Best hotels in Florence

Oltrarno Splendid, Florence

Oltrarno Splendid is a hidden gem on the top floors of an 18th-century palazzo on Via dei Serragli. Created by a team including architect Francesco Maestrelli and designers Matteo and Marco Perduca, this boutique hotel is a masterclass in eclecticism. It masterfully balances the building's historic bones—featuring original 18th-century frescoes and antique *toile de Jouy* wallpaper—with bold, contemporary design and vintage 20th-century furniture.

“Original frescoes and Toile de Jouy wall fabrics, decorative fireplaces and a wonderful collection of vintage curios create an enriching sense of home at this exquisite guesthouse – the latest on-trend creation by calligrapher Betty Soldi and partner Matteo.”

Velona’s Jungle Luxury Suites, Florence

Velona's Jungle Luxury Suites is a truly unique boutique B&B located in a 1930s palazzo on Via Montebello. The property is deeply personal, named after the grandfather of the current owner, Veronica Grechi. Her grandfather, Pasquale Velona, was an art dealer who began a quirky collection of antiques and objets d'art during his travels in the 1950s. Today, those pieces are blended with bold, modern designer fabrics and eclectic jungle-inspired décor to create a space that feels more like a private home than a hotel.

“Velona’s Jungle Luxury Suites blurs the line between boutique hotel and bed-and-breakfast with 10 suites filled with vintage gems that the owner, Veronica Grechi, sourced from her grandfather, a Florentine art-and-antiques dealer.”

St. Regis Hotel, Florence

The St. Regis Florence is a masterpiece of history, housed within a 15th-century Renaissance palace originally designed by the legendary Filippo Brunelleschi. Located on the banks of the Arno River, it has served as an emblem of Florentine hospitality since it opened as a hotel in 1866. Its interiors are a rich blend of history and luxury, featuring original frescoes, hand-carved details, and antique furnishings that celebrate the city's Medici heritage.

“After a head-to-toe renovation, the St. Regis Florence opened in 2011 in a landmark building that was designed in the 15th century by Filippo Brunelleschi (of Duomo fame). The 100 rooms and suites boast centuries-old frescoes, Murano glass chandeliers, beautiful antique furniture, Arno River views and every modern amenity.”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Florence.

Portrait Firenze Hotel, Florence

Portrait Firenze is an ultra-exclusive, boutique hotel owned by the Ferragamo family, making it an essential destination for those who appreciate the intersection of high fashion and history. Designed by Florentine architect Michele Bönan, the property serves as a contemporary homage to the "dolce vita" lifestyle of the 1950s. Rather than a traditional reception desk, the hotel features an elegant lounge area, creating a private, club-like atmosphere for its guests.

“Michele Bönan, a Florentine architect, used midcentury furnishings and original photographs from the Ferragamo archives to create gorgeous 1950s-era interiors. The result is 34 rooms and suites worthy of interior design awards, and a lobby that feels like a sophisticate’s living room.”

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, Florence

The Four Seasons Hotel Firenze is an extraordinary retreat set within the historic Palazzo della Gherardesca, a palace originally built in 1473 by the Renaissance visionary Bartolomeo Scala. Over the centuries, the estate served as a residence for noble Florentine families, including a Medici cardinal, before its meticulous seven-year restoration transformed it into a luxury hotel in 2008.

“The Four Seasons in Florence feels more like a sprawling Tuscan country estate than a hotel in the heart of a bustling metropolis.For starters, it’s built within Giardino della Gherardesca — Florence’s largest private garden, spanning 11 acres.”

Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy, Florence

The Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy is an absolute landmark in Florence, occupying a prime spot on the Piazza della Repubblica. Originally constructed in 1893 and designed by the architect Vincenzo Micheli, it was revolutionary for its time, boasting features like electricity, heating, and an elevator. Today, it remains a prestigious address that sits right next to the Column of Abundance, which marks the exact historic center of the city.

“Located steps from the Duomo and overlooking lively Piazza della Repubblica, the Hotel Savoy occupies the best address in the city. Its aristocratic, 19th-century facade belies its whimsical modern interiors — a pleasant surprise in a city dominated by posh Renaissance-era hotels.”

Hotel Lungarno, Florence

Hotel Lungarno is an absolute gem in Florence, literally perched over the banks of the Arno River. Owned by the Ferragamo family, this elegant boutique hotel reflects the brand’s dedication to refined style. Its interiors, masterfully curated by renowned designer Michele Bönan, feature a sophisticated "nuova classicità" aesthetic, blending classic Italian architecture with a chic, nautical-inspired color palette of crisp whites and deep blues.

“You book this hotel for the location—it’s probably the best in the city—but you leave feeling like you’ve discovered a hidden gem, one where the typical Florence tourists aren’t as likely to be found and where you can escape the hectic life of the city.”

Featured in CN Traveler’s 2018 Hot List

Il Tornabuoni, Florence

Il Tornabuoni is a stunning luxury hotel tucked away in the historic Palazzo Minerbetti, a building with origins stretching back to the 13th century. Located on the exclusive, pedestrian-only Via de' Tornabuoni, it’s a brilliant example of how Florence balances its ancient roots with modern luxury. As part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection, it perfectly captures the city's Renaissance spirit.

