If you are wondering where to stay in Florence, you’re in the right place. After traveling to the fabulous city several times, I have uncovered the best areas to stay in Florence Italy.
The city has so much to offer and so do the different Florence neighborhoods. While I would prefer to stay in one area on my first visit, I now opt for a different location as I already know the city very well.
If you are interested in shopping you might be looking for a different area to stay than if you are looking for art galleries.
Traveling on a budget or looking for the best place to stay in Florence with your family might also result in completely different location preferences.
As you can tell, where to stay in Florence depends a lot on your own preferences. That’s why I’ll go through the best areas to stay in Florence in this post so that you can start planning your Florence itinerary.
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IN A HURRY?
HERE ARE MY TOP PICKS FOR WHERE TO STAY IN FLORENCE
LUXURY: Palazzo Portinari Salviati Residenza D’Epoca – set in a historical building in the heart of Florence, this hotel has an indoor swimming pool and a spa and wellness center. The rooftop terrace offers splendid city views. It is also pet friendly.
MID-RANGE: B&B La Terrazza Sul Duomo – fabulous location with views of the Duomo and a rooftop terrace.
BUDGET: B&B Alla Corte dei Medici – set in a charming historical building this is a great budget option in the historic center.
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Where to stay in Florence
Historic Center (Centro Storico) – Best for First-Time Visitors
Best Place to Stay in Florence For:
- First-time visitors: As the city’s heart, it houses the most iconic landmarks and attractions.
- Night owls: With many bars and late-night eateries, it’s ideal for those who enjoy the nightlife.
- History and art enthusiasts: It offers access to major museums and historic sites, making it perfect for art and history buffs.
When planning your first visit to Florence, choosing the right place to stay is crucial to fully immerse in the city’s rich culture and history.
Staying within the Centro Storico, the city’s historical center, gives immediate access to numerous renowned attractions.
It’s a bustling and vibrant area, making it an excellent option when deciding where to stay in Florence.
Within the heart of the Centro Storico, you’ll find some of the best areas to stay in Florence, Italy. The bustling Piazza della Signoria, mere steps from the Uffizi Gallery and the Ponte Vecchio, offers a variety of accommodation options.
From luxury boutique hotels to charming guesthouses, these locales cater to all preferences, placing you right in the best location to stay in Florence.
With places to stay that bring Tuscan culture right to your doorstep, the city’s historic center ensures a memorable visit, combining comfort, convenience, and immediate access to Florence’s stunning landmarks and vibrant nightlife.
BEST PLACE TO STAY – FLORENCE HISTORIC CENTER
LUXURY: Palazzo Portinari Salviati Residenza D’Epoca – set in a historical building in the heart of Florence, this hotel has an indoor swimming pool and a spa and wellness center. The rooftop terrace offers splendid city views. It is also pet friendly.
MID-RANGE: B&B La Terrazza Sul Duomo – fabulous location with views of the Duomo and a rooftop terrace.
BUDGET: B&B Alla Corte dei Medici – set in a charming historical building this is a great budget option in the historic center.
Santo Spirito (Oltrarno) – Best for Foodies and Evening Events
Best Area to Stay in Florence For:
- Food lovers: The neighborhood is famed for its dining options, from pizza to gelato, offering a feast for the taste buds.
- Nightlife enthusiasts: With plenty of evening events and a buzzing nightlife, it’s perfect for those who enjoy socializing and entertainment after sundown.
- Seekers of authenticity: Its artisan shops and local markets make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a genuine Florentine experience.
When deciding where to stay in Florence, look no further than the charming district of Santo Spirito.
This hidden gem across the Arno River, away from the tourist buzz, retains its authentic Florentine charm and offers a slower pace of life.
In Santo Spirito, you’ll enjoy the narrow cobblestone streets, artisan boutiques, art galleries, and delectable food spots, making it a perfect retreat during your stay in Florence.
The culinary scene here is second to none. Santo Spirito is a foodie’s paradise, offering a myriad of trattorias, cafes, and gelaterias that serve the best pizza, pasta, and gelato in town.
The neighborhood buzzes with life as the evening draws in, especially around Piazza Santo Spirito. This lively square doubles as a daytime farmer’s market and a vibrant evening hotspot, hosting various outdoor concerts, social gatherings, and events.
It is not surprising that this is one of the best places to stay in Florence Italy.
BEST PLACE TO STAY IN FLORENCE – SANTO SPIRITO
LUXURY: Ponte Vecchio Suites & Spa – indulge in the spa and wellness center at this lovely hotel just a stone’s throw from the Ponte Vecchio Bridge.
