Are you heading to the beautiful Toscana for your next trip? Check out my guide on where to stay in Tuscany for one week!
Tuscany is undoubtedly the most popular region of Italy, masterfully blending urbanity and nature together. Florence, also known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, is located in the heart of the region, and it is a hotspot for history and art lovers. Additionally, Tuscany’s hills are instantly recognizable, filled with charming family-run wineries where you can taste the genuine taste of the region.
As one of the most diverse Italian regions, deciding where to stay in Tuscany can be somewhat challenging, especially when choosing whether to partake in agrotourism in the countryside or to stay in metropolitan cities. For that reason, I have created this guide featuring the best places to stay in Tuscany, designed with each type of traveller in mind.
As always – the answer to the most important question:
We know that different types of people require different advice on travel accommodations. This guide includes the best areas for
- the first time visitor
- Families
- Couples
- Luxury & Design
- Solo-Traveler
- on a budget
Are you more of a visual learner/travel planner?
Lucky for you, we’ve included a map with all of our favorite neighborhoods and handpicked hotels for all of your travel needs.
Check it out below to get a better idea of where you should stay for your first or next visit to the Tuscany.
Read more: If you want to visit another city in Italy, we have a guide to 7 days in Rome.
(This guide is always up to date, the last updated April 2024.)
But, first things first:
Here is the question: Where to stay in Tuscany for a first-time visit?
The answer is simple: Florence
As one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, Florence soars with its historical charm and cultural diversity, offering a clear image of what the country is most famous for. From iconic landmarks and world-famous cathedrals to modern establishments serving the finest dishes of the region with unimaginable flavours.
The accommodations in Florence are quite diverse as well, much like the city itself. There are a variety of options to choose from for all traveller budgets. Of course, as beautiful as it is, it also tends to lean on the more expensive side. Luckily, the city’s surrounding areas are inexpensive and fascinating to explore, so if you’re renting a car, add ‘road trip’ to your checklist!
Why do we recommend these areas?
- Duomo di Firenze
- Piazza della Signoria
- Piazzale Michelangelo and the Florentine panorama
Piazza del Duomo and the beautiful Gothic cathedral, which is one of the largest in Italy and, according to many visitors, among the most beautiful in Europe. Nature and time have played very skillfully with the marble on the walls, so you will not stop admiring the pink and green tones of the cathedral. An interesting fact is that you cannot see the entire cathedral from any angle, but here I challenge you to try!
Next on the checklist is Piazza della Signoria, nestled in the city’s heart and a place with a heavy focus on social life. On the square itself is one of the most important buildings for Florence – the Palazzo Vecchio, the former seat of government and residence of the influential Medici family.
The following place, for many visitors, is a highlight and worth every passed stair to get to – Piazzale Michelangelo. This will be the most beautiful panoramic view you have seen in any European city, and the atmosphere vibrates with youthful and restless yet serene vibes.
Here’s a full map for you to understand the different areas.
Please note: those might not be the exact names of the districts, neither its absolute borders. I just tried to simplify this information.
| 📍Best Area: | Florence |
| 👨👩👧👦 Best for Families: | Tenuta San Pietro Luxury Hotel |
| 👩❤️👨 Best for Couples: | Agriturismo Poggio Istiano |
| 💎 Best Luxury Hotel | Sina Villa Medici |
| 🤩 Best Design Hotel: | Residenza D’Epoca |
| 😎 Best for Groups: | Borgo Di Pietrafitta Relais |
| 🦸 Best for Solo-Traveller: | YellowSquare Florence |
| 💃 Best Hotel for Nightlife: | Melograno Apartment |
| 🤑 Cheapest Place to stay: | Albergo Moderno |
| 👌 Safest Area: | Arezzo |
- Best areas and handpicked hotels for Tuscany
- Families
- Couples
- Luxury Traveler
- Design Traveler
- Groups
- Solo-Traveler
- Nightlife-seeking traveler
- Budget Traveler
- Neighborhoods and its differences
- FAQs
- Map + All Sights
- Summary
1. Best areas and handpicked hotels for Tuscany
The whole of Tuscany is made up of diametric opposites, from luxurious apartments in the cities to adorable farmhouses next to the vineyards that can still offer luxury but, above all, peace and enjoyment. See my recommendations for where to stay in Tuscany for all travelling types.
