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In this guide10 sections
- The short answer
- First, choose the area
- Oltrarno: artisan and authentic
- Santa Maria Novella: station area
- San Lorenzo: market and tradition
- Duomo: the heart of Florence
- All 10 at a glance
- What kind of hotel? Florence types
- Before you book: five checks
- If you are still undecided
- Frequently asked questions
Florence is a city best explored on foot. For travelers, this means there is no single "center" that fits all interests. Where you sleep determines whether you wake up to artisan workshops, bustling markets, or Renaissance masterpieces — and how many cobblestone streets you walk to reach the next wonder. Choosing the right neighbourhood is the single most important logistical decision of your trip.
The short answer
| If you... | Stay in | Why |
|---|---|---|
| are on a first trip and want iconic sights walkable | Duomo | The Duomo, Uffizi, and Accademia on your doorstep. |
| want artisan workshops, local piazzas, and authentic trattorias | Oltrarno | The city's artisan soul, with goldsmiths, studios, and hidden courtyards. |
| love markets, traditional food, and San Lorenzo Church | San Lorenzo | The market district, with leather goods, souvenirs, and authentic Florentine life. |
| arrive by train and want easy station access | Santa Maria Novella | Steps to the train station, with bus connections to Fiesole and Pisa. |
First, choose the area
Florence's historic center is compact but distinct. To make your sightseeing stress-free, prioritize hotels near these key zones:
- The Duomo zone: The absolute core for the cathedral, baptistery, and campanile.
- Oltrarno: Across the Arno River, known for artisan workshops and piazza Santo Spirito.
- San Lorenzo: The market district north of the Duomo, with the Medicean Chapels.
- Santa Maria Novella: The train station area west of the historic center.
Being within a ten-minute walk of the Duomo will save you hours over a week-long trip.
Oltrarno: artisan and authentic
Oltrarno is Florence's most beloved neighborhood for its atmosphere. You are on the south bank of the Arno, surrounded by artisan workshops, ivy-clad buildings, and restaurants that have served locals for generations. It is connected to the center via several bridges, most notably the Ponte Vecchio.
Where to stay in Oltrarno
- Borgo San Jacopo, splurge. A riverside hotel with suites and a private terrace. Choose it for romance and historic charm. Check rates on Booking.com →
- Hotel Guelfa, comfortable. A boutique hotel with stylish rooms and a garden terrace. Watch out for Can be quiet, requiring a short walk to lively areas. Check rates on Booking.com →
- L'Oltrarno, good value. Rooms include small kitchenettes, making it ideal for longer stays or families. Watch out for No full-service restaurant on site. Check rates on Booking.com →
Santa Maria Novella: station area
Santa Maria Novella is where you find the main train station, conveniently located just west of the historic center. It is one of Florence's most practical neighbourhoods, filled with business hotels and quick-bite eateries.
Where to stay in Santa Maria Novella
- C-Hotels The Duomo, splurge. A modern luxury hotel with a rooftop terrace and excellent service. Choose it for convenience and style. Check rates on Booking.com →
- Hotel Davanzati, comfortable. A modern hotel with rooms themed around Florentine history. Watch out for Slightly dated decor in some areas. Check rates on Booking.com →
- GHI Florence, good value. A social hostel with private rooms and a vibrant common area. Watch out for Shared bathrooms in some room types. Check rates on Booking.com →
San Lorenzo: market and tradition
San Lorenzo is where you find the bustling San Lorenzo Market, the Medici Chapels, and some of Florence's best trattorias. It's the best area for those who want to eat like a local and avoid the tourist crowds of the Duomo.
Where to stay in San Lorenzo
- Aguilone, splurge. A modern hotel with a rooftop garden and excellent service. Watch out for Book far in advance for the best rates. Check rates on Booking.com →
- Boccaccio, comfortable. A family-run hotel with a traditional Florentine welcome. Watch out for Standard chain feel in some areas. Check rates on Booking.com →
- OH Firenze, good value. A modern aparthotel with kitchenettes and living spaces. Watch out for Limited on-site dining. Check rates on Booking.com →
Duomo: the heart of Florence
The Duomo area is where you find the cathedral, baptistery, Giotto's Campanile, and the Piazza del Duomo. It's the best area for those who want to be immersed in Renaissance art and architecture from the moment they wake up.
Where to stay in Duomo
- Hotel Savoy, splurge. A historic luxury hotel with suites and a rooftop terrace overlooking the Duomo. Choose it for the quintessential Florentine experience. Check rates on Booking.com →
- Hotel Berchielli, comfortable. A historic building with rooms themed around Renaissance art. Watch out for Very close to the Duomo, so expect some foot traffic. Check rates on Booking.com →
- C-Hotels Pendola, good value. A modern hotel with small rooms and efficient service. Watch out for Limited dining options on site. Check rates on Booking.com →
All 10 at a glance
| Hotel | Area | Tier | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Savoy | Duomo | ££££ | Historic luxury with Duomo views | Premium pricing |
| C-Hotels The Duomo | Santa Maria Novella | £££ | Modern luxury convenience | Advance booking recommended |
| Aguilone | San Lorenzo | ££££ | Rooftop garden luxury | Advance booking required |