I’m so excited to return to Florence, Italy in August 2024. Florence is a city that took me by COMPLETE surprise and became one of my favorite cities in the world. That’s why I wrote “Where to stay in Florence Italy” so you can visit this incredible city as well!
Before I traveled to Florence, I didn’t know much about it other than it was home to the Renaissance. Fortunately, as soon as I arrived I did two INCREDIBLE tours. These tours provided great knowledge of Florence’s rich history, the Medici, and the great Renaissance painters who called it home.
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What to See in Florence, Italy
Ten popular tourist sites in Florence are the Florence Cathedral (Duomo) with its iconic dome. The Uffizi Gallery features works by Renaissance masters as well as the Accademia Gallery which houses Michelangelo’s David. The historic Ponte Vecchio bridge, the ornate Palazzo Pitti, and the serene Boboli Gardens. The bustling Piazza della Signoria with the Palazzo Vecchio, the Basilica of Santa Croce known for its famous tombs, the picturesque Piazzale Michelangelo offering panoramic city views, and the elegant Piazza di Santa Maria Novella.
I always recommend booking tours when traveling to fully grasp the richness of the city and the sights you visit. When I was in Florence, I did two incredible tours in Florence that I highly recommend – especially for the price!
I did this $3 walking tour which gave me all the background information I needed in only two hours! This tour has to be the most valuable tour I’ve done in the world.
We walked through the historic center of the city including the Piazza Della Signoria, the Basilica di San Lorenzo, and the Piazza Del Duomo.
I also loved this Airbnb Experiences tour of the Uffizi Museum by Marco. I enjoyed his tour so much that I was going to book his private tour for our 2024 trip! Unfortunately, Marco will be traveling then so I will not be able to enjoy his tour again!
Where to Stay in Florence, Italy
If you’re traveling to Florence here are the best places to consider booking as recommended by myself and other travelers! I know everyone has different budgets while traveling so I will give you a low, mid, and luxury budget option.
These three different hotels offer something for everyone! All three have a great location that will be within walking distance of some of the main sights in Florence. They also have some of the best views of Florence while fitting different budgets. I have no doubt that one of these will meet your travel style!
Usually, when I travel solo, I like to travel low to mid-budget. However, I LOVED the luxury hotel I booked when I traveled solo in 2022. I loved it so much that my husband and I will be staying there again during our upcoming 2024 trip.
It is the best option if you’re planning your Honeymoon in Florence! I met so many American couples on their Honeymoon at its incredible rooftop bar. All 3 of them were there because it was their travel agent’s top choice in Florence!
If you’re visiting Florence, I do recommend traveling off of the high season which is May-August. The crowds can be overwhelming and the heat unbearable. Unfortunately, as a teacher, it is the only time I can travel! But I promise you’ll still love Florence even during the craziness of the summer.
Where to Stay in Florence, Italy: Budget Option
Hotel Rita Major
If you’re looking for the perfect budget option for your trip to Florence that will be the Hotel Rita Major! This option is perfect for travelers who want a little oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city, while still being close to the city center!
Hotel Rita Major is a 2-star hotel and has a rating of “9.2 Wonderful” on Expedia. Many Expedia reviews remark on the friendliness of staff, the great value of the hotel, and the clean rooms.
Hotel Rita Major is about an 11-minute drive (30-minute walk) from the main train station, a 16-minute walk from the Gallery of the Academy of Florence (home of the David), and an 18-minute walk from the Duomo.
Budget hotels in the heart of the city are hard to come by, but Hotel Rita Major is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a budget hotel that is still near the city centre.
Where to Stay in Florence, Italy: Mid-Budget Option
The Social Hub Florence Lavagnini
The Social Hub Florence Lavagnini is a fantastic place to stay for travelers seeking a blend of comfort, community, and culture. You will get to enjoy one of the most breathtaking views of the city from their incredible rooftop, outdoor pool.
The Social Hub is a 4-star hotel with a 4.3 rating on Google and a “9.0 Wonderful” recommendation on Expedia by other travelers!
You’ll be about a 13-minute walk from the train station, a 13-minute walk from the Gallery of the Academy of Florence (home of the David), and an 18-minute walk from the Duomo.
The Social Hub has amenities such as a rooftop terrace offering stunning city views, co-working spaces, and a variety of dining options, it caters to both leisure and business travelers. The lively atmosphere and frequent events make it easy to meet fellow travelers and immerse oneself in the local culture, ensuring a memorable stay in Florence. First-time visitors to Florence will love this option!
Mid-budget travelers can’t pass up this incredible view!
Where to Stay in Florence, Italy: Luxury Option
Hotel degli Orafi
This hotel is one of my favorite hotels in the world and easily is one of the best hotels in all of Florence! Hotel degli Orafi is a 4-star hotel located directly on the Arno River, steps away from the famous Ponte Vecchio.
This was one of the first luxury hotels I’ve stayed at and I was amazed. The service was incredibly friendly, I felt very valued as a customer, and the large rooms were pristine. But the number one reason I will be returning is the view from the rooftop bar and it’s central location.
Hotel degli Orafi has an unmatched location in the heart of Florence! It is a short walk (3 minutes) from the lobby to the Palazzo Vecchio where the incredible Uffizi Gallery is located. It is a 15-minute walk to the Gallery of the Academy in Florence and a 12-minute walk to the Piazza Santa Maria Novella.
My stay included their lovely breakfast buffet spread. But if you do not book a room that includes the breakfast buffet I will say it’s not worth the extra cost of $20 a person. You can get a lovely cornetto and cappuccino for about $3-5 nearby at the many restaurants and bakeries.
Where I’m Staying on My Next Trip to Florence
I’m excited to be returning to Hotel degli Orafi in August 2024! For me, this hotel was the perfect place to stay in Florence. I can’t wait to update you all on how my husband loved it as well.
There you have it! Those are my top recommendations on “Where to Stay in Florence Italy!” Comment below and let me know your favorite place to stay in Florence!
Next Up: Check out my best places to stay in Rome (especially if you’re gluten-free!)