Continue scrolling or pick your group and travel type on the menu:
1.1 Families
1.2 Couples
1.3 Luxury Traveler
1.4 Design Traveler
1.5 Groups
1.6 Solo-Traveler
1.7 Nightlife-seeking traveler
1.8 Budget Traveler
1.1 Families
Escape the crowds and find family-friendly accommodation in the peaceful, safe, and relaxed town of Lucca – a peaceful, safe, relaxed town. It is also known for having huge-walled buildings, which will make the little ones feel like they’ve stepped into a fairytale! Pisa is also nearby, so you can easily plan a day trip with the entire family
Handpicked accommodations for families
Tenuta San Pietro Luxury Hotel, Lucca
This is a small, luxurious place to stay in Tuscany, specifically in Lucca’s countryside. While the adults can kick back and enjoy the view with a glass of excellent local wine, adventurous kids will have a great time exploring the surroundings, as well as the pool. Tenuta San Pietro Luxury Hotel looks like a dream during the winter, so it’s perfect for a mini-vacation in Italy before the holidays.
Casa del Campanaro, Lucca
Remember the fairytale-like character of Lucca that will amaze your children? So, why not provide them with the full experience by staying in a historic house? This medieval home even has a tower, and each room has its own unique style. As historic as it is, Casa del Campanaro is filled with many modern amenities, guaranteeing the best comforts
1.2 Couples
No Italian region is as romantic as Tuscany – period. However, Veneto comes as a very close runner-up! Nonetheless, the entire region is the definition of romance, which is why so many couples are probably having a hard time deciding where to stay in Tuscany.
If you’re planning a romantic getaway or maybe even a honeymoon, Florence is most likely the first thing that comes to mind. Although this is a great choice, the accommodation regions which are listed below are ideal for you to witness what truly makes Tuscany one-of-a-kind. They offer the perfect escape away from the clamour, where your relationship can experience its own Rennaisance.
Handpicked accommodations for couples
Agriturismo Poggio Istiano, Bagno Vignoni
As the name suggests, at Agriturismo Poggio Istiano, you’re treated to an agrotourism experience in a luxury establishment decorated in true Italian style. The pool is a great place for chilling out during the day, while nights are reserved for candle-lit dinners on the terrace, overlooking the never-ending Tuscany emerald hills.
Il Casale di Lucullo, Lucignano
A much more budget-friendly option than the previous one, though just as beautiful. Il Casale di Lucullo highlights wellness, so you can have a relaxing time in the outdoor hot tub. Moreover, the surroundings are waiting to be discovered and will provide amazing, unforgettable settings.
1.3 Luxury traveler
Florence is a synonym for luxury as many palazzos have been converted into hotels featuring antiquities that define opulence and sophistication. On the other hand, consider catching a show at the La Scala Opera House, known to attract an elite crowd. Finally, splurge on luxuries in the shops around Ponte Vecchio.
Alternatively, Siena, noted as one of the best towns in Tuscany, Italy, also offers romantic villas with majestic courtyards, only in a much more relaxed atmosphere.
Handpicked accommodations for the luxury traveler
Sina Villa Medici, Florence
The Sina Villa Medici is an elegant mix of period decor and minimalist modern design, with spacious rooms enriched with various state-of-the-art amenities. The most famous is the Florence suite with a private pool and balcony.
Grand Hotel Continental Siena – Starhotels Collezione, Siena
Grand Hotel Continental Siena has a city view and dates back to the 17th century. This historic 5-star hotel is decorated with exquisite artwork and Tuscan porcelain and marble. As the most sophisticated option, I singled out the Heritage ‘Suite Temptation’, decorated in true Tuscan fashion with the most stunning views of Siena.
1.4 Design-lovers
Which is the most stylish city in the Tuscany region? Well, it is Pisa, a city with a vibrant cultural scene and a great artistic heritage of churches and museums, home to one of the most famous landmarks in the world – The Leaning Tower. Pisa is also a university city where fashion and aesthetics are studied, so many famous designers and creators come from here.
Via Francigena is an ancient travel route from Canterbury, England, to Rome, which also runs through Florence. It is often considered stylish and appealing to design lovers when passing through the Tuscany region for several reasons: architectural beauty, rich landscapes and artisanal craftsmanship of ceramics and leather.
Handpicked accommodations for the design lover
Residenza D’Epoca -Santa Caterina, Pisa
Located 500 metres from the Tower of Pisa, the Residenza D’Epoca contains frescoes from the 18th century. The owners paid exceptional attention to the chandelier and the materials used as decorative stone and marble. All rooms and suites are made in a similar style with a heavy focus on design details.
Hotel Regency, Florence
The Regency Hotel is a charming Tuscany property in a quiet residential area. An extraordinary arty oasis is hidden away from the centre. Royal colours such as burgundy and dark royal blue predominate. Also, the Ufizzi Gallery is nearby, as well as many other museums, which will surely satisfy your eye for design.
1.5 Groups
Groups wondering where to stay in Tuscany will find great pleasure in Chianti and Arezzo. Both locations have many establishments that you can book entirely for a larger group and are relatively close to the region’s capital. Additionally, both of my accommodation choices are located in the countryside, but you will have easy access to Florence due to the well-developed transport system.
Handpicked accommodations for groups
Borgo Di Pietrafitta Relais, Chianti
The entire apartment is just for you, with an additional kitchen, garden, barbecue area and a small pool. It is the epitome of rural, peaceful life in Tuscany. Borgo Di Pietrafitta Relais has 4 bedrooms and a living room, comfortably accommodating a maximum of 7 people.
Graziella Patio Hotel, Аrezzo
Graziella Patio Hotel is suited to a traditional building with touches of modernity. It is located in the best part of Arezzo, decorated in bright colours. The breakfast is superb, and the hotel offers accommodation in suites that can accommodate a total of 8 people.
1.6 Solo-travelers
Solo travelling allows you to choose your own pace. If you want a slightly slower tempo, then choose Siena, while outgoing travellers should head directly to Florence. The locals in both cities are very kind and helpful and even want to make friends. You can also feel the local spirit at vibrant markets where you discover fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique souvenirs.
Handpicked accommodations for a solo traveler
YellowSquare Florence, Florence
YellowSquare Florence is excellent for a solo tourist. It offers cozy rooms, a private bathroom, and a shared kitchen. The outdoor pool on the rooftop is known as the “social” area, so you’re bound to meet some people that you can continue your adventures with.
Palazzo Ravizza, Siena
The Palazzo Ravizza in Siena is an excellent place to stay in Tuscany for solo travellers! Firstly, the city is quite safe, as it’s the Palazzo itself. Additionally, the hotel staff are very helpful and can assist you with tour and excursion bookings. Plus, they will also provide a ton of local activities to do around the area!
1.7 Nightlife Traveler
In addition to historical marvels, Florence also offers great nightlife. You can start the night with an aperitivo just as the sun sets and finish in the early morning after the nightclubs.
Surprisingly, Prato offers nightlife like other major cities. Most bars are only open in the evening, so the party can start then. Also, Florence is relatively close as well, so you’ll have plenty of partying spots to choose from!
Handpicked accommodations for nightlife
Il Melograno Apartment (Centro Storico Prato), Prato
Located just steps away from the city centre, the Melograno Apartment puts you in the eye of the party. If you’ve had a wild night, simply step onto the balcony and bask in the sun and great views – the hangover will be gone in a minute!
Piccolo Residence Apart-Hotel, Florence
Apartment with a city view, so you can feel the atmosphere in which the night’s excitement begins. Piccolo Residence Apart-Hotel is 10 minutes away from the Ponte Vecchio area, where at night, there is a beautiful view, and young people gather, sit on the pillars and socialize, and then continue to the nightclubs.
1.8 For the Budget Traveler
In the beginning, I mentioned how this Italian region falls on the pricier side, which might have worried some budget travellers. Fear not – there are many budget-friendly options for where to stay in Tuscany! Just book affordable accommodation in the quieter towns of Arezzo and Lucca. These two cities have excellent connections with Florence and all the surrounding vineyard villages. And yet they will offer you comfort for less cost.
