Where to Stay in Florence 🇮🇹: Guide to the Best Neighborhoods and Hotels for Every Traveler

Planning where to stay in Florence can feel overwhelming with so many beautiful neighborhoods to choose from. I’ve discovered that each area has its own unique charm and character – from the bustling historic center to the peaceful hills of Fiesole.

Florence

Whether you’re dreaming of waking up to views of the Duomo, wanting to experience authentic local life, or searching for the perfect budget-friendly location, this guide will help you find your ideal spot in Florence. I’ll share insider tips about each neighborhood, from hidden local restaurants to the best times for sightseeing, helping you make the most of your Tuscan adventure.

🏡 Where to Stay in Florence:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Ville Sull'Arno, Florence
• ✨ 5-Star: NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa
• 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Grifone Firenze - Meetings & Spa
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Guesthouse Bel Duomo
• 💸 Cheap: Hotel Dali
• 🏢 Apartament: Forte16 View & SPA
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Hotel degli Orafi
• 🏩 For Couples: Art Hotel Villa Agape - Place of Charme

👩‍🏫 Top-Rated Florence Tours:

• Florence Small-Group Tour with Uffizi and Accademia from €89 (⭐4.8/5)
• Florence Sunset Food and Wine Tasting Tour from €95 (⭐4.9/5)
• Florence Half-Day Walking Tour With Accademia, Uffizi from €129 (⭐4.8/5)
• Florence: Accademia and Duomo Small-Group Tour from €109 (⭐4.9/5)

Quick Guide to Florence Best Areas:

• For first-time visitors: Centro Storico/San Giovanni
• For budget travelers: Santa Maria Novella
• For artisan culture: Oltrarno/Santo Spirito
• For nightlife: Santa Croce
• For cultural immersion: San Marco
• For scenic views: Fiesole
• For local charm: San Niccolò

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

The Heart of Florence The Centro Storico, one of Florence’s best places to stay, pulses with Renaissance grandeur around the Florence Cathedral and its iconic Brunelleschi dome. When exploring Florence, these cobblestone streets reveal architectural masterpieces at every turn.

Daily Life The area stretching from San Lorenzo to the Arno River offers the quintessential experience for visitors to Florence. While choosing to stay in the heart of the city means tourist crowds, early mornings provide magical moments when central Florence belongs to locals.

Cultural Immersion Part of the center houses Florence’s crown jewels – from the Duomo complex to Piazza Santa Croce. For those deciding where to stay, this neighborhood offers an awe-inspiring glimpse into Renaissance power, perfect for a trip to Italy.

Budget Tip: For those traveling on a budget, visit the cathedral for free, but book dome access online to avoid queues.

Insider Tip: When staying near the train station, use the less-known side entrance to the Duomo to skip main queues.

Best Times to Explore: For one day in Florence, start between 7-9 AM when the hills of Florence catch the morning light, and stay until evening when the city transforms.

Practical Considerations While luxury hotels in this area command premium prices, the central location means you’re everywhere in Florence within walking distance. Perfect for families to stay or those planning a longer stay.

Cultural Note: This part of the neighborhood offers the best of both worlds – from quiet mornings ideal for photography to lively evenings when locals and visitors share the piazzas of one of Florence’s most beloved districts.

Best Hotels in Florence, Centro Storico:

Best Hotels

• Hotel degli Orafi – A luxurious 4-star hotel located next to the Uffizi Gallery, offering stunning views of the Arno River and Ponte Vecchio. Features elegant rooms with classic Florentine décor and a panoramic breakfast room.
• San Firenze Suites & Spa – An exclusive hotel housed in a historic palace near Piazza della Signoria, featuring a luxury spa, spacious suites with modern amenities, and personalized service.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hotel Spadai – A sophisticated 4-star hotel steps from the Duomo, offering contemporary rooms, a stylish lounge bar, and excellent soundproofing despite its central location.
• Arte' Boutique Hotel – A charming hotel combining Renaissance architecture with modern design, located in the heart of Florence’s shopping district with artistically decorated rooms.
• Solo Experience Hotel – A trendy design hotel near San Lorenzo Market, featuring unique themed rooms, modern technology, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for contemporary travelers.

