Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region, is known as the heart of Renaissance culture in Italy. With over 800 years of history, the city is a patchwork of districts from different eras, each of them offering a different experience. If you’re curious about where to stay in Florence, you can read below about the best neighborhoods and hotels for every budget.

The entire city is very walkable and can be transverse in less than an hour (though you can drive or take the bus as well). Go for a passeggiata and enjoy romantic Florence with the love of your life. Florence is full of panoramic views, lush gardens, iconic art museums, and intimate restaurants.

If you’re in Florence with kids, you’ll want a sturdy stroller that can handle cobblestone streets, or plan on using a carrier everywhere. The city is family-friendly with playgrounds and piazzas where the kids can run around. My biggest advice to families is to make sure your hotel can accommodate your crew.

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Where to stay in Florence Italy

Below, I’ve put together a list of the best hotels in Florence, Italy that includes kid-friendly hotels that can accommodate families of 4 or 5. I’ve also included luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels, as well as vacation rentals. But let’s start with what each neighborhood has to offer visitors.

Florence Neighborhood Map

How to Use This Map: Click the arrow button on the top left corner of the map to see the different map layers. Click on the icons on the map. These will give you more information about each point of stop. Clicking on the sta will add this map to your Google Maps account. To access this later, go to google.com/maps To see the map on your phone or computer, open Google Maps or visit google.com/maps, click Menu, Your Places, Maps, and you will see your maps.

Florence Neighborhoods

I’ve divided up the neighborhoods in Florence by sections for you and listed the main attractions within that neighborhood. Keep in mind that Florence is actually quite small for a major Italian city, and wherever you stay, you’re not going to be far from where you want to go. It’s a very walkable city.

Centro Storico

Also called Duomo or the City Center, Centro Storico is the original historic center of Florence. Named UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s where you’ll find Renaissance-era structures, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (the Florence Cathedral) and Piazza della Signoria, as well as the Uffizi Gallery

Centro Storico is a patchwork of winding cobblestone streets and historic piazzas lined with cafes. It’s also where you can see some of the most famous Italian works of art by the likes of Botticelli, DaVinci, and Michelangelo. And the city center offers some of the top hotels in Florence, from luxury 5-star hotels to budget stays, and everything in between.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Florence that is within walking distance to most major tourist attractions, especially the Florence cathedral, Centro Storico, or the Historic City Center, is where you’ll want to base yourself with the city’s main attractions. If you have extra time, make sure you try the Palazzo Vecchio tour to get to the famous landmarks of Florence.

Main Sites in Centro Storico:

• Florence Cathedral
• Piazza della Signoria
• Uffizi Gallery
• Ponte Vecchio
• Piazza San Marco

Santa Maria Novella

On the western side of Centro Storico, Santa Maria Novella is half modern city, half old-town charm. It’s a popular neighborhood because it contains the Firenze Santa Maria Novella railway station, Florence’s main train station. Near the station is the gorgeous Piazza Santa Maria Novella covered in bold frescoes, including the basilica from which the district gets its name.

Walk west from the famed piazza and buildings are more modern with smooth, paved streets on a grid. East of the piazza all the way to Centro Storico, the streets are narrow and ancient with boutique shops and high-end brands all around. So, Santa Maria Novella offers a great central location for all your needs.

Together, Centro Storico and Santa Maria Novella are home to the largest number of hotels in Florence. They make up the be the best area to stay in Florence for first-time visitors.

Main Sites in Santa Maria Novella:

• Santa Maria Novella Train Station
• Santa Maria Novella Church

Santa Croce

To the west of Centro Storico is another historic neighborhood near the historic city center. Santa Croce is named after the Basilica of Santa Croce, a stunning example of Gothic architecture and the home to the tombs of Galileo and Michelangelo. However, these days, Santa Croce is popular for being a trendy neighborhood with affordable hotels near Duomo in Florence. It’s just outside of the historic city centre, but a short walk to the main attractions in Florence.

The neighborhood went through a lot of gentrification in the last 20 years. Today, it’s a popular area for young people and has great nightlife. Come here for fabulous restaurants, cafés, street markets, artisan coffee, and tons of places for pizza and the latest street food.

At the heart of the Santa Croce neighborhood lies Piazza Santa Croce, with its sacred church and age-old tradition. This piazza, or square, was once used to play a sport known as the ancestor to soccer (or football). You can actually see markings on the surrounding buildings denoting measurements for the field or pitch.

“Giuoco del Calcio Fiorentino” simply known as Calcio (which means kick in Italian) has been played here for centuries past—If you’re lucky enough to visit Florence in June, you’ll be able to see a reenactment of this sport being played in full historical costume. A dirt square stands in place to mimic original times while bleachers allow spectators to marvel at this classic game. Four teams representing four historic Florence neighborhoods (Santa Croce, Santo Spirito, Santa Maria Novella, and San Giovanni) compete in two semi finals and then a final match to determine the winning team.

Main Sites in Santa Croce:

• Basilica of Santa Croce
• Pizza Santa Croce

Oltrarno & Santo Spirito

Pass many of Florence’s main attractions and cross the Arno River at Ponte Vecchio Bridge from the City Center to find the neighborhoods of Oltrarno and Santo Spirito. It’s known for its 14th- and 15th-century structures along winding, packed streets between the Arno and the Palazzo Pitti and Giardino di Boboli. It’s a gorgeous part of historic Florence.

Both Oltrarno and Santo Spirito are small, vibrant Florence neighborhoods with a balanced list of things to do. Even budget hotels are a bit on the pricier side, but you’re paying for a coveted location! Visit museums, find great food and bars, and check out historical landmarks.

It’s within easy walking distance to the gorgeous Boboli Gardens, which basically feels like an outdoor museum.

Main Sites in Oltrarno & Santo Spirito:

• Palazzo Pitti (Pitti Palace)
• Giardino di Boboli (Boboli Gardens)

San Niccolò

If you’re looking where to stay in Florence that’s a bit quieter and upscale, consider San Niccolo. Plan a visit to this neighborhood, even if you don’t stay here!

Enjoy bars and casual eaters along the water. It’s the perfect place for a stroll along the Arno during the warmer months. Or go to the Giardino Bardini or Piazzale Michelangelo, both of which have beautiful gardens and fabulous hillside views of the city.

Further back from the water in the hills are romantic old villas with manicured gardens. There aren’t many places to stay in San Niccolo, but for a couple on their honeymoon or a family of 3, it’s worth booking a room at one of the quality hotels in the area.

Main Sites in San Niccolò:

• Giardino Bardini
• Piazzale Michelangelo

Fiesole

Fiesole is a small town that’s part of greater Florence. It’s located less than 20 minutes north by car (or an hour by bus) from Centro Storico. While you won’t find any luxury resorts there today, the area has been a retreat for the elite, even going back to the 14th century. It’s a wonderful place to find surprisingly affordable villas-turned-hotels!

Fiesole is known for its fascinating historic sites, including the ruins of Roman baths and the Roman amphitheater where you can still see shows in the summer. There are great hiking trails and historic villas you can tour. And with rolling hills reaching almost 1000 feet above Florence, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the city.

Main Sites in Fiesole:

• Views of Florence
• Peace & Quiet away from the city

The Best Hotels in Florence by Neighborhood

The Best Florence Hotels Near Duomo in Centro Storico

If you’re staying in the historical center of Florence near all the main sites and on the banks of the River Arno, these are the best Florence hotels I recommend.

Luxury: Bernini Palace

One of the top 5-star hotels in Florence Italy, Hotel Bernini Palace offers a luxury experience in a convenient location near the best attractions in the city. Stay steps away from Piazza della Signoria and a short stroll from high-end shopping along Via dei Calzaiuoli. Enjoy the service you’d expect at a high-end stay with amenities like a fine-dining restaurant, in-room massages, and a rooftop terrace.

Mid-Range: Hotel Calimala

If you’re looking for a top-notch mid-range hotel in Central Florence, consider Hotel Calimala. For those who are big on interior design, every space in this hotel will take your breath away. Enjoy a metropolitan stay in the heart of Duomo’s shopping district. Dine at Angel Rooftop, which boasts an international menu and amazing views of Florence’s skyline.

