Florence Travel Guide: Essential Travel Tips and Information

Essential Travel Information for a Trip to Florence

Florence is a popular tourist destination in Italy, known for its picturesque streets, historic churches, renowned museums, and art galleries. The city's UNESCO World Heritage site, the historic center, showcases iconic landmarks like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery. The Duomo di Firenze, also known as the Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore, is a stunning Gothic cathedral and a major attraction in Florence. The Uffizi Gallery is another must-see, housing some of the finest Renaissance artwork by renowned artists such as Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Titian. Art enthusiasts will also appreciate the Bargello and the Accademia Gallery. In addition to its cultural attractions, Florence offers green spaces like the Boboli Gardens and the Cascine Park, as well as hosting various festivals throughout the year, including the Medici Music Festival and the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino.

Getting Around

Florence is a compact city, making walking the most convenient way to explore. However, it also boasts an efficient transportation system. You can take advantage of the Autolinee Toscane buses, which serve both the city center and surrounding areas such as Fiesole, Scandicci, and Campi Bisenzio. Tickets for a single 90-minute ride or multiple rides can be acquired at authorized sales locations or from the bus ticket counter at the Santa Maria Novella train station. Additionally, tram line 1 connects Villa Costanza in Scandicci to Careggi Hospital, with stops at key locations including Cascine Park, the main train station, and Fortezza da Basso. Tram line 2 links Santa Maria Novella station to Florence Airport. Taxi fares start at a minimum rate and increase based on time and distance, with potential additional charges. Taxis are readily available at train stations, Piazza Duomo, Piazza Repubblica, and Piazzale Michelangelo. You can also book a taxi in advance via phone, messaging, or apps. Furthermore, car-sharing and bike rental services are accessible.

Hotels and Nightly Rates

For those who prioritize proximity to the Uffizi Gallery, Aurum Uffizi stands out as an exceptional choice, located a mere 144 meters away. This close distance allows guests to easily walk to the gallery, making it an ideal option for art enthusiasts eager to explore the masterpieces housed within. Additionally, the B&B Hotel Firenze Laurus al Duomo is another excellent alternative, situated just 574 meters from the gallery. This hotel not only offers a comfortable stay but also places guests within a short walking distance of the Uffizi, allowing for a seamless experience when visiting the museum. Within a 1-kilometer radius, visitors can find several hotels that provide convenient access to this cultural landmark, such as Grand Hotel Adriatico, c-hotels Ambasciatori, Hotel Cimabue, and Casa di Barbano.

Budget plays a vital role in the decision-making process when selecting accommodations. It is advisable to establish your budget beforehand and seek out lodging options that align with your financial constraints. The hotels highlighted above represent some of the most reputable choices in Florence, featuring a range of affordable options with nightly rates generally between $130 and $300. For example, Casa di Barbano is available for $130 per night, while Aurum Uffizi is priced at $300 per night. Additionally, there are numerous other hotels priced under $250, such as B&B Hotel Firenze Laurus al Duomo Hotel, c-hotels Ambasciatori, Grand Hotel Adriatico, and Hotel Cimabue. It is essential to keep in mind that prices can vary considerably depending on the season, so it is wise to make reservations in advance, especially during high travel seasons. Find more Super Rated and Excellent Hotels in Florence, Starting at $ 70.

Super Rated 5 Star Accommodations in Florence

Florence boasts an impressive selection of five-star hotels for those in search of a luxurious getaway, with average nightly rates typically falling between $390 and $690. For example, Dimora Palanca Boutique & SPA offers accommodations starting at $390 per night, while Helvetia & Bristol Firenze has rates beginning at $690 per night. These upscale establishments are crafted to deliver exceptional services and amenities, catering to guests who desire a premium experience. Additionally, there are even more exclusive five-star options, such as The St. Regis Florence, where prices commence at $1345 per night. This hotel is conveniently situated within walking distance of the city center, allowing guests to leisurely explore nearby attractions like the Santa Maria Novella Basilica and Museum, the Medici Chapels, and Piazza della Repubblica. The hotel staff is proficient in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Italian, German, and French. Check out the following hotels.

Dimora Palanca Boutique & SPA

Nestled in the center of Florence, Dimora Palanca Boutique & SPA invites you to relish a distinctive experience of Florence. This super rated 5-star hotel is located 1.4 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Santa Maria Novella Basilica and Museum, Medici Chapels, Battistero di San Giovanni, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and Piazza della Repubblica. Find more other super rated 5-star hotels in Florence.

NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa Hotel

NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa Hotel has an outstanding location in a charming historical building of Florence, just a few minutes’ walk from the famous Duomo and Uffizi Gallery. This super rated 5-star hotel is located 287 meters from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, Battistero di San Giovanni, Giotto's Campanile, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Galileo Museum, and Bargello Museum. Find more other super rated 5-star hotels in Florence.

Hotel Bernini Palace

The Bernini Palace Hotel is located just behind Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi Gallery. It takes only six minutes to reach Via Tornabuoni, the renowned shopping street, and approximately an hour's drive will take you to the outlets of prominent Italian brands like Prada and Gucci. This super rated 5-star hotel is located 164 meters from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, Bargello Museum, Piazza della Signoria, Galileo Museum, Piazza della Repubblica, Basilica of Santa Croce, Ponte Vecchio, Giotto's Campanile, and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo. Find more other super rated 5-star hotels in Florence.

Hotel Number Nine

Nestled in the lively center of Florence, only a short walk from the Duomo and the Medici Chapels, Hotel Number Nine provides a distinctive lodging experience for travelers in search of an authentic and chic atmosphere in Florence's historic district. This super rated 5-star hotel is located 547 meters from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Medici Chapels, Battistero di San Giovanni, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Santa Maria Novella Basilica and Museum, Piazza del Duomo, Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, Academy Gallery, and Bargello Museum. Find more other super rated 5-star hotels in Florence.

Helvetia & Bristol Firenze

Helvetia & Bristol Firenze, situated in the center of the historic district, only a brief walk from the key attractions, offers visitors an unforgettable experience in the cradle of the Renaissance. This super rated 5-star hotel is located 330 meters from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Piazza della Repubblica, Battistero di San Giovanni, Giotto's Campanile, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Medici Chapels, Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, Santa Maria Novella Basilica and Museum. Find more other super rated 5-star hotels in Florence.

Highly Rated Hotels Close to Airport

Numerous highly-rated hotels are located in close proximity to Firenze-Peretola Airport. After a few days of exploring the region, which can be exhausting and require significant time, opting for an overnight stay nearby is a more practical choice than enduring a lengthy taxi ride to the international airport. This option offers a great opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate before continuing your travels. BezzieTravel wishes you a wonderful holiday in Florence. Check out some of the top-rated hotels close to the airport with prices ranging from $130 to $245.

Cheapest FLIGHT

Florence is primarily served by Peretola Airport, also known as Florence Airport, and Galileo Galilei Airport. Peretola Airport is the closest to the city center, handling both domestic and international flights, while Galileo Galilei Airport in Pisa, about an hour away, offers a wider selection of international flights. The ideal times to visit Florence are during spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds, but if you wish to attend renowned art festivals like Pitti Immagine Uomo or Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, plan your trip accordingly. Check out cheapest flight to Florence before late.