Florence is one of those cities that feel almost unreal the first time you visit. Art, history, architecture, food — everything comes together in a way that makes you want to slow down and take it all in.
But there’s one thing about Florence that can quickly turn that dream into a headache: hotel prices.
Florence is consistently ranked as one of the most expensive cities in Italy when it comes to accommodation, especially if you want to stay somewhere central, close to the main attractions, and well-connected by public transport.
After visiting Florence several times on cruise excursions — always rushed, always wishing I had more time — I finally decided to do things differently. During my long journey through Europe, I stayed five nights in Florence, giving myself the chance to truly experience the city beyond a few guided highlights.
For that stay, I chose Hotel Alinari, a 3-star hotel located just steps away from Florence’s main train station. In this post, I’ll share my honest experience, what I liked, what could be better, how much I paid, and whether this hotel is a good value-for-money option if you’re planning a trip to Florence.
Why Stay in Florence for More Than a Day
If you’re visiting Florence on a cruise excursion, chances are you’ll arrive from ports like Livorno or La Spezia, spend a few hours in the historic center, and head back to the ship before sunset.
These tours are great for a first impression, but Florence is not a city that reveals itself in a few hours.
The real magic of Florence happens early in the morning, late in the afternoon, and at night — when the crowds thin out, the streets quiet down, and the city feels more intimate.
That’s exactly why staying overnight — or better yet, for several days — completely changes the experience.
Hotel Alinari: Location, Location, Location
One of the main reasons I chose Hotel Alinari was its strategic location.
The hotel is located less than a five-minute walk from Santa Maria Novella train station, Florence’s main railway hub. This makes arrival and departure incredibly easy, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or arriving by train from another Italian city.
Florence’s historic center is also extremely walkable from the hotel, meaning you can explore most attractions on foot without relying on taxis or public transport.
Walking distances from Hotel Alinari
- Santa Maria Novella Train Station – 3 to 5 minutes
- Florence Central Market (Mercato Centrale) – about 5 minutes
- Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) – 10 to 15 minutes
- Galleria dell’Accademia (David statue) – about 15 minutes
- Uffizi Gallery – 15 to 20 minutes
- Ponte Vecchio – about 20 minutes
For a city like Florence, that’s a huge advantage — especially if you want to avoid crowded buses and maximize your time exploring.
The Building and First Impressions
Hotel Alinari is located inside a large 18th-century residential building, right in the heart of Florence.
This is very common in historic European cities: multiple independent hotels operating on different floors of the same building.
The hotel itself occupies the fourth floor, and the interior is divided into two levels connected by an internal staircase, with a total of 28 rooms.
Access is via a small, old-style elevator, clearly renovated but still very compact — or by stairs. If you’re not carrying heavy luggage, the stairs are often the faster option.
This historic setup may surprise first-time visitors to Europe, but it adds a certain charm and authenticity to the experience.
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Room Experience: Simple, Clean, and Comfortable
I stayed in Room 154, and overall, my impression was very positive.
The room is simple but spacious, especially given the hotel’s central location. It has two single beds, but the hotel also offers rooms with double beds and family-friendly configurations.
Despite the building’s age, the room feels modern and functional, with updated decor and a layout that works well for travelers.
Room highlights
- Excellent cleanliness — the room was spotless throughout my stay
- Air conditioning, which is not always guaranteed in European hotels
- A desk near the window, useful for working or having a quick snack
- An empty minibar, perfect for storing drinks and snacks
- A supermarket is directly across the street, making it easy to save money
- A wardrobe with drawers, hangers, and a safe
- TV with local and international channels
After long days walking through Florence, the room was a comfortable and practical place to relax.
Bathroom and Shower: The One Trade-Off
The bathroom was furnished with the expected sink, mirror, and even a bidet (which is still very common in Italian hotels). The bathroom was spotless and quite modern, but on the small side, which, to be fair, is very common in European city hotels. However, this one has to be the smallest shower stall I’ve ever seen, even compared to the ones onboard most cruise ships.
