Best Places to Stay in Florence: Hotels & Neighborhoods You’ll Love
“Where to Stay in Florence: A Neighborhood Guide for Food, History, and Local Charm”
Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is more than just a city—it’s a living museum, a culinary paradise, and a cultural treasure trove. Choosing where to stay here isn’t just about star ratings—it’s about discovering the neighborhood that matches your travel style.
Whether you’re coming for the art, the shopping, the food, or the views, Florence’s compact layout makes it ideal for exploring by foot, but each district brings something different.
In this guide, we’ve broken down the best areas to stay in Florence—from historic areas near the Duomo to local artisan quarters across the river in Oltrarno.
You’ll find carefully chosen accommodations for every budget, from cozy 1-star guesthouses to elegant 5-star retreats. Whether you’re a backpacker, a romantic couple, or a luxury lover, there’s a perfect home base here for you.
Let’s explore the best neighborhoods and help you plan your perfect stay in Florence.
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Important Tip:
Multiple Florence trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Florence accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Duomo & Historic Center — Best for First-Time Visitors & Sightseeing
If this is your first time in Florence, staying in the Duomo and Historic Center is an unbeatable choice. 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. You’ll be close to museums, churches, shopping streets, and countless trattorias and cafes.
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.
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..
Santa Croce — Artistic Flair & Local Charm
Santa Croce is a fantastic neighborhood for travelers who want to stay central but avoid the busiest tourist areas. Centered around the striking Santa Croce Basilica, this district blends artistic heritage, leather workshops, artisan boutiques, and a vibrant local vibe. It’s ideal for foodies and culture lovers, with less crowded trattorias and lively evenings.
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
Oltrarno — San Frediano: Bohemian Vibes & Artisan Florence
Cross the Arno River and you’ll find a different side of Florence—quieter, more artistic, and filled with local charm. The Oltrarno (“beyond the Arno”) is where Florentines live, work, and create.
It’s known for its artisan studios, vintage shops, hidden courtyards, and authentic trattorias. You’ll find fewer crowds and more personality, all while still being just a short walk from the city’s major landmarks.
This neighborhood is perfect for travelers who want a more relaxed, authentic stay without straying far from the action.
It’s especially great for second-time visitors, creative souls, or those who want to enjoy Florence like a local—with good wine, slower mornings, and sunset strolls along the river.
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.
San Lorenzo — Market Buzz & Central Convenience
San Lorenzo is a dynamic and convenient neighborhood just northeast of the Duomo, known for its bustling central market, affordable eateries, and Florentine energy.
It’s a great option for travelers who want to stay within walking distance of major attractions without the higher prices or crowds of the historic center.
Here you’ll find local life, from fresh produce and leather stalls to historic gems like the Medici Chapels. It’s also close to the Santa Maria Novella train station, making it a practical base for exploring Florence and beyond.
San Lorenzo offers great value for money and suits travelers who want to immerse themselves in Florence’s daily rhythm—perfect for foodies, solo travelers, and culture lovers.
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.
Santa Maria Novella — Central Hub & Easy Access
Santa Maria Novella is Florence’s transportation hub, home to the city’s main train station and a variety of accommodation options.
While it may not have the romantic ambiance of the Duomo or Oltrarno, it’s incredibly convenient for day trips, early departures, or travelers who prioritize location and value.
The neighborhood is just a 5–10 minute walk from Florence’s historic center, offering easy access to top attractions while maintaining a quieter, more practical vibe.
It’s also home to the beautiful Santa Maria Novella Church and several hidden piazzas. This area is a smart choice for first-time visitors, families with luggage, or anyone planning to explore Tuscany by train.
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.Apartments:
• numa | Rodo Rooms & Suites – Contemporary, fully equipped stays close to both the station and city center.
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.
THINGS WE ALWAYS 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 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·STO 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.
Beat the crowd the best way to see Florence
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 – TRAINLINE – 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.