Best Luxury Hotels In Florence

Mamma Mia! Finding the best luxury hotels in Florence, Italy, is no easy feat. And not because there are too few: no, a magical city awash with the finest Renaissance-style hotels you’ve ever laid eyes on, Florence boasts some of the most stylish boutique hotels in the world.

Of course, with Renaissance being the recurring theme (naturally), you’ll find plenty of majestic luxury resorts bedecked in antiques, statues, and breathtaking frescos. However, if your wanderlust style is a little more rustic, there are countless villas emulating more rural Italian casa than opulent palazzo.

Our guide takes you on a grand tour of the Tuscan city, once described by Mark Twain as ‘the city of dreams’. Well, we’re inclined to agree. Whichever stay you choose, you’re never far from mesmerising museums, tasty trattorias, and an abundance of art galleries.

From luxury lodges to boutique hotels to charming villas nestled in the nearby Chianti hills, Florence has something for every traveller. Treat your body and soul to one of the luxury spas, immerse yourself in Renaissance architecture, and fill your bellies with culinary delights from Michelin-starred restaurants. The best part? Many of our favourite Florence hotels offer all of the above without stepping foot outside the premises.

So, take la dolce vita by both hands, and book a flight—when it comes to the best hotels in Florence, we’ve got you covered.

Four Seasons Hotel

Um, a two-storey spa, Michelin-star restaurant, and the city’s most expansive private garden (11 acres is not something to be sniffed at)—need we say more? Well, we’re gonna, because that’s the tip of the iceberg at the Four Seasons, Florence:

Nestled in the heart of the city but very much its own world, the Four Seasons exudes Renaissance-chic, with wall-to-wall opulence bedecking the palazzo. Without a doubt, the best hotel in Florence, you’d be tempted to remain inside the walls during your stay. However, the prime location demands a good dose of city strolling, with plenty of experiences available at your fingertips.

Our favourite? Oh, only a gourmet meal served in a 15th Century palazzo, once the dwelling of Leonardo Davinci. If that’s not a culture explosion, we don’t know what is.

Dine, rest, and relax like a royal for the duration of your stay here—we mean it: you won’t have to lift a bejewelled finger if you don’t wish to.

Address: Borgo Pinti, 99, 50121, Florence, Italy
Price range: $$$$
Website: www.fourseasons.com

St Regis

Iconic, lavish, and oh-so-dolce vita—welcome to the St Regis, of the Marriott brand. Perched on the northerly bank of the Arno river, this lavish hotel exudes Renaissance-era luxury (not to mention the top-tier service we’ve come to expect from the master hoteliers).

St Regis is as steeped in history as it is opulence, providing travellers with a place to rest their weary heads since the 18th Century. Expect awe-inspiring frescos, more crystal chandeliers than Versaille (don’t quote us on that), and artistic decor that would make Queen Elizabeth want to call her interior designer. Yep, for a taste of the finer things, there’s no better terminus than St Regis.

Whatever you want, whenever you want it, 24-hour butlers are on hand to deftly deliver your request (providing you’ve chosen a suite—something we highly recommend, the views of the river are second-to-none).

So, fancy a spot of caviar at 3am? Non è un problema, dear guests.

Address: Piazza Ognissanti, 1, 50123, Florence, Italy
Price range: $$$
Website: www.marriott.co.uk

Hotel Savoy

Proving that Florence hotels aren’t all an eyewatering serving of Renaissance-style accommodation (though that’s certainly not an issue), the Hotel Savoy offers something different—something fresh.

Though undoubtedly historic (the antiques cannot and should not go unnoticed), this hotel is brought catapulting into the 21st Century with its contemporary decor, styled by Roccoforte Hotel’s in-house designers. Find modern art and chintzy lamps peppered between Italian sculpture and floor-to-ceiling windows boasting unmatchable views of the bustling city.

A fusion at its most refined, the Hotel Savoy provides the ultimate base for discovering the city’s secrets, with countless museums, pizzerias, and historic gardens within a stone’s throw. And to dine? Oh, just pop down to the Irene, the Hotel Savoy’s authentic Tuscan restaurant, tantalising your tastebuds with the region’s finest cuisine. Wash it down with a fine wine from the Irene bar, and tottle off to bed (or for a night on the town) with a full stomach and in good spirits.

Address: Piazza della Repubblica, 7, 50123 Florence, Italy
Price range: $$$
Website: www.roccofortehotels.com

Westin Excelsior

A stand-out luxury hotel on the banks of the Arno, the Westin Excelsior is certainly a stay for the more visually inclined. Why? Just the 360-degree views of the historic city, observable from the hotel’s rooftop terrace. Or, if you pick one of the elegant penthouse suites, you can gaze in awe at the city’s iconic skyline from the cosy bubbles of your very own hot tub.

Whichever room you select, you’ll be treated to warm, inviting decor, with plush carpet (a true delight for your feet after a day of exploring), refined furniture, and four-poster beds fit for a sheikh.

From morning till night, your needs will be met: sip potent Italian espresso in the hotel’s charming cafe, break a sweat in the fitness studio, or, if you’re travelling for business, hold a conference to remember in one of the many lavish meeting rooms. One thing’s for sure: your first stay certainly won’t be your last.

Address: Piazza Ognissanti, 3, 50123, Florence, Italy
Price range: $$$
Website: www.marriott.co.uk

Baglioni Relais Santa Croce

Grand in every sense of the word, this boutique hotel still offers an inexplicably intimate feel. A gorgeous choice for a romantic weekend break, Baglioni Relais Santa Croce offers more than just a place to put your feet up.

You could spend several days exploring the 18th century Palazzo itself, boasting an actual ballroom (#forreal), opulent hallways, and two delightful restaurants (including a three-Michelin-starred eatery, no less). And, if you fancy something truly special, the largest suite in Florence. Yep, for a small (but justified) fortune, you can indulge in your own Turkish bath, Jacuzzi, and 260 square metres of unadulterated luxe. Well, when in… Florence—right?

A Renaissance revival in the purest sense, you’ll be surrounded by art wherever you gaze—from fresco ceilings to a majestic chandelier that’ll have you gasping, everywhere you look is a treat for the eyes. Offering a host of deluxe rooms and unbelievable suites, whatever your wanderlust style, Baglioni Relais Santa Croce has it all.

Address: Via Ghibellina, 87, 50122, Florence, Italy
Price range: $$$
Website: www.baglionihotels.com

J.K Place

Taking the podium for one of the best hotels in Florence, Italy (and trust us, there’s plenty of competition), J.K Place is a jewel in this vibrant metropolis. Taking Italian hospitality very seriously, J.K Place offers a unique staying experience that’ll earn a place in your most prized vacation memories.

As unique as the city itself, J.K Place prides itself on creating a personalised experience. How? Well, step foot in the elegant, towering townhouse, and you’ll find out. No frigid reception desks to be found here. No, instead, you’ll be greeted by the establishment’s well-trained staff, ready to cater to your every whim.

Spend post-cocktail midnight hours perusing the art and history books packed on the bookshelves, and enjoy the cosy ambience of the warm lighting aglow in each room. Yep, for a taste of the bohemian, it doesn’t get better than J.K Place.

Address: Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 7, 50123, Florence, Italy
Price range: $$$
Website: www.jkplace.com

Brunelleschi

Ah, those with a penchant for architecture will have an inkling of what to expect at the Brunelleschi. As defining to Renaissance architecture as Gaudi is to Spanish, Brunelleschi himself lives and breathes within this opulent hotel. And we can happily confirm, the Brunelleschi lives up to its namesake (so much so, even Dan Brown tipped his hat to the establishment in his best-selling Da Vinci Code).

Overlooking the famed architect’s cathedral, the Brunelleschi is situated in a 6th Century Byzantine tower and church, with most of the original infrastructure thankfully maintained. If there’s a hotel to take you through a (relaxing) whirlwind of history, it’s the Brunelleschi.

Ticking our boxes in terms of location, style, and exceptional service, the Brunelleschi takes the best of Italian hospitality and runs with it. Every detail is carefully considered, from the exquisite aromas greeting your olfactories to notably smart uniforms worn by the concierge—this is a hotel like no other.

Address: Piazza Sant'Elisabetta, 3, 50122, Florence, Italy
Price range: $$
Website: www.brunelleschihotelflorence.com

Villa La Massa

How often can you say you spent vacation in a real-life mansion? Choose Villa La Massa, and you’ll enjoy the splendour of a mansion combined with the rustic charm of an Italian casa. Dripping in Medicean architecture, the villa is perched amidst town and country, with spectacular views of the Chianti and Rufina hills.

