Top 19 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Florence 2023

The beautiful capital of Tuscany is the epicenter of the classic Italian style, from impeccable jewelry to fabulous vintage markets, it is a haven for shoppers with a discerning eye.

Overflowing with art, culture, mouth-watering cuisine, and architecture which encompasses Renaissance greats such as Botticelli and Michaelangelo, Architectural gems by Filippo Brunelleschi, and some of the best street performers I have ever seen, this gorgeous and elegant gem of a city has something for everyone.

The hotels here are no exception and to help you choose, here are my favorite cool and unusual hotels in Florence (in no particular order).

Our Top 3 Best Cool and Unusual Hotels
1.
25hours Hotel Florence Piazza San Paolino l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Millennials and Gen Z’s
25hours Hotel Florence Piazza San Paolino
2.
Hotel Garibaldi Blu l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Instagrammable Decor
Hotel Garibaldi Blu
3.
UNAHOTELS Vittoria Firenze l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Unique Stay
UNAHOTELS Vittoria Firenze
Best For Millennials and Gen Z’s

25hours Hotel Florence Piazza San Paolino

Ensconced in the heart of the Santa Maria Novella district of Florence, this hotel was dreamt up by interior designer Paola Navone.

Taking inspiration from Dante’s Divine Comedy, it is full of little details alluding to this legendary work. Guests are playfully led through the virtues and vices of Dante’s creation, finding themselves sometimes in heaven and sometimes in hell.

There is an in-house cinema, a bustling restaurant, and a verdant courtyard garden. Whether you want to sip away on Negroni’s in the vibrant piazza, take a ride on one of the Schindelhauer bikes, or even (god forbid) take the best jogging routes around the city your needs will be expertly taken care of in this unique central city hotel. 

Pros

Trendy stylish interior

An in-house cinema

Authentic Italian cuisine

Bike hiring facility

Cons

Limited storage space

Pricey buffet breakfast

No on-site swimming pool

Best For Instagrammable Decor

Hotel Garibaldi Blu

Another cool boutique hotel, this one is just 5-minute walk from the famous Duomo. Rooms have cool historic details like arched ceilings and frescoes alongside enormous comfortable beds and all the modern facilities that you need.

Guests can enjoy a freshly made continental breakfast on site and also make use of the lounge bar and there is a delicious restaurant just a few minutes walk away that works in partnership with the hotel.

The hotel also provides free airport travel to keep your trip easy and stress-free. 

Pros

Cool historic detailings

Fresh continental breakfast

Free airport travel

400m from the train station

Cons

Slightly dim room lighting

A bit pricey

Thin walls

Best For Unique Stay

UNAHOTELS Vittoria Firenze

This award-winning hotel comprises a cool and quirky juxtaposition of modern and retro design executed by inspirational architect Fabio Novembre.

The truly unique hotel is warm and authentic, giving you the very best of Tuscan style. It is also conscientious about the environment, offering free bikes and Tesla charging points and serving up fresh seasonal food in its kitchens. It is in a great location for enjoying the city and the surrounding region.

Rooms are full of cool details but don’t compromise on comfort and the communal spaces have the wow factor! Guests will experience full Tuscan charm and exceptional services at this unusual boutique hotel. 

Pros

Vibrant quirky interior

Free bike rental

UNA Café and lounge bar

Well-appointed amenities

Cons

Slightly compact rooms

Not for the budget-friendly crowd

Best For Couples

Velona’s Jungle Luxury Suites

This splendid boutique hotel in the heart of Florence is particularly suited to explorers with a fondness for the unusual and curious.

The extravagant designer interior features elegant mid-century furnishings combined with distinctive objects and artworks collected from around the world by the family Patriarch, a well-respected art dealer, and subsequently added to over many years.

Each of the four luxury suites is themed around a different explorer, the bathroom in the tropical oasis of the Durrell suite even features a living ceiling! The Livingstone, Darwin, and Fossey Suites each have their special touches too, a balcony, a reading nook, and a chromotherapy shower all being in the mix.

Verona’s Jungle is a friendly family-run business with a sustainable outlook on travel, there is a bike garage and maintenance available onsite, all pets are welcome and an organic natural breakfast with plenty of vegan options is offered to guests at whatever time they wish to have it.

In short, this is a truly cool and unusual hotel, with just four rooms make sure you book early to avoid disappointment! 

