Find out where to stay in Florence, Italy for the perfect trip to the Tuscan capital.

After multiple trips to Florence (one of the perks of living in Italy is that it’s an easy city to return to), I’ve stayed in different neighborhoods, visited countless hotels, and spent plenty of time wandering beyond the obvious sights.

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, celebrated for its world-class art, magnificent architecture, and centuries of history. Yet beyond the famous museums and monuments, it’s also a city of artisan workshops, lively piazzas, elegant cafés, and some of the best food in Italy.

The beauty of Florence is that its historic center is remarkably compact, so almost every central neighborhood makes a great base. The real difference lies in the atmosphere, whether you want to stay among the city’s biggest landmarks or in a quieter area with a more local feel.

Florence is also home to some of Italy’s finest luxury and boutique hotels, so my advice is to choose the hotel you love first and the neighborhood second.

*This ‘where to stay in florence’ guide may contain affiliate links, meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.

Plan Your Trip: I’ve published plenty more Florence guides to help you plan your visit. Don’t miss my guides to the 25 Hidden Gems in Florence, a 3 Days in Florence Itinerary for First-Timers, the Best Restaurants in Florence, the 12 Most Beautiful Views in Florence, and the Best Cafés in Florence. Together, they’ll help you go beyond the obvious and make the most of your time in the city.

Where to Stay in Florence: Best Areas and Hotels

The Best Hotels in Florence

For anyone who appreciates a fantastic hotel when they travel, much like me, make sure not to sleep on the following luxury and boutique hotels in Florence. From historic palazzi transformed into elegant boutique hotels to some of Italy’s finest luxury addresses, these are the Florence hotels I’d book time and time again.

Hotel Lungarno – One of Florence’s most iconic luxury hotels, set right on the Arno with unbeatable Ponte Vecchio views. Elegant, understated interiors, exceptional service, and the outstanding Borgo San Jacopo restaurant make it a perennial favorite.

Portrait Firenze – If location and impeccable service are your priorities, it’s hard to beat Portrait Firenze. This stylish riverside hotel combines spacious suites with refined Italian design and one of the city’s best concierge teams.

Read more: Portrait Roma Hotel Review

The St. Regis Florence -Grand, opulent, and housed in a historic palace overlooking the Arno, this is Florence at its most classic. Expect frescoed ceilings, lavish rooms, and polished five-star service throughout.

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze – Set within one of the largest private gardens in Florence, this is easily one of the best luxury hotels in Florence. It offers spacious rooms, an exceptional spa, Michelin-starred dining, and a peaceful setting just outside the busiest streets.

Il Salviatino – Perched in the hills above Florence, this beautifully restored villa feels worlds away from the crowds. Come for the sweeping city views, tranquil gardens, and intimate, country-house atmosphere.

Hotel Number Nine – A stylish boutique hotel blending eclectic interiors with excellent wellness facilities. Its central location, lively atmosphere, and luxurious spa make it a great choice for a city break.

Numeroventi – Part design hotel, part creative residence, Numeroventi occupies a beautifully restored Renaissance palazzo filled with contemporary art and carefully curated interiors. It’s perfect for travelers looking for something more intimate and design-led.

Grand Hotel Minerva – Overlooking Piazza Santa Maria Novella, this elegant hotel pairs a prime location with one of Florence’s best rooftop pools. Modern rooms and panoramic city views make it especially appealing in the warmer months.

Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Resorts Collection – One of Florence’s newest luxury openings, this restored hillside estate brings Auberge’s signature understated elegance to the city. Expect beautiful gardens, refined interiors, multiple restaurants, and spectacular views over Florence.

Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel – Set in a former monastery in the hills of Fiesole, this is one of Italy’s most iconic luxury hotels, and it’s just opened again after an extensive refurbishment. Renaissance architecture, terraced gardens, and breathtaking views over Florence create an unforgettable setting.

Best Areas to Stay in Florence

Florence is a wonderfully compact and walkable city, so choosing where to stay is less about getting around and more about which area is the more you. Some neighborhoods place you steps from the city’s biggest landmarks, while others offer a quieter, more local atmosphere with excellent restaurants, shopping, and cafés.

The main areas to consider are:

Duomo & Historic Center – Best for first-time visitors who want to be within walking distance of Florence’s most famous sights. It’s convenient but always busy.

Santa Maria Novella – Ideal for easy train connections, day trips, and a slightly calmer base that’s still close to everything.

San Lorenzo – Great for food lovers, markets, and staying close to the historic center without being right in the thick of it.

