Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Florence: The Renaissance City

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, beckons travelers with its timeless beauty and rich cultural tapestry. As you plan your Tuscan adventure, choosing the right place to stay can transform your experience from memorable to truly magical.

Last year, Florence welcomed over 11 million visitors, each seeking their own slice of Italian paradise. Whether you’re drawn to the romantic allure of centuries-old palazzos or the convenience of modern hotels, this guide will help you navigate Florence’s diverse neighborhoods and find your perfect home away from home.

Table Of Contents

The Top 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Florence
Two Neighborhoods to Avoid
Conclusion

The Top 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Florence

1. Santa Maria Novella: bustling center

Nestled in the heart of Florence, Santa Maria Novella offers a perfect blend of convenience and charm. Just steps away from the main train station, this neighborhood is ideal for travelers who want to be in the thick of the action. Its central location puts you within easy reach of Florence’s major attractions, including the iconic Duomo and the bustling Mercato Centrale.

Best places to stay in Florence’s Santa Maria Novella neighborhood:

Solo Travel: Hotel Palazzo dal Borgo. This 3-star hotel offers cozy single rooms in a 15th-century palazzo, perfect for solo travelers seeking a taste of Florentine history.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Spagna. A no-frills option with clean, comfortable rooms and a prime location, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Couples Escapes: Hotel Santa Maria Novella. Romantic rooms with stunning views of the Santa Maria Novella Church, perfect for couples looking for a luxurious getaway.
Family-Friendly: Residence Hilda. Spacious apartments with kitchenettes, offering families the comforts of home in the heart of Florence.
Group Travel: Grand Hotel Baglioni. Historic hotel with elegant common areas and rooms that can accommodate larger groups.
High-End Luxury: The Westin Excelsior Florence. Opulent rooms and suites with breathtaking views of the Arno River and the city skyline.

2. Oltrarno: Artists’ quarter

Cross the Arno River to discover Oltrarno, a neighborhood that captures the authentic spirit of Florence. Less touristy than the city center, Oltrarno is a haven for art lovers and those seeking a more local experience. Here, you’ll find artisan workshops, hidden gardens, and some of the city’s best trattorias.

Best places to stay in Florence’s Oltrarno neighborhood:

Solo Travel: Oltrarno Splendid. Boutique B&B with uniquely designed rooms, perfect for solo travelers looking for inspiration.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Palazzo Guadagni. Affordable elegance in a historic palazzo, featuring a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
Couples Escapes: AdAstra Suites. Romantic garden suites in a 16th-century townhouse, offering a tranquil retreat for couples.
Family-Friendly: Palazzo Belfiore. Spacious apartments in a medieval palace, ideal for families wanting to immerse themselves in Florentine history.
Group Travel: Borgo Pinti Palace. Large, well-equipped apartments that can comfortably accommodate groups of friends or extended families.
High-End Luxury: Villa Cora. A 19th-century villa turned luxury hotel, offering opulent rooms and a stunning outdoor pool.

3. San Marco: Peaceful convenience

Home to some of Florence’s most prestigious museums, San Marco is a cultural enthusiast’s dream. This neighborhood offers a quieter atmosphere while still being within walking distance of major attractions. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to balance sightseeing with peaceful evenings.

Best places to stay in Florence’s San Marco neighborhood:

Solo Travel: Hotel Orto de’ Medici. Charming rooms in a historic building with a beautiful garden, perfect for solo travelers seeking tranquility.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Botticelli. Affordable rooms with classic Florentine decor, offering great value in a central location.
Couples Escapes: Relais Santa Croce. Luxurious suites in a beautifully restored 18th-century palazzo, ideal for romantic getaways.
Family-Friendly: San Gallo Palace Hotel. Spacious family rooms and a helpful concierge to assist with family-friendly activities.
Group Travel: FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli. Central hotel with various room configurations suitable for groups, close to major attractions.
High-End Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Firenze. Set in a Renaissance palazzo with extensive gardens, offering the ultimate luxury experience.

4. Santo Spirito: Bohemian spirit

Santo Spirito is the bohemian heart of Florence, known for its lively piazzas, eclectic boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. This neighborhood is perfect for those who want to experience Florence like a local, with plenty of opportunities to mingle with residents at cafes and wine bars.

Best places to stay in Florence’s Santo Spirito neighborhood:

Solo Travel: Palazzo Guicciardini. Intimate B&B in a historic palazzo, offering personalized service for solo travelers.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Cestelli. No-frills rooms in a central location, perfect for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize location.
Couples Escapes: SoprArno Suites. Stylish boutique hotel with uniquely designed rooms, ideal for couples seeking a romantic and artistic atmosphere.
Family-Friendly: Ponte Vecchio Suites & SPA. Spacious suites with kitchenettes and family-friendly amenities, close to the Ponte Vecchio.
Group Travel: Palazzo Mannaioni Suites. Large apartments in a historic building, suitable for groups wanting to stay together.
High-End Luxury: Portrait Firenze. Ultra-luxurious suites overlooking the Arno River, offering personalized service and stunning views.

5. Santa Croce: Heritage and local

Santa Croce combines historical significance with a vibrant local scene. Home to the Santa Croce Basilica and numerous artisan workshops, this neighborhood offers a perfect balance of tourist attractions and authentic Florentine life. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to dive deep into the city’s cultural heritage.

Best places to stay in Florence’s Santa Croce neighborhood:

Solo Travel: Forte16 View & SPA. Modern apartments with a rooftop pool, offering solo travelers both privacy and social opportunities.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Dante. Simple, clean rooms in a central location, perfect for travelers on a budget.
Couples Escapes: Plaza Hotel Lucchesi. Elegant rooms with a rooftop bar offering panoramic views, ideal for romantic evenings.
Family-Friendly: Residence Hilda. Spacious apartments with kitchenettes, providing a home-like atmosphere for families.
Group Travel: Palazzo Capponi. Large, luxurious apartments in a historic palazzo, suitable for groups wanting a taste of Florentine nobility.
High-End Luxury: Hotel Bernini Palace. 5-star hotel in a 15th-century building, offering opulent rooms and exceptional service.

Two Neighborhoods to Avoid

While Florence is generally a safe and beautiful city, there are a couple of areas that might not provide the best experience for tourists:

Novoli: Located far from the city center, Novoli is primarily a residential area with few tourist attractions. Staying here would require long commutes to reach Florence’s main sights.
Le Piagge: This peripheral neighborhood, while undergoing development, still lacks the charm and amenities that most visitors seek in Florence. It’s best to stick closer to the historic center for a more authentic Florentine experience.

Conclusion

Florence, with its unparalleled artistic heritage and charming neighborhoods, offers a wealth of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you choose the bustling energy of Santa Maria Novella, the artistic vibe of Oltrarno, the cultural richness of San Marco, the bohemian spirit of Santo Spirito, or the historical depth of Santa Croce, you’re sure to find a perfect base for your Florentine adventure.

Remember, the best place to stay in Florence is one that aligns with your personal travel style and priorities. Consider factors like proximity to attractions, budget, and the type of experience you’re seeking. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to make an informed decision and book the accommodation that will make your Florence trip truly unforgettable.

Ready to immerse yourself in the Renaissance capital? Start planning your Florence getaway today and prepare to be captivated by the city’s timeless beauty, rich history, and unparalleled charm. Your perfect Florentine home away from home awaits!

Visiting other parts of Italy? Check out our other ‘Best Towns and Neighborhoods to Stay’ pages for a deeper look into the different regions and cities across Italy!