located right near Firenze Duomo and other main sights, in one of the most superb neighborhoods in the city! Trust me, the reviews are simply flawless!

Budget (up to US$110)

• Hotel Dali Florence – Looking for some great budget hotels in Italy, Florence? Here’s one for you! Nestled right in the heart of this neighborhood, this hotel awaits with an excellent location, a friendly staff and sparkling clean rooms!
• Hotel Bavaria Florence – In case you didn’t find the perfect budget hotel in Florence yet, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this one! It’s near all the main sights you’ll want to visit and the decor is very classy and nice!

2. Ponte Vecchio – where to stay in Florence for one night

Ponte Vecchio is actually an area that surrounds Ponte Vecchio bridge and connects the northern part of Florence to the southern one, divided by Arno river. 

This area is very close to the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, which means that if you stay here you’ll be very close to the city center. I also recommend Ponte Vecchio as being probably the best place to stay in Florence for only one day (or 1 night). The area is very beautiful, conveniently located and the opposite of boring – what’s not to love?

If you want to stay as close to Ponte Vecchio as possible, here are the best options I could find out there, but you better book them as soon as you can, the places here sell out super fast!

Luxury (US$150 and up)

• Portrait Firenze – Lungarno Collection – Do you want to enjoy a spoiled stay in one of the best neighborhoods in Florence? This is one of the best 5-star hotels in Florence that offers an irreproachable service and it awaits with luxurious, spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant, a bar and more!
• Hotel Lungarno – Lungarno Collection – In case you didn’t find the ideal, luxurious place for your Tuscany vacation, search no more, as this one’s perfect for you! Some of the advantages of staying here include a fabulous daily breakfast and a great location, right in the heart of the neighborhood and right near tons of food places!

Middle-priced (US$110 to US$150)

• Firenze Rentals Ponte Vecchio Flat – A great location, right near all the main sights in the heart of the city – this is just one of the best things about staying in this cute mid-range hotel! The rooms are simple but extremely clean, perfect for a good night’s sleep!
• FuordArno Bed & Breakfast – If you want to stay in one of the best neighborhoods in the city and not spend all your budget on accommodation, this lovely bed and breakfast is for you! The owners are very helpful and friendly and you’ll find everything you need here for a pleasant stay.

Budget (up to US$110)

• Hotel Cestelli – Wondering where to stay on a budget in this central neighborhood? No worries, I got you! This beautiful hotel offers an excellent service and it’s located right near the Ponte Vecchio bridge, less than 300 meters from Piazza della Signoria!
• Pitti Attic – This is actually one of my favorite budgets stays in the entire city! This apartment is right in the heart of this beautiful neighborhood and it’s great if you want to save some pennies on accommodation. Guess what, you can make your own breakfast in the kitchen!

3. San Lorenzo & San Marco – where to stay in Florence on a budget

The area around Piazza San Marco (do not confuse it with the one in Venice, though!) and San Lorenzo (this one also exists in Rome, so again, don’t confuse the two) are definitely one of the best areas in the city for people traveling on a tight budget! 

These two neighborhoods are very similar, kind of small and right next to each other – this is why I decided to combine them into a single, bigger area.

Some of the unmissable spots around are the San Marco Church (located in the middle of Piazza San Marco, of course), and San Lorenzo Market (also known as Mercato Centrale), which is a covered market where you can find fresh produce and a food court as well!

These two areas are also perfect for foodies, as you’ll be surrounded by many trattorias and amazing restaurants – perfect to taste some authentic Tuscan cuisine! 

Luxury (US$150 and up)

• Atelier Art Hotel Florence – Here’s another excellent, luxurious choice in one of the best neighborhoods out there! Some of the advantages of staying in this artistic accommodation include spacious, beautiful rooms, an on-site gallery (!), free Wi-Fi and more!
• Globus Urban Hotel – Fabulous food, unique, urban decor, a superb location right in the center of the neighborhood – these are just some of the pluses that this accommodation has to offer! By the way, some of the rooms here offer views to Florence’s most beautiful rooftops!

Middle-priced (US$100 to US$150)

• HomEdo B&B – Do you want to visit Florence without spending too much money? No worries, that’s totally doable, especially if you book a room at this property located in San Lorenzo and San Marco areas. Trust me, you just cannot get bored here, regardless if you visit it during summer or December!
• Hotel Caravaggio Florence – Wondering where to book your luxurious, royal-like room while you visit Florence? Look no further than this hotel! This one is right in the neighborhood of San Lorenzo, near San Marco square and church as well! By the way, the rooms here have a really nice, Italian decor!

Budget (up to US$100)

• Hotel Lorena – Here’s another great place for those traveling to Florence on a tight budget. Trust me, the location is pretty great, as you’ll be a short walk away from all the famous attractions in the neighborhood and the city. By the way, breakfast can be served on request if you want to!
• Florence Oasis – For all those interested in culture and being near all the famous attractions around San Marco and San Lorenzo areas without spending a ton of money – this one’s for you! One of the best things about this place is the delicious Italian breakfast!

4. Oltrarno, Santo Spirito and San Frediano – for foodies

The smaller areas of Santo Spirito and San Frediano are part of a bigger district called Oltrarno and they’re all great choices for foodies interested in trying some authentic Tuscan dishes or for party animals!

Oltrarno literally means “across the Arno” in Italian, which pretty much explains the positioning of this area – right across Arno river and Ponte Vecchio from the city center. This entire neighborhood is also calmer than the Duomo area, but it’s far from boring as well.

You’ll find many trattorias, cafes, wine bars and souvenir shops selling handmade objects around during the day, and pubs and clubs where you can dance until you can’t feel your feet anymore at night!

Luxury (US$160 and up)

• Piazza Pitti Palace – Residenza d’Epoca – Here’s a great option if you want to be near Arno river and all the famous attractions and activities that this wonderful city has to offer! Oh, and by the way, the decor here is simply unbeatable – everything looks like a Michelangelo painting!
• Horto Convento – If you’re looking for a luxury, comfortable stay, then you’ll definitely love this 4-star accommodation! Piazzale Michelangelo, Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens are all in the surrounding area, easily reachable by foot!

Middle-priced (US$100 to US$160)

• Toscanelli Residenza d’Epoca – If you love culture and want to stay within walking distance to Piazza Santo Spirito, then this place is for you! Book a room here and you’ll be able to enjoy some comfortable rooms, amazing city views, free WiFi and many other cool facilities!
• Spirit of Florence Boutique Rooms – This property has a great central location right in the heart of the Santo Spirito neighborhood! Some of the best things that these property offers are free WiFi, beautiful furniture and spacious comfortable rooms!

Budget (up to US$100)

• Soggiorno Pitti – Wondering where to stay on a budget in one of the most interesting neighborhoods in Florence? Then you should take a look at this accommodation! It has an excellent location, walking distance to plenty of food places and bar options, as well as shops!
• Sun Frediano Suites Florence – Last but not least, this budget bed and breakfast is not far away from Piazzale Michelangelo, Strozzi Palace and Pitti Palace as well. All the rooms here are simple, bright and very comfortable, perfect for some relaxation after a full day of exploring Florence!

5. Santa Maria Novella – to stay near the train station

Santa Maria Novella neighborhood is the area where Florence’s main train station (Firenze Station) is located, which makes it a very convenient area to stay, especially if you don’t have a lot of time in the city!

One of the best things about Santa Maria Novella is that it’s right near the Duomo area (15 minutes by foot), which is the center of Florence. It’s actually one of the cheapest areas if you want to be close to the city center! Plus, the train station is a great gateway in case you’re on a bigger trip around Italy!

In fact, this area is divided into two pretty different parts – the half that’s closer to the train station, which is vivid and a bit noisy at times, and the half that’s more distant from it, which is actually a residential area with very good positioning.

Luxury (US$170 and up)

• J.K. Place Firenze – Here’s a superb choice for a luxurious stay in Santa Maria Novella neighborhood! This 5-star property has a very convenient location in Florence and it awaits with a rooftop terrace, an on-site restaurant, free WiFi and some gorgeous rooms for the perfect stay!
• Starhotel Firenze Michelangelo – In case you’re planning some day trips and want to be within walking distance from the train station, look no further than this accommodation! It offers 4-star service and I’m sure you’ll enjoy the minimal, tasteful decor and all the great facilities here!

Middle-priced (US$120 to US$170)

• Assaporarte – Here’s a great mid-range accommodation in Santa Maria Novella, Florence. This incredible bed and breakfast has a very elegant decor and it offers a very good service – basically everything you might need for the perfect stay!
• B&b Kingsman – This one’s another great choice if you want some convenience and easy access to day trips thanks to the proximity to the train station. By the way, this cozy bed and breakfast include a delicious daily breakfast and free Wi-Fi as well.