Santa Croce – A lively neighborhood with excellent restaurants, bars, artisan workshops, and a more local feel. I love this neighborhood as a base for the city.

Oltrarno/San Niccolò – My favorite area for its artisan studios, independent boutiques, beautiful piazzas, and relaxed atmosphere across the Arno. It’s also much more relaxed than the historic center. San Niccolò, just down the river, is a charming, quieter corner at the foot of Piazzale Michelangelo with lovely cafés, wine bars, and easy access to the hills.

Fiesole – Sitting in the hills above Florence, Fiesole offers sweeping views, elegant villas, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a wonderful choice if you’re returning to Florence or want a slower, countryside feel and some of the city’s most iconic luxury hotels, but I wouldn’t recommend it as a base for first-time visitors; it’s just too far from the centre.

Duomo & The Historic Center

For most first-time visitors, this is the most convenient and essentially the best place to stay in Florence. You’ll be within a short walk of the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, the Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, and many of the city’s best museums, making it easy to explore almost everything on foot.

It’s also home to some fine luxury hotels, historic palazzi, and rooftop terraces. The trade-off is that it’s the busiest part of the city, especially during the day, so expect crowds and higher hotel prices.

If you don’t have much time in the city and you want to maximise your sightseeing time and don’t mind the buzz, this is the area I’d recommend.

Where to Stay in Duomo/Centro Historico

Best Hotels in Duomo/Historic Center

Portrait Firenze – moments from Ponte Vecchio, Portrait Firenze is one of the city’s standout luxury hotels. The suites are spacious, beautifully designed, and many enjoy views over the Arno. It’s an ideal choice if you want to combine world-class service with one of Florence’s most walkable locations. Service is second to none.

Hotel Number Nine – Hidden behind an unassuming façade near the Medici Chapels, Hotel Number Nine blends bold contemporary interiors with a lively social atmosphere. Alongside beautifully designed rooms, you’ll find an impressive wellness club and spa, which I love, making it a great option if you like balancing sightseeing with a little downtime.

Brunelleschi Hotel – Few hotels are as deeply woven into Florence’s history as Brunelleschi. Built around a restored Byzantine tower and medieval church, it pairs centuries-old architecture with elegant, modern rooms. Its location, tucked between the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, means you’re only a few minutes’ walk from many of Florence’s biggest attractions.

Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy – Overlooking Piazza della Repubblica, Hotel Savoy is one of Florence’s most prestigious addresses. Part of the Rocco Forte collection, it combines elegant contemporary interiors with impeccable service and an unbeatable central location. A splurge but worth it.

Hotel Hermitage – For a more affordable stay without giving up a prime location, Hotel Hermitage is hard to beat. Just around the corner from Ponte Vecchio, the rooms are simple and comfortable rather than luxurious, but the welcoming atmosphere, eclectic design, and rooftop terrace overlooking Florence’s rooftops make it excellent value.

The Best Apartment Rentals in Duomo/Historic Center

Strozzi Luxury Apartment – This elegant two-bedroom apartment offers generous living spaces, a fully equipped kitchen, and stylish interiors in the heart of Florence. Ideal for families or small groups.

TomHouse – Florence Dolce Vita – Overlooking Piazza della Repubblica, this is a lovely, elegant yet minimal apartment that boasts one of the best locations in Florence. Honestly, you can’t beat it for a central stay.

Ricasoli Tower – Duomo penthouse with terrace – A beautifully renovated three-bedroom apartment set inside a historic Florentine tower just steps from the Duomo. The highlight is the spectacular private rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Brunelleschi’s Dome.

Santa Maria Novella

If you’re arriving in Florence by train and you don’t have too much time, or you’re planning several day trips, Santa Maria Novella is one of the most practical places to stay in Florence.

Centered around the city’s main railway station and the beautiful Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, the neighborhood offers excellent transport links while still being only a 10 to 15-minute walk from the Duomo and Florence’s major attractions.

The area feels a little calmer than the streets around the Duomo, with broad piazzas, elegant hotels, and plenty of cafés and restaurants. It’s an especially good choice if convenience is a priority.

Where to Stay in Santa Maria Novella

Best Hotels in Santa Maria Novella

The St. Regis Florence – One of Florence’s grandest hotels, occupying a magnificent Renaissance palace overlooking the Arno. Lavish interiors (style won’t please everyone), exceptional service, and beautifully appointed rooms make it one of the city’s most iconic luxury stays.

Grand Hotel Minerva – Set directly on Piazza Santa Maria Novella, this elegant hotel is known for its rooftop pool and panoramic terrace overlooking Florence’s rooftops. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re visiting during the warmer months.

