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Where to Stay

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No stranger to visitors, Florence is equipped with hotels for all budgets; for instance, you can find both budget and luxury hotels in the centro storico and along the Arno. Florence has so many famous landmarks that it’s not hard to find lodging with a panoramic view. The equivalent of the genteel pensioni of yesteryear still exist, though they’re now officially classified as hotels. Generally small and intimate, they often have a quaint appeal that usually doesn’t preclude modern plumbing.

Florence’s importance not only as a tourist city but as a convention center and the site of the Pitti fashion collections guarantees a variety of accommodations. The high demand also means that, except in winter, reservations are a must.

If you find yourself in Florence with no reservations, go to Consorzio ITA (Stazione Centrale, Santa Maria Novella | 055/282893). You must go there in person to make a booking.

The Duomo to the Arno

Albergo Firenze.
$ | A block from the Duomo, this hotel is on one of the oldest piazzas in Florence. Though the reception area and hallways have all the charm of a college dormitory, the similarity ends upon entering the spotlessly clean rooms. A good number of triple and quadruple rooms make this a good choice for families. Pros: for the location, a great bargain. Cons: no-frills public areas. TripAdvisor: “good accommodation,” “nice rooms,” “awesome location.” | Rooms from: €90 | Piazza Donati 4, Duomo | 50122 | 055/214203 | www.hotelfirenze-fi.it | 58 rooms | Breakfast.

Hermitage.
$$ | A stone’s throw from the Ponte Vecchio, this is a fine little hotel with an enviable location. All rooms are decorated with lively wallpaper; some have views of Palazzo Vecchio and others of the Arno. The rooftop terrace, where you can have breakfast or an aperitivo, is decked with flowers. The lobby suggests a friend’s living room—its warm yellow walls are welcoming. Double glazing and air-conditioning help keep street noise at bay. Pros: views; friendly, English-speaking staff. Cons: short flight of stairs to reach elevator. TripAdvisor: “very enjoyable,” “charming and well located,” “a little gem.” | Rooms from: €180 | Vicolo Marzio 1, Piazza della Signoria | 50122 | 055/287216 | www.hermitagehotel.com | 27 rooms, 1 suite | Breakfast.

Hotel Helvetia and Bristol.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Painstaking care has gone into making this hotel one of the prettiest and most intimate in town. It has the extra plus of being in the center of the centro storico, making it a luxurious base from which to explore the city. From the cozy yet sophisticated lobby with its stone columns to the guest rooms decorated with prints, you might feel as if you’re a guest in a sophisticated manor house. The restaurant serves sumptuous fare in a romantic setting. Pros: central location; superb staff. Cons: rooms facing the street get some noise. TripAdvisor: “charming,” “simply the best,” “excellent location and service.” | Rooms from: €420 | Via dei Pescioni 2, Piazza della Repubblica | 50123 | 055/26651 | www.hbf.royaldemeure.com | 54 rooms, 13 suites | No meals.

Fodor’s Choice | In Piazza della Signoria.
$$ | Proprietors Alessandro and Sonia Pini want you to use their house—in this case, part of a 15th-century palazzo—as if it were your own. Such warm sentiments extend to the cozy feeling created in the rooms, all of which are uniquely decorated and lovingly furnished; some have damask curtains, others fanciful frescoes in the bathroom. Pros: marvelous staff; tasty breakfast with a view of Piazza della Signoria. Cons: short flight of stairs to reach elevator. TripAdvisor: “you’ll feel like a Medici,” “kind and helpful staff,” “a pleasant surprise.” | Rooms from: €200 | Via dei Magazzini 2, Near Piazza della Signoria | 50122 | 055/2399546 | www.inpiazzadellasignoria.com | 10 rooms, 3 apartments | Breakfast.

