Via Vacchereccia 3, Santa Maria Novella, 50122 Florence, Italy
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Image 1 of Relais Piazza Signoria
Image 2 of Relais Piazza Signoria

Hotel Description

So I’ve stayed at the Relais Piazza Signoria twice now, and honestly, it’s one of those places that just gets everything right. The moment you walk through that heavy wooden door on Via Vacchereccia – which is basically this narrow medieval street that most tourists rush past without noticing – you’re transported into what feels like a Florentine noble’s private residence. I mean, the palazzo dates back to the 14th century, and you can actually feel the history in those thick stone walls.

What really struck me is how they’ve managed to preserve all the original architectural details without making it feel like a museum. The frescoed ceilings in some rooms are absolutely stunning, and the views… well, if you get one of the upper floor rooms facing the right direction, you’ll have the Palazzo Vecchio practically in your lap. The location is ridiculously perfect – you’re literally a two-minute walk from the Piazza della Signoria (hence the name), but tucked away enough that you don’t get the constant stream of tour groups marching past your window at 7 AM. Actually, the street itself is quite peaceful, especially in the evenings when the day-trippers have headed back to their cruise ships.

The staff here actually knows Florence, which sounds obvious but you’d be surprised how rare that is. They pointed me toward this little osteria on Via dei Georgofili that I never would have found otherwise – the kind of place where locals go for lunch and there’s no English menu. Parking is definitely a challenge (it’s Florence, what do you expect?), but they’ll arrange something at a nearby garage if you need it. The rooms vary quite a bit in size and style since it’s a historic building, so don’t expect cookie-cutter hotel uniformity. Some have those gorgeous coffered ceilings, others have exposed beams, and a few have tiny balconies overlooking the internal courtyard. The bathrooms are modern but fitted carefully into the old structure – my shower was tucked into what must have been a medieval alcove, which was charming if a bit cozy. One thing I really appreciated was how quiet it gets at night, even though you’re right in the heart of the historic center. Those thick walls really do their job. The breakfast spread is solid – nothing fancy, but good quality Italian basics served in a room that feels like someone’s elegant dining room rather than a hotel restaurant. If you’re visiting during peak season, book way ahead because this place only has about 10 rooms and word has definitely gotten out about how special it is.

Rooms

  • Estimated price from: $148. Classic Suite for Max persons: 2
  • Estimated price from: $176. Classic Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
  • Estimated price from: $210. Deluxe Studio with View with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
  • Estimated price from: $210. Executive Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
  • Estimated price from: $319. Penthouse Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed, 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2
Image 3 of Relais Piazza Signoria
Image 4 of Relais Piazza Signoria

Reviews

  • Exceptional – Aliyev from Azerbaijan – 11 July 2025 (10/10)

    The best location, helful and kind staff, clean and well-designed rooms.. Everything was perfect!

  • We had an amazing time in Florence. Staying a the Realis was the cherry on top! – Lauren from United States – 11 July 2025 (9/10)

    The location was exceptional!

    What could be improved: Inconsistent on the elevator, pillows were uncomfortable, and the hallway lighting was inconsistent.

  • Wonderful stay ! Fell in love with Florence! – Sharon from United Kingdom – 11 July 2025 (9/10)

    Location was fab so close to all the main attractions of Firenze! Complimentary bottle of Prosecco which was lovely. Friendly helpful staff.

    What could be improved: Little bit noisy at night given location although not really after midnight so not a great issue. Not that easy to find although maybe that was just us!

  • If you want location location then this is the property for you. – Leanne from Australia – 11 July 2025 (9/10)

    The location was amazing xx great views from our room and so central to nearly all the attractions. Very happy with the location and convenience of this property l.

    What could be improved: We found the beds quite hard. Left hotel with sore back and necks. We couldn’t fault the property at all.. very good size rooms aswell but beds too hard for our liking.

  • Perfect stay! – Shahana from United Kingdom – 9 July 2025 (10/10)

    Great location! Everything was just so local and at our doorstep, all attractions were around a 7 min walk, a 20 min walk to the train station too. We could come back to the room to relax, put our feet up and head back out straight away. Room was clean and the beds were comfortable. Room had air con too.

    What could be improved: It was great! Only thing it could improve on was to provide an iron as I don't seem to recall seeing one in the room.

  • A great place in a central location – Dion from Australia – 5 July 2025 (8/10)

    A great property in a fantastic spot in Florence.
    15min walk from the train station.
    In close proximity to Piazza della Signoria, and a 10 min walk to Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore.
    We stayed in a deluxe studio overlooking the piazza.
    Small amount of street noise could be heard during the night.
    Room fitted with blockout curtains. These provide some protection from the street lights.
    Studios fitted out with new appliances.
    kitchenette with only a stove top. No dishwasher.
    Bed comfortable.
    Aircon worked great.
    Only one small elevator. Had to regularly wait, especially with suitcase. Otherwise, quicker to walk up the stairs.
    A good comfortable studio apartment, in a great central location.
    I would definitely have it on my possible accommodation options in Florence.

    What could be improved: Only the small, slow elevator.

