Relais Tosinghi

You know what struck me first about Relais Tosinghi? It’s tucked into this narrow medieval street that most tourists walk right past – Via dei Tosinghi runs between the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio, but it’s so unassuming you’d miss it if you weren’t looking. I actually walked past the entrance twice before spotting the discreet sign. The building itself is this gorgeous 15th-century palazzo that’s been carefully converted, and honestly, stepping inside feels like discovering a secret that Florence has been keeping just for you.

The location is absolutely ridiculous – I mean that in the best way possible. You’re literally a two-minute walk from the Duomo (I could hear the bells from my room, which was either charming or slightly annoying depending on the time of day), and the Uffizi is maybe five minutes if you walk slowly. But here’s the thing locals know: this little street is quiet. While Via dei Calzaiuoli – the main drag – is packed with tour groups and street performers, you can slip back to your hotel and it feels like you’ve escaped to a different century. The rooms have this perfect balance of historical character and modern comfort. My room had original frescoed ceilings and stone walls, but the bathroom was completely updated with great water pressure (trust me, this matters after a day of walking on cobblestones). The staff actually remembers your name and seems genuinely excited to share their city recommendations – not just the obvious stuff either. The concierge told me about this tiny enoteca on Via del Proconsolo that I never would have found otherwise.

One thing I really appreciated was how they handle the whole “historic building meets modern expectations” challenge. Yes, there’s no elevator to some floors (it’s a medieval building, what do you expect?), but they’re upfront about it and will help with luggage. The walls are thick stone, so you won’t hear your neighbors, and the windows actually open – which might sound basic, but you’d be surprised how many Florence hotels have sealed windows. Breakfast is served in this beautiful vaulted room that feels like eating in a Renaissance painting, and they source ingredients locally, which means the coffee is proper Italian strong and the pastries are from a bakery that’s been operating since the 1800s. The whole experience feels authentic in a way that’s hard to find in Florence anymore – especially this close to the main sights. You’re staying in a piece of history, but you’re not sacrificing comfort for atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find yourself taking the long way back just to walk through that charming entrance one more time.