Palazzo Niccolini al Duomo.
$$$ | The graceful Marchesa Ginevra Niccolini di Camugliano refers to her lovingly restored hotel as her third child. She’s taken her husband’s family’s palazzo (acquired by an ancestor in 1532) and turned it into a luxurious place that still manages to evoke a cozy, yet highly sophisticated, home. Rooms have high ceilings, damask drapes, and spacious, marble-floored bathrooms. Some have original 18th-century frescoes, others terrific views. The well-priced Dome Suite, with its remarkable view and hot tub, is worth a splurge, as the Duomo’s so close you can practically touch it. An honor bar allows you to enjoy an after-dinner drink in a swank velvet-clad sitting room. Pros: steps away from the Duomo. Cons: street noise sometimes a problem. TripAdvisor: “absolutely perfect,” “a part of history,” “outstanding service.” | Rooms from: €240 | Via dei Servi 2 | 50122 | 055/282412 | www.niccolinidomepalace.com | 5 rooms, 5 suites.

San Lorenzo and Beyond

Antica Dimora Firenze.
$ | B&B/INN | Each room in the intimate residenza is painted a different pastel color—peach, rose, powder-blue. Simple furnishings and double-glazed windows ensure a peaceful night’s sleep. You might ask for one of the rooms that has a small private terrace; if you contemplate a longer stay, one of their well-located apartments might suit. Coffee, tea, and fresh fruit, available all day in the sitting room, are on the house. Pros: ample DVD library; honor bar with Antinori wines. Cons: staff goes home at 8; no credit cards accepted. TripAdvisor: “quiet neighborhood but central and comfortable,” “lovely,” “truly wonderful.” | Rooms from: €90 | Via San Gallo 72, San Marco | 50129 | 055/4627296 | www.anticadimorafirenze.it | 6 rooms | No credit cards | Breakfast.

Fodor’s Choice | Antica Dimora Johlea.
$ | Lively color runs rampant at this small, cheerful hotel just minutes from San Marco. It’s on the top floor of a nineteenth-century palazzo and has a charming flower-filled rooftop terrace where you can sip a glass of wine while taking in a view of Brunelleschi’s cupola. Rooms have four-poster beds, colorful prints on the wall, and sweeping curtains. Complementary coffee, tea, and fruit are on hand all day in the comfortable sitting room. Single rooms are large by Italian standards—a boon if you’re traveling alone. Pros: great staff; cheerful rooms; honor bar. Cons: staff goes home at 7; narrow staircase to get to roof terrace. TripAdvisor: “cozy gem,” “such pleasant helpful staff,” “first-class stay.” | Rooms from: €100 | Via San Gallo 80, San Marco | 50129 | 055/4633292 | www.johanna.it | 6 rooms | No credit cards | Breakfast.

Arti & Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | If Florence had town houses, this would be one: the entrance to the public room downstairs feels as if you’re in someone’s living room. Pale pastel walls, polished hardwood floors, and muted fabrics give rooms a simple, elegant look. Breakfast is taken on the top floor, and a small terrace provides city views. The highly capable staff is completely fluent in English. Pros: down the street from the Duomo. Cons: staff goes home at 11. | Rooms from: €230 | Via dei Servi 38/a, Santissima Annunziata | 50122 | 055/2645307 | www.hoteldellearti.it | 9 rooms | Breakfast.

Hotel Casci.
$$ | HOTEL | In this refurbished 14th-century palace, the home of Giacchino Rossini in 1851–55, the friendly Lombardi family runs a hotel with spotless rooms. Guest rooms are functional, and many of them open out onto various terraces (a view doesn’t necessarily follow, however). It’s on a very busy thoroughfare, but triple-glazed windows allow for a sound night’s sleep. Many rooms easily accommodate an extra bed or two, and there are a number of triples and quads available. Pros: helpful staff; good option for families; English-language DVD collection with good selections for kids. Cons: bit of a college-dorm atmosphere; small elevator TripAdvisor: “excellent breakfast,” “friendly staff,” “a home away from home.” | Rooms from: €150 | Via Cavour 13, San Marco | 50129 | 055/211686 | www.hotelcasci.com | 25 rooms | Breakfast.

