Best Luxury Hotels in Santa Maria Novella

The 25 hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino is one the quirkiest luxury hotel’s to be found anywhere in the world. Its interior is designed along the lines of ‘Paradiso and Inferno’ meaning that whilst the hotel is incredibly inviting and cosy it is also ‘hellishly amusing.’ The hotel’s décor is amusing and fun, each space is different yet distinctly welcoming. The hotel has a large variety of rooms, and all take inspiration from Dantes Paradiso or Dantes Inferno. The rooms are unique and chic, they are equipped with luxurious beds, Bluetooth speakers and smart TVs. The hotel is home to its own fitness centre (which has a yoga area), spa and sauna, cinema and even has bikes which guests can use to explore Florence. The hotel also has many dining options like the San Paolino restaurant which serves fresh Italian dishes in its incredible glass ceilinged dining room and cosy Companion Dolcemaro Bar which is speakeasy-esque in nature.

The Anglo American Hotel Florence, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, has opened its doors in the heart of Tuscany, following a thorough renovation overseen by Italian architect Chiara Caberlon. This historic 19th-century building, which has previously hosted notable figures like Leo Tolstoy and Maria Callas, combines preserved historical features with a modern and eclectic design, vibrant colours, and artwork from the 1920s. The hotel, which boasts 118 rooms and suites, a sun-drenched interior courtyard, a modern gym, and meeting rooms for up to 70 people, aims to provide a unique guest experience by blending its storied past with contemporary amenities. The Whisper Wine Bar and Courtyard, inspired by the British ladies’ community “Scorpions” from the 1930s, and Vivi Bistro, offering local and international cuisine, add to the hotel’s allure. Located within walking distance of Florence’s renowned Renaissance art and architecture, the Anglo-American Hotel Florence is positioned as a distinctive addition to the city’s vibrant hotel scene, offering a bespoke stay in one of Italy’s most sought-after destinations.

Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi Firenze Hotel is located in the historical centre of Florence and is within easy walking distance to the main cultural attractions, including the Duomo complex, the Piazzale Michelangelo, the Medici Chapel and the San Lorenzo market. The hotel is also just a few minutes’ walk from Santa Maria Novella railway station and a 20-minute drive from Amerigo Vespucci Airport. This boutique hotel comprises 86 guest rooms, including eight suites with The presidential suite boasting a panoramic terrace with breath-taking views over the city´s skyline. Originally made up of two historical buildings belonging to two aristocratic Florentine families – the Gaddis and the Arrighettis, Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi showcases its noble past with unique historical and artistic treasures, such as frescoed rooms, artist’s paintings and art objects, many dating back to the 16th century. Guests can enjoy a range of culinary experiences including Tuscan and Italian fine dining at Terrae, a cosy meal at The Secret Garden, cocktails, snacks and sunsets at Aria Rooftop bar and pre-dinner drinks or cheese and wine at the Milton Bar. The hotel also offers a range of experiences to the guests, from the romantic dining delight dinner by candlelight in a frescoed ballroom, to a cooking class with Chef Iside de Cesare, a Michelin-starred chef (who also leads the restaurant offering at the hotel) to discover the art of homemade pasta or an unforgettable Tuscan meal in the private winery of the hotel.

Hotel Savoy part of the prestigious Rocco Forte Hotels collection is located on the vibrant Piazza della Repubblica, this five-star hotel captures the essence of Florentine elegance. The interior design, led by Olga Polizzi and Laudomia Pucci, beautifully marries contemporary style with the city’s rich artistic heritage, featuring elegant Tuscan materials and custom-made furnishings.

The hotel’s 80 rooms and suites are tastefully decorated, offering comfort and luxury with views of the historic cityscape. Each room combines classic Italian design with modern amenities, such as marble bathrooms, state-of-the-art technology, and luxurious linens. The suites, particularly the Duomo Presidential Suite, provide unparalleled luxury with expansive spaces, private terraces, and unique artwork.

Dining at Hotel Savoy is an exceptional experience. Irene, the hotel’s restaurant, is named after Sir Rocco Forte’s mother and reflects her dedication to authentic, seasonal cuisine. The menu, crafted by renowned chef Fulvio Pierangelini, celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Tuscany, with a modern twist. Guests can enjoy a relaxed meal in the stylish dining room or on the outdoor terrace overlooking the bustling square.

For those seeking relaxation, the hotel offers a luxurious Spa Suite where guests can indulge in a range of treatments using Irene Forte Skincare products, made from organic Sicilian ingredients. The fitness centre, equipped with the latest technology, ensures that guests can maintain their wellness routines while travelling.

Hotel Savoy’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring Florence’s cultural landmarks. The hotel offers a range of bespoke experiences, from private tours of the Uffizi Gallery to exclusive wine tastings in the Tuscan countryside. The attentive concierge team is dedicated to ensuring that every guest’s stay is tailored to their desires, whether they are seeking cultural immersion or simply wish to relax in the lap of luxury.

The St. Regis, which is located at the south end of Santa Maria Novella, has been the destination for most travellers in Florence since the eighteenth century. This historic five-star hotel is a true reflection of the rich Florentine heritage. This is evident from its Renaissance-style furnishings mixed stylishly with antique decor native to the region. There are 81 spacious rooms and 19 unique suites, all of which are embellished with coloured velvets, bespoke frescos, spectacular Murano chandeliers, and painted coffered ceilings. The customer service at this Hotel is tip-top – a culture that is innate in the St Regis family. A private Guest Experience Manager is provided to help visitors plan their dream getaway. With the presence of amenities such as sizeable fitness centre, spa, and art gallery, guests won’t run out of fun activities. The hotel also boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant and Winter Garden, which serves splendid dishes of Tuscan.

This majestic Westin Excelsior hotel is established in a 14th-century palace and is one of the time-honoured five-star hotels in Florence. It doesn’t cease to amaze with its opulent interior, outstanding service, and a host of luxury amenities. The property still dons the original rustic furnishings including terracotta floors, coffered ceilings, and massive stained glass windows. However, there have been refurbishments to add a touch of modernity without compromising its contemporary character. Located in the northern bank of Arno, Westin Excelsior hotel is adjacent to a series of high-end fashion boutiques along Via Tornabuoni Street. You can also access the infamous Domenico Ghirlandaio’s workshop displaying his masterpiece fresco, ‘The Last Supper’. Guests occupying the three top floor suites get to enjoy a hot tub, massive terraces, and a magnificent view of the city. The has 171 rooms, each supplied with the hotel’s signature ’Heavenly Bed’, whose comfort is hard to beat. The rooftop Sesto bar & restaurant is a game changer. Besides its great food, it also offers a 360-degree view of the city, which couldn’t be more magical, especially at sunset.

La Gemma Hotel offers a perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary elegance. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, the hotel features an array of uniquely designed rooms and suites that exude sophistication, combining classic Florentine architecture with modern amenities.The hotel is renowned for its exceptional dining experience, led by Michelin-starred Chef Paulo Airaudo, offering gourmet cuisine that celebrates the rich flavours of Tuscany. Guests can indulge in a luxurious wellness journey at the Allure Spa, a serene oasis designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. The spa offers a range of treatments and therapies using high-quality products, ensuring a truly relaxing experience. La Gemma’s rooftop terrace provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a cocktail at sunset. The hotel’s prime location also means that guests are just steps away from Florence’s most iconic landmarks, including the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio. The hotel’s interior design reflects a sophisticated blend of past and present, with antique furnishings, original artworks, and carefully curated decor creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The service at La Gemma is impeccable, with a dedicated concierge team that caters to every guest’s needs, ensuring a personalised and memorable stay.