Where to Stay in Florence: Best & Safest Areas (By a Local)

World-class art. Incredible food. Some of Italy’s most iconic architecture. Nestled in the north of Italy in the picturesque region of Tuscany, this beautiful city on the Arno River is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations.

The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is best known for its art and culture, offering incredible sights such as Michelangelo’s David and the infinitely impressive Duomo, the cathedral of Florence. This certainly doesn’t mean Florence is exclusively for culture vultures, though.

Equipped with plenty of exclusive cocktail bars, high-quality restaurants, quirky shops and friendly spaces where you can try a famous Tuscan glass of wine, even those who steer clear of art will find something to love here. If you plan on visiting Florence but aren’t sure which neighborhood or hotel is best for you, I’ve got you covered with this guide to the best areas to stay in Florence and the best accommodation in each area.

Quick Answer: Best Areas to Stay in Florence

If you don’t want to read the full guide, start here:

🏛 First time in Florence:
Centro Storico – walk everywhere, steps from the Duomo and major museums.

💎 Best for luxury stays:
Centro Storico or Santa Maria Novella – historic palazzi, rooftop terraces, Duomo views.

❤️ Best for couples:
Santa Maria Novella or Santo Spirito – romantic piazzas, wine bars, quieter evenings.

🍷 Best for a local feel:
Santo Spirito or Sant’Ambrogio – artisan workshops, food markets and fewer tour groups.

💰 Best on a budget:
Campo di Marte – residential, cheaper hotels, 20-30 minutes from the centre.

Florence is small enough that most central neighbourhoods are within a 15-20 minute walk of each other. The real decision is whether you want to be in the middle of the action or slightly outside it for better value.

Best Areas to Stay in Florence – Comparison

Area	Best For	Price Level	Atmosphere
Centro Storico	First-timers, short stays	€€€	Historic, busy, iconic
San Lorenzo	Families, couples, food lovers	€€	Lively but manageable
Sant’Ambrogio	Food lovers, quieter stays near nightlife	€€	Local, laid-back, authentic
Santa Maria Novella	Couples, convenience, lively	€€€	Romantic, well-connected
Santa Croce	Nightlife, groups	€€	Energetic, social
Santo Spirito	Local vibe	€€	Artisan, bohemian, relaxed
San Marco	Art lovers, calmer central base	€€-€€€	Elegant, cultural, refined
Campo di Marte	Local neighbourhood, great for budget stays	€	Residential, quieter

Typical nightly rates in central Florence range from €180-€450 for quality 4-star hotels in high season. Budget options start around €120 outside the historic core.

The 8 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Florence

Centro Storico – If it’s your first time in Florence or you’re only visiting for a short period, the historic center is where you’ll want to be. Home to most of Florence’s biggest sights, you won’t be short on things to do or places to eat here. Be warned though, in the height of summer this area definitely attracts crowds!

San Lorenzo – With slightly fewer tourists than the Centro Storico but a significant and popular neighborhood nonetheless, San Lorenzo is perfect for families or couples. Its laid-back but vibrant vibe makes it a great place to experience culture, eat and drink, and get to know Florence.

Sant’Ambrogio – Home to the popular foodie spot Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, this laid-back neighborhood is just around the corner from Santa Croce, offering nearby nightlife with a quieter setting.

San Marco – San Marco perfectly straddles both laid-back elegance with a local feel and boasts one of the best collections of art and culture in the world. Here, you’ll find the Galleria dell’Accademia, the San Marco Museum, and the Leonardo da Vinci Museum.

Santa Maria Novella – This lively area has a romantic feel that’s perfect for couples, but families, groups of friends, and solo travelers will be charmed just as much by its stunning piazza and friendly locals.

Santa Croce – Full of great places to eat and drink, Santa Croce is best known for its impressive central piazza and winding narrow streets lined with leather shops.

Santo Spirito – This one’s for the hipsters. Home to a population of artists and alternative communities, Santo Spirito is the best place to visit to unleash your inner hippie.

Campo di Marte – On a budget but still want to be able to walk to the center? Head to Campo di Marte, the local neighborhood with a personality of its own.

