Hotels in Florence

Still wondering what to do in Florence? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Florence and book your hotel today!

Florence, a city steeped in history, offers a journey through the Renaissance. Its streets echo with the legacy of influential artists and thinkers, making it a pivotal centre for art and architecture. Visitors can explore the Uffizi Gallery, home to an extensive collection of masterpieces, or marvel at Michelangelo's David within the Galleria dell'Accademia. The city's silhouette is dominated by Brunelleschi's Dome atop the Duomo, a testament to its architectural prowess.

The Arno River flows through the city, spanned by the Ponte Vecchio, with its distinctive shops built along its length. Beyond the main sights, the Oltrarno district offers a glimpse into artisan workshops and traditional craft. Florence is also renowned for its culinary traditions, from hearty Tuscan dishes to gelato, providing a complete cultural experience.

For most visitors, the most convenient area to book accommodation in Florence is undoubtedly the Centro Storico, or historic centre. Its central location puts many attractions within easy walking distance.

The Duomo area, within the Centro Storico, is highly sought after, offering immediate access to Florence Cathedral and Giotto's Bell Tower. Accommodation here ranges from boutique hotels in historic palazzi to smaller guesthouses. Nearby, the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio are just a short stroll, along with numerous trattorias serving traditional Tuscan fare. Further north, the San Lorenzo market district, known for its leather goods and food stalls, provides a bustling atmosphere and a mix of budget-friendly hotels and apartments. The Mercato Centrale here is a popular spot for lunch.

Across the Arno, Oltrarno offers a slightly quieter, more artisanal feel. This includes areas like Santo Spirito and San Frediano, which are home to many artisan workshops, independent boutiques, and traditional Florentine restaurants. Hotels here often occupy renovated historic buildings, sometimes with lovely courtyards. The Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens are major draws, alongside smaller museums and local eateries favoured by residents.

When considering hotel bookings, Florence’s transport links are relatively straightforward. The main railway station, Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), is centrally located and well-connected to the rest of the city by bus. Many hotels in the Centro Storico are within a 15-minute walk of SMN. For air travel, Florence is served by Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR), often referred to as Peretola, which has a tram connection to SMN. Alternatively, Pisa Airport (PSA) is a larger hub, with direct train services to SMN, making both airports viable for reaching your chosen accommodation.

To secure better rates on hotels in Florence, consider planning your visit outside the peak tourist times. Prices tend to be highest during the spring months (April to June) and autumn (September to October), which coincide with agreeable weather and major art exhibitions. Accommodation costs can also surge significantly during events like the Pitti Uomo fashion fair, which takes place twice a year, typically in January and June.

You'll generally find more affordable options if you travel during the winter months (November to March, excluding the Christmas and New Year periods) or the sweltering summer (July and August). During these quieter times, hotels are often keen to fill rooms, and you might benefit from lower prices and fewer crowds at popular attractions. Booking well in advance, especially for any season, can also help you lock in a more favourable deal.