The Place Firenze – An intimate luxury boutique hotel overlooking Piazza Santa Maria Novella. With just a handful of beautifully designed rooms, outstanding personalized service, and one of the city’s best hotel restaurants, it feels more like a stylish private residence than a hotel.

Hotel Palazzo dal Borgo – Set inside a beautifully preserved Renaissance palace once owned by the Medici dal Borgo family, this elegant boutique hotel is full of original character, from frescoed ceilings to antique furnishings.

The Best Apartment Rentals in Santa Maria Novella

Historic apartment, along the Arno River – A beautifully fitting apartment, with parking just a few minutes’ walk from the train station.

SMN Luxury Secret Garden View – Set inside a beautifully restored Renaissance palace just steps from Piazza Santa Maria Novella, this two-bedroom apartment has historic character and contemporary comfort. A rare private garden, spacious interiors, and an unbeatable central location make it an excellent choice.

San Lorenzo

San Lorenzo is an excellent place to stay if food, markets, and local life are high on your list of priorities for Florence. Sitting just north of the Duomo, the neighborhood is home to the magnificent Basilica di San Lorenzo, the Medici Chapels, and the bustling Mercato Centrale, one of the city’s best places to sample Tuscan food and shop for local produce.

While staying here, you’ll still be within easy walking distance of Florence’s major sights, but the atmosphere is a little less polished and more lived-in than the historic center.

It’s a great choice if you want plenty of local restaurant options on your doorstep, don’t mind a livelier atmosphere during the day, and like the convenience of being close to both the station and the Duomo.

San Lorenzo doesn’t have too many fantastic luxury or boutique hotel options, but you will find some great Airbnbs or rentals in the area.

Where to Stay in San Lorenzo

Best Hotels in San Lorenzo

Hotel Number Nine – Easily the neighborhood’s standout luxury hotel, combining bold contemporary interiors with an excellent spa, fitness club, and stylish rooms. The location between the Duomo and Mercato Centrale makes it perfect for exploring Florence.

Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi Firenze Hotel – Occupying a magnificent Renaissance palace, Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi is a five-star hotel that brings together historic grandeur with contemporary luxury. The rooftop terrace is one of its highlights, offering sweeping views across Florence’s rooftops towards the Duomo.

Palazzo Castri 1874 – A refined boutique hotel just north of San Lorenzo with one of the largest private gardens in central Florence. The outdoor pool and spa are a rare luxury in the city, making it a wonderful place to unwind after sightseeing.

Best Apartment Rentals in San Lorenzo

Palazzo D’Ambra Residence – Housed within the elegant Palazzo D’Ambra, this refined apartment pairs original frescoed ceilings and grand historic details with modern comforts and hotel-style services. It’s within a five-minute walk of both the Duomo and Santa Maria Novella station, making it an excellent base in Florence and beyond.

Historic Medici Chapels Residence – Set inside an extraordinary frescoed palace overlooking the Medici Chapels, this three-bedroom apartment offers one of the most unique and incredible stays in Florence. Once home to Pope Clement VIII, it combines museum-worthy interiors with modern comforts. It’s almost always booked, so make sure to get it early.

Duomo Crystal Palazzo – Just steps from Florence’s Duomo, this beautifully renovated three-bedroom apartment combines contemporary luxury with a great location. Floor-to-ceiling views of Brunelleschi’s Dome, three ensuite bedrooms, and spacious open-plan living make it an excellent choice for families or groups.

Santa Croce

For a neighborhood with a little more local character, Santa Croce is a great choice. Centered around the magnificent Basilica di Santa Croce, this lively district is filled with independent boutiques, artisan workshops, wine bars, cafes, and some of Florence’s best restaurants, while still being only a short walk from the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria.

I particularly like Santa Croce for longer stays. It feels more residential without sacrificing convenience, and the evenings have a lovely atmosphere as locals and visitors spill out onto the piazzas for aperitivo and dinner, particularly in warmer months.

If you’re looking for a balance between sightseeing and experiencing everyday Florence, this is one of the city’s best neighborhoods.

Where to Stay in Santa Croce

Best Hotels in Santa Croce

Palazzo Firenze by Baglioni Hotels & Resorts – One of Florence’s finest luxury hotels, set inside an elegant historic palazzo on Via Ghibellina. Expect beautifully designed rooms, exceptional service, and a refined atmosphere just a short stroll from Piazza Santa Croce.

Plaza Hotel Lucchesi – A long-time Florence favorite overlooking the Arno, with well-appointed rooms and a fantastic rooftop pool with city views.

