Best Premium Hotels in Florence with a Pool (Historic Centre & Hillside Retreats)
Timeless Wanderers: Posted March 26, 2026
“Soak Up the Sun: Choosing the Best Hotels with Pools in Florence”
Florence is one of those cities that completely captures you—the art, the architecture, the atmosphere—but it also comes with one small challenge, especially in the warmer months: the heat.
After hours spent wandering through cobbled streets, climbing the Duomo, and exploring world-class galleries, you quickly realise that where you stay matters just as much as what you see.
That’s why choosing a hotel with a pool in Florence isn’t just a luxury—it’s a game changer.
Whether it’s a rooftop terrace with sweeping views over terracotta rooftops or a peaceful garden pool tucked away in a historic villa, these stays offer something rare in the heart of the city: space to slow down.
In this guide, we’ve carefully selected the best hotels, apartments, and countryside retreats in Florence with a pool—all available on Booking.com—so you can experience the city at your own pace, without sacrificing comfort.
Because in Florence , a little escape at the end of the day makes all the difference.
Table of Contents
Don’t have time to read the whole post? Here’s the quick version:
Luxury Stays
1. Four Seasons Hotel Firenze: delivers an unmatched luxury experience.
2. Villa Cora: feels like a Tuscan hideaway minutes from the city.
3. Belmond Villa San Michele: Overlooking Florence from the hills of Fiesole
Boutique Hotels & Retreats
4. Hotel Plaza Lucchesi: offers a chic boutique experience with a scenic outdoor pool terrace.
5. Ville Sull’Arno: blends relaxed elegance with poolside luxury
6. Grand Hotel Minerva: is one of the best‑located pool hotels in Florence’s historic centre
Relaxed & Countryside Retreats
7. Glance Hotel Florence: features a true rooftop pool with sun loungers and city views
8. Villa Tolomei Hotel & Resort: offers a true Tuscan escape with one of the most scenic outdoor pools in the area.
9. The Social Hub Florence Lavagnini: offers a large rooftop pool with panoramic city views, a rare find in Florence.
10. Palazzo Castri 1874: is one of the few hotels in Florence’s historic centre with a true garden pool
11. Rivoli Boutique Hotel: offers a charming courtyard pool with jacuzzi
*Hidden Gem
Fattoria Lavacchio: offers a classic Tuscan farm stay experience set among vineyards and olive groves in the hills above Florence
Why Staying in a Hotel with a Pool in Florence is Worth It
Living here, we’ve seen it time and time again—people arrive in Florence ready to explore, but by mid-afternoon in summer, the heat slows everything down.
Florence isn’t a city built for escaping the sun.
The streets are narrow, the stones hold the warmth, and shade can be surprisingly hard to find when you’re moving between the Duomo, galleries, and piazzas.
That’s exactly why having a pool changes your entire experience.
It gives you a natural pause in the day.
Instead of pushing through the heat, you can return to your hotel, cool off, and reset before heading back out in the evening—when Florence is at its absolute best.
It’s how we often suggest visitors experience the city: slow mornings, a break in the afternoon, then long, relaxed evenings.
There’s also a big difference between where you stay.
In the historic centre, pools are rare and usually found on rooftops—more about the views than the swim.
Just outside the centre, you’ll find larger pools, gardens, and that classic Tuscan feeling of space and calm.
For us, it’s simple—if you’re visiting between late spring and early autumn, a pool isn’t just a nice extra.
It’s one of the best decisions you can make for your trip.
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.”
Best Areas to Stay in Florence for Hotels with a Pool
Florence is compact, but each neighbourhood offers a very different experience.
Choosing where to stay with a pool depends on whether you want to be immersed in history, enjoy quiet streets, or feel the Tuscan countryside just outside the city.
Historic Centre:
If you want to walk everywhere and be steps from the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, and Uffizi, look for boutique hotels with rooftop pools.
They’re often smaller but offer unbeatable views and the thrill of being in the heart of Florence.
Oltrarno:
Across the Arno River, this area feels more local, with artisan workshops, quieter streets, and charming piazzas.
Hotels here sometimes have garden pools, providing a peaceful retreat after a day exploring the city.
Countryside & Villas near Florence:
Just a 10–20 minute drive from the centre, you’ll find larger properties with spacious pools, gardens, and privacy—perfect for families or those wanting a slower, wellness-focused pace.
Where you stay shapes how you experience Florence—especially when a pool is part of the plan.
11 Premium Hotels in Florence with a Pool
These are premium‑rated, hotels in Florence that offer outdoor pools or exceptional sunbathing terrace spaces.
They’re ideal if you want a comfortable, memorable stay in Tuscany — whether that’s inside the historic centre or in scenic hillside retreats just a short ride away.
