48 Hours in Florence

Where to stay, eat, and do for 48 chill hours in Florence, Italy.

This past Spring I fell in love with Firenze! Like head over heels crazy for Florence! I visited 8 years ago during Pitti Uomo, the chicest men’s trade show, to work for a friend whose brand was showing there. Sadly I went from the hotel to the show and back so I never saw much of this beautiful city. However, when Cook Corriere della Sera invited me to be a guest at their 4th annual Women in Food forum and had plans to fly me into Florence, it was clear I had to clear my schedule and tack on a few extra solo days before the event. 

What I love the most about Florence is how much beauty, history, and nature are packed into such a small city. Everything seems walkable or a short taxi ride from my centrally located hotel.

You should know that when I travel, I am happiest when my days aren’t packed and there is a lot of time to stroll around, and sit in cafes and squares. Sometimes I am okay visiting a city to feel like a local and don’t need to check off all the tourist/big sights boxes. I love a good meal recommended by reputable sources but also will be happy if I wander into a lesser-known small place. I enjoyed my solo two days but look forward to returning with my family and tagging on some Tuscany travels after. 

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Where to say
A few friends recommended Hotel Palazzo Guadagni and I am not sure I can stay at another hotel when I return to Florence because this place was perfect. I had to switch rooms because they didn’t have anything available for two consecutive nights but I didn’t mind because it gave me different perspectives to share. The first night was in room #7 on a floor above the reception with a picturesque view of the rooftops.  The second room, #5, had a lovely view of the Square Santo Spirito. Having that view was dreamy but also a tad noisy with all the bars on the square. That said they made some efforts with insulated walls and windows. Room #5 is also across from the reception and next to the bar. Convient yes but left me feeling slightly exposed. It was still a beautiful room and I would take it if it was the only one available because I love the design and location of the hotel.

Palazzo Guadagni has a terrace bar and restaurant that makes it into a lot of guides so a lot of outside guests are there for drinks and nibbles. The hotel is also centrally located so I only walked 10-15 minutes to all the places on my list. I found the rates affordable for how central it is and highly recommend booking in advance.

Hotel Palazzo Guadagni
Piazzo Santo Spirito, 9
+39 055 265 8376
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