Best Hostels

• Faenza Apartment – Stylish apartments in a historic building near Santa Maria Novella, offering fully equipped kitchens and living spaces ideal for families or extended stays.
• Hotel Dali – A budget-friendly option in the historic center, providing clean, comfortable rooms and friendly service, perfect for travelers prioritizing location over luxury.
• Guesthouse Bel Duomo – An intimate guesthouse offering spectacular views of the Duomo, featuring traditionally decorated rooms and a rooftop terrace perfect for enjoying Florence’s skyline.

2. Santa Croce – Best Place to Stay in Florence for Nightlife and Local Vibes

Nightlife Scene Located in the center of Florence, Santa Croce pulses with energy – it’s of the best places for nightlife. During my trip to Florence, I discovered the vibrant streets of Via de’ Benci and Via Verdi, where study-abroad students, locals, and travelers create an authentic Italian social atmosphere.

Evening Atmosphere The area around Piazza di Santa Croce transforms after sunset, becoming the epicenter of Florence’s social scene. You’ll find this part of the city truly awakens around 7 PM as locals gather for aperitivo.

Local Flavors Among the places to eat and drink, find in Florence gems like Bitter Bar with its experimental cocktails and Enoteca alla Sosta dei Papi. Time in Florence is best spent exploring side streets like Via Fiesolana, where the city’s finest enotecas hide.

Budget Tip: For those who want to stay on budget, many establishments around the city offer complimentary appetizer buffets during aperitivo hours.

Practical Notes The area remains safe and well-patrolled, making it one of my favorite places for evening entertainment. Whether you’re in apartments in Florence or just visiting, the vibrant atmosphere peaks Thursday through Saturday.

Budget Breakdown A full evening of entertainment, including aperitivo, dinner, and drinks, typically costs between €35-60 per person, offering excellent value for a night out in central Italy.

Where to Stay in Santa Croce:

Best Hotels

• Palazzo Roselli Cecconi – A stunning 16th-century palace turned hotel in Santa Croce, featuring frescoed ceilings, antique furnishings, and luxurious modern amenities. Perfect for those seeking an authentic Florentine noble residence experience.
• Plaza Hotel Lucchesi – An elegant 4-star hotel with a rooftop pool offering panoramic views of Florence and the Arno River. Features refined rooms, a sophisticated restaurant, and a prime location near Santa Croce Basilica.
• The Sonetto powered by Sonder – A modern apartment-style hotel combining historic charm with contemporary design, offering fully equipped kitchens and stylish living spaces near the Duomo.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Soggiorno dell Agnolo – A charming mid-range hotel in a historic building, offering comfortable rooms with traditional Tuscan decor and excellent value in the Santa Croce district.
• Benci House – A guesthouse in a prime location, featuring uniquely decorated rooms that blend historic elements with modern comfort, perfect for cultural enthusiasts.
• Suites - ghibellina 92 – Contemporary suites in a historic building, offering spacious accommodations with modern amenities and stylish decor, ideal for extended stays.

Best Hostels

• Mamo Florence - Agnolo Apartment – Elegant apartments featuring full kitchens and living areas in a restored historic building, perfect for families or groups seeking a home-like atmosphere.
• Michelangelo's Relais – An intimate hotel offering artistically designed rooms with Renaissance-inspired decor and modern comforts, located in a quiet yet central position.
• Florence Ghibellina Fast Check In – A practical and modern accommodation option offering streamlined check-in and comfortable rooms, ideal for business travelers and those seeking efficiency.

3. Oltrarno (Santo Spirito) – Best Area to Stay in Florence for Artisans and Authenticity

Artisan Soul The Oltrarno, literally meaning ‘beyond the Arno’, reveals Florence’s most authentic face. During my morning walks, I’ve discovered countless artisan workshops where master craftsmen shape leather, gold, and wood using techniques passed down through generations.

Creative Spirit The neighborhood pulses with artistic energy, especially around Via Santo Spirito and Via San Frediano. Here, the sound of hammering metal and whirring tools mingles with the aroma of leather and wood, creating a sensory experience unique to this quarter.

Local Life Unlike the tourist-heavy Centro Storico, Oltrarno maintains its residential charm. My favorite morning ritual involves grabbing a cappuccino at the local bars where Florentines discuss daily life in rapid-fire Italian.

Cultural Heritage The area boasts the magnificent Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens, but the real treasures lie in the smaller museums and churches that few tourists visit.