Don’t worry, though: you’re a mere shuttle ride (courtesy of the hotel, of course) from Florence, where you can dive into the excitement and intrigue of the historic city. The five-star hotel is an excellent choice for families, with discounted rates for children aged 2 to 12.

However, if self-care is on the agenda, you can unwind in the hotel’s Arno Spa, boasting a Turkish spa, cold pools, sensory showers, and a fitness room to burn off that pizza. We highly recommend visiting the 14th Century wine cellar, packed floor-to-ceiling with the finest Italian wines. And for dining? Book a table at the Restaurant Il Verrocchio, where breathtaking views complement the extraordinary dishes.

Address: Via della Massa, 24, 50012 Candeli, Florence, Italy
Price range: $$$
Website: www.villalamassa.com

Villa Cora

Constructed at the fin de siecle of the 19th Century, Villa Cora is Italian style, epitomised. Discover eclectic decor, with ornate statues, flowing water features, and intriguing artworks. And, you can lay your weary head knowing this very hotel has hosted the likes of Princess Eugenia, Grace Kelly and Tchaikovsky—well, if it was good enough for them.

While away your day chilling by the heated pool, or spend endless hours exploring the swathes of garden, home to a breathtaking array of pastel roses (over 100 varieties, in fact). Or, take a good book and settle down under a majestic oak tree—you’ll feel nothing less than Alice, in your very own Wonderland.

Stylish yet unimposing, this charming villa is a terrific choice for newlyweds, solo travellers, and friends looking for a slice of the good life.

Address: Viale Machiavelli, 18, 50125, Florence, Italy  
Price range: $$$
Website: www.villaocra.it

Hotel Lungarno

Designed to emulate the local boasts resting on the nearby Arno river, Hotel Lungarno offers something contrasting to your typical Florence hotel. Expect nautical colours and leather decor, serving up a fresh, contemporary feel that captures the elegance of the region.

Naturally, art is centric here, with corridors lined with fascinating pieces by local and national artists. If you can tear yourself away from all the arty eye candy, however, this hotel offers plenty:

Dine at the Borgo San Jacopo (proudly Michellin-starred), or sip an aperitif on the hotel’s rooftop bar, boasting stunning views across the magical city. Self-confessed shopaholic? You’re in the right place: Hotel Lungarno is perched cosily close to some of the city’s most elegant boutiques—it’s wise to bring an empty suitcase for your bounty!

Address: Borgo S. Jacopo, 14, 50125, Florence, Italy
Price range: $$$$
Website: www.lungarnocollection.com

Villa le Piazzole

A little more budget-friendly than others on our guide, Villa le Piazzole provides a comfortable feel that veers away from ostentation. Yes, for the down-to-earth, rustic traveller, this is a must-stay.

If eco-chic, slow travel is your vacation vibe, check into Villa le Piazzole, and you’re sure to feel part of la familia from the word ‘go’. With a restaurant serving up a farm-to-table dining experience, your lust for eco-friendly eating will be more than satisfied.

A pleasing marriage of antique and modern (erring on the side of antique in a homage to its original owners), Villa le Piazzole is the ultimate Italian experience. Of course, you should head into Florence, but spend a day discovering the statued gardens, terracotta courtyard, and even an open-air theatre—a nod to the favoured entertainment of bygone times.

Address: Via Gherardo Silvani, 149, 50125, Florence, Italy
Price range: $$
Website: www.lepiazzole.com

Frequently asked questions about the best hotels in Florence

What is the best area to stay in Florence?

The city centre is ideal for proximity to the city’s best attractions. However, if you wish to save those pennies and get a little peace, the neighbourhoods of Santa Croce and Sant’Ambrogio are excellent choices.

What is the most luxurious hotel in Florence?

Thankfully, luxury hotels in Florence are not tough to find. We adore the Four Seasons, serving up 5-star hospitality like no other. However, check out the Westin Excelsior, the St Regis, and the Hotel Lungarno for rivalling luxe.

How many days do you need in Florence?

One should not simply ‘do’ Florence—no, this city needs to be savoured. We advise taking 3 days at the very least to give yourself time and space to explore all the wonders of the Renaissance city.