Hotel Review: Villa Cora

Your home away from home in Florence

Image credit: Villa Cora

Image credit: Villa Cora

This 19th-century noble villa turned boutique hotel is my top pick for a stay in Florence. Located just outside the city centre, overlooking Boboli Gardens, this property keeps you close enough to the action of Florence, but with the breathing room and relaxation of the Tuscan countryside. Spend the afternoon by the pool during sweltering hot Florentine summer days, enjoy an aperitivo from the roof terrace or partake in one of their famous ‘pizza & champagne’ evenings with live music by the pool before retreating back to your room.

The hotel offers complimentary shuttles to/from the city centre throughout the day, or you may choose to walk and enjoy the scenery.

Pro tip: If you are an Amex Platinum card member, try to book through the Fine Hotels & Resorts program to reap the added benefits of a spa credit, daily breakfast and a room upgrade. We made the mistake of not doing this, and met with an unfortunately less than hospitable member of the hotel’s concierge team regarding our request to modify as well as an A/C issue during our stay. Otherwise, the property itself and experience was amazing.