Where to stay in Florence

Where to stay in Florence, this open-air museum? Neighborhood by neighborhood, discover our guide to the best places to stay in Florence!

Wondering where to stay in Florence? One of Italy’s most sought-after destinations, Firenze boasts sumptuous architecture, a unique history and countless masterpieces of Renaissance art.

As with any tourist destination, choosing the right location for your accommodation can have a positive impact on your travel experience.

Each of Florence’ s neighborhoods has its own particularities and is suitable for different types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a romantic couple’s getaway or a budget solo trip, Florence has just what you’re looking for. Discover where to stay in Florence in our guide to the best neighborhoods!

Centro Storico: close to the must-see sites

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Centro Storico is the ideal district in which to set down your suitcases in Florence. Located in the heart of the city, the historic district is home to the most important landmarks. You can easily visit the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral(Florence’s famous Duomo), the Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery in just a few minutes’ walk from your accommodation.

The Centro Storico is also a vibrant area where you can discover authentic Florentine culture by strolling the streets and sampling local dishes. We recommend delicious culinary specialties at such must-visit addresses as I’ Girone De’ Ghiotti, Gustarium and Il Vinile.

For an authentic Centro Storico experience, choose to stay in a hotel or Airbnb on the outskirts of famous streets like Via de’ Tornabuoni or Via del Corso. You’ll be able to take full advantage of the district’s lively atmosphere, while still being close to Florence’s main sights. A word of advice if you want to stay in the historic center: book your accommodation in advance, as prices quickly rise with the tourist seasons.

San Lorenzo and San Marco: for small budgets

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Located north of the Duomo, the two districts of San Marco and San Lorenzo offer budget accommodation, family restaurants and tourist attractions.

The San Marco district is home to the famous Galleria dell’Academia, where you can admire Michelangelo’s famous statue of David. Nearby, don’t miss the magnificent church of San Marco and the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata. In the lively streets of this district, you’ll find family-run restaurants serving delicious food at reasonable prices.

The San Lorenzo district, meanwhile, is a gourmet’s paradise. Florence’s central market is a must for sampling local specialties, such as lampredotto (a « poor dish » typical of Florentine cuisine) and artisanal pizza. The district is also known for its stalls selling authentic leather goods at reasonable prices. Visit the Basilica di San Lorenzo, home to the Medici family tombs and the impressive Medici chapels.

Lodging in San Marco and San Lorenzo therefore offers an ideal location for exploring Florence on foot, without breaking the bank. Both areas are served by public transport and are close to the main tourist attractions.

Santa Croce: for going out and enjoying the nightlife

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Choosing the Santa Croce district to stay in Florence will plunge you into the heart of Italian authenticity and conviviality. This picturesque district is ideal for discovering the city’s cultural wealth while enjoying its local atmosphere. The Basilica of Santa Croce, located in Piazza Santa Croce, is a must-see. It houses the tombs of such historical figures as Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Dante and Galileo.

The Santa Croce district is best known for its nightlife. Nightlife is particularly lively along Via dei Benci and around the Sant’Ambrogio market, with establishments such as Le Murate (a trendy, convivial café in a former prison), which offers live concerts.

Visit the Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio for tasty local produce, or one of the Cibrèo restaurants for a typical Tuscan meal.

When you choose to stay in Santa Croce, you’ll be immersed in the unique atmosphere of Florence, yet within easy reach of all the major tourist attractions. The district’s streets are brimming with independent boutiques, artisan workshops and flea markets for a true journey into the heart of Italian tradition.

Santa Maria Novella: for families & excursions

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Santa Maria Novella offers many advantages for your visit to Florence. This central, well-connected district allows you to enjoy the heart of the city while remaining close to the main railway station (Firenze Santa Maria Novella), facilitating your excursions to Tuscany and other regions of Italy.

Discover the historic charm of Santa Maria Novella by visiting the Gothic church of the same name, the Chiesa di Ognissanti and the famous historic pharmacy (Officina profumo-farmaceutica). Stroll the shopping streets of Via de’ Tornabuoni and Via della Spada, where you’ll find designer boutiques, art galleries and vintage stores. Enjoy Tuscan cuisine in local trattorias or sip a handcrafted cocktail at the Manifattura bar, located not far from the waters of the Arno.

The elegant, residential district of Santa Maria Novella, with its cobbled streets and Parco delle Cascine, offers an ideal setting for families and travelers in search of relaxation. Santa Maria Novella is the perfect place to stay in Florence, offering an ideal location and a peaceful haven in the heart of the city.

