Where to sleep in Florence: Info and Tips
Quick Guide to Neighborhoods and Accommodation Options
Staying in Florence is convenient thanks to the compactness of the historic center and the proximity to the main attractions. In this guide, you will discover the best neighborhoods to stay in to plan your visit efficiently.
See also:
- Florence Travel Guide
- Itineraries: 1d, 3d, CT1 + CT2
- Experiences, Getting Around
- Eating: Where & What
- Where to Sleep
Overview
Florence can be comfortably explored on foot thanks to the numerous pedestrian areas and the ZTL that limits traffic in the historic center (see also Getting around Florence 🔗). Choosing where to stay carefully is essential to optimize your time and get the most out of its wonders.
The historic center is the ideal area for those who want monuments, museums, shops, and restaurants within easy reach. The strategic neighborhoods within it are: San Giovanni, the historic heart with the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, perfect for a short visit; Santa Maria Novella, close to the train station and convenient for quick transfers; Santa Croce, full of artisan workshops and typical local venues; Santo Spirito and San Niccolò, ideal for those seeking authentic atmospheres or nightlife; and the Oltrarno, on the south bank of the Arno, offering quieter accommodations immersed in local life, perfect for a relaxed stay.
Each neighborhood has unique characteristics that make Florence a harmonious and charming city, perfect for both a short stay and a longer vacation.
Best Areas
Historic Center – San Giovanni
The San Giovanni neighborhood is the vibrant heart of Florence, with the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, and main cultural attractions within reach. Staying here means immersing yourself in Florentine history and culture, ideal for those with limited time who want to maximize their visit.
- Price range: €120 – €400/night (mid to high-end hotels, boutique hotels)
- Recommended for: families, couples, cultural tourists, romantics
- Practical notes: pedestrian area, limited parking, perfect for visiting main attractions on foot
Santa Maria Novella – Train Station
The area around Santa Maria Novella Station is strategic for train arrivals or frequent travelers. Numerous hotels, B&Bs, and apartments are available, functional and close to the historic center.
- Price range: €80 – €250/night (mid-range hotels and B&Bs)
- Recommended for: business travelers, train tourists, those seeking convenience
- Practical notes: convenient for train and bus connections, limited but accessible parking
Santa Croce
The Santa Croce neighborhood, east of the historic center, is full of artisan workshops, cafés, and typical restaurants. Perfect for those seeking an authentic experience without straying too far from the main attractions.
- Price range: €90 – €250/night (B&Bs and boutique hotels)
- Recommended for: couples, young travelers, those seeking an authentic or immersive cultural experience
- Practical notes: mostly pedestrian area, close to restaurants and typical venues
Santo Spirito – San Niccolò
Located in the Oltrarno, the Santo Spirito and San Niccolò neighborhoods offer different experiences: Santo Spirito is known for nightlife and evening venues, while San Niccolò is quieter, ideal for families or those seeking a relaxed stay.
- Price range: €70 – €220/night (B&Bs, apartments, hostels)
- Recommended for: young travelers, couples, families, lovers of nightlife or tranquility
- Practical notes: lively or quiet area depending on the neighborhood, limited parking
Tourplan recommends Booking.com to book hotels, B&Bs and apartments
Oltrarno
The Oltrarno is perfect for living Florence like a local, among artisan workshops, small restaurants, and charming streets. Apartments and residences are also available here, ideal for longer stays.
- Price range: €80 – €300/night (apartments, boutique hotels, hotels)
- Recommended for: families, long stays, those seeking authenticity
- Practical notes: limited parking, quiet area, bus connections
Campo di Marte / Artemio Franchi Stadium
The Campo di Marte area is suitable for those looking for more affordable accommodations or longer stays, away from the city center bustle but well-connected to main points of interest.
- Price range: €60 – €150/night (budget hotels, B&Bs)
- Recommended for: families, budget travelers, sports fans attending stadium events
- Practical notes: convenient bus and tram connections, available parking, more residential and quiet than the center
Rifredi – Careggi
The Rifredi – Careggi district is a well-connected residential area, thanks to the tram line and regional trains. It is a practical choice for travelers arriving by car, looking for more affordable accommodation or planning medium- to long-term stays, without giving up convenient access to the city center.
- Indicative price range: €60 – €180/night (budget hotels, B&Bs, apartments)
- Recommended for: families, budget travelers, long stays, travelers by car
- Practical notes: fast connections by tram and train, easier parking than in the historic center
Florence Peretola Airport
For those arriving by plane, accommodation near Florence Peretola Airport (see detailed guide🔗) offers convenience and quick transfers to the city center.
- Price range: €60 – €150/night (budget hotels and B&Bs)
- Recommended for: transit travelers, air arrivals, express business trips
- Practical notes: great for early departures or late arrivals, fast connections to the center via shuttle or taxi
Seasons, Events & Other
When to book
The right time to book depends on the season and the type of trip:
- High season: spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are the most popular periods to visit Florence. Prices increase, so it is recommended to book at least 2–3 months in advance.
- Low season: November–February offers more affordable rates and fewer crowds, ideal for those seeking peace and savings.
Events and trade fairs
Florence hosts numerous events, festivals, and trade fairs that can affect accommodation availability and prices:
- Firenze Rocks or summer music events
- Pitti Uomo (fashion, January and June)
- Major temporary exhibitions in museums such as the Uffizi or Palazzo Pitti
During these dates, prices may double and the best accommodations should be booked well in advance.
Cancellation policies
When booking a hotel, B&B, or apartment, pay close attention to the cancellation conditions:
Always check the deadlines for free cancellation and any additional costs for date changes or changes in the number of guests.
Choose properties with flexible rates, allowing you to change or cancel your stay without penalties in case of unforeseen events.
FAQ
What is the best area to stay in Florence?
The historic center is ideal for a first visit, while Oltrarno and Santo Spirito offer a more authentic and relaxed experience.
Is Florence convenient if you stay outside the city center?Yes, the city is compact and well connected. Even slightly peripheral areas allow quick and easy travel.
📌 Learn more in the Overview section.
Which are the best neighborhoods to stay in?
San Giovanni, Santa Maria Novella, Santa Croce, Oltrarno, and Campo di Marte are among the most popular areas for travelers.
Where to stay in Florence on a budget?Campo di Marte and the area near Florence Peretola Airport offer more affordable prices and good transport connections.
📌 Learn more in the Best Areas section.
When is the best time to book accommodation in Florence?
In spring and autumn it is best to book in advance. In winter, you can find better deals.
Do events affect hotel prices?Yes, events such as Pitti Uomo or major concerts can increase prices and reduce availability.
📌 Learn more in the Seasons, Events & Other section.
See also
- Florence Travel Guide
- Itineraries: 1d, 3d, CT1 + CT2
- Experiences, Getting Around
- Eating: Where & What
- Where to Sleep