  • Pleasantly surprised with the apartment and the location. My wife and I loved it! – Deyoung from United States – 4 July 2025 (9/10)

    Location,location,location! Easy walking to everything we planned on doing. The apartment was excellent with everything you need for an extended stay, not to mention the air conditioning was more than adequate, it was exceptionally hot during our stay. Our host was waiting for us at the door to make our check in quick and easy. Definitely recommend the Pizza and Gelato making tour.Would stay here again.

    What could be improved: It was directly on the square if you prefer to be away from some of the activity.

  • Exceptional – Neil from Australia – 4 July 2025 (10/10)

    Locations Location Location.

    What could be improved: Nothing

  • Absolutely wonderful 🙌 – Frances from United Kingdom – 1 July 2025 (9/10)

    Perfect location. Spacious, clean and comfortable and the bathroom really lovely.

    What could be improved: I loved it all, beautiful apartment in a stunning location. One recommendation would be to have a full length mirror in the bedroom.

  • A wonderful spot to stay in a great location! – Alexis from United States – 30 June 2025 (10/10)

    Amazing location!!! Really nice rooms and friendly and helpful staff. The airline lost one of our bags as we arrived in Florence, and the staff received it for us the following day while we were out. They also gave us recommendations for places to eat when we asked, and called a cab for us when we left for the train station. I would easily stay here again!

SURROUNDINGS

What’s nearby:

  • Torre de’ Pulci: 100 m
  • Fonte del Nettuno: 100 m
  • Statua del Perseo: 100 m
  • Torre degli Amidei: 150 m
  • Loggetta del Vasari: 0 m
  • Palazzo degli Uffizi: 150 m
  • Loggia del Porcellino: 0 m
  • Piazza della Signoria: 200 m
  • Torre dei Buondelmonti: 0 m
  • Accademia dei Georgofili: 100 m

Restaurants & cafes:

  • Restaurant Vinaino: 0 m
  • Restaurant Buca Poldo: 0 m
  • Restaurant Caffetteria Letizia: 0 m

Top attractions:

  • Pitti Palace: 650 m
  • Ponte Vecchio: 200 m
  • Strozzi Palace: 450 m
  • Uffizi Gallery: 200 m
  • Palazzo Vecchio: 1 km
  • Accademia Gallery: 1.1 km
  • Piazzale Michelangelo: 1.7 km
  • Bargello National Museum: 400 m
  • Salvatore Ferragamo Museum: 350 m
  • Piazza del Duomo di Firenze: 650 m

Natural beauty:

  • Forest Monte Morello: 14 km

Public transport:

  • Train Firenze Porta al Prato: 1.9 km
  • Train Santa Maria Novella Train Station: 1.1 km

Closest airports:

  • Florence Airport: 6 km
  • Pisa International Airport: 81 km
  • Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport: 99 km

Facilities

Bedroom:

  • Linen
  • Wardrobe or closet

Bathroom:

  • Toilet paper
  • Towels
  • Bidet
  • Slippers
  • Private bathroom
  • Toilet
  • Free toiletries
  • Hairdryer
  • Shower

Living Area:

  • Dining area
  • Desk

Food & Drink:

  • Tea/Coffee maker

Miscellaneous:

  • Air conditioning
  • Non-smoking throughout
  • Allergy-free room
  • Heating
  • Soundproof rooms
  • Lift
  • Family rooms
  • Non-smoking rooms

Room Amenities:

  • Socket near the bed
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Hardwood or parquet floors
  • Soundproofing

Languages spoken:

  • German
  • English
  • Italian

Safety & security:

  • Fire extinguishers
  • CCTV in common areas
  • Security alarm
  • Key access
  • Safety deposit box

Media & Technology:

  • Flat-screen TV
  • Laptop safe
  • Satellite channels
  • TV

Reception services:

  • Invoice provided
  • Private check-in/check-out
  • Concierge service
  • Luggage storage
  • Tour desk

Great for your stay:

  • Private bathroom
  • Parking
  • Kitchen
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Pets allowed
  • Family rooms
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Valet parking

Building characteristics:

  • Semi-detached

Parking Public parking is possible at a location nearby (reservation is needed) and costs € 40 per day.:

  • Valet parking
  • Parking garage
  • Electric vehicle charging station

Other for your stay:

  • Dining table
  • Coffee machine
  • Stovetop
  • Kitchenware
  • Electric kettle
  • Kitchen
  • Refrigerator
  • Kitchenette
Image 5 of Relais Piazza Signoria
Image 6 of Relais Piazza Signoria

Rules

Pets:

  • Pets are allowed. Charges may be applicable.

Parties:

  • Parties/events are not allowed

Smoking:

  • Smoking is not allowed.

Check-in:

  • From 13:00 to 17:00
  • You’ll need to let the property know in advance what time you’ll arrive.

Check-out:

  • From 06:30 to 11:00

Cancellation/prepayment:

  • Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please check what conditions may apply to each option when making your selection.

Guest reviews

Staff:

9.5

Comfort:

9.3

Location:

9.9

Free WiFi:

9.3

Facilities:

8.9

Cleanliness:

9.2

Value for money:

8.9

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