Where to Stay in Florence, Italy

Whether you’re planning your first trip to Italy or returning for another taste of Tuscan magic, choosing where to stay in Florence can truly shape your experience.

I’ve been fortunate to visit this enchanting city multiple times, each stay offering a slightly different vibe depending on the neighborhood. From cobbled historic lanes filled with classical art to bohemian streets buzzing with local life, Florence has a neighborhood for every kind of traveler.

In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the best areas and hotels to stay in Florence, breaking things down based on travel style, budget, and personal interests. Let’s make sure your Florence stay feels just right.

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Quick Summary Table: Best Places to Stay in Florence

Before we dive deep, here’s a quick overview of the best neighborhoods in Florence tailored to different traveler types.

Traveler Type	Recommended Area
First-timers	Historic Center (Centro Storico)
Luxury lovers	Oltrarno or Historic Center
Families	Campo di Marte or Santa Croce
Budget travelers	Santa Maria Novella
Nightlife fans	Santa Croce
Romantics	Oltrarno or near Piazzale Michelangelo
Scenic views	Near Piazzale Michelangelo or along the Arno River

Tip: Save or screenshot this summary for quick reference when comparing accommodation options later.

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Map of Florence Neighborhoods

To help you get your bearings, here’s a map of Florence’s main neighborhoods. I’ve highlighted key attractions like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio, as well as transportation hubs like Santa Maria Novella train station.

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Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Florence (Detailed Breakdown)

1. Historic Center (Centro Storico) – Best for First-Time Visitors

If it’s your first time in Florence, staying in the Centro Storico is an easy choice. You’re within walking distance of everything. Tthe Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria are all at your doorstep.

Pros:

• Central to major sights
• Walkable and photogenic
• Rich in art, history, and culture

Cons:

• Tourist-heavy and crowded in peak seasons
• Prices can be higher
• Restaurants can be hit-or-miss (look for local recommendations)

Hotel Recommendations:

• Luxury: Hotel Savoy – elegant, unbeatable location, and a lovely restaurant on the square.
• Mid-range: Hotel Perseo – charming, family-run hotel with Duomo views.
• Budget: Hotel Dali – cozy, affordable, and just a 5-minute walk from the Duomo.

Personal tip: I stayed at Hotel Perseo on my first visit — waking up to the bells of the Duomo was pure magic.

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2. Oltrarno – Best for Art Lovers & Local Vibes

Cross the Arno River and you’ll find Oltrarno, a neighborhood that locals adore and travelers fall in love with. Think artisan studios, local trattorias, and fewer selfie sticks.

Pros:

• Authentic, less touristy
• Home to Boboli Gardens and Palazzo Pitti
• Excellent local dining and shopping

Cons:

• Slightly longer walk to the Duomo (15–20 minutes)
• Some hilly spots (comfortable shoes are a must)

Hotel Recommendations:

• Luxury: Villa Cora – a palace-turned-hotel just outside the city walls, opulent and romantic.
• Boutique: B & Beatrice – bold, stylish, and utterly unique.
• Budget: Hotel La Scaletta – rooftop views and great value.

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3. Santa Croce – Best for Nightlife & Culture

Home to Basilica di Santa Croce (where Michelangelo and Galileo are buried), this area buzzes with energy. It’s ideal for those who love nightlife but still want to walk to museums by day.

Pros:

• Vibrant nightlife with great bars and events
• Close to historical landmarks
• More local feel compared to Centro Storico

Cons:

• Noisy at night in some areas
• Less polished than central Florence

Hotel Recommendations:

• Mid-range: Hotel Santa Croce – lovely, well-located, and great service.
• Budget: Aurum Uffizi – simple, clean, and good for families or groups.

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4. Santa Maria Novella – Best for Budget Travelers & Transport

This neighborhood surrounds Florence’s main train station, making it ideal for those coming and going via rail or planning day trips to Tuscany, Pisa, or Cinque Terre.