MID-RANGE: Palazzo Bianca Cappello Residenza d’Epoca – enjoy the opulence of this stunning palace whiting walking distance of the Pitti Palace and Boboli Garden.
BUDGET: Drom Florence Rooms & Apartments – a nice hotel with a charming patio where you can sit outside. Close to the Boboli Garden.
Santa Croce – Best Place to stay in Florence for a Local Experience
Best Place to Stay in Florence For:
- History buffs: The neighborhood is rich in history and architecture, with landmarks such as the Basilica di Santa Croce and the historic Jewish Ghetto.
- Foodies: Offering an array of local cuisine and wine bars, it’s perfect for those wanting to sample authentic Tuscan cuisine.
- Artisans: Santa Croce’s famous Leather School provides visitors insight into one of Florence’s oldest crafts.
Craving a slice of authentic Florentine life? Look no further than the charming neighborhood of Santa Croce. Not just a mere tourist destination, Santa Croce is a breathing, vibrant district that gives you a raw, unfiltered taste of everyday Florentine life.
When considering the best areas to stay in Florence, Italy, this unique district, home to the monumental Basilica di Santa Croce, is often top of the list.
Offering a prime example of Italian Gothic architecture and serving as the resting place of many famous Italians, it creates a rich historical atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
But it’s not just the illustrious dead that make this area so fascinating. The vibrant contributions of the living residents add a dynamic flair, making it not only the best location to stay in Florence but also an attraction in itself.
The combination of history and contemporary culture offers an engaging blend that makes this district one of the most sought-after places to stay in Florence, Italy.
When it comes to selecting the best part of Florence to stay, consider venturing deeper into its neighborhoods, where you’ll be greeted by charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
This is where the city’s soul lies, away from the common tourist trails. In these local artisan workshops, which specialize in leather goods, and family-owned boutiques that sell unique trinkets, you’ll experience the authentic Florentine lifestyle.
The bustling markets of Santa Croce are a sight to behold, with stalls offering fresh produce; a feast for the senses and a reflection of the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
For food lovers, the best place to stay in Florence would undoubtedly be close to these markets and traditional trattorias and gelaterias, where local families savor authentic Florentine fare.
So, immerse yourself in the city’s culture and let its flavors and textures enrich your Italy itinerary.
WHERE TO STAY IN FLORENCE – SANTA CROCE
LUXURY: LHP Hotel River & SPA – this opulent hotel is located right on the Arno River with beautiful views. Its spa and wellness center is fabulous when you have long days of sightseeing.
MID-RANGE: Plaza Hotel Lucchesi – a wonderful hotel with a rooftop bar and pool with splendid city views.
BUDGET: B&B La Casa dei Tintori – a lovely hotel with unique decor, friendly staff, and great breakfast (including vegan and gluten-free.)
Piazzale Michelangelo/San Niccolò – Best area to stay in Florence for Families
Best Neighborhood to Stay in Florence For:
- Nature lovers: The hilltop parks are a green oasis for a picnic or a quiet stroll while admiring the city view.
- Families: The playgrounds provide perfect spots for children, while the quiet streets of San Niccolò are safe and friendly.
- Photography enthusiasts: This area offers unparalleled views of Florence, making it a favorite spot for photographers.
Perched high above the city is the stunning Piazzale Michelangelo, offering Florence’s most breathtaking panoramic views.
This hilltop square is not just about the idea; it’s also an ideal destination for families. Close by, you’ll find parks and playgrounds where your little ones can play and run around while you rest and soak in the enchanting cityscape.
Nestled below the square is the quaint neighborhood of San Niccolò. Known for its quiet cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and local eateries serving up child-friendly dishes, it’s like stepping into a serene, picturesque village in the city’s heart.
There is no doubt that this is the best area to stay in Florence Italy for families, but also for anyone looking for the more withdrawn neighborhoods of Florence to kick back after a busy day of sightseeing.
And after all, Piazzale Michelangelo boasts unrivaled sunsets, one of the best things to see in Florence, and what better than having them near your hotel?
BEST AREA TO STAY FLORENCE – SAN NICOLLÒ
LUXURY: Art Hotel Villa Agape – surrounded by prestigious gardens and cypress trees this is the perfect place to stay for families.
MID-RANGE: Hotel Villa Betania – a small family-run hotel in beautiful and green surroundings.