Budget: Hotel Renaissance

At the Hotel Renaissance, you’re just a 6-minute walk to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Besides an ideal locale, the hotel is romantic and perfect for couples on a budget. Beautiful, high-ceiling rooms feature frescoes, ornate fireplaces, and even mini-Turkish baths in the bathrooms! You can also find out about airport shuttles and daily buffet breakfasts.

Family Hotel: La Casa del Garbo

When you book a room at La Casa del Garbo, the Piazza della Signoria is right out your window! You can take the kids to grab some gelato and run around the square. It’s where to stay in Florence for families, with free cribs, continental breakfasts, and spacious suites with separate bedrooms and space for 5.

Apartment: Stylish 2-Bedroom with Views of Duomo

There are several highly rated VBRO apartments in Centro Storico, Florence, but none quite like this gorgeous 2-level apartment for 4. You’re on a quiet side street off the bustling Via del Corso, and the top-floor bedroom has a terrace with amazing views of the Duomo! Enjoy the luxurious newly renovated apartment with a chic bathroom, full kitchen, library, and a second breakfast nook off the top-floor bedroom.

The Best Florence Hotels in Santa Maria Novella

If you’re staying near the train station and Santa Maria Novella Church in the neighborhood of Santa Maria Novella, not far from all the main sights, these are the hotels I recommend.

Luxury: Grand Hotel Minerva

You’ll find quality Florence hotels near Duomo, including the high-end Grand Hotel Minerva. Feel special with a stay on the Piazza di Santa Maria Novella and all the stunning architecture, including the hotel itself. Rooms and suites all boast amazing views of the square, romantic canopy beds, and soaking tubs. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, a restaurant with seating on the square, and a state-of-the-art gym.

Mid-Range: Grand Hotel Baglioni

Grand Hotel Baglioni is one of the most gorgeous boutique hotels in Florence, Italy. It’s an iconic building on Piazza della Unita Italiana near some of the best shopping in Florence. Moody Tuscan interiors feel romantic with luxurious fabrics, stained-glass windows, and deep jetted tubs. And the restaurant and rooftop garden café are both stunning.

Budget: Home Boutique Santa Maria Novella

Very similar to a B&B, Home Boutique Santa Maria Novella is an Italian guesthouse. This means not only do you get a quality location less than 10 minutes from Centro Storico, but you can enjoy lots of perks at a budget price. Guests will appreciate simple but cheery rooms and suites, as well as the option to order hot breakfasts and utilize laundry services.

Family Hotel: Bellevue House

For families looking for hotels in Florence Italy near Train Station, Bellevue House is a cozy choice. The no-frills hotel is one of the only hotels with larger occupancy because the rooms are so spacious! Book a room with a double bed and sofa for a family of 4 and use it as your launch pad to explore Florence. Plus, you’re a just 7-minute walk from Piazza della Repubblica where the kids can ride a vintage carousel.

Apartment: Contemporary 2-Bedroom next to Train Station

This apartment for 6 in front of Train Station is perfect for a large family or any large party visiting Florence. Inside, you’ll love the light-filled kitchen and dining room. There’s a pullout sofa in the living room and 2 bedrooms with double beds. There are 2 baths, each with a shower. And with the apartment located on the 4th floor, you’ll appreciate the elevator in the building.

The Best Hotels in Santa Croce

Luxury: Relais Santa Croce by Baglioni Hotels

Rooms and suites at Relais Santa Croce shine with modern abstract art and ornate arched ceilings characteristic of the 18th-century building. The hotel is close to the Basilica of Santa Croce, and many guests can enjoy the historic landmark from their private terraces! Make sure to patronize the Tuscan restaurant onsite and enjoy a drink in the piano lounge.

Mid-Range: La Maison du Sage

La Maison du Sage has a completely different feel with warm, handcrafted wood and calm, inviting color palettes in every understated room and suite. This bed & breakfast is nestled between the Basilica of Santa Croce and the Arno. Stay here to enjoy amenities like buffet breakfasts every day, as well as a beautiful onsite library.

Budget: Hotel La Casa di Morfeo

When you’re looking for cheap hotels in Florence, Italy, Hotel La Casa di Morfeo has a reputation for going above and beyond what you’d expect! Besides a great location near excellent bars, cafes, and restaurants, the hotel staff is super friendly. Plus, the hotel offers cozy rooms and amenities like daily breakfasts, free cribs, and an onsite restaurant.

