Where to Stay in Tuscany: Best Hotels

With its long coastline, rolling hills in the countryside and capital city of Florence, Tuscany offers wonderful and varied hotel options to suit every kind of traveler. Whether you want an itinerary filled with visiting towns, wineries and museums, or maybe you’re just in it for relaxing poolside with a spritz, you are sure to find the perfect hotel in Tuscany.

My recommendations for where to stay in Tuscany come from years of living in Italy and traveling in Tuscany. Some are properties that I loved visiting and others are on my wishlist for next time.

I’ve divided up where to stay in Tuscany by type of hotels: countryside stays, hotels in Florence, village boutique hotels, 5-star luxury properties and coastal options. I’ve also included a few budget finds, because I do believe la dolce vita in Tuscany can be enjoyed at any price point. 

I’ve also included some travel tips and suggestions for traveling families. 

Where to base yourself in Tuscany

With endless historical and culinary treasures, it can feel like a logistical dance deciding where to stay in Tuscany so you can see it all. There is so much to consider like your method of transportation, accessibility needs, travel style, personal wishlist, budget and family size.

I always recommend breaking up a trip into two kind of hotels. If you are planning a week long trip, I would suggest staying in different settings to get more unique experiences. A few nights in Florence paired with a few nights in the Val d’ Orcia would be my ideal choice.

Staying in the Val d’ Orcia means you can be within short driving distance to some of the best towns in Tuscany like Pienza and Montepulciano. 

Where to Stay for Families

Italy is an incredibly family friendly country. In my experience, children are always welcome. Also, it’s very dog friendly too if you are looking to truly bring the whole family on your trip! 

From the adorable child sized robes and kid’s spa menu (yes, really!) at the Four Seasons Firenze to the family friendly pools at countryside villas, there’s something for kids of all ages.

Of course, there are exceptions like properties specializing in romantic getaways. You might also find that spa hotels catering to wellness and relaxation only allow older children. I would probably pass on a dinner at an upscale hotel with an elegant restaurant also.

A travel cot/crib is usually free, but a rollaway bed might cost extra. I always scroll down to the bottom of the booking page and read the section especially for children. 

When staying with young children that go to bed early, it’s nice to have a small terrace that you can relax on so you’re not sitting in silence in the dark at 7:30pm or confined to the bathroom. I’ve definitely done both of those, so I appreciated when I can have a little extra room. 

Picturesque Countryside Hotels

To have the quintessential Tuscany experience, consider staying at more rural property among rolling hills and cypress lined gravel roads. Staying in a countryside hotel can be a great pick for both families or couples. If your trip is in the summer, be sure to pick a hotel with a pool. Countryside hotels in Tuscany usually offer free parking too.  

If a more rural stay far from town is up your alley, you’ll also want to consider the dinner menu if you plan on spending your evenings at the property. You can count on pasta and wine being on the menu, so that’s really all you need…

Borgo Pignano – Borgo means “village” in Italian and this village offers it all. The 750-acre estate produces wine, honey, olive oil and more. Choose one of the 14 rooms and suites in the 18th century villa, or stay in a larger maisonette if traveling in a group. Enjoy the elegant rooms with terracotta floors and spend a sunny day by the stunning pool with a view.

There’s something for everyone with everything from a spa, horseback riding, cooking classes and even a vintage car collection. Activities for children and a special pool for kids makes this a nice choice for families. Located less than 30 minutes to San Gimignano, not that you’d ever want to leave. 5-star, check pricing and availability.

Borgo Vescine – Located in the Chianti Classico region, this former fortress from the Lombard era is now 28 charming rooms and suites. Have a candlelit dinner in the olive groves on Wednesdays or in the village’s piazza on Fridays. Read more about dining and make a dinner reservation in advance. 4 stars, check pricing and availability.

Hotel Le Fontanelle – a nice mix of charm and luxury with stunning views and garden spaces just 25 minutes from Siena.

Il Borro Relais & Chateau – This hamlet has been owned by the Ferragamo family since the early 1990s, but dates back to medieval times (read more about its fascinating history). Enjoy endless amenities like a pool, spa, winery and multiple restaurants.

Stay in one of the 38 rooms in the medieval village or choose one of the 20 countryside rooms located poolside. Villas with multiple bedrooms and private pools are also available for a larger family gathering.
5 stars, check pricing and availability.

Lupaia – Idyllic property dates back to the 17th century with beautiful details like tiles in the bathroom. Check pricing and availability.

Villa di Piazzano – Our family friends own a villa near Villa di Piazzano and they highly recommend this hotel. Technically right on the border of Umbria, this historic 5-star hotel offers beautiful rooms, gardens and an on-site restaurant just 10 minutes from Cortona. The villa was originally built as a hunting lodge for Cardinal Silvio Passerini in the 15th century. Not suitable for children under age 7. 5 stars, check pricing and availability.

Villa Medici of Lilliano – Rooms offer an extra living space and a small kitchenette for excellent value just 6 miles from the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. Check pricing and availability.

Hotels in Villages and Hilltop Towns

Hotels located in the picturesque villages across Tuscany can offer the best of both worlds. In the evenings, I like having a leisure aperitivo at a quaint wine bar and then walk over to another restaurant. During the day, there’s options for shopping and also day trips to other towns or wineries. The parking situation is usually better (and less expensive) than Florence city center, but be sure to ask the hotel in advance where they recommend parking if you have rented a car.

Hotel San Gregorio – When I was living in Naples, I took a train up to Venice for the weekend. Then I rented a car to load up on pottery from Nove (highly recommend!) and drove it back down. I chose to stop in Pienza on the way down and Hotel San Gregorio was a perfect fit. Walking distance to town, private underground parking and good value. 3 stars, check pricing and availability.