Budget Tip: Many artisan workshops offer free demonstrations during weekday mornings. Some even provide hands-on experiences for a fraction of the cost of organized tours.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Limiting exploration to main streets like Borgo San Jacopo
• Missing the morning workshop hours when artisans are most active

Evening Scene As day transitions to night, the neighborhood transforms. Small enotecas fill with locals, and restaurants serve authentic Tuscan cuisine at more reasonable prices than across the river.

Practical Notes While accommodations here tend to be more affordable than in Centro Storico, the trade-off is a 15-minute walk to major attractions. However, the authentic atmosphere and local experiences make it worthwhile.

Shopping Experience The antique shops along Via Maggio and the artisan studios in San Frediano offer unique pieces you won’t find in tourist areas. I’ve found the best deals and most interesting items in the smaller workshops off the main streets.

Where to Stay in Oltrarno:

Best Hotels

• Piazza Pitti Palace - Residenza d'Epoca – A historic residence opposite Pitti Palace offering luxurious rooms with original frescoes and antique furniture. Perfect for those seeking an authentic noble Florentine experience with modern comforts.
• Ponte Vecchio Suites & Spa – An elegant hotel steps from Ponte Vecchio featuring a luxury spa, designer furnishings, and stunning river views. Ideal for couples seeking a romantic retreat in the heart of Florence.
• Hotel Lungarno – A 5-star luxury hotel owned by the Ferragamo family, offering exceptional views of Ponte Vecchio, Michelin-starred dining, and sophisticated rooms with designer touches.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• San Pier Novello in Oltrarno – A charming hotel in the artistic Oltrarno district, featuring traditionally decorated rooms with modern amenities and a peaceful courtyard garden.
• B&B Beatrice – An intimate bed & breakfast offering personalized service and comfortable rooms in a quiet location near Santo Spirito, perfect for experiencing authentic Florence.
• Hotel Annalena – A historic 3-star hotel in a 15th-century palazzo, featuring original architectural details, traditional Florentine decor, and a lovely garden terrace.

Best Hostels

• Santo Spirito Apartment – Stylish apartments in the vibrant Santo Spirito neighborhood, offering fully equipped kitchens and modern amenities in a historic setting.
• Casa Laura – A cozy guesthouse offering homely accommodations with modern comforts, situated in a quiet street yet close to major attractions.
• Florence Old Bridge B&B – A welcoming B&B just steps from Ponte Vecchio, offering comfortable rooms with traditional Tuscan charm and excellent value for the location.

4. Santa Maria Novella – Best Neighborhood in Florence for Budget Travelers

Transport Hub Santa Maria Novella offers the perfect base for budget travelers, with its prime location next to Florence’s main train station. During my frequent stays here, I’ve found this neighborhood combines practicality with authentic Florentine charm.

Price Points The area presents Florence’s best value accommodations, with rates significantly lower than the historic center.

Strategic Location Everything in Florence is within a 15-minute walk. The Duomo is just 10 minutes east, while the Ponte Vecchio takes 12 minutes to reach. This central position makes it perfect for exploring Florence’s best attractions.

Budget Tip: Book accommodations on Tuesday nights for the best rates, and plan your stay during November or February for significant savings on hotel prices.

Food Scene The area around Mercato Centrale offers affordable dining options, with local trattorias serving lunch menus for €15-20. My favorite spots are the family-run establishments on Via Faenza.

Evening Options While not as lively as Santa Croce, the area offers plenty of reasonable bars and restaurants. The streets around Via degli Orti Oricellari come alive with aperitivo spots offering drinks and buffet for €10-15.

Shopping Value The parallel streets to Via Nazionale hide some of Florence’s best vintage shops and local boutiques, offering better prices than the city center boutiques.

