Where to Stay in Florence, Italy (2026)
Timeless Wanderers: Updated May 14, 2026
Best Areas to Stay in Florence
Choosing the best area to stay in Florence can make all the difference to your trip.
Although Florence is compact enough to explore on foot, each neighbourhood has its own character.
Some are perfect for first-time visitors wanting to be close to the Duomo and major attractions, while others offer a quieter atmosphere, excellent restaurants, or a more local feel away from the busiest streets.
After spending years travelling throughout Tuscany and countless visits to Florence, we’ve discovered that where you stay shapes your experience just as much as the sights you visit.
In this guide, we’ll help you choose the best neighbourhood for your travel style, whether you’re visiting for art, history, shopping, food, or a romantic getaway.
We’ve also included carefully selected hotels for every budget, making it easier to find the perfect base for exploring one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.
Table of Contents
We can help you plan your dream trip to Tuscany, with a personalised itinerary designed just for you.
After more than 20 years of travelling to Tuscany—and loving it so much we decided to make it our home—we now live here and explore the region at a relaxed, local pace.
Planning a trip to Tuscany is exciting, but choosing where to go, how long to stay, and how to get around can quickly become overwhelming.
That’s where we come in.
We offer a personalised planning service that helps you decide exactly how to explore Tuscany, based on your travel style, budget, and pace.
Plus, we can help you plan scenic drives, time in hilltop towns, food and wine experiences, and those small local moments that make a trip truly special—making your Tuscany holiday easier, smoother, and full of memories you’ll treasure long after you return home.
“Let us plan your perfect trip with a custom itinerary designed just for you.
Fill out the form and let’s begin your dream.”
Important Tip:
After visiting Florence many times, we’ve learned that this isn’t a city where leaving accommodation until the last minute usually pays off.
The best hotels, apartments, and boutique guesthouses are often booked months in advance, especially during spring, summer, and the autumn shoulder season.
We generally recommend booking your accommodation three to four months ahead.
You’ll have a much better choice of locations, room types, and prices without needing to lock in your plans too far in advance.
Duomo & Historic Center — Best for First-Time Visitors & Sightseeing
For first-time visitors, there’s no better place to stay than Florence’s historic centre.
This is the heart of the city, where nearly every postcard-perfect image comes to life.
From the iconic red dome of the Florence Cathedral to the grand Uffizi Gallery and bustling Piazza della Signoria, everything is right at your doorstep.
The area is perfect for those who want to walk everywhere, soak in the city’s atmosphere, and never miss a beat.
“Everything is within walking distance…” museums, churches, shopping streets, and countless trattorias and cafes.
We always enjoy staying here when we want to make the most of a short visit because you can step outside and be surrounded by Florence’s most famous landmarks within minutes.
It’s also a great base for quick day trips since it’s within walking distance of the Santa Maria Novella train station.
Be aware, though—this area can be crowded during peak seasons, so early mornings and late evenings are when its charm truly shines.
Why stay here
Duomo & Historic center is best for:
- Walk to major attractions
- Great restaurants
- Excellent shopping
- Easy to explore on foot
Things to consider
- Busy during the day
- More expensive
- Can be noisy
Where to stay in the Historic Center
Budget
Hotel Dali — Friendly staff, basic but charming rooms, and a near-impossible-to-beat location just behind the Duomo.
Hotel Bavaria — Quirky, artsy vibe with frescoed ceilings and budget-friendly rates.
Mid-range
Hotel Pendini — Classic Florentine decor with views over Piazza della Repubblica, excellent service and breakfast.
Boutique
Hotel Calzaiuoli — Elegant and central with modern comforts and walking-distance proximity to all major sites.
Luxury
Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy — Luxury in the heart of Florence with refined rooms, Michelin-starred dining, and concierge service.
Apartment
If you stay here, the Duomo will literally be on your doorstep. Some rooms look directly at the cathedral.
Each room is a spacious apartment that can accommodate between 2 and 4 people..
More Accommodation in the Duomo & Historic Cente: Check Rates and Book Your Stay.
