Top reasons to visit Florence
- Stunning Architecture: Marvel at the Florence Cathedral and other historic buildings that showcase the city’s architectural brilliance.
- World-Class Art: Explore renowned art museums, including the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces from the Renaissance.
- Charming Neighbourhoods: Stroll through picturesque streets, where friendly locals and romantic atmospheres create a unique experience.
- Delightful Accommodations: Choose from a range of charming hotels and bed and breakfasts, catering to various needs.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local events, wine tastings, and vibrant shopping areas for a truly memorable visit.
Find great hotels in Florence
Discover an array of delightful accommodations in Florence, where you can choose from charming hotels and inviting bed and breakfasts. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly retreat or a pet-friendly haven, Florence offers a variety of lodging options to suit your needs. Immerse yourself in the city's rich culture while enjoying the comfort and convenience of well-appointed hotels, ensuring a memorable stay in this exquisite Tuscan gem.
- The Social Hub Florence Lavagnini: The Social Hub Florence Lavagnini is a vibrant 4-star hotel situated in the heart of Florence, making it an ideal choice for adventurous travellers and business professionals alike. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this property offers a lively atmosphere complemented by a range of onsite adventure sports and recreational activities. Guests can immerse themselves in the city-themed vacation experience while enjoying modern amenities, comfortable accommodations, and easy access to the bustling city centre.
- B&B Hotel Firenze Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio: Nestled near the iconic Ponte Vecchio, B&B Hotel Firenze Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio is a charming 4-star lodging with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This hotel is particularly suited for families seeking adventure and memorable experiences. With amenities including nearby bicycle rentals and childcare services, it caters to families looking to explore Florence’s rich culture. The inviting atmosphere and family-friendly approach ensure a pleasant stay for both adults and children.
- Grand Hotel Cavour: With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, Grand Hotel Cavour stands as a refined 4-star destination that appeals to families and pet owners. Situated centrally in Florence, this hotel features ample amenities designed for children, such as babysitting services available both onsite and in-room. The welcoming pet-friendly policy makes it a unique choice for those travelling with furry companions. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms while being close to the city's renowned attractions.
Where to stay in Florence
Florence, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a perfect holiday for those seeking Italian charm. Stroll through its enchanting neighbourhoods, where friendly locals and romantic atmospheres abound. Just a short walk from the city centre, you can explore secluded spots that provide a relaxing escape. Whether you're captivated by art, architecture, or simply the vibrancy of everyday life, Florence and its surroundings promise a memorable travel experience for every visitor.
- Historic Centre of Florence: Nestled in the heart of Florence, the Historic Centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich cultural and historical significance. Visitors are drawn to its stunning piazzas and iconic historic bridges, where they can immerse themselves in the vibrant local market scene and attend captivating theatre performances. The neighbourhood is especially lively from July to September, making it an ideal time for family-friendly cultural experiences, though the charm of its narrow streets and historic architecture remains throughout the year.
- Duomo: The Duomo neighbourhood is famous for its awe-inspiring cathedral, the Florence Cathedral, with its remarkable dome designed by Brunelleschi. This area boasts a blend of shopping areas and bustling public markets, making it perfect for those keen on experiencing local cuisine and Tuscan delicacies. With a peak in tourist arrivals during the summer months, Duomo offers a lively atmosphere enriched by its proximity to significant historic sites and picturesque piazzas, providing a quintessential Florentine experience for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
- San Giovanni: San Giovanni is another captivating neighbourhood in Florence, known for its charming squares and historic landmarks. This area provides a delightful mix of shopping opportunities and public markets, perfect for those looking to take a piece of Florence home. The neighbourhood welcomes a steady stream of visitors, particularly between July and September, as families and culture lovers explore its rich history and vibrant community. The inviting piazzas and historic places create a warm and engaging environment for all who visit.
Things to do near Florence
Shopping
In Florence, you can explore the San Lorenzo Market for leather goods and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit The Mall, a designer outlet about 30 km away, featuring luxury brands at discounted prices.
Recreation
In Florence, the Grotta Giusti Spa offers thermal baths and rejuvenating treatments set within a stunning natural cave. Meanwhile, the Four Seasons Hotel's spa features a serene oasis with personalised wellness programmes and luxurious massages, ideal for relaxation amidst the city's artistic beauty.
Adventure
Experience thrilling motor racing at Mugello Circuit, located 27km from Florence. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed races on this iconic track, surrounded by stunning Tuscan landscapes. The vibrant atmosphere adds to the excitement, making it a must-visit for motorsport enthusiasts.
Nightlife
The vibrant nightlife in Florence offers a mix of lively bars and charming clubs. Start your evening at the historic Caffè Gilli for a cocktail, then immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of Space Club, where you can dance the night away under dazzling lights.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Florence
Florence offers various ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like the Ponte Vecchio and Piazza di Santa Maria Novella. For transport, consider walking or cycling to explore the city affordably. To save on accommodation, visit during the cheaper months of January, February, and November, and book your hotel about a month in advance. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially for Monday stays, which tend to be less expensive. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can lead to further savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Florence are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Florence is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Florence is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Florence is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your search results by price, displaying the most affordable hotels at the top. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation in Florence with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Florence
Florence is an ideal destination for culture enthusiasts, families, and city explorers alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage by exploring notable attractions such as the stunning piazzas, historic churches, and world-renowned art museums. A must-visit is the Florence Cathedral, which exemplifies the city's architectural brilliance. With a plethora of cultural experiences on offer, Florence promises an unforgettable holiday for all types of travellers.
- Piazza di Santa Maria Novella: This vibrant piazza serves as a cultural hub in Florence, surrounded by stunning architecture, including the striking Santa Maria Novella church. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere, with local cafés and art displays, while soaking in the city's rich history and artistic heritage.
- Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: Known for its remarkable dome designed by Brunelleschi, this iconic cathedral is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. The intricate façade and stunning interior provide a profound sense of Florence's artistic significance, inviting exploration and reflection.
- Ponte Vecchio: A historic bridge adorned with charming shops and galleries, Ponte Vecchio is a symbol of Florence's medieval past. Stroll along the bridge while admiring the picturesque views of the Arno River, and relish the vibrant atmosphere that surrounds this architectural gem.
Best time to go to Florence
The best time to visit Florence can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Florence falls in July and August. August has average visitor numbers and sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Florence falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Florence
Florence is conveniently accessible via its major airport, Florence (FLR-Peretola), located 6km from the city centre. Notable hotels nearby include the luxurious Bernini Palace and Palazzo Montebello, both offering excellent transport services like airport shuttles and transfers. Alternatively, you can fly into Bologna (BLQ-Guglielmo Marconi), situated 85km away, with nearby options such as Grand Hotel Majestic and Starhotels Excelsior. Lastly, Pisa (PSA-Galileo Galilei) is 69km from Florence, with hotels like Bagni di Pisa Palace & Thermal Spa providing nearby access. Each airport offers various transportation services for a seamless travel experience.