1. Where to Stay in Florence for First-Time Visitors: Centro Storico

Best area to stay for:

• Visit the Uffizi Gallery

• See the Piazza del Duomo

• Bask in the splendor of the Duomo, the cathedral of Florence

• See the Palazzo Vecchio, the city’s town hall

• Visit the Pizza della Signoria

If you’re staying in Florence for the first time and want to stay near the city’s main attractions, there’s no better area than the Centro Storico (the historic city center).

In the center of this area, you’ll find Piazza della Signoria, Piazza del Duomo, the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and all other major sites no more than a 10-minute walk away. Even if you don’t end up staying in Centro Storico, you won’t be able to avoid visiting it during your stay.

As well as being filled with things to do and sights to see, the Centro Storico is just downright beautiful. The cathedral of Florence, the Duomo is genuinely one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve ever seen, and the surrounding streets with their narrow cobbled alleys and traditional Italian eateries make for a very picturesque stay.

Plus, the historic center has the biggest range of accommodations and plenty of places to find a bite to eat after a busy day walking around the sights.

Naturally, however, you are staying in the tourist center, so if you’re looking for somewhere quiet to escape the crowds, the Centro Storico isn’t for you.

Best Hotels to Stay in Centro Storico

Hotel degli Orafi – Luxury ($$$)

• Location: Right in the heart of Florence’s historic center, steps from the Ponte Vecchio
• Highlights: Elegant rooms with classic décor, stunning city views, a rooftop terrace, and fine dining
• Perfect for: Couples or travellers looking for a luxurious, central stay

Check availability & book here

Hotel Calimala – Romantic Mid-Range ($$)

• Location: Walking distance to the Duomo and top museums in Centro Storico
• Highlights: Modern rooms, friendly service, quiet streets despite the central location, complimentary breakfast
• Perfect for: Travellers seeking comfort, convenience and value in the city center

Check availability & book here

Hotel della Signoria – Budget ($)

• Location: Central and close to Piazza della Signoria and major attractions
• Highlights: Cozy rooms, charming historic building, great for short stays, excellent breakfast options
• Perfect for: Budget-conscious travellers who want to stay in the heart of Florence

Check availability & book here

Things to Do in Centro Storico

• Climb the dome of Florence Cathedral for panoramic city views
• Visit the masterpieces inside the Uffizi Gallery
• See Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia
• Wander across the historic Ponte Vecchio
• Explore Piazza della Signoria and step inside Palazzo Vecchio
• Enjoy an aperitivo with Duomo views in the early evening

2. Where to Stay in Florence for Families: San Lorenzo

Best area to stay for:

• Foodies

• Families

• Visitors interested in the history of the Medici family

• Being close to but not in the city center

Located north of the city center, San Lorenzo is extremely well-located, putting you within walking distance of the historic center while being far enough to escape the bulk of the crowds. It’s not too noisy, either, making it the ideal neighborhood for families to stay.

The main pull of this area is the Mercato Centrale, a food hall serving up every type of Tuscan traditional food you can think of, making this neighborhood popular with foodies as well as families.

The Basilica di San Lorenzo is found here, too, and it’s well worth visiting for those who like historical sites. Plus, there are plenty of leather shops (Italy is famous for its high-quality leather) for those inclined to retail therapy.

The vibe in San Lorenzo is vibrant yet laid-back, meaning there’s plenty to do, but you won’t be kept up all night by noisy crowds, it’s the perfect middle ground.

Best Hotels to Stay in San Lorenzo

Hotel Palazzo Benci – Historic Luxury ($$$)

• Location: Just a short walk from Florence’s iconic Duomo, in a historic Renaissance building
• Highlights: Elegant rooms, rooftop terrace with city views and luxurious amenities
• Perfect for: Travellers seeking a premium, central experience with historic charm

Check availability & book here

Hotel Spadai – 4-Star Choice ($$)

• Location: In the heart of Florence, minutes from the Duomo, Uffizi, and Piazza della Signoria
• Highlights: Modern, stylish rooms, friendly service, and a quiet location despite being central
• Perfect for: Couples or families wanting comfort and convenience in the city center

Check availability & book here

Globus Urban Hotel – Affordable ($)

• Location: Central Florence, close to major attractions and shopping streets
• Highlights: Cozy, modern rooms, budget-friendly, and a welcoming atmosphere
• Perfect for: Budget travellers who want a convenient, central base

Check availability & book here

Things to Do in San Lorenzo

• Eat at the Mercato Centrale

• Visit the Cappelle Medicee

• See the Catedral di Santa Maria del Fiore

3. Where to Stay in Florence for Foodies: Sant’Ambrogio

Best area for:

• Food and drink lovers

• Those who like living like a local

• Families

Offering the beauty of Florence without (most of) the crowds, Sant’Ambrogio is ideal for laid-back foodies. Home to the fantastic Sant’Ambrogio market, which serves up a delightful collection of meats, cheeses, and more, Sant’Ambrogio is also known for its antique market – Ciompi Antiquariato.

Basically, it’s the place for those who like alternative retail therapy. Think shopping, but more flea market than upmarket boutique.

When you work up an appetite from all that shopping, head to the popular spot Cibreo, for tasty Tuscan cuisine served up by expert chefs.

One thing Sant’Ambrogio offers in abundance is the perfect blend of proximity to the main sights with all the charm of a unique neighborhood. You won’t encounter the crowds you find in the center, but you’ll nevertheless feel like you’re in the heart of where it’s all happening.

It’s quiet enough that it’s suitable for families, too, although it’s certainly not a boring area.

Best Hotels to Stay in Sant’Ambrogio

Hotel Bernini Place – Luxury ($$$)

• Location: Located in the heart of Florence, just steps from Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi Gallery
• Highlights: Grand historic hotel with elegant rooms, luxurious amenities and exceptional service
• Perfect for: Travellers seeking a prestigious, central stay with a touch of Renaissance charm

Check availability & book here

La Casa di Morfeo – Boutique Hotel ($$)

• Location: Near Santa Croce, within walking distance to artisan shops and local cafés
• Highlights: Charming boutique rooms, friendly staff, and a cozy atmosphere
• Perfect for: Couples or solo travelers who enjoy boutique charm and convenience

Check availability & book here

Guest House Le Contesse – Budget ($)

• Location: Central Santa Croce area, close to restaurants, museums and piazzas
• Highlights: Affordable, clean rooms with basic amenities and a welcoming environment
• Perfect for: Budget travellers who want to stay in a lively, historic neighborhood

Check availability & book here

Things to Do in Sant’Ambrogio

• Visit the famous food market

• Grab a bite to eat in one of the friendly local restaurants

• Visit Tempio Maggiore, the incredible synagogue

• Check out the vintage stores in the neighborhood

4. Where to Stay in Florence to Escape the Crowds: San Marco

Best area for:

• Enjoying a quieter vacation

• Art lovers

• Michelangelo and Da Vinci fans

With pretty buildings, countless friendly coffee shops, and world-class art, San Marco is the ideal destination for culture vultures who want to escape the vast swathes of tourists but are still interested in doing tourist activities. It’s a win-win!

Florence is known for being the home of the famous art movement, the Renaissance, and San Marco is arguably the best neighborhood to visit if you want a greater insight into what made Florence such a hub of art and culture centuries ago (and still to this day).

There are countless museums and art galleries in this area, allowing you to really get stuck into the cultural legacy of this fascinating city.

In this neighborhood, you’ll find the San Marco museum, Palazzo Medici Riccardi, Galleria dell’Accademia, the Laurentian Library, and more.

It’s not all art, though. As with the rest of Florence, San Marco boasts plenty of eateries, ranging from traditional family-owned trattorias to stylish upscale restaurants, with plenty of bars sprinkled around the area, too. The cozy Caffe Lietta should be your first port of call for your morning cappuccino if you decide to stay in San Marco.

Best Hotels to Stay in San Marco

Hotel Orto de’ Medici – Luxury ($$$)

• Location: In the heart of Florence, just a short walk from the Duomo and Piazza della Repubblica
• Highlights: Elegant, classic rooms, beautiful courtyard, rooftop terrace and attentive service
• Perfect for: Anyone seeking a luxurious, central stay with historic charm

Check availability & book here

Hotel Bonifacio – Mid-Range ($$)

• Location: Conveniently located near major attractions and public transport
• Highlights: Modern, comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and excellent value for central Florence
• Perfect for: Couples or solo travellers looking for comfort and convenience at a reasonable price

Check availability & book here

B&B La Marmora 39 – Budget ($)

