What it is

A centrally located and elegant hotel housed in a 1893 building, overhauled by the Rocco Forte family to the tune of $17 million.

What it isn't

It doesn’t have a spa, though it does have one of the city’s largest hotel gyms.

What we think

You’re greeted by name by a top hat-donning butler at this central Florentine hotel. Right on the Piazza Repubblica, the hotel was decorated and designed by the renowned Olga Polizzi, who also happens to be Sir Rocco Forte’s sister. Public spaces combine sophisticated Italian furnishings (Cassina armchairs, San Patrignano tables) and antiques with contemporary artwork, including a series of fashion-inspired canvases. There are 80 rooms and suites, all recently renovated and many with balconies overlooking the Piazza—the new Duomo Presidential Suite which occupies its own wing and the two-story Panoramic Suite, have particularly splendid views of the Dome. The rooms show off the city’s rich artisan traditions with parquet floors, ceramic works and Carrara marble baths. Snag an outdoor café table the cheerful Florentine bistro Irene: traditional Tuscan dishes made with authentic local ingredients (try the delicate prawn tartare with artichokes!)

You're here because

You’re happy to splurge on a dazzling introduction to Florence and want to stay in the heart of the city.

The Moment

Enjoying the From Florence cocktail (red Prato vermouth, gin from Arezzo, and herbed ice) on Irene’s terrace, where you can watch people stroll through the Piazza della Repubblica.

Restaurants & Bars

Irene - A Florentine bistro with Tuscan classics

Irene

Location

It’s a hard spot to beat: The hotel is right on the Piazza della Repubblica, in walking distance of the River Arno, Ponte Vecchio, Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace.