The purpose of this guide is to help you find the perfect place to stay in Florence based on your preferences.
I have selected the best areas and hotels so you can easily plan your dream trip to this fantastic city.
Let’s get started with the guide: where to stay in Florence?
Best areas in Florence
With its winding cobblestone streets, beautiful piazzas, and world-famous museums, Florence is a must for any traveller who wants to experience the best of Italy.
Whether you’re an art lover, a food enthusiast, or simply wish to immerse yourself in Italian culture, Florence has something to offer.
In a hurry or just want a quick overview of where to stay in Florence? Here it is:
- Centro Storico – The beating heart of Florence ❤️
- Santo Spirito – The authentic and artistic side of Florence 🎨
- Santa Croce – Culture and nightlife in perfect harmony 🕍
- San Lorenzo – Lively markets and authentic atmosphere 🛍️
Click on the area’s name to see the best hotels in the mentioned areas.
The guide on where to stay in Florence continues below, where I delve into each area and recommend good hotels.
1. Centro Storico – The Beating Heart of Florence ❤️
Centro Storico is the historic centre of Florence and the heart of the city’s cultural and tourist life. The area is a living museum with iconic sights on nearly every street corner.
Here, you can admire the majestic Duomo with its impressive dome, stroll through the Uffizi Gallery, which is filled with Renaissance art, or cross the old Ponte Vecchio, which has unique goldsmith shops.
The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, filled with street musicians, cafés, and shops selling everything from leather goods to souvenirs.
See the best hotels in Centro Storico here.
Centro Storico is ideal for first-time visitors who want to be at the heart of the action.
The area is also perfect for culture enthusiasts who want easy access to the major attractions without having to travel far.
Couples will love the romantic atmosphere, especially in the evening when the city’s lights reflect on the River Arno.
However, the area can be quite touristy and busy, especially during the high season. If you enjoy being in the midst of everything and do not mind the crowds, Centro Storico is the perfect choice.
With a wealth of restaurants, bars, and shopping options, there’s always something to do, both day and night.
Places to stay in Centro Storico
Below are some of my favourite hotels in Centro Storico – we start with a luxury option, and then the price drops a bit, but all three are hotels I would love to stay at.
Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi Firenze Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This luxurious hotel is located in a historic 16th-century building in the heart of Florence, just a few steps from the cathedral. Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi combines classic elegance with modern conveniences.
Guests highlight the beautifully decorated rooms, the magnificent rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city, and the attentive staff.
The hotel’s restaurant serves Tuscan specialities in elegant surroundings. An ideal choice for those seeking an unforgettable experience in Florence.
See more photos and book here.
Solo Experience Hotel is centrally located opposite the Basilica di San Lorenzo, making it perfect for sightseeing. The hotel offers modern and spacious rooms with all the necessary amenities.
Previous guests praise the friendly service and the delicious breakfast buffet with local delicacies.
The stylish décor and proximity to shops and restaurants make it a popular choice for both couples and families.
See more photos and book here.
This charming bed & breakfast is located on the top floor of a historic building near Florence’s centre. Locanda Dei Guelfi offers cosy rooms with antique furniture and a fantastic view over the city’s rooftops from the terrace.
Guests appreciate the homely atmosphere, the personal service from the hosts, and the short walking distance to attractions like the cathedral and the San Lorenzo market.
An excellent choice for travellers who want quality at an affordable price.
See more photos and book here.
2. Santo Spirito – The Authentic and Artistic Side of Florence 🎨
Santo Spirito – also known as Oltrarno, which literally means “on the other side of the Arno” – is Florence’s bohemian quarter known for its authentic atmosphere.
- Arno is the river that runs through Florence.
The area is less touristy and offers a glimpse into true Florentine life. The streets are filled with artisan shops, antique stores, and studios where local artists work.
The atmosphere is relaxed and creative, and you can easily spend hours exploring the small streets and hidden piazzas.
See the best hotels in Santo Spirito here.
Santo Spirito is perfect for those who wish to avoid the biggest tourist crowds and experience a more local side of Florence.
Food enthusiasts will enjoy the traditional trattorias and wine bars that serve authentic Tuscan cuisine.
The area is also home to some of the city’s most impressive palaces and gardens, including Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk away from the city’s noise.