Where to Stay in Santa Maria Novella:

Best Hotels

• Hotel Croce Di Malta – A refined 4-star hotel near Santa Maria Novella featuring a rooftop pool with panoramic views of Florence, elegant rooms with classic decor, and a beautiful internal garden.
• Grand Hotel Minerva – A luxurious hotel in Piazza Santa Maria Novella offering a rooftop pool with city views, sophisticated rooms, and a renowned restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine.
• Palazzo dei Conti Residenza d'Epoca – An elegant historic residence featuring frescoed ceilings, antique furnishings, and luxurious rooms that capture the essence of Renaissance Florence.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hotel Delle Nazioni – A comfortable 3-star hotel steps from Santa Maria Novella station, offering modern rooms and excellent value for its central location.
• Hotel Machiavelli Palace – A charming hotel in a restored 14th-century convent, featuring traditional Florentine decor and a rooftop terrace with Duomo views.
• Grand Hotel Adriatico – A sophisticated 4-star hotel near the Arno River, offering elegant rooms, a garden restaurant, and easy access to Florence’s main attractions.

Best Hostels

• Hotel Golf – A budget-friendly option near Santa Maria Novella station providing clean, comfortable rooms and friendly service in a convenient location.
• Al Consolato - Guest house – A cozy guesthouse in a historic building offering intimate accommodations with personal service and traditional Florentine charm.
• Le Nove Muse Guesthouse – A boutique guesthouse offering stylish rooms with modern amenities in a quiet location while maintaining easy access to major attractions.

5. San Marco – Best Florence Neighborhood for Culture and Luxury Hotels

Cultural Heritage San Marco’s heart beats around its magnificent Dominican convent, where Fra Angelico’s world-renowned frescoes grace the peaceful corridors. The neighborhood offers a perfect blend of Renaissance treasures and authentic Florentine life.

Daily Rhythm The district centers around Piazza San Marco, dominated by the 17th-century church facade. Early mornings here are peaceful, broken only by students heading to the University of Florence and art enthusiasts queuing for the Accademia Gallery.

Local Experience Unlike the tourist-heavy center, San Marco maintains its residential character. The quiet streets around Via Ricasoli reveal hidden gardens and local cafes where Florentines gather for morning coffee.

Budget Tip: Visit the San Marco Museum for €8, where you’ll find the richest collection of Beato Angelico works in the world.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Missing the bronze statue of General Manfredo Fanti in the square’s center
• Overlooking the recently added rose gardens

Cultural Calendar The neighborhood comes alive with university activities, hosting exhibitions in historic venues and cultural events in local galleries.

Art Experience Beyond the famous Accademia Gallery, the area houses numerous smaller museums and workshops, offering a less crowded alternative to Florence’s major tourist sites.

Where to Stay in San Marco:

Best Hotels

• Arte' Boutique Hotel – An elegant property in San Marco district combining Renaissance architecture with contemporary design, featuring artistically decorated rooms and a prime location near the Accademia Gallery.
• Hotel Regency – A refined 5-star establishment in a 19th-century palazzo, offering personalized service, gourmet dining, and an intimate garden terrace in the prestigious Piazza D’Azeglio area.
• Palazzo Alfani – A historic residence steps from the Duomo, featuring carefully restored frescoed ceilings, antique furnishings, and spacious suites with modern comforts.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Boutique Hotel Hugo – A charming property offering contemporary styled rooms in a restored historic building, located in a quiet street near San Marco’s main attractions.
• Palazzo Graziani – An elegant palazzo featuring traditionally decorated rooms with high ceilings and original architectural details, situated in a peaceful neighborhood.
• Hotel Le Due Fontane – A welcoming establishment in the heart of Florence, offering comfortable rooms with classic Italian decor and excellent proximity to major landmarks.

Best Hostels

• Hotel Miceli - Civico 50 – A family-run property housed in a historic building, providing intimate atmosphere and personalized service near the Duomo.
• Residenza Il Villino B&B – A charming B&B in a restored villa, offering individually decorated rooms with traditional Tuscan elements in a residential area.
• Borgo Pinti Suites – Elegant suites in a noble palazzo, featuring refined furnishings and modern amenities while maintaining authentic Florentine character.

6. Fiesole – Best Part of Florence for Views and Tranquility

Hilltop Magic Perched 295 meters above Florence, Fiesole offers an enchanting escape from the city’s bustle. This elegant town provides unparalleled panoramic views of Florence’s skyline and the rolling Tuscan countryside, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility.

Historical Legacy The area predates Florence itself, with Etruscan roots dating to the 9th century BCE. Today, the Archaeological Area showcases this rich heritage through its Roman amphitheater, Etruscan temple, and Roman baths, all accessible for €12.

