Palazzo Castri 1874 Spa & Garden

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Palazzo Castri 1874? It’s tucked right into Piazza Indipendenza, which honestly most tourists rush past on their way to the Duomo – but that’s exactly why this spot works so well. The building itself has this understated elegance that feels authentically Florentine, not like those over-the-top places that try too hard to scream “luxury.” I mean, 1874 isn’t just a cute date they slapped on the name; you can actually feel the history in the thick walls and the way the morning light filters through those tall windows.

The spa situation here is actually pretty impressive – and I say that as someone who’s usually skeptical of hotel spas. It’s not huge, but it’s thoughtfully designed with this garden element that makes you forget you’re in the middle of a busy city. Speaking of the garden, it’s one of those hidden gems that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something special. Perfect for morning coffee before the day heats up, or honestly, a glass of wine when you’re too tired to venture out for aperitivo. The whole area around Piazza Indipendenza can get a bit bustling during the day (there’s a decent amount of local foot traffic), but the hotel’s positioned so you’re not dealing with the noise that hits some of the places closer to Via Cavour.

Here’s what I really appreciated – the staff actually knows the neighborhood. Not just the obvious tourist spots, but they pointed me toward this little alimentari on Via Nazionale where the locals shop, and suggested the best times to hit the Mercato Centrale before it gets absolutely mobbed. Check-in was smooth, none of that hovering-around-the-lobby situation you sometimes get at smaller boutique places. The rooms have that nice balance of period details without feeling like you’re sleeping in a museum, and the beds are genuinely comfortable (I’m picky about mattresses). Parking can be a bit of a puzzle in this part of Florence – like anywhere in the historic center, really – but they’ve got arrangements that actually work, unlike some places that just shrug and point you toward the chaos.

What really sets this place apart is how it feels like a proper home base for exploring Florence. You’re close enough to walk to the big sights, but you’re also positioned to discover the Florence that residents actually live in. The morning sounds from the piazza – vendors setting up, the coffee bar across the way grinding beans, people heading to work – it’s the kind of authentic soundtrack you can’t get from those sterile places outside the center. The 4-star rating feels right; it’s polished and comfortable without being stuffy, and that 9 rating makes sense when you factor in the location, the genuine warmth of the service, and those little touches that show someone actually cares about the guest experience. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find yourself lingering an extra day if you can swing it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $222. Classic Double Room with Spa Access with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $269. Superior Double with Spa Access with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $269. Superior Twin Room with Spa Access with 3 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $302. Deluxe Double Room with Spa Access with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $328. Junior Suite with Spa Access with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $353. Junior Suite with View and Spa Access with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $374. Suite with City View and Spa Access with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $412. Apartment with Garden View with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Great place – wished we’d stayed longer – Hugh from United Kingdom – 13 July 2025 (10/10)

  Garden is beautiful, the staff are lovely (especially Camilla), good little gym, great large rooms with big comfortable beds
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Very good – Patricia from Spain – 12 July 2025 (8/10)

  The bed

• Highly recommended. Great hotel with exceptional staff. – Edward from United Kingdom – 12 July 2025 (10/10)

  Clean and well presented. Fantastic beds, great showers and facilities. Spa and garden lovely. The staff were exceptionally lovely.

• excellent – Glen from United Kingdom – 7 July 2025 (10/10)

  everything staff location spotlessly clean
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• We'll remember Florence mostly because of the Palazzo Castri. – George from Canada – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  A little piece of paradise that always brought a smile to our faces when we walked through the front doors.
  
  What could be improved: Shower doors aren't watertight. Shower and bathroom floors are extremely slippery and are a disaster waiting to happen.

• The rooms were excellent as was the general property and helpful staff – Richard from United Kingdom – 5 July 2025 (10/10)

  The rooms were excellent as was the general property and helpful staff
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Amazing stay – Sukaina from United Kingdom – 30 June 2025 (10/10)

  I had a wonderful stay at Palazzo Castri! We were pleasantly upgraded to a beautiful suite, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our visit. The outdoor area and pool are stunning, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The location is very central, making it easy to experience the best of Florence. Highly recommended!

• Exceptional – Richard from United Kingdom – 25 June 2025 (10/10)

  Reception staff were very helpful
  
  What could be improved: had to upgrade room as original very small

• Actually faultless! – Domenic from Italy – 23 June 2025 (10/10)

  Location, the view from the suite, decor, art work, amenities, facilities, staff, cleanliness, overall service, food options.. actually faultless.
  
  What could be improved: Struggling to pick anything.

• Garden of Florence feels – Nicklas from Denmark – 12 June 2025 (10/10)

  Everything about this place was pristine.
  From breakfast to the service, vallet parking, gym, sauna/cold shower/ Turkish bath. The place is within walking distance to everything while being quiet at night. Sirene garden with pool and amazing beds and rooms. I will no doubt be staying here again on my next visit.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was excellent

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities