Where to Stay in Florence
The cradle of the Renaissance, packed with artistic masterpieces.
Where We'd Stay in Florence (in 30 Seconds)
Best Neighborhoods in Florence
Here's who each neighborhood is right for — and who should skip it.
Duomo
The beating heart of Florence, steps from the cathedral and Baptistery.
Oltrarno
The 'other side of the Arno'—artisan workshops, antique shops, and authentic trattorias.
Santa Croce
Historic area centered around the magnificent basilica and leather school.
Our Specific Hotel Picks in Florence
The exact hotels we'd book, and why.
Recommended Hotels in Florence
Every hotel below has been chosen for location, consistent guest ratings, and honest value — not commission rates.
Prices are approximate averages. Actual rates vary by date and availability. Booking links go to Expedia.com (affiliate).
Florence Neighborhoods: Where to Stay
Florence is wonderfully walkable—you can cross the entire historic center in 25 minutes. But each neighborhood has a distinct personality, from the bustling Duomo area to the artisan workshops across the river.
Duomo
#1 PickThe beating heart of Florence, steps from the cathedral and Baptistery.
Local Insight
"The Duomo bells ring at 7am sharp. If you're a light sleeper, request a room facing the interior courtyard or bring earplugs—the location is worth it."
Top Hotels
Hotel Duomo Firenze, Brunelleschi Hotel, FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli
Oltrarno
#2 PickThe 'other side of the Arno'—artisan workshops, antique shops, and authentic trattorias.
Local Insight
"Visit in the late afternoon when the workshops on Via Santo Spirito open their doors. You can watch leather artisans and goldsmiths at work—and commission something unique for a fraction of gallery prices."
Top Hotels
Palazzo Guadagni, Hotel Pitti Palace, SoprArno Suites
Santa Croce
#3 PickHistoric area centered around the magnificent basilica and leather school.
Local Insight
"The Santa Croce leather school behind the basilica is where monks have trained artisans since the Renaissance. Watch them work and buy directly—prices are fair and quality is exceptional."
Top Hotels
Plaza Hotel Lucchesi, Hotel Santa Croce, Relais Santa Croce
San Marco
#4 PickQuiet, residential area near the Accademia and Michelangelo's David.
Local Insight
"Piazza San Marco is a lovely spot for a morning coffee away from the tourist crush. The nearby Chiostro dello Scalzo has stunning frescoes and almost no visitors."
Top Hotels
Hotel Orto de' Medici, Loggia dei Serviti, Palazzo Castri 1874
Santa Maria Novella
#5 PickNear the main train station with excellent transport connections.
Local Insight
"Don't miss the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella—one of the world's oldest pharmacies, founded in 1221. Even if you don't buy, the historic interior is worth seeing."
Top Hotels
Grand Hotel Minerva, The Style Florence, c-Hotels Ambasciatori
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2-Day Florence Itinerary
Written for real travelers — not padded out with tourist traps.
Best Florence Experiences Worth Paying For
The honest ones we'd pay for ourselves — not every tour, just the ones that genuinely change what you get out of a day.
Links go to GetYourGuide (affiliate). Prices vary by date and group size.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Italy Travel
How many days do I need in Italy?
Most travelers spend 7–14 days. A week covers Rome, Florence, and Venice. Longer trips let you explore the Amalfi Coast or Tuscany.
What's the best time to visit Italy?
Spring (April–May) and fall (Sept–Oct) offer the best weather and fewer crowds. Summer is lively but busy.
How much does a trip to Italy cost?
Budget: $50–80/day • Mid-range: $100–150/day • Luxury: $200–400/day
Do I need to speak Italian?
No — English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning basic phrases like "Buongiorno" and "Grazie" is appreciated by locals.
💰 Italy Budget Tips (USD)
Accommodation
Hostels: $25–50
Budget: $60–100
Mid-range: $100–200
Luxury: $250+
Food
Pizza/pasta: $8–15
Sit-down meal: $20–40
Fine dining: $50+
Groceries: $30–50/day
Transport
Trains: $25–50
Local transit: $5–10
Car rental: $30–60/day