Collegio alla Querce
Florence is one of Europe’s most rewarding cities, and a luxury hotel makes the difference between a good visit and an extraordinary one. From palaces on the Arno to Renaissance villas in the Fiesole hills, this is the definitive guide to Florence’s finest
The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is an enchanting destination, rich with history and spoiled by fairytale landscapes, cultural treasures and an incomparable dining scene.
With its famed landmarks, couture shopping and tables worth travelling, luxury travellers often head for Centro Storico, where the city’s architectural star, Duomo di Firenze, dazzles in fine company. Yet, just 15 minutes from the Italian city’s historic heart, rolling Tuscan hills provide a divine setting for some of the region’s most luxurious and storied estates.
Where to stay for la dolce vita per eccellenza? As always, it is a question of taste.
Best for location
Portrait Firenze
Set on the banks of the River Arno, Portrait Firenze is an elegant stay with the city’s favourite sights and cultural buzz in easy reach. Guests are drawn to the hotel’s position just steps from the Ponte Vecchio, as well as the thoughtful service and design, both of which create a sense of intimacy, despite the bustle of activity outside. Refined interiors are paired with mid-century and vintage details, while river views can be enjoyed from most of the hotel’s suites.
Hotel Savoy, A Rocco Forte Hotel
The grand Hotel Savoy enjoys prime position on Piazza della Repubblica, Florence’s lively cultural square and home to the Triumphal Arch, the Column of Abundance and the much-treasured antique carousel. Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo are also close by – the latter can be admired from the hotel’s two Presential Suites. Contemporary Italian design celebrates local craftsmanship and the gentle colour palette is brought to life with colourful accents and art.
Hotel Lungarno
Riverside refinement defines the 66-key Hotel Lungarno, located on Arno’s south bank. Interiors hero Tuscan craftsmanship with a nod to the maritime aesthetic; the art collection of almost 500 works includes pieces by Picasso and Cocteau; and the in-house restaurant, Borgo San Jacopo, is Michelin starred. Guests can admire Renaissance architecture and Ponte Vecchio from their private balcony, or step outside and walk among these and many more Florentine treasures.
Best for design
Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Collection
An impeccable renovation of a Renaissance-era villa in Florence’s Le Cure neighbourhood is today one of the world’s most exquisite hotels. Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Collection stands as a polished country retreat, complete with meticulously manicured Baroque gardens, yet sweeping views of the Duomo and surrounding cityscape tells a different geographic story. Original architecture – frescos included – blends gently with modern spaces across the 83-room hotel, while interiors celebrate the region through local materials and artisanal details, heirloom antiques and an extensive art collection.
Velona’s Jungle Luxury Suites
They say it’s a jungle out there. At Velona’s Jungle Luxury Suites, located between the Arno and the Santa Maria Novella district, the jungle is very much the attraction. Greenery abounds through wall coverings, textiles, artworks and decorative accents, helping create an extravagant, design-led stay while maintaining a boutique energy. There are 10 individually designed suites, each with its own colour palette and motif, and adorned with lush furnishings and curiosities.
Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel
None other than Michelangelo was behind the original façade of the Renaissance-era convent, set in the charming Fiesole hills above Florence. Its resurrection as Belmond’s Villa San Michele honours the building’s storied past while elevating the stay through bespoke furnishings, commissioned artworks and sumptuous materials. The property’s 10,000-square-metre terraced gardens are met by captivating views across the City of Lilies.
Best for intimacy
Palazzo Portinari Salviati
Tough call leaving Palazzo Portinari Salviati off the Best for Location list, and Best for Design for that matter, but this historic palace is acclaimed across the board. Grand in style, yet boutique in size and service, Palazzo Portinari Salviati is tucked among the medieval streets and piazzas a few blocks east of Piazza della Repubblica. Each of the hotel’s 13 suites features incredible details, including restored frescoes, ornate ceilings, leaded windows, Calcutta marble and original Tuscan terracotta floors. Service is distinctly Italian – professional and intimate – while in-house ATTO di Vito Mollica has earned a Michelin star.
The Place Firenze
To step inside The Place Firenze is to be welcomed like family. And that is precisely the intention at the sleek 20-key hotel. Overlooking Piazza Santa Maria Novella and just a few minutes on foot from Via Tornabuoni, the city’s high-fashion hub, The Place is an urban townhouse with top-to-tail style. Among the communal spaces, the terrace and rooftop alcove are invariably humming, serviced by the property’s famously attentive staff.
theplacefirenze.com
Best for families
Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
Around the world, Four Seasons is a hotel for … well, many seasons. And often, as it is in Florence, it is a hotel mercifully suited to the season of parenting. Four Seasons Hotel Firenze has a selection of connecting rooms and suites to ensure a spacious and comfortable stay for families. As well as the Pio Seasons Kids Club, open each summer, the hotel has a dedicated spa menu for kids, welcome gifts and child-size robes and slippers, and almost five hectares of green space on which to run free. The concierge team is also well-versed in family-friendly itineraries.
The St Regis Florence
Designed by Brunelleschi of Duomo fame, The St Regis Florence cuts a regal figure on the banks of the Arno. And guests young and old are treated like royalty in the converted 15th-century palace. The hotel’s Family Traditions program provides child-sized robes and slippers, welcome treats, and bespoke itineraries tailored for younger guests. Concierge can arrange special events, such as birthday parties, child-friendly private tours of Florence and customised city hunts. Connecting rooms and complimentary roll-away beds are available, and many of the city’s main attractions are within walking distance, even for little legs.
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