Even if you’ve been to Florence, Italy, before, there’s always something new to discover.
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From architecture to history to fine arts, the city offers an endless list of activities for brainier travelers who want to take a bite out of European culture. It even has an extensive ‘underground’, comprised of sites and museums that first-timers usually miss.
If you’ve visited Florence before but want to delve deeper on your next visit, you need to stay in the heart of the city, where its hidden gems and hush-hush local spots are still waiting to be discovered. Here’s where to find the best Airbnbs in Florence, Italy, located right in its most walkable, discoverable streets.
*Note: Many Airbnbs in the heart of Florence don’t have elevators. I’ve made notes on each listing below to let you know when to expect an elevator and when to expect a little climbing.
[This article is part of TravelAwaits new Airbnb and Vrbo recommendation series. We dig into listings to identify the crème de la crème of Guest Favorites, Superhost listings, and hidden gems to make finding the perfect rental for your next trip a breeze.]
Best Airbnbs in Florence’s historic district
- Best historic interior: Signoria
- Best interior overall: Monalda Tower Apartment
- Best villa rental: Palazzo Della Nave
- Most relaxing rental: Divina Commedia
- Best for long stays: Strozzi Apartment
- Best patio space: Lorenzo
- Best rooftop space: Boutique Penthouse
- Best history: Cellini’s Birthplace
- Best modern renovations: Duomo View
Best Airbnbs in Florence’s historic district
Signoria
If you appreciate Airbnbs in Europe that have an Old World feel, this two-bedroom condo still has many pieces that reflect classic Italian tastes. You’ll enjoy historic features like the wood-beam ceilings and a built-in wardrobe, but the unit also has plenty of antiques, from portraits to mirrors to chandeliers. (The exception is the small twin second bedroom.) Even the balcony has a wrought-iron table and chairs where you can enjoy city views in style.
*This unit is located in the penthouse. The building has an elevator, but you still need to climb around 25 steps to reach the final level.
Monalda Tower Apartment
If you’re looking for grand architectural features, look no further. This studio has preserved archways and towering ceilings that give it a royal feel. The wood-beam ceiling is another treat, along with the marble features in the bathroom. Despite its historic air, there are modern features throughout, guaranteeing a comfortable stay.
*This unit is located on the fourth floor of a walk-up building—no elevator. You need to climb around 80 stairs to reach the top floor of the ancient tower house.
Palazzo Della Nave
Palazzo Della Nave is a 500-year-old villa with multiple rental properties located on the grounds. This one-bedroom unit has a boutique, stunning design that highlights Florence’s ancient history, architecture, and tastes. It’s been carefully maintained by the same family for 150 years, giving you the benefit of experience. The (shared) courtyard is especially breathtaking, as original frescoes and walls still stand.
*This apartment is located on the second floor with no elevator. You need to climb about 25 stairs.
Divina Commedia
If you’re looking for a calming escape that will transport you out of the hectic heart of Florence, this one-bedroom has a spa-like feel that you’ll appreciate. The ceilings have frescoes that will soothe you, along with large windows with marble frames that let in plenty of natural light and high design features that give the space an upscale feel. Think: Refinement all the way through.
*This unit has elevators. No stair climbing necessary.
Strozzi Apartment
Which Airbnbs in Florence’s historic district could you actually stay for a few weeks, or even a month? This one-bedroom fits the bill for a few reasons. First, its rates are more competitive and better for a multi-week stay. Second, the setup is cozy, functional, and has a great location that’s close to both the trains and main monuments. The kitchen is a little small, but you can also hide the appliances behind two doors, which is a nice feature.
*This unit is located on the third floor, but the host says that the stairs aren’t too steep.
Lorenzo
The Palazzo Della Nave (above) unit has a beautiful, shared courtyard—but if you want your own private outdoor space, book this Airbnb. The studio is very small (322 square feet) but comes with a private 376-square-foot terrace with greenery, a table, umbrella, and lounging chairs. Think of it like your own private escape in the heart of Florence. Inside, you’ve got a small but functional studio with a little kitchenette, couch, table, and bed.
*There is an elevator in the building.
Boutique Penthouse
The unit list above offers you a great private terrace setup—but what if you want sprawling views from your private terrace? If that’s the case, this two-bedroom has an enviable penthouse view on a large, private rooftop. The 360-degree views include sights of the Duomo, along with other major monuments around Florence. The table and booth couches are comfortable, letting you enjoy those sweeping views when the mood strikes. Inside, you’ll find plenty of luxury features that make this unit feel like a five-star boutique hotel, from world-class bedding to AC.
*There is an elevator, but you need to climb two flights of stairs to reach the elevator.
Cellini’s Birthplace
If you’re looking for sprawling views with a slightly more attainable price tag, this one-bedroom unit has an excellent terrace where you can lounge and appreciate Florence from above. It’s located on the edge of Florence’s historic center, letting you enjoy Duomo views from the windows or the terrace. But the real magic is that this is a historic stay located inside the actual home where Benvenuto Cellini was born, a famous Renaissance goldsmith and sculptor. You can admire his works throughout the apartment.
*This unit is located on the third floor, so you need to be able to go up around 60 stairs. Hosts are available to help with luggage at times, so reach out if you’d like assistance.
Duomo View
As you travel around Europe, you’ll notice that many historic, centuries-old buildings have been restored with modern features, from glass walls to new-build lofts. If you like this type of mashup, you’ll enjoy this one-bedroom condo. It has been recently restored with clean, modern finishes, which contrast with the exposed stone and brick walls dating back to the 1400s. The kitchen and bathroom are also brand-new with updates like a towel-drying rack and a bidet. The bedroom loft also has a lovely skylight.
*This unit is located on the fourth floor, so be prepared for stairs. The host is available to help if given notice, so please reach out if you need help with luggage.
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