Best hotels in Florence

The story of how this place came to be is almost too good. In the late 1860s, when Florence was briefly Italy's capital, a German banking baron built an outrageously opulent villa for his Florentine bride — then very nearly burned it to the ground in a jealous rage. He didn't, thankfully, and Villa Cora is today one of the city's finest spots to stay. Tucked into rose-filled gardens on the south side of the Arno, a short stroll from the Boboli Gardens and Piazzale Michelangelo, it feels a world away from the tourist crush of the Duomo. The staff are genuinely lovely, the interiors are gloriously eclectic, and there's a heated outdoor pool. In Florence. Year-round.

In pride of place on the Piazza della Repubblica, amongst the city’s leading landmarks, an iconic Florentine hotel. Dressed Olga Polizzi, in signature prints and Renaissance antiques. Catered by Fulvio Pierangelini, in definitive Tuscan style. Filled with character, a breath of fresh air in a city steeped in history. The Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, Via de Tornabuoni… nowhere has neighbours like Hotel Savoy.

The elegant suites conjure a feeling of serenity that feels a world away from the busy Florentine streets.

Hospitality is an art, and Portrait Firenze has made of it a masterpiece. In a new concept of bespoke tourism, Portrait has taken uniform luxury and turned it into spontaneous personalisation. Portrait is not a luxury hotel in Florence; it is an incredibly personal place, an all-suite property, where discerning travellers find the exclusivity they relish

Perched in the lush hills above Florence overlooking the Arno Valley, Villa San Michele stands as a masterpiece of Tuscan heritage that is tied to the soul of the city itself. A work of art, inside and out with a history tracing back to the 15th century and breathtaking views overlooking Florence, it’s an immersive retreat into the romance of this Renaissance wonder. Honouring the hotel’s heritage, reimagined rooms and suites combine contemporary comfort with enduring grandeur.

Beginning life as a monastery in the 15th century, the hotel’s facade is attributed to the School of Michelangelo, while the surroundings hills were the testing grounds for Leonardo da Vinci’s flying machines. The terraced gardens, originally tended to by monks, have seen the centuries shift through the seasons.

Borgo Pignano Florence is a Florentine secret—hidden on a hillside at the city’s northern edge, surrounded by 5 acres of gardens offering a quiet retreat from the sights that lie within reach. This is the Florence behind the walls, beneath the trees, and between the conversations. A place where time slows, nature leads, and every gesture feels personal. Like all authentic secrets, it’s there to be discovered.

With just 32 rooms and suites, Borgo Pignano Florence preserves a sense of intimacy and calm. Here, historical charm meets modern comfort amid lush Italian gardens and views of the Florentine hills. Across the estate, restored to the highest standards and adorned with fine artworks, classic elegance blends seamlessly with craftsmanship and contemporary ease. Each space is shaped by light, time, and the quiet rhythm of the land.

Away from the crowds, and just a short stroll from the Tuscan capital’s iconic landmarks… In the district of Oltrarno, Florence has kept its soul.

Discover the art of Florentine living, in the intimacy of an authentic Renaissance palazzo. This gem has been fully restored by interior design duo Gilles & Boissier. Your apartment’s décor pairs contemporary refinement with the grandeur of historic architecture. La Réserve Firenze reimagines Florence as something deeply personal and privileged.

Tucked behind Piazza della Signoria, practically leaning on the Uffizi, the Hotel Bernini Palace is a 15th-century palazzo with hospitality in its bones. Back when Florence briefly served as Italy's capital in the 1860s, parliamentarians and senators would pile in for backroom dealings over dinner – and you can still feel that buzz of importance today. Now a polished five-star with 74 rooms adorned in antiques and Murano glass, it's elegant, un-showy and thoroughly Italian. The concierge team (Les Clefs d'Or, no less) know every cobblestone in the centro storico, and the location genuinely couldn't be better for getting to know Florence on foot.

For over half a century, Hotel Lungarno has been one of Florence’s most familiar addresses of hospitality. On the banks of the Arno, beside the Ponte Vecchio, it feels like an intimate house suspended over the water. With 66 rooms overlooking the city, white and blue interiors with nautical references, and a curated art collection, the experience continues with Borgo San Jacopo, the Michelin-starred restaurant above the river, and Picteau Bistrot & Bar, led by Executive Chef Claudio Mengoni.

Stay at Porta Rossa Hotel Firenze, Colbert Collection, and you’ll find the very best of the city on your doorstep. In fact, the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio, and the Uffizi Galleries are all within walking distance. The hotel itself is extraordinary. It’s rich with stories, layered in craft, and full of character. Thought to be the oldest hotel in Italy, the building features a 13th-century tower, preserved frescos, and stained-glass ceilings. Its famous red door acts as a shared portal, connecting guests through both time and place. Once you pass through, you’ll find a hotel that embodies centuries of artistry and craft.

IL Tornabuoni Hotel is located within one of the oldest and most prestigious palaces of Florence, which dates back to the 13th century. Discover 62 rooms that in the names, environments, colors and furnishings recall the Renaissance, characters, stories and artistic magnificence — giving life to one of the very first experiments in the world of real union, not only design, between ancient and modern.

The 62 rooms and suites were designed with the Renaissance in mind. From the bold, gem-inspired tones to the luxurious furnishings, the spaces reflect the rich history and artistic magnificence of the geography and history. The restored building has maintained much of its heritage while adding avant-garde and state-of-the-art interiors.