To my surprise, the water pressure in the shower was excellent, which I really appreciated, but the shower box was too small, even for a standard-sized person.
For a traveler a bit larger, like me, it was very tight, and the only practical solution was to shower with the doors partially open, which left the bathroom soaked every time.
That said, if it is a deal-breaker for you, the hotel offers other room types with larger bathrooms, so it is worth checking your options when booking.
Breakfast and Service: A Pleasant Surprise
Breakfast was included in the rate, served buffet-style in a cozy breakfast room.
Starting the day with a view over Florence — and sometimes even seeing hot air balloons floating near the Duomo — was a real highlight.
Breakfast also included: Italian coffee made to order, Fresh cheese and fruit plates, and delicious Omelets prepared by the staff
Highlight: The staff deserves a special mention. Everyone was very friendly, welcoming, and genuinely helpful, making me feel more like a friend than just a room number.
After traveling solo for a long time, that warm atmosphere made a big difference.
Price and Value for Money
During my stay, I paid around €160 per night.
- Central hotels in Florence often range between €180 and €300 per night
- During high season, prices easily exceed €300 to €350
- Cheaper options usually mean staying farther from the historic center
Considering the location, comfort, cleanliness, and service, I found Hotel Alinari to offer very fair value for money.
Final Verdict: Would I Stay Here Again?
Yes — absolutely.
Hotel Alinari is a great option for travelers who want to stay in the heart of Florence, be close to the train station, walk to major attractions, and keep accommodation costs under control.
It’s not a luxury hotel, but it delivers exactly what many travelers need: comfort, location, and a welcoming atmosphere, without breaking the bank.
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FAQ
Is Hotel Alinari in a good location in Florence?
Yes. Hotel Alinari is located just a few minutes’ walk from Santa Maria Novella train station and within walking distance of Florence’s main attractions, including the Duomo, Mercato Centrale, Galleria dell’Accademia, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring Florence on foot.
How far is Hotel Alinari from Florence train station?
Hotel Alinari is approximately a 3 to 5-minute walk from Santa Maria Novella train station, Florence’s main railway hub. This makes arrival and departure extremely convenient, especially for travelers arriving by train from Rome, Pisa, or other Italian cities.
Is Hotel Alinari a good option before or after a cruise from Civitavecchia?
Yes. While Livorno and La Spezia are closer to Florence, they mainly operate as transit ports for day excursions rather than embarkation hubs. The main cruise port near Rome is Civitavecchia. Traveling from Civitavecchia to Florence by train typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, usually with a connection in Rome. For travelers extending their cruise vacation, Hotel Alinari’s central location near the train station makes it a practical choice.
How much does it cost to stay at Hotel Alinari?
During my stay, I paid around €160 per night. Prices vary by season, but central hotels in Florence often range from €180 to €300 per night and can exceed €300 in high season. For its location and comfort, Hotel Alinari offers good value for money.
Are the rooms at Hotel Alinari spacious?
The rooms are simple but relatively spacious for a hotel located in Florence’s historic center. My room was comfortable and functional, with storage space, air conditioning, and a desk. Bathroom size may vary by room category.
Does Hotel Alinari have air conditioning?
Yes. My room had air conditioning, which is especially important during the warmer months in Florence. Not all older buildings in Italy offer reliable air conditioning, so this is a valuable feature.
Is the bathroom at Hotel Alinari small?
The bathroom in my room was clean and modern, but compact, particularly the shower, which was smaller than average. This is common in historic European buildings. Travelers who prefer more space may want to check room options when booking.
Is breakfast included at Hotel Alinari?
Breakfast was included in my rate and served buffet-style. It included Italian coffee, fresh fruit, and omelets prepared by the staff. The breakfast room also offers pleasant views over Florence, making it a nice way to start the day.
Is Hotel Alinari worth it?
If you are looking for a centrally located hotel in Florence that offers comfort, cleanliness, and easy access to transportation without luxury-level prices, Hotel Alinari is a strong value-for-money option. It is especially suitable for travelers who prioritize location and practicality.
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