Hotel L’Orologio Firenze 🇮🇹 Luxury in the heart of Florence

A few streets from Florence's cathedral, on a quiet corner near Santa Maria Novella, sits Hotel L'Orologio Firenze. Short walk to the old centre, but the noise stays at arm's length. Step outside and you are minutes from the main squares, churches and shopping streets. The building leans into a watchmaking theme, with clock motifs running through the interiors, which gives the place a personality you don't always find in city hotels.

Rooms are decorated in warm tones with dark wood, marble bathrooms and proper soundproofing, so you rest well after a long day on foot. Buffet breakfast is included and served each morning, and there is a bar for an evening drink. Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a safe come as standard, and the front desk is used to helping guests plan their days. Expect a calm, grown-up feel rather than anything flashy.

Santa Maria Novella Basilica is about 160 metres away, and the Medici Chapels sit roughly 280 metres from the door. The Baptistery of San Giovanni is close at around 360 metres, with Piazza della Repubblica just beyond at about 390 metres. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the city's best-known sight, is a five-minute stroll at 435 metres. Most of what draws people to Florence is reachable on foot from here.

This one suits couples who want to walk everywhere and stay somewhere with character. Three nights gives you time for the main museums, a few long lunches and slow evenings without rushing.