Pros

Jungle-themed interior

Organic natural breakfast

Pet-friendly policies

Chromotherapy showers

Cons

At walking distance from the town

No on-site swimming pool

No on-site spa or wellness center

Best For Rooftop Bar

TSH Florence Lavagnini

This is more of a hospitality concept than a hotel and it’s pretty awesome too! The Student Hotel Florence offers short-term and long-term student accommodation, overnights, and extended stays to create a community of people from all walks of life.

There are shared workspaces, lecture rooms, a massive shared kitchen, a rooftop terrace and bar, exhibition spaces, a gym, and pool, and rooms to cater to every need.

Everything is bold bright and playful, facilitating social activities and links between all guests. Not for the traveler who wants a peaceful retreat, but for the lone traveler who wants to get out and socialize or the business traveler wanting to network or just if you like bustle and color and fun… this place could be just the one for you!

Pros

Cool hip decor

A panoramic gym

Rooftop bar and swimming pool

A massive shared kitchen

Cons

Pricey pool bar

Slow elevator

Not for the budget-friendly crowd

Best For Trendy Design

Room Mate Luca

Awesome retro design presides at this city centre hotel which offers you everything you need and more with its surprising decor.

Each room is a bold burst of color and geometric pattern designed by Lorenzo Castillo and there are plenty of different types of rooms too, one to suit every traveler. Located in one of the quietest parts of town it is still just a short stroll to more culture than you can shake a feather at!

Just ten minutes walk away from The Duomo, The Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio and just 5 minutes from Michelangelo’s Davide. The staff will make you feel extra welcome in traditional Florentine 

Pros

Vibrant colorful interior

24-hour desk

Daily Mediterranean breakfast

Daily housekeeping

Cons

Small bathrooms

No private outdoor space

Bit distant from the center

Best For Great Location

CoDe Rooms

This place is geared towards a young hip crowd who enjoy laid-back travel and cool arty decor. It’s bright and colorful and full of quirky decor, it’s also very reasonable for a Florence hotel.

Traveling is made easy by the self-check system, meaning no matter what time you rock up you’ll be able to get in. It’s all very tech-savvy and Instagrammable but it’s also a good solid approach to flexible travel with a flair! 

Pros

Hip laid-back vibe

Artistic accommodations

Central location

Self-checking system

Cons

Temperamental Air con

Elevator is a little slow

Spotty Wi-Fi

Best For Views

Hotel Milù

Situated on the famous Via Tornabuoni in an elegant historic Palazzo, the location of Milu Hotel is unbeatable.

Within its 14th Century exterior lies a surprisingly modern interior featuring 22 styled-out rooms, a rooftop terrace, an amazing library, and most excitingly of all, an ever-evolving open art gallery.

The curated artworks punctuate every wall, alcove, and staircase and feature international artists working across all mediums; sculpture, Photography, Painting, and Textiles… all artworks are available for purchase by guests and visiting collectors.

Pros

Stunning location in heart of the historical centre

Rooftop terrace with stunning views

On-site library

Daily breakfast buffet

Cons

Pricey breakfast option

Temperamental Air Con

Rooms can be small for bigger families

Best For Luxury

Helvetia&Bristol Firenze

Occupying a restored historic residence just a few steps from Palazzo Strozzi, Helvita&Bristol is the premier luxury hotel in the heart of Florence since 1885.

Reborn after restoration and recent expansion it now offers 25 delightful new rooms and suites conceived by Anouska Hempel. Offering chic internal courtyards and exclusive terraces it is the lap of luxury.

The hotel supports Florentine Artisans by displaying unpublished works and original designs throughout its spaces, always drawing from the environment of “Grande Bellezza”,  the eternal source of inspiration for Italian aesthetics and hospitality.

Pros

Elegantly modern interior

Chic internal courtyards

A wellness center

Cibrèo Ristorante & Cocktail Bar

Cons

Some rooms are a little compact

No on-site swimming pool

Limited breakfast options

Best For Boutique

Hotel Calimala

This is a 4* luxury hotel housed within a lovingly restored 16th Century Palazzo. The renovations have managed to perfectly blend original features with modern deco furnishings and contemporary artworks to create a comfortable, opulent, and impeccably florentine environment.

Added to this artistic luxury there is an unrivalled roof garden where diners can enjoy delicious southern Mediterranean food and aperitifs surrounded by 360-degree views over the city.

Guests also have the use of a tranquil plunge pool on the incredible floral patio designed by Vieri Torrigiani. The perfect romantic getaway in a city steeped in romance! 

Pros

Modern art deco decor

Southern Mediterranean food

A roof garden

360-degree views

Cons

Breakfast is not complimentary

Some rooms are slightly small

Can get noisy at times

Best For Modern Design

c-hotels Club

This conveniently central hotel is situated just a stone’s throw from the railway station very close to the historic centre of the city.