Luxury Stays with a Pool
1. Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
Historic Centre | 💶 ~€1,100–€1,800+ per night |
Set within a pair of Renaissance palazzos and surrounded by one of Florence’s largest private gardens,
Four Seasons Hotel Firenze delivers an unmatched luxury experience.
The outdoor pool sits amidst lush greenery and offers poolside loungers, shaded retreats, and a serene escape from museum crowds.
Elegant rooms and suites marry classic Italian design with modern comfort, and the hotel’s spa and Michelin‑star dining elevate your stay.
Walkable to major attractions yet oasis‑like by night, this is ideal for travellers seeking unrivalled comfort and style.
2. Villa Cora
Just Outside Historic Centre | 
~€500–€900 per night|
A 19th‑century villa with lush gardens, Villa Cora feels like a Tuscan hideaway minutes from the city.
Its outdoor pool is nestled among manicured lawns and terraces, perfect for sunbathing and leisurely swims.
Inside, ornately decorated rooms and suites combine historic details with contemporary luxury.
The hotel’s restaurant and bar offer refined dining and sunset views, making it ideal for couples or anyone who wants a romantic, elegant base with a real sense of peace and space.
3. Belmond Villa San Michele
Hills of Fiesole | 💶 ~€1,000–€2,000+ per night |
Overlooking Florence from the hills of Fiesole, Belmond Villa San Michele is a historic former monastery with breathtaking views and superb service.
Its outdoor pool and sun terraces feel like sanctuary spaces, perfect for long afternoons under the Tuscan sun.
Elegant rooms have frescoed walls and high‑end finishes, while the gardens are perfect for meditation or wine‑tasting at sunset.
It’s a short taxi ride from the city centre, giving you the best of both worlds—quiet hillside serenity and historic Florence on your doorstep.
Boutique Hotels & Retreats
4. Hotel Plaza Lucchesi
Arno Riverfront | 💶 ~€280–€450 per night |
Located on the Arno Riverbank, Hotel Plaza Lucchesi offers a chic boutique experience with a scenic outdoor pool terrace.
The rooftop pool provides space for sunbathing and city views, while rooms feature contemporary decor and river-facing balconies.
Ideal for couples or solo travellers, this hotel combines a calm retreat with easy walking access to Florence’s main sights, perfect for those who want a central location without compromising on outdoor poolside relaxation.
5. Ville Sull’Arno
River Arno | 💶 ~€200–€380 per night |
Ville Sull’Arno blends relaxed elegance with poolside luxury.
The property has both outdoor and indoor pools, surrounded by sun loungers and terraces.
Spacious, modern rooms provide comfort and style, and the riverside setting offers a tranquil escape from city bustle.
Families and couples alike enjoy the peaceful location while still being just a short walk or taxi ride from Florence’s historic centre.
Perfect for travellers seeking space, sun, and water without leaving the city entirely.
6. Grand Hotel Minerva – Historic Centre, Florence
Piazza Santa Maria Novella | 💶 ~€350–€550 per night |
Grand Hotel Minerva is one of the best‑located pool hotels in Florence’s historic centre, famous for its rooftop pool with sun terrace and panoramic views of the city’s terracotta rooftops and domes.
deal for a refreshing dip after a day exploring the Duomo or Uffizi, the pool area offers loungers and shade — perfect for sunning, people‑watching, or sipping an afternoon spritz.
Rooms are elegant and comfortable, combining classic Italian décor with modern amenities.
Its convenient location means you’re walking distance from Florence’s major sights, trattorie, and cafes, making this a top choice for travellers who want city access and outdoor pool relaxation.
Relaxed & Countryside Retreats
7. Glance Hotel Florence
Historic Centre (San Lorenzo) | 💶 €250–€400 |
A fantastic central option, Glance Hotel Florence features a true rooftop pool with sun loungers and city views, making it one of the best value pool hotels in Florence’s historic centre.
After a morning exploring the Duomo or markets, you can return for a swim or relax on the terrace with a drink.
The hotel has a modern boutique feel, with bright, comfortable rooms and an easy walking location.
It’s ideal for travellers who want a proper pool experience without leaving the city centre.
8. Villa Tolomei Hotel & Resort
Florence Hills (Marignolle, ~10 mins from centre)
💶 €300–€600 |
Set in the rolling hills just outside Florence, Villa Tolomei Hotel & Resort offers a true Tuscan escape with one of the most scenic outdoor pools in the area.
Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, the pool terrace is designed for slow afternoons in the sun, with loungers, shade, and sweeping views toward the city skyline.
Rooms are elegant and comfortable, while the peaceful setting feels worlds away from the crowds—yet the historic centre is only a short drive away.