• Location: Central Florence, close to restaurants, shops and historic sites
• Highlights: Cozy, budget-friendly rooms with essential amenities and a welcoming atmosphere
• Perfect for: Budget-conscious travellers who want a central base without compromising on location

Check availability & book here

Things to Do in San Marco

• See the incredible Hospital of the Innocents

• Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia

• Stroll around the San Marco museum

• Grab a morning espresso with the locals

5. Where to Stay in Florence for Couples: Santa Maria Novella

Best area for:

• Couples

• Romantic getaways

• Enjoying a drink and some people-watching outside

Santa Maria Novella, located near Florence’s center, is an interesting neighborhood. At times both gritty and romantic, the scruffy edges of this neighborhood add to its charm, and it’s home to some of the best places to eat and drink in the city. In fact, it’s probably second to Santa Croce in terms of nightlife appeal.

The centerpiece of the neighborhood is undoubtedly the incredible Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, an architectural marvel that’s undoubtedly a must-see during any visit to Florence, whether or not you plan on staying in the area.

During warm summer evenings, locals and tourists alike spill out into the streets surrounding the Basilica to eat and drink. It’s a great spot to head to for an evening of tasty food and friendly bars, right near the equally charming Piazza Santa Maria Novella.

This area is also home to some of Florence’s most important museums, including the Museum of Santa Maria Novella, the Museo Novecento, and the Palazzo Strozzi. You’ll even find one of the world’s oldest pharmacies that’s still in operation today – the Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy.

So, what makes Santa Maria Novella so perfect for couples? Essentially, it’s Florence’s most romantic neighborhood to stroll around. Whether you’re checking out a museum, meandering down the cobbled, narrow side streets, or sitting outside a bar in the piazza on a balmy evening, there’s an undeniable charm about the area that you have to visit to understand.

Best Hotels to Stay in Santa Maria Novella

7Florence B&B – Luxury ($$$)

• Location: 5-minute walk from Santa Maria Novella station
• Highlights: Elegant rooms, rooftop terrace with city views, free breakfast
• Perfect for: Couples looking for a romantic stay

Check availability & book here

C-hotels Ambasciatori – Mid-Range ($$)

• Location: Near the train station and within walking distance of the Duomo
• Highlights: Modern rooms, quiet street, free Wi-Fi
• Perfect for: Travellers seeking comfort without breaking the bank

Check availability & book here

Eco Urban B&B – Budget ($)

• Location: Central, close to restaurants and shops
• Highlights: Eco-friendly design, cozy rooms, great breakfast options
• Perfect for: Budget travellers or solo adventurers

Check availability & book here

Things to Do in Santa Maria Novella

• Grab a drink at The Arts Inn

• Check out the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella

• Visit the Museo Novecento

• Check out the Santa Trinita Basilica

• Stroll around the narrow side streets

6. Where to Stay in Florence for Nightlife: Santa Croce

Best area to stay for:

• A bar crawl

• Soaking up the atmosphere

• Students, young people, and groups of friends

Santa Croce is arguably Florence’s most vibrant neighborhood. This is where you’re most likely to see groups of friends out for a bar crawl, upmarket families on their way to dinner, and tourists searching for that elusive ‘off-the-beaten-path’ Tuscan restaurant.

Home to the supposed two best sandwich places in Florence, Pino’s Sandwiches and All’Antico Vinaio (although in my humble opinion, Pino’s wins), Santa Croce is the perfect place to search for a vegan-friendly restaurant, craft beer brewery, or Irish pub.

But it’s not only for those who love nightlife. Santa Croce also boasts some upmarket areas, churches, and cultural spaces that will keep you busy during the day. It’s also right near to the smaller Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood, which boasts an incredible food market.

The best part? You’re within less than a mile of the main central sights, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo, so you get to see Florence’s most iconic spots while enjoying the excellent nightlife on offer in Santa Croce.