Santa Croce — Best for Art, Food & a More Local Feel
Santa Croce is a wonderful choice for travellers who want to stay close to Florence’s main attractions while experiencing a slightly more relaxed side of the city.
Centred around the magnificent Basilica di Santa Croce, this neighbourhood combines centuries of artistic history with everyday Florentine life.
The streets are filled with artisan workshops, leather makers, small boutiques, cafés, and traditional restaurants.
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Santa Croce is the atmosphere.
During the day, you can easily walk to the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Piazza della Signoria, but when the crowds begin to disappear, the neighbourhood takes on a quieter, more local feel.
Food lovers will especially enjoy this area, with excellent trattorias, wine bars, and places where you can enjoy a relaxed evening meal away from the busiest tourist streets.
Santa Croce is best for:
- Travellers who want a central location without being right in the busiest area
- Food lovers and restaurant seekers
- Couples looking for a more relaxed evening atmosphere
- Visitors who enjoy art, history, and local neighbourhoods
Things to consider:
- It is still a popular area, especially around the basilica
- Some streets can be lively at night
- It is slightly farther from Santa Maria Novella train station than the Duomo area
Where to Stay in Santa Croce
Budget:
•Hotel Santa Croce– Friendly, family-run, steps from the basilica.
• Hotel Bodoni – Great value with rooftop views over the city.
Mid-Range:
• La Maison du Sage – Chic, contemporary rooms with designer décor and generous breakfasts.
Boutique:
• Palazzo Roselli Cecconi – Elegant historic charm with spacious, stylish rooms.
Luxury:
• Baglioni Relais Santa Croce – 5-star luxury inside a historic palazzo with opulent rooms and refined service.
Apartments:
New Rooftop Terraces Apartment in Santa Croce offers a spacious, recently renovated apartment with two bedrooms and a bathroom
Other Accommodation in Santa Croce- Book Your Stay Here
Oltrarno & San Frediano — Best for a Local Florence Experience
Cross the Arno River and you’ll discover a different side of Florence — quieter, more creative, and with a stronger connection to everyday Florentine life.
The Oltrarno, meaning “beyond the Arno,” is where traditional workshops, artisan studios, independent shops, and family-run restaurants sit alongside some of the city’s most beautiful streets.
Within this area, San Frediano has become one of Florence’s most loved neighbourhoods, known for its relaxed atmosphere, vintage boutiques, wine bars, and excellent trattorias.
One of the biggest advantages of staying here is that you can enjoy a slower pace while still being within walking distance of Florence’s famous sights.
After a day exploring museums and historic landmarks, it’s the perfect place to return to for an evening aperitivo, a quiet dinner, or a sunset walk along the river.
Oltrarno is especially suited to second-time visitors, couples, creative travellers, and anyone who wants to experience Florence beyond the main tourist streets.
Oltrarno & San Frediano are best for:
- Travellers wanting a more local neighbourhood feel
- Couples and longer stays
- Food and wine lovers
- Visitors who enjoy artisan shops and independent cafés
Things to consider:
- It is farther from Santa Maria Novella train station
- Some attractions require a short walk across the river
- The area is quieter at night compared with the historic centre
Where to Stay in Oltrarno
Budget:
• Hotel Palazzo Guadagni – Affordable charm with a beautiful rooftop terrace.
Mid-Range:
• Hotel Lungarno Vespucci 50 – Elegant riverside option with classic décor and comfort.
Boutique:
• Soprarno Suites – Creative, stylish rooms with an artsy flair and antique details.
Luxury:
• Portrait Firenze – Sophisticated and romantic, with river views and Ferragamo-designed interiors.
Apartments:
• Oltrarno Terrace– Beautifully curated apartment with a terrace in a restored palazzo, ideal for longer stays.
More Accommodation in Oltrarno
San Lorenzo — Best for Convenience, Markets & Good Value
San Lorenzo is one of Florence’s most practical neighbourhoods, located just a few minutes’ walk from the Duomo and close to Santa Maria Novella train station.
This area is known for its famous Mercato Centrale, where you can browse local food stalls, enjoy traditional dishes, and experience a livelier side of Florentine daily life.
The surrounding streets are also home to leather markets, small shops, cafés, and important historic sites such as the Medici Chapels.
One of the biggest advantages of staying in San Lorenzo is the location.
You can walk to Florence’s major attractions while often finding more affordable accommodation than in the heart of the Duomo area.
It is also an excellent base if you are planning day trips around Tuscany, with the train station nearby making journeys to places such as Pisa, Lucca, Siena, and beyond much easier.
San Lorenzo is ideal for travellers who value convenience, good food, and being close to everything without paying the highest central prices.
San Lorenzo is best for:
- First-time visitors on a budget
- Food lovers and market enthusiasts
- Travellers taking day trips by train
- Solo travellers wanting a central location
Things to consider:
- The streets around the market can feel busy during the day
- Some areas are more practical than romantic
- It has less of a quiet neighbourhood feel than Oltrarno
Where to Stay in San Lorenzo
Budget:
• Hotel Lorena – Family-run, no-frills comfort with unbeatable location.
• Hotel Nuova Italia – Clean, friendly, and steps from Mercato Centrale.
Mid-Range:
• Hotel Globus – Stylish rooms and excellent breakfast near the market.
Boutique:
Room Mate Luca – Colorful, design-forward boutique with excellent service.
Luxury:
• Palazzo Castri 1874 – Elegant 4-star with a spa, garden, and modern Italian style.
Apartments:
• Florence Art Apartments – Well-equipped, centrally located, and perfect for short or extended stays.
Other accommodation in San Lorenzo – Check Rates And Book your Stay.
Santa Maria Novella — Best for Train Access & Easy Exploring
Santa Maria Novella is one of the most convenient areas to stay in Florence, especially for travellers who want easy access to the city and the rest of Tuscany.
Located around Florence’s main train station, this neighbourhood is an excellent choice for visitors planning day trips to places such as Pisa, Lucca, Siena, or other Tuscan destinations.
It is also only a short walk from the Duomo and Florence’s main historic attractions.
While it may not have the same atmosphere as the narrow streets around the Duomo or the artisan feel of Oltrarno, Santa Maria Novella has plenty to discover.
The area is home to the beautiful Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, elegant streets, historic buildings, and quieter corners away from the busiest tourist routes.
Another advantage is the range of accommodation available, from affordable hotels to comfortable mid-range stays, often offering better value than the most central streets.
Santa Maria Novella is ideal for first-time visitors, families with luggage, travellers arriving by train, and anyone using Florence as a base for exploring Tuscany.
Santa Maria Novella is best for:
- Travellers arriving by train
- Day trips around Tuscany
- Families or visitors with luggage
- Visitors wanting convenience and good transport connections
Things to consider:
- The area around the station is busier and less atmospheric
- Some streets feel more practical than traditional Florence
- You may prefer another neighbourhood if you want a romantic evening atmosphere
Where to Stay in Santa Maria Novella
Budget:
Hotel Delle Camelie – Clean and affordable near the train station.
Hotel Fiorita – Simple rooms with excellent breakfast and friendly service.
Mid-Range:
Hotel Alba Palace – Warm, Tuscan-style interiors and great value.
Boutique:
Hotel L’Orologio – Stylish watch-themed decor with refined charm and views of Piazza Santa Maria Novella.
Luxury
The Place Firenze – 5-star sophistication with impeccable service, steps from the station.
Apartment
numa | Rodo Rooms & Suites – Contemporary, fully equipped stays close to both the station and city center.
Check Rates and Book your stay in Santa Maria Novella
How Much Does It Cost to Stay in Florence?
Florence offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every type of traveler—from backpackers on a shoestring budget to luxury seekers looking for Renaissance-inspired elegance.
For Budget travelers, expect to pay around €60–€100 per night for a clean, simple 1- or 2-star hotel or guesthouse.
Hostels can be even cheaper, especially in shared dorms.
Mid-range hotels in the 3-star category typically range from €120–€180 per night, often including breakfast and a central location.
These are great value for couples or solo travelers wanting a balance of comfort and cost.
