Choosing the best areas to stay in Florence for first-time visitors can feel surprisingly difficult. Florence is compact and walkable, but its neighborhoods differ in crowd levels, evening atmosphere, and proximity to the city’s most famous landmarks.
Where you stay in Florence shapes how relaxed your days feel, how easy it is to explore on foot, and whether your evenings are lively or quiet. This guide breaks down Florence’s best neighborhoods for first-time visitors so you can choose a base that’s central, comfortable, and perfectly suited to your travel style.
📍 Best areas to stay in Florence for first-time visitors at a glance
- Historic Center (Duomo area)
- Oltrarno
- Santa Croce
- San Lorenzo
- Santa Maria Novella
🏛️ Best areas to stay in Florence for first-time visitors
1. Historic Center (Duomo area) – Best area for sightseeing
Best for: first-time visitors who want everything within walking distance
Staying near the Duomo places you steps from Florence’s most iconic sights, museums, and piazzas.
Why stay here:
- Extremely central
- Walkable to major attractions
- Classic Florence atmosphere
Good to know:
Busy during the day and often pricier.
2. Oltrarno – Best area for local charm
Best for: visitors who want a more authentic feel
Located across the Arno River, Oltrarno offers artisan workshops, quieter streets, and local restaurants.
Why stay here:
- Less crowded
- Authentic atmosphere
- Easy walk to historic center
Good to know:
Fewer major landmarks nearby, but great evening vibe.
3. Santa Croce – Best area for atmosphere and dining
Best for: travelers who enjoy lively evenings
This area combines historic streets with a strong food and nightlife scene.
Why stay here:
- Great restaurants
- Central location
- Walkable to main sights
Good to know:
Can be noisy at night.
4. San Lorenzo – Best area for value and transport
Best for: first-time visitors who want convenience
San Lorenzo sits near the main train station and markets.
Why stay here:
- Easy arrival and departure
- More affordable accommodation
- Central access
Good to know:
Less charming than other central areas.
5. Santa Maria Novella – Best area for calm stays
Best for: travelers who want quieter evenings
Close to the train station but calmer than San Lorenzo.
Why stay here:
- Good transport links
- Quieter streets
- Comfortable hotels
Good to know:
Slightly farther from some attractions, but still walkable.
🧭 How to choose the right area in Florence
- Want iconic sights nearby: Historic Center
- Prefer local life: Oltrarno
- Enjoy dining and evenings: Santa Croce
- Need transport convenience: San Lorenzo or Santa Maria Novella
Choosing the right neighborhood keeps Florence relaxed and enjoyable.
❓ Florence accommodation FAQs for first-time visitors
Is Florence walkable for first-time visitors?
Yes. Florence is compact and ideal for walking.
Should first-time visitors stay near the Duomo?
It’s the most convenient location, but nearby areas offer better value.
Is Oltrarno too far from attractions?
No — most major sights are within walking distance.
🌍 Continue planning your Florence city break
If you’re comparing destinations or mapping out future trips, these guides help you explore more places and turn travel ideas into real plans:
🏨 Explore More “Best Areas to Stay” City Guides
If you’re planning additional city trips or comparing where to stay next, these guides help you quickly understand the best neighborhoods so you can choose with confidence.
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- Best Areas to Stay in Florence for First-Time Visitors
Choosing the right neighborhood lets you experience Florence at an easy, enjoyable pace — and thoughtful city planning starts with MyVacationBuzz.com.