Il Guelfo Bianco.
$$$ | The 15th-century building has all modern conveniences, but its Renaissance charm still shines. Rooms have high ceilings (some are coffered) and windows are triple-glazed. The Bargiacchi family has run the place for more than 20 years, and their collection of 20th-century art contrasts nicely with classic furnishings. Larger-than-usual single rooms have French-style beds, and are a good choice for those traveling alone. Breakfast can be taken in a small outdoor garden when weather permits. Though the hotel is in the centro storico, it still feels somewhat off the beaten path. Pros: stellar multilingual staff. Cons: rooms facing the street can be noisy. TripAdvisor: “perfectly located,” “amazing service,” “a great friendly place.” | Rooms from: €250 | Via Cavour 29, San Marco | 50129 | 055/288330 | www.ilguelfobianco.it | 40 rooms | Breakfast.

Plus Florence.
$ | The name is the only odd thing about this hostel, which has been in operation since 2008. Though it’s certainly favored by the younger, backpacking set, it’s also quite hospitable to those traveling in groups or with families. Spartan rooms, each with its own bath and shower, sleep up to eight people; plenty of doubles are on hand for those who want a little more privacy. The young, multi-lingual staff, on-site restaurant, and terrace bar, make this a terrific option for those on a budget. Pros: bargain price; multiligual staff. Cons: feels like a college dorm; somewhat removed from the action. TripAdvisor: “cheap luxury,” “close enough to the action,” “great amenities.” | Rooms from: €47 | Via Santa Caterina d’Alessandria 15, San Marco | 50129 | 055/4628934 | www.plusflorence.com | 4 rooms, 9 dorm rooms | No meals.

Santa Maria Novella to the Arno

Alessandra.
$ | The location, a block from the Ponte Vecchio, and the clean, ample rooms make this a good choice. The building, known as the Palazzo Roselli del Turco, was designed in 1507 by Baccio d’Agnolo, a contemporary of Michelangelo’s. Though little remains of the original design save for the high wood ceilings, there’s still an aura of grandeur. Friendly hosts Anna and Andrea Gennarini speak fluent English. Pros: several rooms have views of the Arno; the spacious suite is a bargain. Cons: stairs to elevator; some rooms share bath. TripAdvisor: “friendly and convenient,” “amazing staff,” “great location for sightseeing.” | Rooms from: €108 | Borgo Santi Apostoli 17, Santa Maria Novella | 50123 | 055/283438 | www.hotelalessandra.com | 26 rooms, 19 with bath; 1 suite; 1 apartment | Closed Dec. 10–26 | Breakfast.

Beacci Tornabuoni.
$$ | Florentine pensioni don’t get any classier than this. It has old-fashioned style and enough modern comfort to keep you happy, and it’s in a 14th-century palazzo. The sitting room has a large fireplace, the terrace has a tremendous view of some major Florentine monuments, and the wallpapered rooms are inviting. On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday nights from May through October the dining room opens, serving Tuscan specialties. Pros: multilingual staff; flower-filled terrace. Cons: hall noise can sometimes be a problem. TripAdvisor: “elegant room,” “perfect location,” “captures the essence of Florence.” | Rooms from: €199 | Via Tornabuoni 3, Santa Maria Novella | 50123 | 055/212645 | www.tornabuonihotels.com | 37 rooms, 16 suites | Breakfast.

Gallery Hotel Art.
$$$ | HOTEL | High design resides at this art showcase near the Ponte Vecchio. The coolly understated public rooms have a revolving collection of photographs by artists like Helmut Newton adorning the walls; the reception area is subtly but dramatically lit. Rooms are sleek and uncluttered and dressed mostly in neutrals. Luxe touches, such as leather headboards and kimono robes, abound. Both the bar and restaurant attract sophisticated, fashionable locals; brunch is served on weekends. Pros: cool atmosphere; beautiful people; miso soup on the breakfast menu. Cons: sometimes elevator is slow. TripAdvisor: “good breakfast,” “stylish,” “great rooms and helpful staff.” | Rooms from: €280 | Vicolo dell’Oro 5, Santa Maria Novella | 50123 | 055/27263 | www.lungarnohotels.com | 65 rooms, 9 suites | Breakfast.

