Villa Cora

Hotel Description

You know what’s funny about Villa Cora? I walked past it probably a dozen times on Viale Machiavelli before I actually realized it was a hotel. From the street, it looks like one of those private palazzos that some old Florentine family still calls home – which, honestly, is exactly what it used to be. The 19th-century facade is so seamlessly integrated into the Oltrarno neighborhood that you’d miss it if you weren’t looking for the discreet entrance.

But step inside and… well, it’s like stumbling into someone’s incredibly wealthy great-aunt’s villa, if that aunt happened to have impeccable taste and a serious art collection. The interiors strike this perfect balance between opulent and lived-in – think original frescoes and antique furnishings that don’t feel like museum pieces you’re afraid to touch. I mean, you’re still in a five-star property, so everything’s pristine, but there’s this warmth that a lot of luxury hotels completely miss. The staff actually remembers your name after day one, which sounds small but makes all the difference when you’re trying to feel at home somewhere.

What really sold me on this place, though, is the location. Sure, you’re not stumbling out the front door onto the Ponte Vecchio, but that’s actually a blessing – you avoid the tourist crush while still being a pleasant fifteen-minute walk to the Duomo. The real magic is that you’re properly in a residential area where actual Florentines live. There’s this little alimentari around the corner where the owner will slice you the most incredible prosciutto, and the morning espresso routine at the bar down the street becomes part of your day. You get to experience Florence like you’re temporarily living there, not just passing through with a camera.

The garden is another thing entirely – I wasn’t expecting such a substantial outdoor space in the middle of the city. It’s where you’ll want to have breakfast (the hotel does a solid spread, nothing too fancy but good coffee and proper pastries), and honestly, it’s a lifesaver during the summer heat. Florence can be brutal in July and August, but you’ve got this green oasis to retreat to. The pool isn’t huge, but it’s there when you need it, tucked away behind old stone walls so it feels completely private.

If I’m being completely honest, the rooms vary quite a bit – some have these soaring ceilings and original architectural details that’ll make you feel like Florentine royalty, while others are more standard luxury hotel fare. It’s worth asking about room types when you book, or at least mentioning if you’re celebrating something special. The parking situation is actually handled well too, which anyone who’s tried to navigate Florence by car will appreciate – they’ve got valet service that eliminates the stress of Italian city driving.

Look, Villa Cora isn’t going to be the cheapest option in Florence, but if you want to experience the city like you’re staying at a friend’s impossibly elegant family home rather than feeling like just another tourist, it’s worth the splurge. The 9.4 rating makes sense once you’ve been there – it’s that rare place that delivers on luxury without losing its soul.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $484. Classic Double Room with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $567. Superior Queen Room with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $626. Deluxe Double Room with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $921. Junior Suite with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $1,502. Suite with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $1,214. Duplex Quadruple Room with 2 single beds and 1 double bed for Max persons: 4
• Estimated price from: $1,279. Two Connecting Double Rooms with 2 single beds and 1 double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Exceptional – Daniel from Netherlands – 11 July 2025 (10/10)

  What a wonderful experience. The hotel is phenomenal. So beautiful, and the pool and facilities wonderful.
  And the staff amazing! Fabio, for instance, gave us stellar advice and recommendations (we had the best dinner in our two week stay, because of his tips!). Fantastic team.

• Villa Cora is our favorite hotel in the world. Perfect for anyone wanting a romantic break. – Tim from United Kingdom – 7 July 2025 (10/10)

  We love everything about Villa Cora. The decor and style of the hotel is incredible. The staff are attentive and service is relaxed but discreet. The breakfast is great. The pool is beautiful and very laid back. The dinner is top class.
  
  What could be improved: This is our home when we travel to Florence. There is nothing we didn't like.

• Villa Cora – Sheer Elegance, Luxury, Lavishness! The only way to stay in Tuscany! – Nokuthula from South Africa – 3 June 2025 (10/10)

  EVERYTHING!!! 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾
  
  What could be improved: ABSOLUTELY NOTHING

• 100% would return! Truly a special place. – Lisa from United States – 17 May 2025 (10/10)

  The property is stunning. Beautiful roses all around and very well maintained grounds. The pool area is even more beautiful than the pictures and videos. Truly special! The front of house staff were amazing.
  
  What could be improved: We had the duplex on the Nobel floor. It was nice but beds are not very comfortable, no in room coffee or tea supplies.

• Dream place to stay! – Lawanda from United Kingdom – 28 April 2025 (10/10)

  All! It’s a magic, charming, fairytale property with perfect services and experience!

• Will definite be back. – Anthony from United Kingdom – 17 April 2025 (10/10)

  Villa Cora is the most amazing property and certainly one of the best hotels we have ever stayed in. Absolutely stunning. Staff went the extra mile and so friendly and helpful.
  Location is excellent.

• Breathtakingly beautiful architecture, kind and caring staff, all set in amazing surroundings – Elizabeth from United Kingdom – 5 April 2025 (10/10)

  Utterly beautiful. With so many original features, a real elegance and charm about the whole estate
  
  What could be improved: Nothing !

• Exceptional – Philippe from Italy – 24 February 2025 (10/10)

  Always best hotel in florence

• Exceptional – Sergio from United States – 7 January 2025 (10/10)

  Amazing location, amazing staff and amazing facilities. Highly recommended

• A favorite in Florence, unsurpassed. – Sharon from United States – 30 December 2024 (10/10)

  Absolutely beautiful property, every detail considered, and a wonderful friendly staff.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities