Where to Stay in Florence… Live Like a Local or Follow the Crowds

Florence doesn’t have a single ‘best’ area to stay in; in a city this size, you’re never too far from anything. It’s less about distance, more about the kind of atmosphere you want to come back to at the end of the day.

Whether you’re after Renaissance grandeur, local grit, or a bit of both, here’s a look at where to stay in Florence to see the sights and catch a match at Stadio Artemio Franchi.

Centro Storico

If it’s your first time in Florence, this is the obvious starting point. The historic centre is exactly what you imagine: grand squares, narrow lanes, and a constant sense of history underfoot. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the major sights, which means early starts and late-evening wanders are easy to manage.

That said, it comes with trade-offs. It’s busy for most of the year, and accommodation leans towards the pricier end. Still, if convenience matters and you want Florence’s headline attractions on your doorstep, it’s hard to beat.

Check out: Trattoria Dall’Oste for bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak)

Walk to the stadium: 30-40 minutes

Santa Maria Novella

Just to the west of the centre, this area is a practical choice, particularly if you’re arriving by train. It’s well-connected, slightly less chaotic than the heart of the old town, and offers a broader range of accommodation, often at more reasonable rates.

You’re still close enough to walk into the thick of things within minutes, but there’s a bit more breathing space. Ideal if you want accessibility without being completely immersed in the crowds.

Check out: Osteria Pastella, known for fresh pasta and a slightly more modern take without losing the local feel.

Walk to the stadium: 40-50 minutes

Oltrarno

Cross the river, and you’ll notice the shift straight away. Oltrarno feels more lived-in, with artisan shops, quieter streets, and a slower pace. It’s still central, but there’s a more residential, local feel.

Accommodation here often has more character – think converted townhouses and smaller guesthouses. It suits visitors who want a more authentic base without sacrificing proximity to the main sights.

Check out: Trattoria La Casalinga for authentic home-style cooking.

Walk to the stadium: 45-55 minutes

Santo Spirito

Technically part of Oltrarno, but with a distinct personality of its own. Santo Spirito has a bit more edge: lively squares, a decent food scene, and a noticeable student presence.

Evenings here feel more local than tourist-driven, with bars and restaurants spilling out into the piazza. It’s a good fit if you enjoy a bit of atmosphere and don’t mind some noise after dark.

Check out: Il Santino, a small wine bar with excellent cured meats, cheeses, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Walk to the stadium: 50-55 minutes

San Lorenzo

Busy, energetic, and centred around its market, San Lorenzo is a solid middle ground. It’s close to the historic centre but has a slightly more everyday feel, particularly during the day when the market is in full swing.

Food is a major draw here, from casual stalls to traditional trattorias. Accommodation varies, but you’ll often find better value than in the very centre – a practical choice if you want a great location without paying top-tier prices.

Check out: Trattoria Mario – founded in 1953, their Tuscan soup is well worth a try.

Walk to the stadium: 40-45 minutes

Sant’Ambrogio

A bit further east, Sant’Ambrogio is where Florence starts to feel properly local. It’s less polished, more residential, and noticeably quieter in terms of tourism.

The market here is one of the city’s best for everyday life – less about souvenirs, more about actual Florentines doing their shopping. It’s a strong option if you’ve been to Florence before or prefer staying somewhere that feels a bit removed from the main circuit.

Check out: La Chicca , a friendly boutique restaurant that makes you feel like a local.

Walk to the stadium: 20-25 minutes

In a nutshell:

For convenience, you can’t go wrong with the historic centre. For something more relaxed, Oltrarno and Santo Spirito stand out. If value and practicality are priorities, Santa Maria Novella and San Lorenzo are reliable bets. And if you’re after a more local feel, Sant’Ambrogio is well worth considering.