One of the first in the city, the hotel has been providing guests a unique and unforgettable view of Florence since 1860. Now completely renovated, it still preserves its original character, and is the ideal place from which to experience the city. Its rooms offer a perfect blend of classical features and contemporary style, and give you the oh so difficult choice between a view of the River Arno and one of the majestic Santa Croce. Its crowning achievement? The rooftop pool and bar with panoramic views of the 'Cradle of the Renaissance'.

Overlooking the largest private garden in Europe just a 10 minute walk from the centre of Florence, the fragrance of plants and a blissful quiet fills the air. The result of a collaboration between the architect Francesco Maestrelli, with interior design by Matteo Perduca and his brother Marco, this Florentine gem is home to 16 rooms in the Oltrarno area south of the Arno river – the most artisanal and authentic Florentine district. Squares, museums, churches, shops and restaurants are all at a walking distance from this secret hideaway beyond the busy tourist streets.

Ring the doorbell and wait to be greeted as if arriving at a friend's particularly stylish townhouse - albeit one with impeccable taste in Tuscan wines and a knack for artful décor. This elegant hideaway feels distinctly un-hotel-like, with its shelves adorned in an "artfully haphazard" array of hardback books, fresh flowers, and artistic sketches. The warm, informal atmosphere creates an instant sense of belonging in a city that can sometimes overwhelm with its artistic grandeur. Perfectly positioned for immersive exploration, you're just moments from iconic Renaissance treasures, yet tucked away enough to feel like a local rather than a tourist. This is Florence experienced as it should be - intimate, personal and utterly authentic.

Perched atop a 13th-century medieval tower, this striking mansion whispers tales of centuries past while offering a rather spectacular vista of the city's architectural treasures. Step through the doors and find yourself transported to a world where historic grandeur meets modern sophistication - think carefully curated artworks adorning historic walls and designer touches that wouldn't look out of place in the fashion houses that line the street below. And speaking of that location - darling, it really doesn't get better than this. Pop out for a spot of window shopping at the glittering boutiques, stroll across the Santa Trinita bridge, or simply gaze at Brunelleschi's magnificent dome from your privileged viewpoint above the city.

It's not every day one gets to slumber inside a 6th-century Byzantine tower and medieval church, but here's your chance. This architectural marvel has been meticulously restored, preserving original characteristics while pampering guests with modern luxuries. Positioned precisely where you want to be – smack in the historic center – you can practically roll out of bed and bump into Brunelleschi's magnificent dome or stroll to Piazza della Signoria before your morning espresso has fully kicked in. The hotel offers two distinctive dining experiences: a two-Michelin-starred gem tucked inside the ancient tower, and a ground-floor osteria serving Tuscan classics with contemporary flair. And when Florence's bustle becomes too much, retreat to your soundproofed room for a peaceful night's rest worthy of the Medicis.

Perched elegantly on one of the most exquisite squares in the Tuscan capital, this refined establishment occupies an ancient building steeped in history and art. Step inside and you'll discover a world where traditional Florentine aesthetics meet luxurious comfort – think lacquered boiseries, French furnishings and distinguished antiques that transport you to a bygone era. Yet there's nothing outdated about the experience; the discreet but flawless service captures the essence of Tuscan hospitality, making it the preferred choice for those seeking an authentic slice of Florentine style. The allure extends beyond just location, with each corner thoughtfully curated to create an atmosphere of understated opulence.

Step through the doors of this refined boutique hotel and you'll feel instantly transported from the bustling streets into an oasis of sophistication. The palazzo blends traditional charm with contemporary style, creating an atmosphere that's both elegant and remarkably comfortable.

Located a mere seven-minute stroll from the magnificent Cathedral, you're perfectly positioned to explore all of Florence's treasures, yet the tranquil inner garden—fragrant with lemon and magnolia—offers a welcome retreat when the Renaissance wonders become overwhelming.

After a day marveling at Michelangelo's David or wandering the Uffizi Gallery, there's nothing quite like returning to sip an aperitivo in the leafy courtyard or unwind in the impressive spa facilities. The friendly staff strike that perfect balance of attentive yet unobtrusive service that elevates a good stay into a truly memorable one.

Step back in time at this exquisitely restored 15th-century villa, once the countryside escape of Florence's illustrious Corsini family. The dramatic Tuscan-style loggia that dominates the façade sets the tone for what awaits inside - an elegant boutique retreat that somehow manages to feel like the family home it once was. Wander through terracotta-tiled hallways to the central drawing room, where an honesty bar invites you to pour yourself a Campari spritz before dinner. The charming blue and white breakfast room opens onto a sun-drenched terrace, while beyond, a refreshing swimming pool offers respite from the Tuscan heat with views across undulating olive groves and vineyard-stitched hillsides. This is la dolce vita at its most authentic.

A lavish wedding present from Baron Oppenheim to his bride in the 1860s, this sumptuous villa soon became a magnet for Italian and European aristocracy, then passed into the hands of Napolean III’s widow. Its former splendour has been miraculously preserved, with magnificently opulent and eclectic interiors. Elaborate frescoes, bold tromp l’oeils, gilded mirrors and detailed stucco decorations adorn the rooms and halls, with eclectic Florentine and Moorish influences. All this is set in beautifully landscaped gardens, full of fragrant roses, topiary hedges and ancient oaks, with that inimitable view over the city of Florence. Naturally, the service is slick and attentive – nothing is too much trouble. You could definitely become used to villa living.