In the evening, Santo Spirito comes alive with locals gathering in the piazzas and music filling the air from nearby bars and cafés.
If you are a creative soul or just wish to experience the authentic Florence, Santo Spirito is the right place for you.
Places to stay in Santo Spirito / Oltrarno
Let’s take a look at three good hotels over in this part of Florence.
Hotel Lungarno ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This luxurious hotel, owned by the Ferragamo family, is located along the Arno River with a breathtaking view of the Ponte Vecchio.
Hotel Lungarno offers elegantly decorated rooms with a maritime theme and artworks by Picasso and Cocteau.
Guests praise the exceptional service, the intimate atmosphere, and the award-winning restaurant Borgo San Jacopo, which serves gourmet dishes.
See more photos and book here.
This charming boutique hotel is situated in a historic 16th-century building on Piazza Santo Spirito in the atmospheric Oltrarno district.
Palazzo Guadagni Hotel offers elegant rooms with antique furniture and original frescoes, creating an authentic Italian ambience.
Guests highlight the fantastic rooftop terrace with panoramic views over Florence, where you can relax with a drink.
The staff are praised for their friendly and welcoming service. An ideal choice for travellers seeking character and comfort at a good price.
See more photos and book here.
B&Beatrice ⭐⭐⭐
B&Beatrice is a charming bed & breakfast located just minutes from Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti.
This family-run place offers stylish and spacious rooms with modern facilities and a homely atmosphere.
Guests highlight the warm hospitality, the personal service, and the delicious breakfast, often served on a cosy terrace.
The peaceful location combined with easy access to Florence’s attractions makes it an ideal choice for travellers seeking an authentic experience.
See more photos and book here.
3. Santa Croce – Culture and Nightlife in Perfect Harmony 🕍
We’re back in the Centro Storico area on the eastern side of the Arno, and now it’s time to explore the Santa Croce district.
This district is named after the magnificent Basilica di Santa Croce, where famous Italians like Michelangelo and Galileo are buried.
The area combines rich cultural history with a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings when the streets fill with both locals and tourists.
Piazza Santa Croce often hosts markets, festivals, and outdoor concerts, giving the area a dynamic vibe.
See the best hotels in Santa Croce here.
This area is perfect for young travelers and those who want to experience Florence’s nightlife. With a wide selection of bars, clubs, and restaurants, there’s always something to do after sunset.
At the same time, you’re close to cultural attractions like the Museo dell’Opera di Santa Croce and the National Library.
Santa Croce is also known for its leather shops and craft workshops, where you can find unique souvenirs.
The area blends the traditional with the modern, making it an exciting place to stay for those who want the best of both worlds.
Places to stay in Santa Croce
Let’s take a closer look at one of the best places to stay in the Santa Croce area of Florence.
Palazzo Firenze by Baglioni Hotels & Resorts ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Palazzo Firenze by Baglioni Hotels & Resorts is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Florence, combining classic Italian elegance with modern comfort.
The hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms and suites with first-class amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and luxurious bathrooms.
Guests highlight the exquisite service, the delicious breakfast, and the fantastic location close to Florence’s most famous attractions like the Cathedral and the Uffizi Gallery.
With its refined atmosphere and attention to detail, it’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in Florence.
See more photos and book here.
La Maison du Sage ⭐⭐⭐⭐
La Maison du Sage is an elegant boutique hotel located in the historic Santa Croce district, just steps from the impressive Basilica di Santa Croce.
The hotel offers luxurious and spacious rooms with high ceilings, stylish décor, and modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
Guests highlight the warm and personal service, the delicious breakfast, and the fantastic location close to Florence’s main attractions.
With its combination of classic charm and modern comfort, it’s an ideal choice for couples and culture enthusiasts.
See more photos and book here.
The Sonetto powered by Sonder ⭐⭐⭐
The Sonetto powered by Sonder is a modern and stylish accommodation located in the heart of Florence.
This hotel offers beautifully designed apartments with contemporary décor, fully equipped kitchens, and spacious living areas.
Guests highlight the comfortable atmosphere, high-tech amenities like fast Wi-Fi and smart TVs, and the convenient self-check-in via Sonder’s app.