Best Apartment Rentals in Santa Croce

[Santa Croce] Prestigious Apartment with a View – Just steps from the Basilica di Santa Croce, this stylish three-bedroom apartment is ideal for families or groups wanting plenty of space in the heart of Florence. Contemporary interiors, three comfortable bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and an unbeatable walk-everywhere location make it an excellent base for exploring the city.

Luxury Ciompi 15 – a bright and thoughtfully designed apartment puts you within walking distance of the Duomo while offering a more local place to stay in Florence. It’s a great choice if you want cafés, wine bars, artisan workshops, and the excellent Sant’Ambrogio Market right on your doorstep. A great option for couples.

Oltrarno

If I had to choose just one area to stay in Florence, it would be Oltrarno. Sitting on the south bank of the Arno, across from the historic center, it has a more relaxed, authentic feel while still being only a short walk from Florence’s biggest sights. It’s my favorite area in the center of Florence.

Oltrarno is also close to Boboli Gardens and Piazzale Michelangelo, one of the city’s best viewpoints, ideal at sunset.

This is where you’ll find artisan workshops, independent boutiques, leafy piazzas, excellent wine bars, and some of my favorite restaurants in the city, like the iconic Trattoria Cammillo.

Unless you’re booking a particular luxury hotel elsewhere, this is the neighborhood I’d recommend most. It has a great balance between being central and feeling local, giving you a much better sense of everyday Florentine life than staying around the Duomo, yet you’re never more than 10 to 15 minutes on foot from the city’s main attractions.

Where to Stay in Oltrarno

Best Hotels in Oltrarno

Hotel Lungarno – My top pick in Oltrarno and one of Florence’s finest luxury hotels. Owned by the Ferragamo family, it sits directly on the Arno with spectacular Ponte Vecchio views, beautifully elegant interiors, and the Michelin-starred Borgo San Jacopo restaurant.

Villa Cora – A true Florentine palace set within manicured gardens just below Piazzale Michelangelo. With lavish rooms, a beautiful outdoor pool, and impeccable service, it’s one of the city’s grandest luxury hotels.

Oltrarno Splendid – A charming guesthouse with beautifully curated interiors, original frescoes, and a warm, personal atmosphere. It’s one of the best boutique hotels in Florence if you’re after design-led accommodation at a great price point.

Best Apartment Rentals in Oltrarno

Former Artist’s Studio – Spacious Design Loft with Rose Garden – Set in the elegant San Niccolò district near Piazzale Michelangelo, this spacious loft offers a peaceful escape just a short walk from Florence’s historic center. With soaring ceilings, a private courtyard, and an open-plan design, it’s a bright and stylish choice if you’re looking for more space in one of the city’s most desirable neighborhoods.

Genteel Home National Library – Overlooking the Arno, the Biblioteca Nazionale, and the bell tower of Santa Croce, this elegant two-bedroom apartment has original frescoes and terracotta floors with contemporary comforts. A spacious living area and superb location make it a great choice for families or a small group.

Fiesole

Perched in the hills above Florence, Fiesole is a beautiful destination in its own right. With sweeping views over the city, elegant villas, Roman ruins, and a slower pace of life, it’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a peaceful escape or returning to Florence for a second visit.

Fiesole is also home to some of the area’s grandest luxury hotels, many set within historic villas surrounded by gardens and offering spectacular views across Florence and the Tuscan countryside.

As mentioned earlier, I wouldn’t recommend staying here if it’s your first time in Florence. While the city is easily reached by bus or taxi, you’ll miss the convenience of stepping out of your hotel and straight into the historic center.

If your priority is making the most of Florence’s museums, restaurants, and landmarks, you’re better off staying in the city and perhaps visiting Fiesole as a half-day trip instead.

Where to Stay in Fiesole

Best Hotels in Fiesole

Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel – Fresh from an extensive restoration, this legendary Belmond hotel has reopened as one of Tuscany’s most exceptional luxury stays. Set within a former 15th-century monastery with a façade attributed to Michelangelo, it pairs beautifully restored historic spaces with terraced gardens, impeccable service, and breathtaking views over Florence.

Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Resorts Collection – Between Fiesole and the city, this might be a better option for those who want to be a little closer. The newest luxury opening in Florence, it occupies a beautifully restored hillside estate with elegant interiors, exceptional dining, and sweeping views across the city skyline.

Il Salviatino – Restored 15th-century villa on the slopes below Fiesole, Il Salviatino remains one of the region’s finest luxury hotels. Its botanical gardens, pool, spa, and sweeping views over Florence make it feel wonderfully secluded while remaining only a short drive from the city.

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