Local Experience Unlike the tourist-heavy Florence center, Fiesole maintains its authentic charm with quiet piazzas, family-run restaurants, and peaceful gardens. The main square buzzes with local life, especially during morning markets.

Budget Tip: Take bus #7 from Florence’s center for just €2, offering scenic views during the 20-minute journey up the hillside.

Insider Tip: Visit the Franciscan monastery at sunset for the most spectacular views of Florence without the crowds you’d find at Piazzale Michelangelo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Rushing through in just an hour
• Missing the archaeological area

Cultural Heritage The town boasts remarkable religious architecture, including the 11th-century Cattedrale di San Romolo and the Chiesa di Santa Maria Primerana, both offering peaceful respite from summer heat.

Evening Magic As day transitions to night, Fiesole’s restaurants and wine bars come alive with a sophisticated atmosphere, offering traditional Tuscan cuisine paired with stunning valley views.

Practical Benefits The cooler temperatures make Fiesole ideal for summer visits, while its proximity to Florence allows for easy day trips or extended stays in hillside villas and hotels.

Seasonal Events Summer brings the Estate Fiesolana festival, featuring outdoor concerts and performances in the ancient Roman amphitheater under starlit Tuscan skies.

Where to Stay in Fiesole:

Best Hotels

• Agriturismo Fattoria Di Maiano – A charming farmhouse estate in the Tuscan hills offering traditional rooms surrounded by olive groves and gardens. Features an on-site restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine and panoramic terraces overlooking Florence.
• FH55 Hotel Villa Fiesole – An elegant villa hotel perched in the hills of Fiesole, featuring a panoramic restaurant, manicured gardens, and classically decorated rooms with modern amenities.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hotel Villa Dei Bosconi – A peaceful retreat set in a historic villa surrounded by cypress trees, offering comfortable rooms with traditional Tuscan decor and a serene garden setting.
• Hotel Villa Bonelli – A family-run villa hotel offering warm hospitality, simple yet comfortable rooms, and a tranquil garden perfect for relaxing after exploring Florence.
• B&B Le Cannelle FIESOLE – An intimate bed & breakfast in a restored country house, providing personalized service and homely rooms with traditional furnishings.

Best Hostels

• Agriturismo IL VIAIO – A rustic farmhouse offering authentic agritourism experience with home-produced wine and olive oil, featuring apartments with kitchenettes and outdoor dining areas.
• Casa Vacanze Ada – Cozy holiday apartments providing a home-away-from-home experience with fully equipped kitchens and private terraces overlooking the countryside.
• Camping Village Panoramico Fiesole – A unique accommodation option offering both camping facilities and comfortable bungalows with stunning views of Florence and the surrounding valleys.

7. San Niccolò – Best for Scenic Walks and Local Charm

Artistic Soul Nestled at the foot of Piazzale Michelangelo, San Niccolò captivates with its colorful buildings and authentic Florentine atmosphere. I’ve discovered this UNESCO World Heritage site offers the perfect blend of local life and artistic charm, just a 30-minute walk from the Duomo.

Creative Spirit The district pulses with artistic energy along Via di San Niccolò, where artisan workshops craft everything from leather goods to precious metals. Morning walks reveal artists setting up their studios and local cafes preparing for the day.

Scenic Routes The ancient Porta San Niccolò tower stands as the district’s crown jewel, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. During summer evenings, I love climbing its medieval staircase for sunset views over the Arno River.

Budget Tip: Visit the Rose Garden for free – it’s less crowded than Boboli Gardens and offers spectacular views of the Duomo and Giotto’s Campanile, especially during spring blooming season.

Insider Tip: Take the scenic walk from Porta San Miniato through olive groves to Forte di Belvedere for Florence’s most stunning vistas, particularly during golden hour.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Skipping the local bistros for tourist restaurants
• Overlooking the Jean-Michel Folon sculptures in the Rose Garden

Cultural Experience The neighborhood transforms during the Niccolò Street Festival in summer, filling with music, art exhibitions, and food stalls serving traditional Tuscan dishes like pappa al pomodoro.

Morning Magic Start your day at one of the small cafes along Via di San Niccolò, where the aroma of fresh pastries mingles with the sound of local artisans opening their workshops.