Previous visitors also praise the welcoming customer service and the attention to detail that makes the stay extra pleasant.
An ideal choice for travellers who want the freedom of an apartment combined with hotel conveniences.
See more photos and book here.
4. San Lorenzo – Lively Markets and Authentic Atmosphere 🛍️
San Lorenzo is one of Florence’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, known for its markets and historic buildings.
The area is naturally dominated by the Basilica di San Lorenzo and the adjoining Medici Chapels, which are the resting place of the famous Medici family.
But it’s the markets that truly draw people to San Lorenzo. Here you can find everything from leather goods, clothing, and accessories to local delicacies.
See the best hotels in San Lorenzo here.
Mercato Centrale is a must for food lovers. This two-storey market offers a wealth of stalls with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and wine.
On the first floor, you’ll find a modern food market with various eateries where you can taste everything from pizza to seafood.
San Lorenzo is ideal for travellers who wish to experience local life and love shopping. The atmosphere is busy and energetic, and the area is filled with small cafés and trattorias where you can take a break from shopping.
The location is also convenient, as it’s close to the Santa Maria Novella train station, where you can take direct trains to Rome, Milan, or Venice.
With a change in Rome, you can even get all the way down to Naples and from there on to the Amalfi Coast in just under 3 hours.
I have taken the train from there to Rome – it always works excellently to take the train in Italy.
Places to stay in San Lorenzo
Here are the three places I would book myself into if I were to stay in San Lorenzo on my trip to Florence.
Hotel Firenze Number Nine ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hotel Firenze Number Nine is an exclusive boutique hotel located in the heart of Florence, just a few minutes from the cathedral and Piazza della Signoria.
The hotel combines modern design with classic Italian elegance and offers luxurious rooms and suites equipped with all modern facilities.
Guests highlight the spacious rooms, the excellent service, and the hotel’s spa and wellness centre, where you can relax after a day of sightseeing.
The central location makes it easy to explore Florence’s cultural attractions on foot.
An ideal choice for travellers seeking comfort and luxury in beautiful surroundings.
See more photos and book here.
Hotel Camilla Guelfa is a cosy and affordable hotel located in Florence’s historic centre, just a short walk from the cathedral and the Accademia Gallery.
The hotel offers simple but comfortable rooms with traditional furniture and modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
Guests highlight the warm and familial atmosphere, the helpful service from the staff, and the excellent location close to the city’s major attractions.
An ideal choice for budget travellers who wish to experience Florence without breaking the bank.
See more photos and book here.
And there ends my guide on the best places to stay in Florence.
So whether you prefer the historical charm of Centro Storico, the authentic atmosphere of Santo Spirito, the lively nightlife of Santa Croce, or the shopping opportunities in San Lorenzo, Florence has something for everyone.
I hope this guide has helped you find the perfect place to stay so you can make the most of your time in this magical city.
Safe travels, and enjoy all that Florence has to offer.
Read all my Italy Travel Guides here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Florence:
Which area is best to stay in Florence for first-time visitors?
For first-time visitors, Centro Storico is the best area to stay in. Florence’s historic centre is home to many iconic sights, such as the cathedral (Il Duomo), the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio. Staying here allows you to be within walking distance of most attractions, restaurants, and shops. The area is lively and charming, making it ideal for those who wish to experience the best of Florence in a short time.
What are hotel prices like in Florence?
Hotel prices in Florence vary depending on the season, location, and type of hotel. Generally, you can find everything from luxury hotels to budget-friendly accommodation options:
Luxury hotels: From €250 and upwards per night.
Mid-range hotels: Between €100 and €250 per night.
Budget hotels and B&Bs: Under €100 per night.
It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during the high season (April to October), as hotels fill up quickly.
Which areas in Florence are best for nightlife and restaurants?
Santa Croce and San Lorenzo are known for their lively nightlife and a wide selection of restaurants and bars. Santa Croce has trendy bars, clubs, and authentic eateries, while San Lorenzo offers local markets and traditional trattorias. Both areas are ideal for travellers who wish to experience Florence’s culinary scene and enjoy the city’s atmosphere after dark.
Travel ressources & websites I use all the time 👇
• Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
• GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation
• NordVPN is the only VPN I've ever needed for travel (it just works, everywhere)
• Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers
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