“This super-smart newcomer has a fabulous location rubbing shoulders with the designer stores on Florence’s most elegant street as well as being close to all the main sights. And at the end of a tiring day, you can sip a spritz at the rooftop lounge bar.”

Featured in CN Traveler’s Hotlist.

Academy Hostel, Florence

Academy Hostel in Florence is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to be right in the middle of the Renaissance action. Located on Via Ricasoli, just steps away from the iconic Duomo, it offers an unbeatable base for exploring the "Cradle of the Renaissance" without needing to rely on much public transport.

“This classy 13-room hostel – definitely not a party hostel – sits on the 1st floor of Baron Ricasoli’s 17th-century palazzo. Dorms sport maximum four, five or six beds, high moulded ceilings and brightly coloured lockers.”

Ad Astra, Florence

Ad Astra is a hidden gem tucked away in the authentic Oltrarno district of Florence, occupying the first and second floors of an 18th-century noble mansion. The hotel owes its name—meaning "to the stars"—to a nearby neo-Gothic tower in the Torrigiani Garden, which was originally built by the Marquis Torrigiani in the early 1800s as an astronomical observatory.

“There is no other address quite like it in Florence. Seductively at home in a 16th-century palazzo overlooking Europe’s largest private walled garden, this uber-chic guesthouse rocks.”

Soprarno Suites, Florence

Guesthouse SoprArno Suites is a charming, intimate retreat located in the heart of Florence’s trendy Oltrarno district. Housed within a beautifully restored 16th-century palazzo, this boutique B&B feels more like a private, creative home than a traditional hotel. It was brought to life by a unique, multi-talented team—an architect, a lawyer, a carpenter, and a designer—who collaborated to blend historic elegance with eclectic, modern artistry.

“This boutique gem, tucked in a quaint Oltrarno courtyard, creates an intimate home-from-home vibe while making each guest feel special. Thirteen designer rooms are exquisitely dressed in vintage objets d’art and collectibles.”

J.K. Place Hotel, Florence

J.K. Place Firenze is an intimate, award-winning boutique hotel located directly on the historic Piazza Santa Maria Novella. Since opening in 2003, it has built a reputation for offering a highly personalized "home-away-from-home" experience, feeling more like an exclusive private residence than a traditional hotel.

“When it opened in 2003, the original J.K. Place, in the heart of Florence, was like nothing else in the city: a clubbish townhouse pied-à-terre that captured the Tuscan capital’s effortless blend of culture and couture.”

Featured in CN Traveler’s 2020 Gold List.

Hotel Scoti, Florence

Hotel Scoti is a charming, family-run *pensione* nestled on the second floor of the historic Palazzo Corsi, an elegant 16th-century building in the heart of Florence. Originally established at the end of the 1800s, this intimate hotel maintains a traditional feel, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich architectural past.

“Wedged between designer boutiques on Florence’s smartest shopping strip, this hidden pensione is a fabulous mix of old-fashioned charm and value for money.”

San Firenze Suites & Spa, Florence

Hotel San Firenze Suites & Spa is a refined boutique property tucked away in the heart of Florence’s historic centre. Housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century building, it perfectly balances its original architecture—such as high ceilings and traditional layouts—with luxurious Italian design elements like plush velvet sofas, oak parquet floors, and fine silk curtains.

“The San Firenze Suites & Spa has 14 perfectly situated suites around the corner from Piazza della Signoria. Spacious rooms, many of which feature four-poster beds and large bathrooms with rainfall showers.”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Florence.

Hotel Orto de’ Medici, Florence

Hotel Orto de' Medici is tucked away on Via San Gallo, one of Florence’s oldest streets, and offers a stay that feels like stepping into a Renaissance painting. The building itself is historically significant, as its peaceful internal garden was once the site of the Medici family's private art school. According to local legend, this is where a teenage Michelangelo first crossed paths with Lorenzo the Magnificent while beginning his journey into sculpture.

“This three-star hotel in San Marco redefines elegance with its majestic ceilings, chic oyster-grey colour scheme and contemporary furnishings, offset to perfection by the historic palazzo in which it languishes.”

Hotel Ottantotto Firenze, Florence

Hotel Ottantotto Firenze is a hidden gem tucked away in the Oltrarno, Florence’s most authentic and "artisan" district. Housed in a building that dates back to the 14th century, the property has undergone a fascinating evolution; it began as a baker’s workshop and home, later becoming a noble residence and eventually a philanthropic institution for orphaned children before its current life as a boutique hotel.

“An elegant, unfussy hotel for people who want to see the cooler side of Florence.This renovated historic ‘palazzetto’ in the less-touristed Oltrarno neighborhood has just seven rooms, each decorated with different floral and botanical printed fabrics, antique decor, and funky-cool furniture.”

Featured in CN Traveler’s 2018 Hot List