Pros:

• Best transport links
• Budget accommodation options
• Great for short stays

Cons:

• Can feel busy and impersonal
• Pickpockets around the station. Stay alert

Hotel Recommendations:

• Budget: Plus Florence Hostel – excellent for backpackers or social travelers.
• Mid-range: c-hotels Ambasciatori – modern and comfortable, steps from the station.

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5. San Lorenzo – Best for Foodies & Markets

Centered around Mercato Centrale, San Lorenzo is a feast for the senses. Fresh pasta, cured meats, and truffle everything. Foodies, this is your heaven.

Pros:

• Fantastic food and local markets
• Central yet less touristy than Duomo area
• Great street food and leather goods shopping

Cons:

• Can be crowded during market hours
• Lacks the romantic ambiance of other areas

Hotel Recommendations:

• Budget: Emerald Palace – no frills, clean, and location couldn’t be better.
• Mid-range: Glance Hotel Florence – stylish with a rooftop pool!

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6. Campo di Marte – Best for Families or Long Stays

If you’re looking for a quieter, more residential feel, Campo di Marte offers a slice of local life away from the tourist trail. It’s perfect for longer stays or traveling with children.

Pros:

• Peaceful, authentic, and green
• Excellent for families
• Affordable apartment rentals

Cons:

• 30-minute walk to main attractions
• Limited nightlife or tourist infrastructure

Accommodation Tips:

• Look for Vrbo apartments or apart-hotels with kitchenettes and more space.
• Try Hotel Emma – friendly, great service, and perfect for budget-conscious families.

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Types of Accommodation in Florence

Florence caters to all styles and budgets. Here’s a quick guide to what you can expect:

Hotels

Ranging from historic palazzos to modern chains. Expect high service levels, especially in 4–5 star properties. Compare Florence hotels here.

Boutique Hotels

Often family-run with lots of character. Great for a romantic or personalized experience.

Guesthouses/B&Bs

Intimate and homey. Many are run by locals who offer insider tips.

Airbnb & Vacation Rentals

Best for long stays or families. Look for places with kitchen access and washing machines.

Hostels

A solid option for backpackers and solo travelers. Some, like Plus Florence, feel more like hotels.

Agriturismo (outside the city)

Ideal for a countryside escape just outside Florence. Think vineyards, olive groves, and rustic charm.

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Best Hotels in Florence by Category

Luxury

• Four Seasons Hotel Firenze – a former Medici palace with gardens and a world-class spa.
• Hotel Savoy – elegant and central, overlooking Piazza della Repubblica.

Boutique Charm

• B & Beatrice – eclectic and Instagram-worthy.
• AdAstra Hotel – beautiful gardens and refined interiors in Oltrarno.

Budget-Friendly

• Hotel Dali – unbeatable location on a shoestring.
• Plus Florence Hostel – fun, social, and very affordable.

Family-Friendly

• Residence Hilda – spacious suites with kitchenettes, steps from the Duomo.
• Hotel Orto de’ Medici – quiet courtyard and large rooms.

Most Romantic

• Villa Cora – luxury, history, and dreamy gardens.
• Hotel Lungarno – overlooking the river, perfect for sunset lovers.

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Tips for Booking Accommodation in Florence

• Book early – especially during spring, summer, and major art festivals.
• Watch for ZTL zones – if you’re driving, Florence has strict no-drive zones in the center.
• Read reviews carefully – noise, stairs (many old buildings lack elevators), and room size can vary.
• Use Google Maps to check walking distances to key attractions.
• Avoid booking too far out from the center unless you’re staying long-term.

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Final Thoughts & Recommendation

Choosing the right place to stay in Florence can truly enhance your trip. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a cultural deep-dive, there’s a neighborhood and hotel just waiting to welcome you.

My personal pick? If it’s your first time, go for the Historic Center to immerse yourself in Florence’s breathtaking beauty. For something more intimate and romantic, Oltrarno never disappoints.

Wherever you stay, you’re in for something special. Florence has a way of stealing hearts and chances are, you’ll already be planning your return before you even leave.

Have a specific question about a hotel or area? Drop it in the comments! I’d love to help you tailor your trip.

If you need help booking your stay, check out Expedia for exclusive offers. For longer stays or unique accommodations, consider browsing Vrbo.