Where to Stay in San Niccolò:

Best Hotels

• Art Hotel Villa Agape – A charming historic villa set in a peaceful garden estate, offering elegant rooms with frescoed ceilings and antique furnishings. Features a panoramic terrace and traditional Tuscan restaurant.
• Palazzo Gamba Apartments – Sophisticated apartments directly facing the Duomo, combining historic architecture with modern comforts. Each unit features unique decor and fully equipped kitchens.
• Canto degli Scali – An elegant residence in a medieval tower house offering uniquely decorated suites with original features and modern amenities in the heart of historic Florence.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Casa del Sarto – A cozy guesthouse offering intimate accommodations in a historic building, featuring traditionally furnished rooms and a welcoming atmosphere near Santa Croce.
• Kairos by Florence Art Apartments – Contemporary apartments combining artistic design with comfortable living spaces, perfect for independent travelers seeking a stylish stay.
• Serristori Palace Residence – A refined residence in a historic palazzo offering spacious apartments with period features and modern comforts in the Oltrarno district.

Best Hostels

• Giulietta Suite – A newly renovated apartment near Santa Maria Novella station, featuring contemporary design and full modern amenities.
• Quadra Key Easy Home – Modern residence offering practical apartments with kitchenettes and living areas, ideal for families and extended stays.
• Violetta Suite – A stylish new apartment in the Santa Maria Novella area, featuring contemporary furnishings and all modern conveniences.

Tips for Choosing Accommodation in Florence

Timing Matters February offers the best hotel deals in Florence, with prices up to 45% lower than peak season. I’ve found booking accommodations about one month in advance yields the best rates, especially for stays during spring and fall.

Price Expectations Here’s what you can typically expect to pay per night:

Location Strategy While Centro Storico commands the highest prices, averaging €173 per night, I’ve discovered great value in Campo di Marte, where rooms cost about €130 – perfect for travelers wanting to experience local life.

Budget Tip: Book your stay for midweek, particularly Wednesdays, when hotel rates drop significantly compared to weekend prices.

Insider Tip: Many hotels offer better rates for stays longer than three nights – always email them directly to negotiate better prices, especially during low season.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Booking in October (highest prices of the year)
• Waiting until last minute during high season
• Overlooking neighborhood location relative to your interests

Seasonal Considerations Summer brings crowds and peak prices, while winter offers excellent value but shorter attraction hours. Spring and fall strike the perfect balance between weather and rates.

Room Types Family rooms average €384 per night, while romantic-themed rooms cost around €474. For longer stays of a week or more, consider apartments which offer better value and more space.

Practical Notes The average stay in Florence is four nights, giving you enough time to explore major attractions without rushing. Remember that prices can vary by up to 61% between low and high seasons.

Value Areas While the historic center offers convenience, areas like Santa Maria Novella provide good transport links with more reasonable rates. San Marco and Oltrarno balance authentic atmosphere with fair prices.

FAQ ❓

When is the best time to visit Florence?

The best time to visit Florence is during shoulder season (March-May or September-November) when you can explore around the city with fewer crowds and mild weather. The summer months can be extremely hot and crowded, while winter offers lower rates but some attractions may have reduced hours.

How far is the train station from major attractions?

Santa Maria Novella train station is centrally located and within a 10-minute walk to the Duomo and 15 minutes to Ponte Vecchio. Most luxury hotels and major attractions in the city center are easily accessible on foot from the station.

Should I stay near Ponte Vecchio?

Staying near Ponte Vecchio puts you in the heart of Florence’s historic center with easy access to the Uffizi Gallery and Piazza della Signoria. However, this central location means higher accommodation prices and more tourist crowds.

Are apartments in Florence a good option for longer stays?

Apartments in Florence offer better value for extended stays, especially around Santo Spirito and residential areas near Florence. They provide more space and kitchen facilities, making them ideal for families or travelers planning to stay more than a few days.

What areas offer the best views of Florence?

The hills around Piazzale Michelangelo and Fiesole provide spectacular panoramic views of Florence’s skyline. Many luxury hotels and villas near Florence in these elevated areas offer stunning vistas of the city’s historic center.

How do I choose between staying in the center or outside Florence?

Staying in central Florence near Piazza della Signoria offers immediate access to major attractions but comes with higher prices and crowds. Choosing accommodation outside the center provides a more authentic Italy travel experience with better value, though you’ll need to factor in transportation time.