The Best Boutique Hotels and B&Bs in the Oltrarno, Florence
Cross the Ponte Vecchio and you’ll find yourself in the Oltrarno, the trendiest area in Florence. It’s home to the Palazzo Pitti, stuffed with works by Titian and Raphael, as well as the historic Boboli Gardens. It’s also the best place to see real Florentine artisans at work, away from the crowds. Here’s our pick of the best boutique stays in this Renaissance quarter, bookable with Culture Trip.
Villa Cora
Boutique Hotel, Hotel
If it’s good enough for the likes of Tchaikovsky and the wife of Napoleon III, it’s safe to assume the Villa Cora has the wow-factor. Overlooking the Boboli Gardens, the hotel sits on the hills just outside Florence’s Unesco-recognised historic centre. Take a dip in the heated outdoor pool, where you’ll be surrounded by more than 100 different types of roses. Then sneak a peek at the ornate Baroque-style halls before enjoying a glass of J. de Telmont champagne on the roof terrace.
AdAstra Suites
Boutique Hotel, Hotel
Just a 10-minute walk from the centre of Florence, the Ad Astra prides itself on its unique, eclectic look. Mixing the classic and the contemporary, you can expect to stumble upon everything from Pucci scarves to mid-century Italian furniture during your stay. Each room has its own roll-top bath. Enjoy a gorgeous homemade breakfast, with local cheeses, freshly laid eggs and quince jam on the wraparound terrace.
SoprArno Suites
Suite Hotel, Hotel
Taking inspiration from the Sistine Chapel, the SoprArno knows that nothing says Italy like an original ceiling fresco painted by a local artist – even better when viewed from the comfort of your own standalone bath. With just 13 individually designed rooms, each one is furnished with antique furniture and bespoke art. A five-minute stroll will take you to the Ponte Vecchio.
Palazzo Guicciardini
Boutique Hotel
With Renaissance frescoes covering the walls and original terracotta tiled floors, sleeping at the Palazzo Guicciardini feels like you’re staying in a beautiful museum. Not surprisingly, it used to be the home of a noble Florentine family. After a delicious buffet breakfast of croissants and locally produced meats and cheeses, you can walk to the Basilica of Santo Spirito just a stone’s throw away.
San Pier Novello in Oltrarno
Bed and Breakfast
The Malenotti family are proud Florentines known for restoring antique furniture to its former glory. Needless to say, their B&B San Pier Novello is stuffed full of such treasures, from the original artwork to the 18th-century furniture. The B&B is right in the heart of Florence. When you’re done with sightseeing, pop to the family’s shop, Piumaccio d’Oro, where they will be happy to show you their craft.
Oltrarno Splendid
Boutique Hotel
This 14-room B&B was originally an 18th-century palazzo. Its owners have lovingly, and painstakingly, restored its 200-year-old wallpaper, faded wall textures and unique frescoes to give it that authentic feel. Don’t worry though, the rooms have all the modern luxuries you’d expect, including freestanding bathtubs in some rooms, espresso machines and HD TVs. Tuck into the buffet breakfast, which includes locally sourced prosciutto and freshly baked pastries in abundance.
Hostel Santa Monaca
Hostel
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, then book a room in the Hostel Santa Monaca. Located in a 15th-century convent, the hostel retains the traditional Florentine old-world charm. Rooms range from simple doubles to 20-bed dorms. It’s within walking distance of Santa Maria Novella, Florence’s main train station, making it the ideal place for those who only have a few days to spend in town and want to minimise travel time. The two large common areas are a welcome feature for both lone travellers and families.
Hotel Lungarno
Boutique Hotel
Founded by the Ferragamo family, this hotel chain promises, and delivers, everything you would expect from such a renowned pedigree. With interiors designed by Italian architect Michele Bönan, you’ll see elegance everywhere you turn in Hotel Lungarno. The hotel even boasts its own private art collection with works by Picasso and Jean Cocteau, among others. Luxury in-room perks include iPads and Bose sound systems; ask for a room with a view of the River Arno. You’re just a few steps from the sister hotel, Gallery Hotel Art, with its Michelin-starred restaurant.
Hotel Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio
Hotel
UNA Hotel Vittoria
Hotel
Casa Pucci B&B
Bed and Breakfast, Hotel
Imogen Beecroft contributed additional reporting to this article.
Fancy a dip? Book into one of the best hotels with pools in Florence , or for more plush places to stay in Florence, check out our guide to where to stay in Florence, all bookable with Culture Trip.