9. The Social Hub Florence Lavagnini
Near Fortezza da Basso | 💶 €180–€320
Set just outside the historic centre, The Social Hub Florence Lavagnini offers a large rooftop pool with panoramic city views, a rare find in Florence.
The spacious terrace includes loungers, bar service, and plenty of room to relax in the sun.
With a modern, social atmosphere and co-working spaces, it’s ideal for longer stays or travellers who enjoy a lively environment.
It’s a great value option for a proper pool experience within easy reach of the main sights.
10. Palazzo Castri 1874
San Lorenzo | 💶 €250–€450
Palazzo Castri 1874 is one of the few hotels in Florence’s historic centre with a true garden pool, offering a peaceful retreat just minutes from the Duomo.
Surrounded by greenery, the pool area feels private and relaxed, with space to unwind after a day exploring.
The hotel blends historic charm with modern comfort, and its central location makes it ideal for travellers wanting both convenience and a genuine outdoor pool experience.
11. Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Santa Maria Novella | 💶 €220–€380
Housed in a former monastery, Rivoli Boutique Hotel offers a charming courtyard pool with jacuzzi, tucked away in a quiet corner of the historic centre.
While smaller than rooftop pools, it provides a relaxing space to cool off and unwind.
The atmosphere is intimate and traditional, with classic interiors and a peaceful setting that feels removed from the busy streets, yet still within walking distance of Florence’s main attractions.
*Hidden Gem – Farm Stay*
Fattoria Lavacchio
Pontassieve (Chianti Rufina hills, ~18 km from Florence)
💶 €180–€350 |
Fattoria Lavacchio offers a classic Tuscan farm stay experience set among vineyards and olive groves in the hills above Florence.
The outdoor pool is spacious and peaceful, with plenty of room to relax and enjoy the surrounding countryside views.
This is not a city hotel, but a true rural escape with on-site wine production, farm-to-table dining, and a slower pace of travel.
Ideal for those wanting an authentic agriturismo stay within easy reach of Florence.
Tips for Booking a Hotel with a Pool in Florence
- Check the type of pool – many central hotels have small rooftop or indoor spa pools rather than full outdoor pools.
- Season matters – outdoor pools usually open May–September. Indoor pools can be year-round.
- Location balance – if you’re car-free, staying in the historic centre or along the river is essential; hillside villas offer larger pools but require taxis or public transport.
- Book early – pools are a luxury in Florence; early booking ensures availability, especially in summer.
- Read reviews carefully – check guest photos of the pool area for size, cleanliness, and maintenance.
- Ask about accessibility – some rooftop pools are not accessible to children or have limited hours.
Florence Hotels with a Pool – Comparison Guide
Hotel | Location | Pool Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Four Seasons Hotel Firenze | Near centre | Large garden pool | Best overall luxury experience |
Belmond Villa San Michele | Fiesole hills | Panoramic pool | Views + once-in-a-lifetime stay |
| Villa Cora | Hills | Garden pool | Luxury boutique escape |
Villa Tolomei Hotel & Resort | Hills (10 mins) | Panoramic outdoor pool | Space, views, relaxation |
Grand Hotel Minerva | Historic centre | Rooftop pool | Best central pool hotel |
Hotel Plaza Lucchesi | Arno River | Rooftop infinity pool | Sunset views |
Palazzo Castri 1874 | Historic centre | Garden pool | Rare central green space |
The Social Hub Florence Lavagnini | Edge of centre | Large rooftop pool | Modern, social |
Rivoli Boutique Hotel | Historic centre | Courtyard pool | Quiet central stay |
| Ville Sull’Arno | Riverside | Garden pool | Calm stay near centre |
*Hidden Gem
Hotel | Location | Pool Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fattoria Lavacchio | Chianti Rufina hills (30–40 mins) | Large countryside pool | Slow travel, wine lovers |
Best Things to Do in Florence
1. Duomo – Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Florence’s iconic cathedral dominates the skyline with Brunelleschi’s terracotta dome.
Explore the richly frescoed interior, climb the dome for panoramic city views, or visit the crypt.
It’s a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and anyone wanting to feel the heartbeat of Renaissance Florence.
2. Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi houses world-class masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo.
With centuries of Renaissance art under one roof, it’s ideal to plan ahead, book skip-the-line tickets, and allow a few hours to immerse yourself in Florence’s unparalleled artistic heritage.
3. Galleria dell’Accademia
The Accademia is world-famous for Michelangelo’s David, but it also features unfinished sculptures, Renaissance paintings, and musical instruments.
Booking skip-the-line tickets is essential, especially in peak season, ensuring you have time to appreciate both the iconic statue and lesser-known treasures.