Family Hotel: Plaza Hotel Lucchesi

Book your family a suite at the riverside Plaza Hotel Lucchesi. You have to see the breathtaking views of San Niccolo across the Arno. You also have panoramic views of Florence from the luxurious rooftop pool and lounge. And inside the hotel, the onsite restaurant and public areas are just as stunning. In your suite, take advantage of snack bars, babysitting services, and free cribs.

Apartment: Spacious Getaway in Medieval Santa Croce

This ground-level 1-bedroom apartment feels like a retreat with roomy interiors and a calm color scheme. You’ll see a King-sized bed in the room, as well as a closed murphy bed for more guests. The hosts are super welcoming and also offer a travel crib and highchair. Eat in the modern, full-sized kitchen or on the private patio.

The Best Hotels in Oltrarno & Santo Spirito

Luxury: Hotel Lungarno

Located between 2 historic medieval bridges along the Arno, Hotel Lungarno is one of the best places to stay in Florence, Italy for the views. Many of the hotel’s lavish rooms and suites feature balconies with fabulous views across the river to Duomo. Have brunch or dinner at the award-winning restaurant or take advantage of complimentary bike rentals.

Mid-Range: Hotel Palazzo Guadagni

Stay directly at the romantic Hotel Palazzo Guadagni on Palazzo Santo Spirito in the heart of Oltrarno. This is the ultimate Florence hotel with bedroom interiors that complete the orange-tile roofs outside your windows. Or enjoy your continental breakfast from a gorgeous rooftop terrace with views of the city.

Budget: Hotel La Scaletta Al Ponte Vecchio

The Hotel La Scaletta Al Ponte Vecchio boasts a great location along Via de’ Guicciardini just a few feet from interesting historical landmarks and quality shopping. You’ll love the airy, light-filled rooms and top-notch amenities like romance packages and on-site babysitting.

Family Hotel: Hotel Horto Convento

For a quiet retreat, stay at the Hotel Horto Convento, set in a beautiful former monastery. Families will appreciate that the hotel is far from the street, which is rare in Florence! Enjoy private gardens, a pool, and outdoor patios. There’s an onsite art gallery, and guests can use family-friendly amenities like free breakfasts, laundry services, and more.

Apartment: Gorgeous 2-Bedroom with 18th-Century Frescoes

If you’re looking for a unique apartment in Florence, consider this stunning vacation rental a short stroll from Palazzo Santo Spirito. The selling point here is the fabulous original 300-year-old frescoes across every surface! There’s room for 5 with 2 beautiful bedrooms, a modern bath, an updated kitchen, and a cozy living room/dining room with a fireplace.

The Best Hotels in San Niccolo

Luxury: Villa Cora

San Niccolo is where to stay in Florence for luxury stays, including Villa Cora next to Giardino del Bobolino in the hills overlooking the City Center. Every space in this 19th-century villa features decadent Rococo designs. Enjoy rooftop spaces, including a cigar lounge and outdoor pool. Or spend time at the spa onsite.

Mid-Range: Hotel David

Stay at the Hotel David, a 19th-century estate nestled along the scenic, winding Viale Michelangiolo that’s lined with more beautiful historic villas. You’re minutes away from Ponte Vecchio and the historic sites of Centro Storico. Enjoy tons of free amenities and classically styled rooms and suites with antique furniture.

Budget: Hotel Silla

If you’re looking for an affordable hotel in San Niccolo, Hotel Silla is a quality choice with great perks. Rooms in the historic building are spacious and elegantly simple, many featuring original architectural features like arched ceilings and wooden beams. Enjoy the hotel’s private courtyard, rooftop terrace, and outdoor dining at the hotel restaurant. Outside your hotel, there’s the beautiful Palazzo Demidoff along the Arno.

Family Hotel: Serristori Palace Residence

For a bit more room, stay at the family-friendly Serristori Palace Residence. The former private home from the 1800s has been converted into an aparthotel with 1-, 2,- and 3-bedroom apartments. Each charming unit comes with a highchair and kitchenette, and you can upgrade for private patios. You can also enjoy a library with a fireplace and a common area with sofas and tv.