Handpicked accommodations for budget traveler
Albergo Moderno, Lucca
Albergo Moderno is a comfortable and modern place with everything you need: free WIFI, shared lounge area, private parking and comfy beds. The metro station is only 5 minutes away, so you can easily explore some of the neighbouring cities – all at a fair price!
La Loggia – Villa Gloria, Quercegrossa
Budget travellers who want to witness the Tuscan soul without burning a hole in their pocket should book the Villa Gloria in the quaint village of Quercegrossa. This adults-only property has a convenient location close to the region’s medieval towns, and it’s recognized for its idyllic vibe.
2. Best Neighborhood to Stay in Tuscany
Florence
La Bella Firenze is a place you must visit because of all the landmarks that adorn it. Therefore, the city is excellent for guided group tours and their accommodation. The night hours are reserved for the nightlife seeker, and luxury is hidden in the less accessible parts of the city. It has everything your heart desires.
Siena
Siena is an excellent destination for fashion and design and a peaceful atmosphere for creation. The local food is delicious and costs less compared to other cities. Small squares are breathtaking, and there are plenty of parks for long romantic walks.
Lucca
Although not as popular as the previous two places to stay in Tuscany, Lucca is a familiar place, which almost everyone can afford because the prices differ from those in the metropolises. Nature did not spare us when it gave beauty, so you will have a holiday like a fairy tale.
Arezzo
And finally, Arezzo offers favourable accommodations but is still comfortable in the city’s centre. It is also suitable for group travel. Only leave with visiting the cathedral, the basilica, and the small squares, but also learn something about the famous Medici family that ruled all of Tuscany. To do that, simply go up to the Medici Fortress.
3 FAQs
What is the best neighborhood to stay in Tuscany?
Florence is recommended as the best neighborhood for a first-time visit to Tuscany due to its historical charm, cultural diversity, and iconic landmarks like the Duomo di Firenze, Piazza della Signoria, and Piazzale Michelangelo.
Where should you not stay in Tuscany?
The guide does not explicitly mention areas to avoid, but it emphasizes various neighborhoods based on traveler types and preferences. It is advisable to choose accommodations that align with individual preferences and the purpose of the visit.
What should I avoid in Tuscany?
The guide does not explicitly mention things to avoid in Tuscany. However, travelers should be mindful of typical travel considerations, such as adhering to local customs, being cautious in crowded areas, and respecting the natural and historical sites.
Where should I stay in Tuscany for the first time?
For a first-time visit to Tuscany, Florence is highly recommended in the guide. The city offers a blend of historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and a variety of accommodations for different budgets. The guide also suggests exploring the surrounding areas for a well-rounded experience.
4. Map + All Sights
Explore Tuscany with ease using our interactive map, featuring a range of accommodations catering to families, groups, and more. Find your ideal stay amidst the beauty of Tuscany, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveler. Your personalized island retreat begins with the perfect accommodation.
5. Summary where to stay in Tuscany
As you can see, diversity is all around when wondering where to stay in Tuscany! For a more commercial and “touristy” trip, I recommend the region’s capital, while the other places mentioned are ideal if you crave something a bit more unique.
For more information regarding this iconic Italian region, don’t hesitate to get in contact.
Other European Destinations
Before you run off, here is a few more handwritten articles for you. These will help you to find more unique experiences and enjoy your holidays at fullest.
- Where to Stay in Malta
- Where to Travel in Europe For January
- Where to Stay in French Riviera
- Where to Stay in Positano
- Where to Stay in Bordeaux
- Where to Travel In Europe For May
- Where to Stay in Iceland
- Where to Stay in Lake Como
- Where to Stay in Liechtenstein
- Where to Stay in Luxembourg
- Where to Stay in Reykjavik
- Where to Stay in Costa Brava
- Where to Stay in Portofino
- Where to Stay in Copenhagen
Any Questions?
There you have it. I hope you have no questions and found your home in my home town.
However, please remember: I am not perfect, and it is likely I missed a few things to point out.
Therefore: Do you have questions? Is anything not clear?
Please please please drop me a comment below with your email! I will reply to you ASAP via email and here in the comments.
In fact, your questions help me to make this article better. So I help you to help me.
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