The hotel is an elegant nod to the classic Florentine style with a soft color palette and green shuttered windows. Inside it is cozy and classy, vividly coloured luxury.

The communal living rooms are punctuated with thoughtful vintage memorabilia and pictures of the city around easy armchairs and comfy couches, which creates a calm and peaceful ambiance. Party animals don’t fear though, If you love a bit of nightlife this happens to be one of the liveliest areas of Florence!

Just take a short walk out the door and you will discover a street full of bustling bars, restaurants, and shops leading to the heart of town.

Pros

Elegant cozy ambiance

An on-site bar

A local parking garage

24-hour front desk

Cons

Limited breakfast items

Small elevator

Small breakfast room

Best For Great Breakfast

Globus Urban Hotel

This is a cool modern hotel near the railway station with plenty of different room options to suit different budgets.

The decor is simple and cool, the beds are comfy and all rooms have WiFi, TV, and minibar.

There’s cool art on the walls a great breakfast and plenty of friendly staff to help you with your itinerary and make sure that you have an inspiring and comfortable stay. 

Pros

Cozy modern vibe

Well-appointed guest rooms

Tasty daily on-site breakfast

24-hour front desk

Cons

Small shower area

Spotty internet connection

No spa available

Best For Historic Building

Horto Convento

In the heart of Borgo San Frediano, surrounded by artisanal workshops and lively bars and restaurants, this beautiful hotel is located inside a 12th Century Monastery and historic girls boarding school.

The building maintains its ancient atmosphere of quiet elegance whilst giving you plenty of opportunities to relax and indulge yourself.

The hotel has wonderful sheltered gardens, and a pool around which to contemplate all the amazing art and culture you have visited.

There is a bright and beautiful breakfast room and chilled-out lounge bar as well as plenty of wonderful eating and drinking options nearby. The perfect place to breathe in the authentic artisanal culture and energy of this fabulous city.

Pros

A 12th-century building

Private parking

On-site breakfast option

Chilled-out lounge bar

Cons

Rooms are not soundproof

Bathrooms on the smaller side

No English TV channels

Best For Families

The Frame Hotel

This is one for art lovers and history buffs. In this very building, in 1913, da Vinci’s Mona Lisa was discovered, having been stolen from The Louvre two years before.

As a cheeky nod to this significant event, each room in The Frame Hotel has its version of the iconic painting. There are plenty of other cool quirks in this gorgeous art nouveau building; amazing staircases, beams brickwork, and lots of artistic touches.

Breakfast is an amazing buffet of handmade and organic goods, you can also enjoy a peaceful afternoon tea or delicious local wines and charcuterie in the small onsite bar. It’s in a great location too, just steps away from Fillipo Brunelleschi’s famous Duomo. 

Pros

Art nouveau building with family friendly rooms

Small on-site bar

Organic breakfast options

Central location

Cons

Rooms are on the smaller side

No English TV channels

Small elevator

Best For Spa and Wellness

Mh Florence Hotel & Spa

A modern hotel in the center of Florence, Mh is in an ideal location for both the train station and all the iconic galleries and architecture that the city has to offer.

It’s bright, airy, and comfortable and guests can enjoy all the expected amenities and a few others on the side. The breakfast spread is generous and uses all local produce and freshly baked pastries and the spa facilities are perfect for guests who need some serious R&R.

There’s a swimming pool, Kneipp Circuit, Turkish bath, and sauna as well as treatments and massages on offer. The terrace offers an amazing outdoor lounge where you can sip on a classy cocktail and enjoy a 360-degree view of the iconic Duomo.

It’s also reasonably priced compared to many Florence hotels, so good for those who want comfort and a touch of luxury on a bit of a tighter budget, 

Pros

Contemporary bright design

Spa and wellness center

Terrace and outdoor lounge

Reasonable price

Cons

Dinner options are a little limited

Rooms are not soundproof

Temperamental AC

Best For Budget-friendly

c-hotels Ambasciatori

Situated in the very centre of Florence this hotel offers refined and practical luxury and comfort to all guests.

The rooms are usually spacious and thoughtfully laid out, The whole place has a cool stripped-back industrial aesthetic, with well-chosen accessories to warm it up.

Everything you need but nothing you don’t is sort of the motto here and they have done it well. Staff are friendly, great eating options and location, and a wide selection of rooms to suit different budgets.