Budget (up to US$120)

• Hotel Margaret – Traveling to Florence on a tight budget and wondering where you can stay in this very convenient neighborhood? Look no further than this very affordable property! One of the best things about staying here is the location – walking distance to both the train station and to countless food and drink places!
• Lucretia House – Last but not least, here’s another great choice for any traveler who wants an affordable place in Santa Maria Novella. This is actually a very tasteful guest house with bright, clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, free toiletries, and very friendly staff.

6. Santa Croce – where to stay in Florence for nightlife

Just like most of the other areas in Florence (and in Italy, if I come to think about it), Basilica of Santa Croce also surrounds a square (“piazza”) with the same name. Piazza Santa Croce is truly beautiful and it hosts tons of amazing artisan shops, trattorias, charming cafes and bars.

Santa Croce is more authentic and charming than other parts of this city and it has a real Italian vibe, while also being very close to the city center and its main attractions. Plus, there are fewer tourists here, I assure you!

I definitely recommend it to all types of travelers, but especially to those interested in the vibrant nightlife. You won’t be disappointed by the choice of clubs and bars here, I promise!

Luxury (US$150 and up)

• Canto degli Aranci – I can definitely recommend this upscale, beautiful accommodation if you want to be walking distance from Piazza Santa Croce and plenty of nightlife options after the sun sets! The rooms at this bed and breakfast are bright and the beds are comfortable – what’s not to like?
• Baglioni Relais Santa Croce – This awesome 5-star accommodation has a lot to offer to anyone that decides on staying here, trust me! First of all, it’s close to tons of interesting attractions; plus, it is hosted in a superb 18th century building – simply unbeatable!

Middle-priced (US$100 to US$150)

• B&B La Casa dei Tintori – Looking for a great bed and breakfast in this neighborhood that comes with some very good, affordable prices? Then this one’s for you! I recommend staying here if you’re interested in nightlife and exploring the city by foot, as you won’t be far away from the main attractions in Florence!
• SantaCroce4u Michelangelo – Here’s another great choice perfect for any season and preference, be it August or December. Staying here means you’ll be close to tons of bars and restaurants and you can easily explore Florence by foot!

Budget (up to US$100)

• Big and bright apartment – If you’re planning on staying in Tuscany on a budget, then you need an affordable place to stay that will save you save some precious pennies! This beautiful fully furnished apartment is perfect if you want to explore Florence without a car!
• Studio18 Santa Croce – Here’s another great option for all travelers out there interested in culture and trying some new food, but also want to save some money on accommodation. One of the best things about this lovely apartment is that you’ll be walking distance to countless restaurants and bars!

7. Sant’Ambrogio – where to stay in Florence with family

If you’re looking for a non-touristic place with a traditional, calm atmosphere where to enjoy the city with the family, head over to Sant’Ambrogio!

If you want to get away from the flocks of tourists around the city center, but still want to be close to the main attractions that this city has to offer (and by close I mean 15 minutes away by foot), there’s no better place to book your hotel than in Sant’Ambrogio!

Here is where you can get a taste of the local life and I recommend it even more if you love antiques and authentic markets, like the amazing flea market called “Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio” in Piazza dei Ciompi.

Luxury (US$150 and up)

• Hotel Monna Lisa – Do you want to book a superb, luxurious property right in the heart of this calm, peaceful neighborhood? Then you’re in the right place! If you decide to stay in this Florence accommodation, rest assured that you’ll be walking distance from the Duomo area and Florence Cathedral – such a great advantage!
• Pietrapiana – Here’s a great apartment located right in the heart of this interesting neighborhood, walking distance from Sant’Ambrogio Market. If you decide to stay here, you’ll surely appreciate the free Wi-Fi, the cleanliness of the entire space and the friendliness of the owners!

Middle-priced (US$100 to US$150)

• Locanda De’ Ciompi – Next in line is another great accommodation option for all those that want to save some money on their stay in Tuscany. This is actually a super cute guest house that has wood-beamed ceilings, a yummy breakfast served daily and more. You’ll surely love it, even if you visit in December!
• B&B Santa Maria del Fiore – Some of the best things that this bed and breakfast has to offer include a very good breakfast served daily, an on-site spa and wellness center, free Wi-Fi and family rooms as well. A perfect spot for people interested in culture!

Budget (up to US$100)

• La Mattonaia 1 – Here’s another great room in Florence, this time with some very affordable prices for those that want to stay on a tight budget. By the way, this is one of the quietest areas in the city, still super close to all the important monuments!
• Visit Florentia Apartment – Here’s another one of best budget accommodations in Florence. Modern rooms, friendly staff and great location in the middle of many good bars and restaurants!

8. Florence Hills – where to stay in Florence with a car

In case you want to experience a countryside-like stay in Florence, in total relaxation then you should get away from the center and head over to the hills!

Florence is surrounded by some pretty gorgeous hills where you’ll find olive trees and stunning villas and mansions tucked in the lush vegetation. 

No worries, staying here doesn’t mean you won’t have access to the things that are happening in the center of Florence – if you have the car you’ll be there in the blink of an eye, or you’ll only be one shuttle bus ride away!

Luxury (US$150 and up)

• Villa Cora – Want to enjoy a royal stay in Tuscany and a friendly, local atmosphere? Then you’ll definitely fall in love with this superb villa! The building dates from the 19th century and it’s just perfect for an unforgettable vacation in Florence. The views are simply stunning, trust me!
• Park Palace Hotel – Here’s another incredible historic Florentine villa in the Florence Hills neighborhood, with a great location! You can expect a truly 4-star service here, as well as some superb rooms, a swimming pool and an outdoor rooftop terrace where you will have an amazing breakfast during summer!

Middle-priced (US$100 to US$150)

• Machiavelli open space apartment – Wondering what this superb mid-range apartment has to offer? Well, other than a traditional, local atmosphere, you can expect excellent service. They have spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi and a patio with garden views!
• Villa Belvedere – Staying in a villa or bed and breakfast in the Florence Hills is a pretty popular option and this place is a great example why! From the outdoor swimming pool to the cozy garden and superb rooms, I’m sure you’ll love everything that awaits for you here!

Budget (up to US$100)

• Gelsomino Garden – Yes, you can stay on a budget and still experience everything that Tuscany has to offer! This beautiful guest house has a garden, a terrace, free Wi-Fi and air-conditioned rooms – what more can you ask for, considering the super affordable price?

Best apartments in Florence

In case you want a true taste of an Italian home or if you prefer some coziness during your travels, then you might be thinking about staying in an apartment in Florence instead of a hotel! This is also a great idea if you want to save some money or if you’re traveling in a bigger group – there is an apartment out there for every taste and need!

I’m happy to announce that Florence has a wide range of Airbnbs that you can choose from! Here are the best ones I could find in central Florence:

Luxury (US$150 and up)

Middle-priced (US$100 to US$150)

• Giulia House – Are you a traveler that wants to live like a local right in the center of Florence? Then you should take a look at this property, it’s very beautiful and convenient! The entire place is very bright and cozy and it has a very good location, 400 m from Piazza del Duomo di Firenze!

Budget (up to US$80)

• Casa in collina Scandicci – If you have a tight budget but still want to see what it means to live like a local in Florence, make sure to book this apartment, you’ll just love it! It’s simple, clean and very comfortable – what more can you wish for?

Best hotels near Florence Airport

Florence International Airport, known as Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola (FLR) is the second busiest airport in the entire Tuscany (after Pisa), and it’s located around 10 kilometers away from the center, which means around 20 minutes by car. Even though the distance is not that big, staying as close as possible to the airport could save you a lot of precious time and sleep in case you have an early flight (or a flight that’s very late at night).

If you feel like this could be a great solution for you, here are the best accommodation options I could find as close as possible to the airport:

• Didi House – Here’s my recommendation for people who are looking for a Florence airport hotel where they can enjoy some luxury at the same time. This is actually a very beautiful apartment, fit for up to 4 people that want some coziness and cleanliness.
• ApartHotel Quadra Key – If you’re looking for a middle-priced place instead, here’s one for you! This is another apartment that will offer an excellent stay near the airport, which is less 10 minute drive from the property!
• B & B Eliana – Traveling on a budget? No worries, I have a great solution for you as well! This cute property has some very good prices and it also offers an airport shuttle that you can use – so great!

Frequently Asked Questions about Florence

Conclusion

That’s it, you have reached the end of my super detailed guide on Florence accommodation, with the 8 best areas for tourists,! I hope you found this post useful to you and your future trip and I hope that you already found your dream place by now!

Still undecided about the best hotel for your interest and budget? Let me give you my favorite choices, both located in the City Center and with great value for price:

• Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy – A great 5-stars option located in the historical center of the city, near all the main landmarks and events!

• Hotel Alessandra Florence – Looking for a very good mid-range stay in the heart of Florence, in the best neighborhood? This one’s for you! 

Are you traveling to Florence soon? Let me know in the comments below if you have any other questions, I’m happy to help! Oh, and if you need more travel inspiration about this Tuscany region or the whole Italy in general, you will surely find some useful info here on Miss Tourist! 🙂

Happy travels,

Romina

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