Where to Stay in Florence
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in San Lorenzo
Offers more affordable accommodation options and cheap, delicious eats near major attractions.
See full Florence neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Florence
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
San Lorenzo
The historic market district, buzzing with activity from the Mercato Centrale and leather stalls.
Our top picks in San Lorenzo
Oltrarno
A more authentic Florentine experience with artisan workshops, trattorias, and a bohemian charm.
Our top picks in Oltrarno
Santa Croce
A lively neighborhood centered around the grand Basilica di Santa Croce, with a mix of local life and tourist amenities.
Our top picks in Santa Croce
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1San Lorenzo | Mid-range | The historic market district, buzzing with activity from the Mercato Centrale and leather stalls. | foodiesbudget |
Duomo | Luxury | The beating heart of Florence, dominated by the iconic Duomo and bustling with tourists. | first-timersculture |
Oltrarno | Mid-range | A more authentic Florentine experience with artisan workshops, trattorias, and a bohemian charm. | foodiesculture |
Santa Croce | Mid-range | A lively neighborhood centered around the grand Basilica di Santa Croce, with a mix of local life and tourist amenities. | culturefoodies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Florence
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Florence
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Florence. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Florence
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Florence
San Lorenzo
Mid-rangeThe historic market district, buzzing with activity from the Mercato Centrale and leather stalls.
- +Incredible food experiences at Mercato Centrale
- +Great for souvenir shopping (leather goods)
- +Very central and convenient for major sights
- -Can be very crowded and chaotic, especially market days
- -Accommodation can be basic and noisy
Duomo
LuxuryThe beating heart of Florence, dominated by the iconic Duomo and bustling with tourists.
- +Unbeatable central location for sightseeing
- +Abundant dining and shopping options
- +Immersive historical atmosphere
- -Extremely crowded and noisy
- -Can feel overwhelming for some
Oltrarno
Mid-rangeA more authentic Florentine experience with artisan workshops, trattorias, and a bohemian charm.
- +Less touristy than the Duomo area
- +Excellent local restaurants and artisan shops
- +Beautiful views from Piazzale Michelangelo nearby
- -Fewer major sights within immediate walking distance
- -Can be hilly in parts
Santa Croce
Mid-rangeA lively neighborhood centered around the grand Basilica di Santa Croce, with a mix of local life and tourist amenities.
- +Home to the famous Santa Croce church
- +Good selection of trattorias and cafes
- +Central yet slightly less chaotic than Duomo
- -Can still get very busy, especially around the Basilica
- -Limited public transport within the immediate area
Daily Budget (Budget)
EUR 70/day
Hidden Gems in Florence
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio
FREEWhile Mercato Centrale is famous, Sant'Ambrogio offers a more authentic local market experience, with fresh produce, local specialties, and small eateries frequented by Florentines. You can find delicious and affordable food here.
Osteria Santo Spirito
Located in the lively Santo Spirito square, this osteria is beloved by locals for its traditional Tuscan dishes, especially their famous truffle gnocchi. It's a great spot to soak in the local atmosphere and enjoy hearty food.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Florence
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Florence Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Florence on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Florence Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Florence with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Florence: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Florence's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Florence: Scenic Excursion
Escape Florence for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Florence Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Florence's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Florence
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