Best hotels in Florence 2023: From five-star hotels to budget B&Bs

When visiting Florence, it’s important to pace yourself. This historic Italian city may be small but it’s so full of treasures that it can be overwhelming – the magnificent Duomo; lavish rooms in the Pitti Palace; works by Michelangelo, Fra Angelico, Raphael… the list is endless. You can’t see everything, so attempting to do so is futile. Instead, allow yourself time to browse the shops, stroll along the Arno, sip coffee and people-watch.

Staying in the city centre obviously makes exploring easier, and there’s plenty of accommodation to choose from, ranging from high-end hotels and classy B&Bs to simple pensions and self-catering apartments. To escape the throngs of tourists at night, pick one of the luxury establishments on the outskirts – they usually have tranquil gardens and Insta-perfect views of the Tuscan hills.

Wherever you choose to stay, try and book early – especially if you want a room with a view.

Neighbourhood: Ponte Vecchio

This sleek hotel on the banks of the Arno river is an art-lover’s dream. Not only does it offer glorious views of the Ponte Vecchio, a favourite subject with artists for centuries, but it’s also filled with more than 400 artworks by noted Italian artists, as well as figures such as Picasso and Cocteau.

The rooms and suites have an understated style, leaving you to focus on the dreamy views of the river beyond. There are culinary arts on display, too. The restaurant, Borgo San Jacopo, has a Michelin star and offers experimental dishes, such as potato spaghetti.