BUDGET: Hotel Ferrucci – a lovely hotel making you feel like you stay in a palace with an elegant, antique vibe.
Santa Maria Novella (Near Train Station) – Best for Layovers
Best Area in Florence to Stay For:
- Budget travelers: Its affordable accommodations and proximity to public transportation make it an excellent area for travelers on a budget.
- Food lovers: The Central Market is a foodie paradise, offering various food stalls and restaurants.
- Short-term visitors: Its location near the train station makes it perfect for those on quick stopovers or layovers.
When determining the best place to stay in Florence, Italy, the Santa Maria Novella neighborhood is a prime option.
Situated close to the city’s central train station, it offers easy accessibility for those with brief layovers or for travelers prioritizing convenience.
This area is also ideal for those traveling on a budget, with a plethora of affordable yet comfortable and stylish accommodation choices available.
This neighborhood is about more than just practicality, though. Its star attraction is the gorgeous Santa Maria Novella Church, a Gothic and early Renaissance architecture masterpiece.
The vibrant Central Market is just a stone’s throw away, where you can savor delicious Tuscan street food or shop for fresh local produce.
BEST PLACE TO STAY IN FLORENCE – SANTA MARIA NOVELLA
MID-RANGE: Hotel Principe – a great boutique hotel with an idyllic rooftop with city views. Includes free parking.
BUDGET: B&B Arco Antico – located 200 meters from the train station, you are only a short walk from the historic center. There is paid parking available if you are on a road trip.
San Marco/San Lorenzo Florence – Best area to stay for Museums and Shopping
Best Place to Stay in Florence For:
- Art lovers: The Accademia Gallery and other cultural institutions make this the perfect area for art enthusiasts.
- Shoppers: San Lorenzo provides various shopping experiences, from food markets to leather goods.
- Foodies: The district’s variety of restaurants and the Central Market offer many opportunities to sample Florentine cuisine.
San Marco and San Lorenzo districts are an unbeatable combination for art lovers and shopping enthusiasts. San Marco houses the Accademia Gallery, the custodian of Michelangelo’s David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world.
San Lorenzo, on the other hand, is synonymous with shopping. It’s home to the bustling Mercato Centrale, a food lover’s haven, and the outdoor San Lorenzo Market, known for its leather goods, clothing, and souvenirs.
BEST AREA TO STAY IN FLORENCE- SAN MARCO/SAN LORENZO
LUXURY: Hotel Firenze Number Nine – a fabulous boutique hotel with a spa and wellness center to treat yourself after days of exploring Florence.
MID-RANGE: Palazzo Tolomei – set in a historical building with frescos and exquisite Renaissance artwork, this is a great hotel to stay.
BUDGET: Hotel Romagna – a simple, budget-friendly hotel in a good location.
Novoli – Best neighborhood in Florence to stay for Budget Travelers
Best Part of Florence to Stay in For:
- Budget travelers: Novoli offers affordable accommodation options with modern amenities.
- Shoppers: The area is known for its shopping centers, providing plenty of retail therapy.
- Business travelers: Its proximity to office buildings and conference facilities makes it an excellent choice for business travelers.
If you prefer modern comfort and amenities on a budget, Novoli is your best bet when considering where to stay in Florence, Italy.
This neighborhood is situated on Florence’s outskirts and offers a more contemporary vibe with its sleek office buildings, stylish hotels, and sprawling shopping centers.
Novoli is a testament to Florence’s growth and evolution, juxtaposing the old with the new and providing a different Tuscan experience.
BEST PLACE TO STAY IN FLORENCE – NOVOLI
MID-RANGE: B&B Eliana e Ristorante – a comfortable hotel with a restaurant and bar. They also offer free, secured parking, making it perfect for anyone on a road trip.
BUDGET: B&B Hotel Firenze Novoli – just a short walk from the tram to the historic center, this is a peaceful place to stay in Novoli that allows pets.
APARTMENT: Settimo Cielo – a small, but sweet one-bedroom that sleeps up to 3 people. Here, you’ll have everything you need at a short tram ride to the historic center.
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Reflections on the best areas to stay in Florence
As you can tell, you can easily pick out where to stay in Florence Italy based on your preferences and budget. There are no better or worse places to stay really, it all depends on what you need.
All the best neighborhoods in Florence are easily walkable from the historic center, but there are also buses if you get tired after a day of walking.
No matter where you choose to locate yourself in Florence I am sure your Florence itinerary will turn out amazing.
Happy travels!
