First-time visitors to Florence who want to immerse in all its splendour would be best suited to the Piazza della Signoria or Piazza del Duomo areas in the historic centre. Not only are they within easy walking distance of the city’s best-known sights, shops, and restaurants, but they’re also close to the Arlo River and the southern side of the city. Being a central location, you’ll find some of the city’s most luxurious and chic accommodations here.
If you’re looking for a central location on a small budget, consider staying in San Lorenzo and San Marco. These neighbourhoods skirt the northern edge of Florence’s historic centre, meaning all the top sights are within easy walking distance. However, they’re not quite as beautiful or lively as areas like the Piazza del Duomo.
Located on the western edge of the historic centre, Santa Maria Novella is also a budget-friendly area to stay for the same reasons as San Lorenzo and San Marco. It further benefits from being quieter and more relaxed than many other neighbourhoods, making it family-friendly.
Families might also like the charm and tranquility of southern Florence, across the Arlo River. While the historic centre isn’t as readily accessible (although there’s easy public transport), there are many must-see sights, shops, and restaurants here too.
For nightlife, the best area to stay is undoubtedly Santa Croce, a vibrant medieval neighbourhood east of the historic centre. At night, its streets are spilling with people eating at its eclectic patio restaurants and sipping wine at the local bars. As it gets later, the music is turned up and the dancing commences.
