WHERE TO STAY IN FLORENCE
Choosing the right neighbourhood in Florence is crucial for first-time visitors to ensure an enriching experience.
Staying in the Centro Storico, the historic heart of the city, places travellers amidst iconic landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio, The Duomo, and the Uffizi Gallery, allowing for easy exploration of these world-renowned sites.
Santa Maria Novella is perfect if you need to be close to transport, while San Lorenzo and San Marco offer a vibrant market atmosphere and Renaissance icons. For a lively nightlife, Santa Croce and Sant’Ambrogio are the go-to districts. Lastly, for a more local vibe with crafts and design, San Frediano and Santo Spirito are excellent choices.
Opting for a neighbourhood that aligns with personal interests, whether it's art, history, or cuisine, can greatly enhance the visit, making it convenient to immerse oneself in the rich cultural tapestry that Florence offers.
QUICK BOOKING RESOURCES
Here’s our guide to the areas in and around Florence and where to stay in each.
Jump To:
CENTRO STORICO
SANTA CROCE
SAN LORENZO
OLTARNO
CENTRO STORICO: The Heart of Florence
For a first-time visitor to Florence, staying in the Centro Storico neighbourhood is an excellent choice due to its central location and proximity to major attractions. This historic heart of the city offers easy access to iconic landmarks such as the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of the Renaissance.
Moreover, the area is known for its safety and excellent public transportation links, making it a convenient and secure base for exploring the city's treasures and enjoying its renowned cuisine.
PERFECT FOR: |
First-time visitors, art and history enthusiasts, and those wanting to be in the middle of the action. |
PROS: | CONS: |
|---|---|
Proximity to major attractions. | Can be crowded and noisy. |
Vibrant atmosphere with numerous dining and shopping options. | Accommodation can be pricey. |
Easy access to public transport. |
BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN THE CENTRO STORICO:
Hotel Delle Tele
This budget-friendly hotel offers simple, comfortable rooms right in the heart of Florence. It’s just a short walk from the Duomo and other major attractions, making it a convenient choice for exploring the city.
Soggiorno Primavera
An affordable guesthouse offering basic yet clean accommodations. Located in a central area, it provides easy access to Florence's historic sites and local dining options.
BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN THE CENTRO STORICO:
Hotel Brunelleschi
Set in a historic building with modern amenities, this mid-range hotel offers stylish rooms and excellent service. Its central location near the Duomo makes it a great base for sightseeing.
Hotel L'Orologio
A sophisticated mid-range hotel featuring contemporary decor and comfortable rooms. Located near Santa Maria Novella, it offers easy access to major landmarks and shopping areas.
BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN THE CENTRO STORICO:
Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
This luxury hotel provides opulent rooms, a beautiful garden, and a world-class spa. Situated just outside the main tourist areas, it offers a tranquil retreat with easy access to Florence’s attractions.
Hotel Savoy
A five-star hotel on Piazza della Repubblica, offering elegant rooms and top-notch service. Its central location puts you close to Florence’s major sights and shopping districts.
SANTA CROCE: Artistic and Local Vibe
The Santa Croce neighbourhood in Florence is an excellent choice for first-time visitors seeking a blend of historical charm and vibrant city life. Renowned for its rich history, epitomized by the Basilica di Santa Croce, the area offers a glimpse into the city's storied past.
Additionally, its proximity to the historic centre means that major attractions are just a short walk away, allowing for an immersive cultural experience. The neighbourhood is also known for its lively atmosphere, with a variety of local cafes, markets, and nightlife options, providing an authentic Florentine experience.
Moreover, Santa Croce offers budget-friendly accommodation options, making it an attractive locale for travellers wanting to explore Florence without compromising on location or local ambiance.
PERFECT FOR: |
Art lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a more local experience. |
PROS: | CONS: |
|---|---|
Rich in history and local charm. | A bit farther from the main train station. |
Close to historical landmarks like the Basilica of Santa Croce. | Some areas can be crowded with locals. |
Fewer tourists compared to the Centro Storico. |
BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN SANTA CROCE:
Hotel Bodoni
An affordable hotel offering straightforward accommodations close to the Santa Croce district. It’s a good choice for budget-conscious travellers looking to stay in a lively, local area.
BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN SANTA CROCE
Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi Firenze Hotel
This mid-range hotel features traditional decor and comfortable rooms in a historic building. Located near Santa Croce, it offers easy access to the area’s cultural and historical sites.
Palazzo Castri 1874
A stylish hotel offering modern rooms and excellent service. Situated near Santa Croce, it provides a comfortable stay with easy access to the neighbourhood's attractions.
BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN SANTA CROCE
Relais Santa Croce by Baglioni Hotels
This 5-star hotel is set in an 18th-century building and is one of the most luxurious properties in the historic center of Florence. It features frescoed ceilings, antique furniture, and a music room. The hotel is located between the Santa Croce Basilica and the Cathedral
Plaza Hotel Lucchesi
Located right on the bank of the Arno River, this 4-star hotel offers outstanding views and a unique rooftop pool. It’s just a 10-minute walk from Piazza della Signoria.
SAN LORENZO: Market and Shopping District
The San Lorenzo neighbourhood in Florence is a treasure trove of culture and convenience, making it an ideal base for first-time visitors.
Nestled in the heart of the city, San Lorenzo is home to the famous Mercato Centrale, where travellers can indulge in local cuisine and shop for artisanal goods. The area is also rich in history, housing the magnificent Basilica of San Lorenzo, which showcases works by Donatello and the tombs of the Medici family.
With its proximity to major attractions and a vibrant street life, San Lorenzo offers an authentic Florentine experience, blending the old with the new in a dynamic and accessible setting.
PERFECT FOR: |
Shoppers, foodies, and those interested in local markets and fashion. |
PROS: | CONS: |
|---|---|
Excellent shopping and market experience. | Can be noisy and crowded. |
Close to the main train station (Santa Maria Novella). | Less historic charm compared to other areas. |
Lively and dynamic atmosphere. |
BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN SAN LORENZO:
Hotel Universo
An economical hotel offering basic yet comfortable rooms in the San Lorenzo area. It’s conveniently located near the market and shopping streets.
Hotel Monica
Affordable and centrally located, Hotel Monica provides simple accommodations close to the San Lorenzo market. It’s a good choice for budget travellers interested in shopping and local food.
BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN SAN LORENZO
Palazzo Castri 1874 Hotel & Spa
This 4-star hotel offers a beautifully refurbished design with a wellness center, outdoor pool, and landscaped garden. Guests can enjoy a sweet Italian breakfast daily and relax with beauty treatments and massages.
Hotel Rapallo
This 3-star hotel offers free WiFi, free breakfast, and air-conditioned soundproof rooms with flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms. Managed by the Conti Lapi family since 1954, it is close to major attractions and museums.
BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN SAN LORENZO
Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy
Situated on Piazza della Repubblica, this five-star hotel offers elegant rooms and high-end service. It’s perfectly located for exploring Florence’s major sights and luxury shopping.
Grand Hotel Minerva
A luxurious hotel featuring a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, elegant rooms, and excellent amenities. Located near the San Lorenzo area, it offers a premium experience.
OLTARNO: Artisan and Bohemian Quarter
The Oltarno neighbourhood, often referred to as Florence's hidden gem, offers a unique experience for first-time visitors. Nestled on the south bank of the Arno River, this area is celebrated for its artisan workshops, vibrant local culture, and lesser-known historical sites.
Staying in Oltarno means immersing oneself in the authentic Florentine lifestyle, away from the more tourist-heavy central districts, yet still within walking distance to major attractions.
With its charming streets, an abundance of local eateries, and panoramic views of Florence, Oltarno provides a picturesque and tranquil retreat that captures the essence of the city's rich heritage.
PERFECT FOR: |
Those seeking a more authentic, artistic side of Florence. |
PROS: | CONS: |
|---|---|
Authentic, local atmosphere with artisan shops. | A bit farther from major tourist sites. |
Quieter and less touristy. | Fewer accommodation options compared to more central areas. |
Beautiful views of Florence from the piazzas. |
BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN OLTARNO:
Piazza Pitti Palace
A charming accommodation located in a historic building in Florence, just 100 meters from the Pitti Palace1. It offers a variety of suites, each designed with a blend of historic charm and modern comfort.
BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN OLTARNO:
Palazzo Montebello
This 18th-century villa offers elegant rooms set in a peaceful garden and is just a 10-minute walk from Santa Maria Novella Train Station. Guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet daily, and the Capriccio Restaurant serves Tuscan food and wine on its candlelit garden terrace.
Hotel Palazzo Guadagni
This mid-range hotel offers stylish rooms and a historic atmosphere. Situated in the Oltrarno area, it’s known for its excellent location and traditional Florentine charm.
BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN OLTARNO:
Hotel Lungarno
Owned by the Ferragamo family, this hotel offers elegant modern interiors and stunning views of the Arno River. It’s perfect for those looking for a luxurious stay with a touch of contemporary style.
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