4. Ponte Vecchio
This medieval bridge over the Arno River is lined with jewellery and souvenir shops.
Strolling along at sunset reveals spectacular views and a lively atmosphere.
Ponte Vecchio is perfect for photography, shopping for unique gifts, or simply enjoying the charm of historic Florence.
5. Palazzo Vecchio & Piazza della Signoria
Palazzo Vecchio is the city’s historic town hall with opulent rooms and frescoed halls.
Piazza della Signoria is an open-air museum featuring iconic sculptures, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David, making it a hub for art lovers and cultural explorers alike.
6. Boboli Gardens
Located behind Pitti Palace, these Renaissance gardens are filled with sculptures, fountains, and shaded walking paths.
Ideal for a leisurely stroll or photography, Boboli offers sweeping views of Florence, combining art, nature, and tranquility in one beautiful outdoor setting.
7. Basilica of Santa Croce
Known as the “Temple of Italian Glories,” Santa Croce is the burial place of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.
The frescoed interior, chapels, and adjacent leather school showcase Florence’s rich cultural, artistic, and historical heritage, making it a must-visit landmark.
8. Mercato Centrale & San Lorenzo Market
These bustling markets offer local produce, artisanal goods, and Tuscan flavors.
From tasting fresh pasta and gelato to shopping for leather bags and souvenirs, visitors can experience Florence’s vibrant food and craft culture in a lively, immersive environment.
9. Piazzale Michelangelo
A short walk or bus ride from the city centre, this terrace provides panoramic views of Florence, including the Duomo, Arno River, and Ponte Vecchio. Ideal for sunset, photography, or enjoying a gelato, it’s one of the best spots to appreciate the city’s skyline.
10. Oltrarno Neighbourhood
Across the river, Oltrarno is home to artisan workshops, boutique stores, and charming cafes.
This area offers a quieter, more authentic side of Florence, perfect for exploring local craftsmanship, enjoying leisurely strolls, and discovering hidden gems away from the main tourist streets.
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.
Best Day Trips from Florence
Pisa (½ day)
Lucca (full day)
Siena (full day)
San Gimignano & Volterra (full-day duo)
Chianti wineries
Val d’Orcia road trip (ideal with a Car Rental:)
- A Perfect day trip From Florence To Pisa And Lucca
Bologna or Venice (Train Option)
Train enthusiasts will love how connected Florence is: Bologna is roughly 35–40 minutes away by high-speed train, and Venice is around 2 hours — both offering extraordinary culture, food, and architecture for a long day trip.
Fiesole — Local Hilltop Escape
For a closer getaway, the small Etruscan town of Fiesole is just a short bus ride away, offering quiet ruins, sweeping views, and a peaceful contrast to the city below.
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.
FAQs About Hotels with Pools in Florence
1. Do all luxury hotels in Florence have outdoor pools?
Not all, but many do. Check Booking.com listings for pool availability and whether it’s rooftop, garden, or courtyard-style.
2. Can non-guests use hotel pools in Florence?
Usually, pool access is reserved for hotel guests. Some hotels offer day passes, but this varies—always confirm in advance.
3. Are pools heated year-round?
Most are seasonal, open from spring to early autumn. Some high-end hotels have heated pools, particularly rooftop options.
4. Are there sunbathing areas at all hotel pools?
Yes, luxury hotels generally provide sun loungers, towels, and shaded seating. Rooftop pools often have spectacular views for relaxing.
5. Is pool access included in the room rate?
Yes, in nearly all cases for luxury hotels. Some may have limited opening hours; check policies before booking.
6. Do hotels offer poolside dining or drinks?
Many upscale hotels provide poolside service with cocktails, snacks, or light meals—perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
7. Are pools suitable for children?
Some are, but shallow pools are less common in the city centre. Families may prefer hotels with countryside properties or larger outdoor pools.
8. Should I book early to secure a pool hotel?
Yes. Luxury hotels in Florence with outdoor pools are highly sought after, especially in summer. Booking early guarantees your preferred dates and pool access.
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
Staying in a luxury hotel with a pool in Florence transforms your city experience, offering a private retreat after a day of sightseeing.
From rooftop terraces with panoramic views to tranquil garden pools tucked away from the crowds, these hotels combine comfort, style, and convenience.
Choosing a property near the historic centre lets you walk to major landmarks, while slightly outside-city locations often provide larger sunbathing areas and more space to relax.
Careful planning, early booking, and attention to amenities ensure your poolside stay complements your exploration of Florence.
Whether you’re visiting as a couple, family, or small group, a hotel with a pool adds a touch of indulgence that makes your Tuscan escape truly memorable.
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.