Fodor’s Choice | JK Place.
$$$$ | This sumptuously appointed boutique hotel has all the comforts of a luxe home away from home. A library serves as the reception room; buffet breakfast is laid out on a gleaming chestnut table in an interior atrium. Soothing earth tones prevail in the guest rooms, some of which have chandeliers, others canopied beds. A secluded rooftop terrace makes a perfect setting for an aperitivo, as do the ground-floor sitting rooms with their large, pillow-piled couches. The place is favored by young fashionistas, their entourages, and other beautiful people. Pros: intimate feel; stellar staff; free minibar; linen sheets; organic meals on room-service menu; Wi-Fi. Cons: breakfast at a shared table. TripAdvisor: “the best,” “unabashed luxury,” “incredible service.” | Rooms from: €350 | Piazza Santa Maria Novella 7 | 50123 | 055/2645181 | www.jkplace.com | 14 doubles, 6 suites | Breakfast.

Nuova Italia.
$$ | The genial English-speaking Viti family runs this hotel near the train station and well within walking distance of the sights. Its rooms are clean and simply furnished. Air-conditioning and triple-glazed windows ensure quiet nights. Some rooms can accommodate extra beds. Pros: reasonable rates. Cons: no elevator. TripAdvisor: “hospitable staff,” “fantastic location,” “really helpful service.” | Rooms from: €129 | Via Faenza 26, Santa Maria Novella | 50123 | 055/268430 | www.hote-nuovaitalia.com | 20 rooms | Closed Dec. 8–Dec. 26 | Breakfast.

Torre Guelfa.
$$ | If you want a taste of medieval Florence, try this hotel hidden within a 13th-century tower. The Torre Guelfa once protected the wealthy Acciaiuoli family; now it’s one of the best small hotels in the center of Florence. It’s been run since 1995 by husband and wife Giancarlo and Sabina Avuri, who lend a personal touch. Guest rooms vary—some have canopied beds, some balconies. A simple breakfast is served in a serene glassed-in loggia. Those on a budget might consider one of the six less expensive rooms on the second floor, which are comparable to the rest of the rooms. Pros: rooftop terrace with tremendous views; wonderful staff; some family-friendly triple rooms. Cons: 72 steps to get to terrace; continental breakfast is available only at 8 am. TripAdvisor: “a tower with a view,” “greatest asset is its staff,” “a gem in Firenze.” | Rooms from: €180 | Borgo Santi Apostoli 8, Santa Maria Novella | 50123 | 055/2396338 | www.hoteltorreguelfa.com | 24 rooms, 2 suites | Breakfast.

The Oltrarno and Beyond

Hotel Silla.
$$$ | HOTEL | The entrance to this slightly off-the-beaten-path hotel is through a 15th-century courtyard lined with potted plants and sculpture-filled niches. The hotel, formerly a palazzo dating from the 15th century, is up a flight of stairs and has two floors. Rooms are simply furnished and walls are papered; some have views of Via de’ Renai and the Arno, while others overlook a less-traveled road. Breakfast may be taken in a room that preserves an Empire feel (including two chandeliers from the early 19th century); when it’s warm, a large, sunny terrace is the perfect place to read or to write that postcard. Pros: a Fodor’s reader raves, “It’s in the middle of everything except the crowds.” Cons: some readers complain of street noise and too-small rooms. TripAdvisor: “great location,” “friendly staff,” “perfect.” | Rooms from: €280 | Via de’ Renai 5, San Niccolò | 50125 | 055/2342888 | www.hotelsilla.it | 35 rooms | Breakfast.

Lungarno.
$$$$ | Many rooms and suites here have private terraces that jut out right over the Arno, granting stunning views of the Palazzo Vecchio and the Lungarno. Four suites in a 13th-century tower preserve details like exposed stone walls and old archways, and look over a little square with a medieval tower covered in jasmine. The very chic interiors approximate breezily elegant homes, with lots of crisp, white fabrics with blue trim. A wall of windows and a sea of white couches make the lobby bar one of the most relaxing places in the city to stop for a drink. Inquire about the Lungarno Suites, across the river; they include kitchens, making them attractive if you’re planning a longer stay. Pros: upscale without being stuffy. Cons: rooms without Arno views feel less special. TripAdvisor: “gorgeous hotel in a great location,” “simple elegance,” “luxury on the river.” | Rooms from: €360 | Borgo San Jacopo 14, Lungarno Sud | 50125 | 055/27261 | www.lungarnohotels.com | 59 rooms, 14 suites | Breakfast.

