Hotel Snapshot
Walking through Florence is like taking a step back in time. Deemed the capital of Tuscany—as well as the birthplace of the Renaissance, along with the modern Italian language as we know it—the city still hums with the same artistic spirit as it did in centuries past. From the Uffizi and Accademia Gallery to the majestic Duomo, the energy of Florence is palpable—and staying in the heart of the action is one of the best ways to experience it.
Located in the heart of the city center, Hotel Brunelleschi offers a seamless mix of modern hospitality with historic charm, the latter best illustrated by the restored Byzantine-era Pagliazza Tower (Torre della Pagliazza) that doubles as one of the property’s three main buildings. Originally built in the 6th century, the tower stands as the oldest structure in Florence—and guests of Hotel Brunelleschi not only get to explore it, but can actually sleep in it. In short, it’s a property fit for royalty, as well as those looking to travel like such.
Design & Character
Stepping into Hotel Brunelleschi evokes an immediate feeling of past-meets-present. The design blends historic Byzantine and medieval architecture with contemporary touches, featuring gorgeous antique furniture, warming fireplace, and pietra serena stone walls reminiscent of centuries past. Despite recent renovations, many of the property’s common areas still retain a sense of 18th century charm, particularly within the Pagliazza Tower and breakfast area.
The Rooms
The lobby’s Renaissance-inspired vibe is perfectly contrasted by the suites’ modern designs, which highlight airy white and gray color palettes with oak parquet floors and eye-catching chandeliers. Top suites feature mult-room spaces and private rooftops with jacuzzis, along with unmatched private views of the Duomo. All rooms come with modern amenities, including in-room espresso machines and casting-enabled TVs.
Contrary to the modern suites, rooms within the Pagliazza Tower—where I stayed—emphasize a different charm. Due to the unique shape of the rooms, many feature custom round beds to fit within the spaces, complete with iron chandeliers and views over Piazza Sant'Elisabetta. The rooms’ Renaissance vibe are perfectly contrasted by their en-suite bathrooms, which highlight marble tubs, separate showers, and decorative glass accents. Don’t sleep on the beautiful embroidered amenity kit, even if you don’t use it in the moment (more on that below); I took mine to go and couldn’t have thought of a more practical souvenir.
Food & Drink
When it comes to food and beverage, guests can choose their own adventure at Hotel Brunelleschi. Those seeking a higher-end experience can book at the 2-Michelin-starred Santa Elisabetta Restaurant, which features a gourmet tasting menu for lunch and dinner. Each menu highlights Mediterranean and Italian flavors, and at just seven tables, the experience is nothing short of intimate.
For a more casual route, Osteria Pagliazza, located on the ground floor, is the perfect option. Open for lunch and dinner daily, the bistro-style restaurant offers classic Tuscan dishes and a handful of creative antipasti, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The restaurant is located right next to the hotel’s on-site Tower Bar, which is home to some of the best craft cocktails in town. We recommend the Brunelleschi Mary, the bar’s twist on a classic Bloody Mary, or the White Truffle Negroni for a flavor-packed riff on the classic aperitivo drink.
The Amenities
Beyond its impressive on-site dining options, the hotel offers a handful of impressive amenities, including one that very few properties can claim; cue the on-site private museum, located in the basement of the Pagliazza Tower. During the structure’s renovation, a myriad of treasures were discovered within the tower walls, including centuries-old Umbrian pottery, artwork, and a jaw-dropping ancient Roman bath. Note: Museum access to the museum is free for guests and non-guests of the hotel.
Additionally, Hotel Brunelleschi’s rooms and suites come equipped with marble bathrooms and plush robes, along with an embroidered amenity kit containing shaving supplies, toothbrushes, and mini toothpaste. All rooms enjoy daily housekeeping and evening turndown service, and also include an in-room mini bar, coffee/tea maker, and LCD satellite TV with mirroring capabilities. The hotel also boasts a relatively large (by European standards), 24-hour gym outfitted with modern equipment.
Location & Neighborhood
Located in the very heart of Florence’s city center, Hotel Brunelleschi provides direct access to all of the city’s top sites. The hotel is a stone’s throw away from the Duomo, as well as a five-minute walk from Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi Gallery.
Fast Facts
Location: Florence, Italy
Rating: 4-Star
Room Count: 96 rooms and suites
Pricing: Rates start at $400 per night (season dependent)
Dining: The 2-Michelin-starred Santa Elisabetta Restaurant is located on the first floor and serves up a gourmet tasting menu for lunch and dinner (reservations required), while the more casual Osteria Pagliazza, located on the ground floor, is perfect for enjoying spritzes, pastas, and a variety of regional meat dishes indoors or al fresco.
Amenities: 2-Michelin-starred restaurant and casual trattoria, private museum with Roman ruins, 24-hour fitness center, in-room dining, private terraces
Airport: Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR), also known as Peretola
Florence, Italy, Florence, Italy