4-star and boutique hotels usually cost €200–€350 per night, depending on the season, amenities, and proximity to attractions.
You’ll find beautifully restored buildings with elegant interiors and personalized service in this range.
For 5-star luxury stays, prices generally start at €450 and can reach €1,000+ per night, especially during peak months like May, June, and September.
Apartments vary widely—studios can start at €90, while upscale multi-room rentals with terraces and kitchens can go for €250–€600+ per night.
Florence is most expensive from April to October, so booking early or traveling in the off-season can help you save significantly.
Read this for more Accommodation in Florence
14 Best Luxury Airbnbs in Florence, Italy
THINGS WE DO WHEN WHERE HERE
Florence has a special place in our hearts.
Every time we return, we’re drawn back to a few favorite experiences—the ones that make this city feel like home.
From rooftop sunsets to homemade pasta and Renaissance masterpieces, here are the things we never miss when we’re in Florence.
1. Take a Day Trip to a Tuscan Winery
Escape the city for a day and explore the rolling hills of Chianti or Val d’Orcia.
Join a small-group tour or private driver to visit family-run vineyards, enjoy tastings of local reds, and pair them with regional specialties like pecorino cheese and handmade pasta.
2. Visit the Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery houses one of the world’s greatest art collections.
Wander through rooms filled with masterpieces by Botticelli, da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo.
Don’t miss The Birth of Venus and the Arno River views from the top-floor windows or café terrace.
3. Climb to the Top of the Duomo
Climbing Brunelleschi’s Dome rewards you with 360-degree views over Florence.
Along the way, marvel at Vasari’s frescoes up close and appreciate th feat of this Renaissance wonder.
Book ahead—slots fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
4. See Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia
We always seem to come here and see David, it’s a bit like going to Rome you always have to go to the Trevi fountain.
Nothing prepares you for the scale and beauty of David. Carved from a single block of marble, this Renaissance icon captures strength and beauty.
The Accademia is small, so you’ll have time to appreciate every detail—including Michelangelo’s unfinished Prisoners.
5. Take a Tuscan Cooking Class
Learn to cook like a local with a hands-on class in Florence.
Many include visits to a market, where you’ll pick fresh ingredients before returning to a kitchen to make pasta, sauces, and tiramisu.
Best part? You eat what you make—paired with local wine.
6. Enjoy a Rooftop Cocktail with a View
Wind down your Florence day at a rooftop bar
Try SE·ST on Arno or La Terrazza at Hotel Continentale for sweeping city views, aperitivo cocktails, and a magical sunset over the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.
Arrive early—these spots are popular, especially in summer.
Tours of Florence
Joining a tour can help save you time waiting in line, allow you to learn more about Florence from a knowledgeable guide, and introduce you to sights that you may not be able to do on your own.
Here are some of the best tours in Florence.
This small group tour is the perfect way to get the most out of your visit to the Uffizi Gallery.
Climb the dome, visit the Baptistery, and tour the Opera del Duomo Museum with an experienced guide on this small group tour.
Take a guided tour of the Uffizi and Accademia.
Go shopping in the central market in Florence and then learn how to cook a Tuscan meal. This tour gets nothing but rave reviews.
Take a food tour of Florence or a 2-hour guided sightseeing bike tour.
Suggested Itineraries
3-Day City Food Break
Day 1: Florence – Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, sunset market stroll.
Day 2: Day trip to Siena for the market and Gothic architecture.
Day 3: Lucca’s city walls by bicycle and a Aperitif in Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.
5-Day Countryside Food Tasting Escape
Days 1–2: Florence highlights.
Day 3: Chianti for food and winery tastings and olive oil sampling.
Day 4: Val d’Orcia—Pienza and Montepulciano under a golden sunset.
Day 5: Finish with a hot spring soak in Bagno Vignoni.
How to Spend 7 Magical Days in Tuscany by Car
Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable.
8 FAQs about staying in Florence and its neighbourhoods for your guide:
1. What is the best area to stay in Florence for first-time visitors?
The Historic Centre (Centro Storico) is ideal for first-timers. You’ll be within walking distance of the Duomo, Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, and most major sights.
