Florence, in the heart of Tuscany, is one of the most visited cities in Italy, known for its Renaissance heritage, narrow streets in the historic center and a scale that makes it easy to explore on foot. For first-time visitors, it is worth planning the trip carefully, since the city welcomes a large number of tourists throughout the year.
How the city is laid out
Florence's historic center is relatively compact, and most points of interest are within comfortable walking distance of each other. This means that, when choosing accommodation, it is worth prioritizing location over other factors, since staying close to the center significantly reduces travel time and allows for better use of the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon, when the streets tend to be quieter.
Where to stay
There are accommodation options for different types of travelers. Florence Dome Hotel is located in an area that provides easy access to the main tourist sights, making it a practical choice for those who want to be close to everything without complicated travel. Travelers looking for something more informal, with an atmosphere closer to local everyday life, might consider Sweet Home Desiree, which fits a more homely style of accommodation.
For those traveling in a group or as a family, properties such as Affitta camere Mimi family tend to offer more flexible space, which can be an advantage for longer stays or when traveling with children.
Getting around and organizing your day
Florence is a city that works well on foot, and many of its most iconic sights are just minutes apart. Even so, it is worth wearing comfortable shoes, since the cobbled streets can be demanding over a full day of sightseeing. For longer trips, or to get in from the airport, there are regular public transport connections to the city center.
Practical tips for a first visit
It is worth booking in advance, especially during peak season, when both accommodation and some of the most popular attractions can sell out quickly. Packing comfortable clothing, building slower-paced days into the itinerary, and setting aside time to simply wander the city without a fixed destination tend to be just as important as visiting the well-known sights.
Getting there and transport from the airport
Florence has a relatively small airport close to the city center, which makes arrival considerably easier compared to other larger Italian destinations. There are regular bus and train connections between the airport and the historic center, with journeys typically taking less than half an hour. For those arriving by train from other Italian cities, the central station is also within short walking distance of most of the accommodation mentioned in this guide, which simplifies logistics considerably in the early stages of the trip. It is worth confirming transport schedules in advance, especially if arrival happens at night or during periods with less frequent service. For those who prefer more convenience, particularly after a long journey, taxis at the airport and station are a practical alternative, although at a higher cost than public transport. Planning this first leg of the trip ahead of time helps start the journey with less stress and more time available to explore the city.
Before you go, compare the accommodation options in Florence and choose the base that best matches the pace you want to set for your trip.