San Frediano & Santo Spirito: living like a local

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If you’re looking for a bohemian, authentic atmosphere, the Santo Spirito district is a great way to discover Florence from a different angle. Santo Spirito and its neighboring district of San Frediano are located on the left bank, the Oltrarno. By choosing to stay in Santo Spirito, you’ll be close to iconic sights such as Palazzo Pitti, the Boboli Gardens and the Brunelleschi-designed Basilica di Santo Spirito.

Take a stroll through the area’s picturesque streets, and you’ll discover a multitude of craft, antique and art gallery stores on Borgo San Jacopo, Via Santo Spirito and Via Romana. Take the opportunity to sample local cuisine in the many restaurants, wine bars and cafés that surround Piazza Santo Spirito and Borgo San Frediano.

Having your own hotel or Airbnb in Santo Spirito will also give you a more authentic, local experience, away from the tourist hustle and bustle of the city center. Be sure to visit the church of Santa Maria del Carmine and stroll along the Ponte Vecchio in the evening. These two areas are two less expensive alternatives for staying in Florence, if you compare the prices with those of accommodation in the Centro Storico.

San Niccolò & Piazzale Michelangelo: for romantic views of Florence

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If you’re looking for a peaceful, romantic neighborhood, San Niccolò is the place for you. San Niccolò and Piazzale Michelangelo are renowned for their views of Florence, especially from the famous Piazzale Michelangelo terrace. Perched up there, you can admire a replica of the David and an unforgettable panorama of the Tuscan city.

The San Niccolò district is also ideal for art and culture lovers. Stroll along Via San Niccolò, where you’ll discover the workshop of perfumer Lorenzo Villoresi, as well as street art by Clet. Don’t miss the Torre San Niccolò, a medieval monument, and enjoy delicious food at local addresses such as Zeb for pasta, The Speakeasy for cocktails and La Bottega Del Buon Caffè for a refined gastronomic experience.

San Niccolò and Piazzale Michelangelo are just a stone’s throw from the city center, accessible via the charming Ponte delle Grazie. As well as being close to the sights, these areas offer a variety of accommodation options, including hotels and apartments with terraces overlooking the Arno. For accommodation in Florence, San Niccolò is a good choice for a memorable Florentine experience.

FAQ – The best areas to stay in Florence

What are the best areas to visit in Florence?

The best area to visit Florence is Centro Storico, home to the main sights, such as the Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio and Galleria degli Uffizi.

What are the safest areas to stay in Florence?

The safest areas to stay in Florence are the residential districts of Santa Croce and Sant’Ambrogio, and the Oltrarno, which includes San Frediano, Santo Spirito, San Niccolò and Piazzale Michelangelo.

Where is the best place to stay in Florence?

The best place for cheap accommodation in Florence is the Santa Maria Novella district, located between the main railway station, the city center and the Arno River.

Where to stay in Florence for the first time?

The best place to stay in Florence for the first time is Centro Storico, where the main tourist attractions are located. Santa Croce is also a good option, just east of these central attractions, but with a more local flavor and quieter areas if required.

Where to stay in Florence for two?

Florence’s most romantic district is San Niccolò & Piazzale Michelangelo, with its picturesque streets, magnificent city views, elegant boutiques and gourmet restaurants.

Where to stay in Florence for just one night?

The city center is the best place to stay in Florence for just one night, as it’s close to all the main attractions and easily accessible.

Where to stay in Florence with your family

Recommended neighborhoods for families in Florence are Santa Maria Novella, Sant’Ambrogio, Santissima Annunziata and San Niccolò & Piazzale Michelangelo, which offer easy access to Florence’s main attractions and are quiet at night.

Where to stay in Florence for the nightlife?

The neighborhoods of San Frediano & Santo Spirito and Santa Croce are the best for nightlife in Florence, with numerous bars, nightclubs and other entertainment venues.

Where to stay in Florence for a week or more?

The recommended area for a stay of a week or more in Florence is the city center, which offers easy access to all tourist attractions as well as numerous restaurants and stores.

When is the best time to visit Florence?

The best time to visit Florence is from March to June and from September to November, when temperatures are mild and the city is less crowded with tourists.

How do I get around Florence?

It’s easy to get around Florence on foot, by bike or by public transport. Buses and streetcars serve most parts of the city, while cabs are also available.