2. Is it better to stay inside or outside the historic centre?
Inside offers convenience and atmosphere. Outside (like Oltrarno or Santa Croce edges) offers quieter streets and often better value.
3. What’s the most local neighbourhood in Florence?
Oltrarno feels the most authentic, with artisan workshops, small trattorias, and a more residential vibe.
4. Where should I stay for luxury accommodation?
Look around the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, or along the Arno River for historic palazzos and high-end boutique hotels.
5. Is Florence walkable?
Yes — Florence is compact and extremely walkable. Most attractions are within 20 minutes on foot.
6. Which area is best for nightlife and restaurants?
Santa Croce and Santo Spirito offer lively evenings with wine bars, trattorias, and a younger atmosphere.
7. Is it worth staying near the train station (Santa Maria Novella)?
Yes if you’re planning day trips. It’s convenient, but choose carefully as some streets are less charming.
8. How many nights should I stay in Florence?
At least 2–3 nights to see the highlights comfortably, plus extra time if you’re planning Tuscany day trips.
Ready to Turn Your Dream Into a Plan?
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The first planning steps
Understanding the Schengen Rule
How we choose where to stay
Practical slow travel tips
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Do You Need Travel Insurance for Tuscany?
(Short Answer: Yes — It’s Still a Smart Idea)
Travel insurance isn’t legally required to visit Tuscany, but it’s one of the smartest things you can have when travelling in Italy.
Even in a relaxed destination like Tuscany, things can go wrong — from delayed flights and lost luggage to medical issues, rental car damage, or unexpected trip cancellations.
And while Italy has excellent healthcare, medical treatment for visitors can still be costly without proper coverage.
As long-term travellers living in Italy, we’ve found SafetyWing to be a practical option for trips around Europe, offering coverage for medical care, travel delays, and lost belongings without complicated fine print.
SafetyWing
(Best for Long-Term Travel & Affordability)
We personally use SafetyWing, and have since 2019.
It’s perfect for travelling, spending multiple weeks or a whole year abroad.
You can get a Quote here.
It’s the kind of insurance you hope you never need—but you’ll be very glad you have if something unexpected happens.
Final Thoughts on Staying in Florence
Choosing where to stay in Florence can shape your entire experience of the city.
The historic centre puts you steps from iconic landmarks like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
For a quieter, more local vibe, neighbourhoods like Oltrarno and San Niccolò offer charming streets, artisan shops, and a slower pace.
Santa Croce balances history with lively dining and nightlife, while Santa Maria Novella is perfect for convenient transport connections and day trips.
Ultimately, Florence’s compact size makes almost every area walkable, so whether you choose luxury, mid-range, or budget accommodation, you’ll be immersed in the city’s Renaissance charm and Tuscan atmosphere.
PLAN YOUR TUSCANY ADVENTURE
These are our favorite companies we use when planning a trip, they consistently have the best prices, great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT – Going is a great search engine if you are flexible about your travel destination and dates. Sign up for their newsletter and get the latest deals on destinations around the world. GOING is our new go to.
CAR RENTAL – We recommend using Discover Cars or Rental Cars when booking a car rental, they work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs.
TRAINS – OMIO– is our favorite, this site is very reliable and easy to use.
BUS – OMIO – this website allows you to book train or bus tickets to travel from city to city the best and cheapest way. FLIXBUS is another terrific website with routes between 20 European countries.
ACCOMMODATIONS
BOOKING.com – is our go to for hotel searches around the world, we find they always have the cheapest rates and offer different payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.
HOSTELWORLD – is great if you’re traveling on a budget, and if you need a cheap place to stay.
SIGHTSEEING TOURS
GET YOUR GUIDE – is our favorite; they have stacks of tours and excursions available in cities all over the world. VIATOR is another great website for all types of tours.
TAKE WALKS – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY WING – is our go to travel medical insurance company, especially for longer trips. You can either purchase a monthly plan or a plan for specific trip dates (i.e. 1-2 week trips). They cover people from all over the world, while outside their home country.
ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.
Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.