Santa Croce

The Four Seasons.
$$$$ | Seven years of restoration have turned this 15th-century palazzo in Florence’s center into a luxury hotel unlike any other in town. No place else can boast of an 11-acre garden dotted with centuries-old trees, a pool, and a state-of-the-art spa. A sweeping 16th-century courtyard with original frescoes leads to an elegant bar where Florentines enjoy aperitivi. No two guest rooms are alike; many have original 17th-century frescoes, some face the garden, others quiet interior courtyards. Decorated in either yellow or green, they have large marble bathrooms with deep tubs and showers. If you crave heightened privacy, book yourself at the Conventino section of the hotel on the other side of the garden. Pros: a unique “city meets country” experience; the marvelous garden. Cons: For this price, breakfast really ought to be included; some feel it’s a little too removed from the historic center. TripAdvisor: “simply stunning,” “impressive palace,” “more than a destination hotel.” | Rooms from: €650 | Borgo Pinti 99e, Santa Croce | 50121 | 055/26261 | www.fourseasons.com/florence | 117 rooms | No meals.

Hotel Regency.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The noise and crowds of Florence seem far from this stylish hotel in a residential district near the Sinagoga, though you’re not more than 10 minutes from the Accademia and Michelangelo’s David. Across the street is Piazza d’Azeglio, a small public park that somehow evokes 19th-century middle Europe. Rooms dressed in richly colored fabrics and antique-style furniture remain faithful to the hotel’s 19th-century origins as a private mansion. The restaurant here is equally sophisticated. Pros: faces one of the few green parks in the center of Florence. Cons: a small flight of stairs takes you to reception. TripAdvisor: “perfection in Florence,” “very nice and attentive staff,” “intimate.” | Rooms from: €362 | Piazza d’Azeglio 3, Santa Croce | 50121 | 055/245247 | www.regency-hotel.com | 30 rooms, 4 suites | Breakfast.

Istituto Oblate dell’Assunzione.
$ | Twelve nuns run this convent, which is minutes from the Duomo. Rooms are spotlessly clean and simple; some have views of the cupola, and others look out onto a carefully tended garden where you are welcome to relax. Several rooms have three and four beds, making them well suited for families. Curfew is at 11:30 pm. You can join Mass every morning at 7:30. For an additional three euros you can get a simple continental breakfast, and the nuns provide half or full pension for groups of 10 or more. None of the nuns speaks English, and they don’t have a Web presence, so unless you speak Italian the best way to book is by fax. Pros: bargain price; great location; quiet rooms; garden. Cons: curfew; no credit cards. TripAdvisor: “quiet,” “basic and comfortable,” “great location.” | Rooms from: €90 | Borgo Pinti 15, Santa Croce | 50121 | 055/2480582 | Fax055/2346291 | 28 rooms, 22 with bath | No credit cards | No meals.

Monna Lisa.
$$$$ | Housed in a 15th-century palazzo, this hotel retains some of its wood-coffered ceilings from the 1500s, as well as its original staircase. Though some rooms are small, they are tasteful, and each is done in a different floral wallpaper. Some of the up-to-date bathrooms offer tubs as well as showers. The inviting public rooms, with gleaming terra-cotta floors and Oriental rugs, retain a 19th-century aura, and the pretty box-hedged garden offers a good place to unwind. Two annex buildings have elevators and lack the sometimes challenging steps of the main hotel. Pros: lavish buffet breakfast; cheerful staff; garden. Cons: rooms in annex are less charming than those in palazzo. TripAdvisor: “a gem in Florence,” “comfortable and charming,” “wonderful and individual.” | Rooms from: €324 | Borgo Pinti 27, Santa Croce | 50121 | 055/2479751 | www.monnalisa.it | 45 rooms | Breakfast.