Apartment: Cheery 2-Bedroom near Giardino Bardini

There are a handful of apartments to choose from in San Niccolo, but this Tuscan-style home is my favorite. You’re close to art museums, botanical gardens, and the bridge to Centro Storico. In the apartment, you can comfortably sleep 4-5 people in 2 bedrooms and on a pull-out sofa. There’s a bathroom, breakfast nook, and a lovely kitchen as well.

The Best Hotels in Fiesole

Mid-Range: FH55 Hotel Villa Fiesole

While you won’t find any luxury hotels in Fiesole, FH55 Hotel Villa Fiesole is the best hotel in Florence for its price and location. Nestled on the side of a hill, the sprawling villa estate features gardens, courtyards, a pool, and amazing views of Florence. Rooms and suites feature frescoes, private terraces, and minibars. There’s a hotel restaurant with outdoor dining, and you have access to daily continental breakfasts.

Budget: Hotel Villa Dei Bosconi

Stay at the low-key Hotel Villa Dei Bosconi for a quiet Tuscan vacation in the hills above Florence. The old villa has an outdoor pool, hot tub, and gardens for your enjoyment, and you’re less than 15 minutes by car to great hiking at Monte Ceceri Nature Reserve. And rooms at the hotel are anything but stuffy with high ceilings and dark wood furniture. Ground-level rooms even have direct access to the courtyard patio.

Family Hotel: Pensione Bencistà

Pensione Bencistà might be your ultimate Tuscan family destination, with breathtaking views from the rustic gardens in the hills above Florence. The 14th-century estate is perfect for a family of 4, with a playground, babysitting services, and gardens to explore. Ride complimentary bikes around Fiesole or enjoy the outdoor pool and hot tub.

Apartment: Historic 13th-Century Villa Apartment for 6

Stay in a medieval tower apartment on a massive villa estate with a patio and garden right outside for your use. You’ll be inspired to live the “dolce vita” with a roomy Tuscan-style living space. There are 2 bedrooms with room for at least 6. Families can enjoy toys and games for the kids, as well as a high chair. The owners are very friendly for whatever you need, and even offer pick-ups and drop-offs during your stay.

Florence Hotels with Pools

There’s no questioning that Florence gets HOT during the summer season. It’s nice to have a swimming pool to cool off in after a long hot day of exploring the city. Here are some of the best hotels in Florence with pools

Grand Hotel Minerva

This incredible 4 Star Hotel has a rooftop outdoor swimming pool that overlooks the Duomo of the Florence Cathedra. The view really cannot be beat! It’s one of the nicest hotels in central Florence and the pool is just a plus!

Il Salviatino

This 5 Star restored 15th Century Italian Villa is located on the outskirts of the city and some gorgeous spacious rooms for couples and families. Of course the pool is a major draw. The step down luxurious lap pool. is a great place to hang out after a long day of exploring. Even though this hotel isn’t walking distance to most things, it does offer a free shuttle service into the city center.

Hotel Glance Florence

This modern 4 Star Hotelin central Florence offers another great rooftop pool and terrace looking over the Duomo of the Florence Cathedral. It’s within easy walking distance of the Florence Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery since it’s centrally located in the city.

Forte 16 View & Spa

If you’re looking for a budget hotel option with an outdoor swimming pool near the Florence Cathedral, Forte 16 is a great lower cost option with a rooftop swimming pool.

Book One of the Best Places to Stay in Florence, Italy

When thinking about where to stay in Florence, you realize pretty quickly that the city is very tourist friendly. The challenge is really all about what kind of experience you’re looking for. The historic city center is where to find the most hotels for every budget, including rentals by owner. Move outwards a bit and you’ll find even more places to stay in Florence.

The city of Florence is super romantic and one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world, but it’s also a family-friendly place. You can find the perfect room for 2 in an adults-only hotel or do a little more footwork to find a hotel that will fit a large family.

What do you think about this list of places to stay in Florence? Is there any place you’ve been to that you would have included? Did this list inspire you to plan your next Florence vacation?

TLDR, Let’s Recap

Florence is awesome! You should definitely go. Pick the neighborhood and hotel price range thatbest fits your situation. Here are the best places to stay in Florence:

• Centro Storico
• Santa Maria Novella
• Santa Croce
• Oltrarno & Santo Spirito
• San Nicolo
• Fiesole