Best Hotels to Stay in Santa Croce

($$$) Hotel Cardinal of Florence

($$) Relais Santa Croce

($) Borgo Signature Rooms

Things to Do in Santa Croce

• Grab one of Florence’s best panini at Pino’s Sandwiches
• Visit the Casa Buonaretti to find out more about Michelangelo
• Enjoy the local bars
• Grab a bite to eat or a drink in Piazza Santa Croce
• See the Basilica di Santa Croce di Firenze
• Grab a beer at the famous Lion’s Fountain pub – especially popular with exchange students

7. Where to Stay in Florence for Hipster Vibes: Santo Spirito

Best area to stay for:

• Hipsters

• Jewelry lovers

• Travelers who like to live like locals

Every city has its more bohemian neighborhood and Florence is no different. In this city’s case, it’s Santo Spirito, the ultimate hippie hangout spot. While certainly not dangerous, Santo Spirito is a little edgier than other areas, especially at night, so be careful when walking around alone or in a small group.

As you’d expect from a hipster neighborhood, Santo Spirito attracts a rather alternative crowd of residents as well as plenty of independent businesses, such as trendy coffee houses and health food stores. But there is tons of culture here too.

In Santo Spirito is the incredible Ponte Vecchio, the famous bridge in Florence that’s home to a plethora of jewelry and gold stores. It’s great for finding antiques and hidden treasures. You’re also just a stroll away from the Palazzo Vecchio, another must-see sight for your stay in Florence. The Palazzo Pitti is an art museum in the area that’s well worth a visit for art fans.

If you’re feeling sick of all that gelato and pasta, end your afternoon with a visit to Carduccio, a vegetarian eatery that will revitalize your soul with healthy food and drinks. Because of course, the most hipster place in town has vegan and organic food!

Best Hotels to Stay in Santo Spirito

($$$) Hotel La Scaletta

($$) Palazzo Martellini Residenza d’Epoca

($) Palacco Bianca Cappello Residenza d’Epoca

Things to Do in Santo Spirito

• Go jewelry shopping on Ponte Vecchio

• Check out the local independent cafes

• Visit the Palazzo Pitti

• See the Palazzo Vecchio

• Grab a drink at Piazza Santo Spirito

8. Where to Stay in Florence on a Budget: Campo di Marte

Best area to stay for:

• Travelers on a budget

• Those looking to get off the beaten track

• Sports lovers

• Cyclists

• Fans of green spaces

Campo di Marte isn’t as well-known as more central neighborhoods like Santa Maria Novella or Centro Storico, but it’s an excellent place to stay if you want to keep things budget-friendly and live like a local.

Home to the third biggest station in Florence, Campo di Marte is a mostly residential area, but it has its own set of shops, restaurants, and bars, such as the wonderfully friendly Green Store pub and La Magnolia – the perfect spot for picking up a breakfast pastry.

Here you’ll also find the Church of San Michele, the Football Museum of Coverciano, and the Enzo Pazzagli Art Park. While Campo di Marte won’t blow you away in the same way as the historic center, its quiet charm and friendly community feel will definitely prove somewhere relaxing to rest your head. Plus, you’ll get to experience Florence like the people who live there do.

Campo di Marte spans quite a large area, with parts between 30 minutes and an hour away from the city by walking. Don’t forget to prioritize proximity to the center if that’s important to you, but even if you stay further afield, you’ll be able to access the main sights via bus.

It’s close on foot to Santa Croce, so you can stroll into the city’s nightlife center for dinner and drinks.

Best Hotels to Stay in Campo di Marte

($$$) Hotel Emma

($$) Hotel Villa Liana

($) Hotel Ungherese

Things to Do in Campo di Marte

• Grab a pizza in the beautiful outdoor garden of Il Pallaio

• Visit the Nelson Mandela Forum stadium and sports complex

• See the statue of ‘Rain Man’

• Cycle along the right bank of the Arno River

Where to Stay in Florence – Frequently Asked Questions

Where to Stay in Florence – Final Words

No matter which neighbourhood you choose in Florence, you’ll be within easy reach of the city’s major sights. The historic centre is compact, well-connected and remarkably walkable, which means your decision is less about distance and more about atmosphere.

If you want museum access and iconic views, stay central. If you prefer quieter streets and local trattorias, look just beyond the main tourist grid. The key is aligning your location with the type of trip you’re planning.

If you’re building a wider Italy itinerary, you might also want to explore my guides on where to stay in Pisa and where to stay in Padua. Both cities pair well with Florence and offer very different experiences.

Choose the area that fits your travel style, book early for peak season and Florence will take care of the rest.