Morandi alla Crocetta.
$$ | You’re made to feel like privileged friends of the family at this charming and distinguished residence near Piazza Santissima Annunziata. The former convent is close to the sights but very quiet, and it’s furnished comfortably in the classic style of a gracious Florentine home. One room retains original 17th-century fresco fragments, and two others have small private terraces. The Morandi is not only an exceptional hotel, but also a good value. It’s very small, so book well in advance. Pros: interesting, offbeat location; terrific staff. Cons: two flights of stairs to reach reception and rooms. TripAdvisor: “beautifully unique,” “most charming,” “great staff.” | Rooms from: €150 | Via Laura 50, Santissima Annunziata | 50121 | 055/2344747 | www.hotelmorandi.it | 10 rooms.

Outside the City

Il Salviatino.
$$$$ | A winding drive up a cypress-studded lane brings you to this jewel of a hotel just outside Florence. It’s a bit unusual that there’s no reception area, but the intention is to make you feel at home—that is, if home were a restored 14th century villa. Staff, called “ambassadors,” are always available while remaining invisible when you want them to be. The opulent library is a good place to unwind; so, too, is their state-of-the-art Devarana Spa. The sweeping main staircase is lit with candles at night to dramatic effect. Rooms are simply but elegantly furnished, and many of them have views of the Duomo and the neatly laid out Renaissance garden below. The sophisticated restaurant offers Tuscan food with clever, creative twists. Pros: great views; attentive staff. Cons: no reception area; some hall noise. TripAdvisor: “romantic,” “fantastic attention,” “the most luxurious hotel in Florence.” | Rooms from: €577 | Via del Salviatino 21 | 50100 | 055/904111 | www.salviatino.com | 23 rooms, 22 suites | Breakfast.

Torre di Bellosguardo.
$$$ | Bellosguardo means “beautiful view”; given the view of Florence you get here, the name is fitting. The hotel, perched atop a hill minutes from the viale, is reached via a narrow road dotted with olive trees. Dante’s friend Guido Calvacanti supposedly chose this serene spot for his country villa, but little remains from the early 14th century. The reception area, a former ballroom, has soaring ceilings with frescoes by Francavilla (1553–1615). Guest rooms, all with high ceilings, are simple and have heavy wooden furniture. Proprietor Signor Franchetti keeps a small menagerie on the grounds (including donkeys, rabbits, and chickens), and maintains a beautiful, peaceful garden, which guests have access to. Pros: great for escaping heat of the city in summer; a villa experience with the city just minutes away. Cons: a car is a necessity. TripAdvisor: “a beautiful retreat with unbeatable views,” “very special,” “a secret haven.” | Rooms from: €290 | Via Roti Michelozzi 2 | 50124 | 055/2298145 | www.torrebellosguardo.com | 9 rooms, 7 suites.

Villa La Massa.
$$$$ | You approach this tall and imposing villa, 15 minutes out of town, via a gravel drive lined with flowers. The public rooms, outfitted in Renaissance style in deep green, gold, and crimson, have an atmosphere of lush elegance. Guest rooms have high ceilings, some with frescoes, plush carpeting, and deep bathtubs. A pool and beautiful views of the Arno are bonuses. The superb Il Verocchio restaurant serves Tuscan classics using local seasonal ingredients; a pianist quietly plays old standards while you eat. A shuttle bus runs every hour to and from the center of Florence, but the place is so peaceful, you might not want to bother. Pros: pleasing mix of city and country life; sumptuous buffet breakfast; views of the Tuscan hills; phenomenal staff. Cons: even with shuttle, a car is a necessity; not open year-round. TripAdvisor: “peaceful and serene,” “worth every cent,” “magical.” | Rooms from: €550 | Via della Massa 24, Candeli | 50012 | 055/62611 | www.villalamassa.com | 19 rooms, 18 suites | Closed Dec.–Mar. | Breakfast.

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