For a modern and upscale choice in Pienza, I’d check into La Bandita Townhouse.

Albergo Le Terme – If you’re after a spa experience, check into one of the hotels in Bagno Vignoni. This very small village with natural thermal springs since Roman times is a nice choice for a more relaxing stay. There’s just a handful of restaurants within walking distance. Albergo Le Terme offers rooms that look right out onto the ancient thermal pool. 3 stars, check pricing and availability.

Grand Hotel Continental Siena – A noble palace with original frescoes in the center of Siena, a good choice for those wanting to stay in a small city. Check pricing and availability.

Luxury Hotels in Tuscany

Tuscany is home to some of the most premiere properties in Italy. For the truly special occasion trips, consider one these 5-star hotels for an unforgettable experience.

Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel – I’ve been fortunate to visit Belmond hotels in Mallorca and Taormina, and the property near Florence embodies the same elegance. The former monastery is now a historical hotel with 42 rooms in the hills above Florence. Complete with a pool, fine dining, stunning views, lush landscape and 15th century gardens. 5 stars, check pricing and availability.

For a more countryside stay, consider their other property Belmond Castello di Casole in the hills about 35 minutes from Siena.

Borgo Santo Pietro – Small luxury hotel of only 22 rooms and suite. Dine at two restaurants fueled by 300 acres of farmland and a onsite vegetable garden. The luxury spa even uses products from their own skincare line. Check pricing and availability. 

Four Seasons Firenze – Four Seasons is synonymous with luxury, and the Florence location is no exception. With historical suites boasting original Baroque frescoes and a Michelin-starred restaurant, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more memorable and luxurious stay in Florence. You can simultaneously enjoy the largest private gardens in Florence and be within walking distance of the top attractions.
5 stars, check pricing and availability. 

And for more options in Florence…

Hotels in Florence

As the capital city of Tuscany, no trip to the region is complete without seeing the highlights in Florence. It also makes a good base if you want to go on organized tours and day trips by train. Florence is the best option if you want to visit Tuscany without a car.

Choosing to stay in the city is also great because it gives you endless options for restaurants, museums and nightlife. Personally, that last ship has sailed for me as I currently have a young toddler in tow, but I do have fond (at times, hazy) memories of late night wine bars from years past.

Hotel Palazzo Guadagni – This boutique hotel with just 15 charming rooms dates back to 1505. With a prime location next to Piazza Santo Spirito, you’ll enjoy views of the piazza below and Florence’s many landmarks in the distance. Tile lovers rejoice, each bathroom is complete with Vietri tiles. You can’t miss aperitivo on the rooftop bar Loggia. 3 stars, check pricing and availability.

Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi Firenze Hotel – I chose to stay at this property that dates back to the 16th century for its prime location between the river and the train station. This was before it got a much needed renovation by the Tivoli hotel group. The former front desk is now a beautiful bar. They’ve wisely revamped with rooftop as well, but the beautiful views of Florence remains unchanged. 5 stars, check pricing and availability.

Hotel Torre di Bellosuardo offers the space, pool and gardens of a countryside villa, but walking distance to downtown Florence (admittedly, quite a long walk at over a mile down to the river, but still doable). Book one of the spacious rooms to enjoy its antique furnishings, the 16th century frescoes and stunning views of Florence. 4 stars, check pricing and availability.

Lungarno Collection Hotels – The Lungarno Hotel group boasts a luxurious selection grouped right around the Arno river. You’ll be spoiled for choice between Hotel Lungarno, Portrait Firenze and the Continentale with their modern design and wonderful views.

Seaside Hotels in Coastal Tuscany

The coast is an often forgotten part of Tuscany, and it would be a shame to exclude this overlooked part of the region. Connected to the mainland by a bridge and two narrow passages, Monte Argentario sits like an island off the coast. Porto Ercole and Porto Santo Stefano are the two main towns.

Hotel Il Pellicano is located on the south end with a private waterfront beach club. What was once a private home in the 1960s is now one of the most luxurious hotels on the Tuscan coast with a star-studded list of former guests, socialites and royalty. The Pellicano hotel group embodies a laidback elegance that you’ll also find at their two other hotels, Mezzatore on Ischia and La Posta Vecchia near Rome. Check pricing and availability. 

Villa Talamo – This special property on the coast is no longer operated like a normal hotel where you can book one room for just a few nights, like when I stayed there. You can only rent the villa in its entirety, which is a bit of a shame to be honest. I figure it is worth mentioning in the event you are planning a special occasion with 20 of your closest friends or a big family reunion.  Book for 3-7 nights, depending on the time of year. More details about booking. 

La Roqqa  – This newcomer in Porto Ercole has been getting quite the buzz since opening in summer 2024. Check pricing and availability.

Where to Stay in Tuscany on a Budget

You don’t have to break the bank to have a wonderful stay in Tuscany. There are countless B&Bs across the region that still offer a memorable experience and access to many Tuscany’s treasures. Also look for an agriturimo, a traditional farm stay that usually has more wallet-friendly pricing. 

Dolce Maria B&B – Starting at around 100 euros a night in the high season, this family B&B is an excellent budget choice right in the center of Cortona. I ate at their restaurant Locanda al Pozzo Antico for dinner one night by myself. Well, my dog Alfie was there too (she snoozed in her carrier bag the entire time as we sat in the courtyard area). It’s a family business and they were so friendly. Check pricing and availability. 

Borgo Lucignanello Bandini – I discovered Borgo Lucignanello Bandini when I was researching for a large family vacation. They offer several two-bedroom apartments and vacation homes that have ample room for families with kitchenettes and living spaces. Two bedroom apartments starting at $300. Check pricing and availability.

Read next:

• Guide to Florence
• Road Trip in Tuscany
• Top Towns to Visit in Tuscany