Pros

Cool industrial vibe

Daily buffet breakfast

Well-appointed guest rooms

Central location

Cons

Small shower cubicles

Temperamental AC

No on-site parking

Best For Views of Santa Croce Basilica

La Maison du Sage

From minimalism to maximalism, Maison Du Sage is a flamboyant yet classic homage to the Art Deco era. Occupying a wonderful Liberty Building with views of the basilica, the decor reflects the vibrant shapes and colors of 1930s Florence.

Lots of warm tones, gold wood, and geometry, combined with natural textures and plenty of lovely personal touches, make this place a dream to stay in!

Despite the historical context all the rooms are fully equipped with mod cons and the communal spaces provide a great opportunity to meet and chat with other travellers over tea and biscuits. Honestly, if you are an Art Deco fanatic like me you don’t want to miss this little gem! 

Pros

Classical art-deco interior

Daily breakfast service

Well-appointed accommodations

Great location step away from Santa Croce Basilica

Cons

Wi-Fi can be slow at times

No on-site parking

No on-site restaurant

Best For Rooftop Swimming Pool Modern Design

Hotel Glance In Florence

In the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market you’ll find the unique Glance Hotel. The building was designed in the ‘50s by renowned architect Italo Gamberini and the name refers to all the little details that make it so special.

Each floor is themed around a modern reworking of an iconic Renaissance sculpture such as Michelangelo’s David and Ammannati’s Neptune, so whilst the hotel errs on the side of contemporary it also gives a respectful nod to the city’s history and culture.

Swimmers will love the gorgeous rooftop pool with amazing views over the city. 

Pros

Designed by Italo Gamberini

Daily buffet breakfast

A Rooftop swimming pool

Central location

Cons

Compact rooms

Pool closes early

Expensive laundry facility

Best For Romance

Art Hotel Villa Agape

This is classic Italian luxury hospitality in a nutshell. A stunning hotel in a historical Villa that was previously owned by A Duchess.

The Villa is set in its immaculate grounds, awash with landscaped flower beds and trickling fountains, and positioned in the famous Piazzale Michelangelo, close to the Arcetri Observatory. Of course, the panoramic views from many of the rooms and the gardens are exceptional.

Its beautiful traditional decor and shady nooks and crannies mean guests can enjoy peace and tranquillity whilst reading a book and sipping Prosecco, it is also just a few minutes by car from the city center and well connected by public transport. 

Pros

Traditional romantic vibe

Free shuttle service

Free on-site parking

Well-appointed guest rooms

Cons

Spotty Wi-Fi

Temperamental Air Con

Rooms do not have balconies

Comparison of 19 Cool Hotels in Florence 

The table compares the top 19 cool and unusual hotels in Florence. The table offers comprehensive information regarding the hotel’s location, fitness facilities, price range, proximity to attractions, and nearby dining options, granting you the freedom to structure it according to your preferences:

Hotel NameLocationPrice Range (per night)Fitness FacilitiesDistance to Attractions (km)Nearby Restaurants
25hours Hotel Florence Piazza San PaolinoPiazza Di San Paolino 1$485-$670Yes0.653
Hotel Garibaldi BluPiazza Santa Maria Novella 21$401-$421No0.652
UNAHOTELS Vittoria FirenzeVia Pisana 59$253-$334No0.853
Velona's Jungle Luxury SuitesVia Montebello 86$440No1.23
TSH Florence LavagniniViale Spartaco Lavagnini 70$150-$539Yes1.02
Room Mate LucaVia XXVII Aprile 3$385-$405No0.73
CoDe RoomsVia Ghibellina 105$219-$255No0.52
Hotel MilùVia Tornabuoni 8$445-$757No0.33
Helvetia&Bristol FirenzeVia Dei Pescioni 2$2432-$8873Yes0.53
Hotel Calimala2 Via Calimala$728-$950Yes0.41
c-hotels ClubSanta Caterina da Siena 11/R$296-$314No0.23
Globus Urban HotelVia S. Antonino 24$456-$528No0.33
Horto ConventoViale Ludovico Ariosto 13$410-$551No0.953
The Frame HotelVia Panzani 2$1015-$1039No0.33
Mh Florence Hotel & SpaVia Luigi Alamanni 37$312No1.03
c-hotels AmbasciatoriVia Luigi Alamanni 3$312-$469No0.852
La Maison du SageVia Magliabechi 7$694-$748No0.52
Hotel Glance In FlorenceVia Nazionale$630-$727No0.853
Art Hotel Villa AgapeVia Torre Del Gallo 8-10$539No1.43