Hotel Medici

Tucked away on a quiet side street near the Duomo and Piazza Repubblica, the Hotel Medici is easy to miss. However, its central location, to-die-for views and very cheap prices make this two-star hotel a treasure worth hunting.

The Medici’s 40 simple rooms are situated on six floors. They’re small and don’t have air conditioning (fans are provided), Internet or television. But what they lack in amenities they make up in character, with picture windows and beautiful antiques. A few extra euros (at a rate that’s still cheap for Florence!) will get you a fifth-floor balcony room with views of the Duomo. Small bathrooms are all en suite and clean.

The top-floor terrace garden provides stop-in-your-tracks views of Giotto’s famous bell tower. All guests can visit the terrace until 11 p.m. daily, but the two (more expensive) rooms that open onto it have 24-hour access.

The breakfast room and TV lounge sprawl across the second floor, with large windows perfect for people-watching. Each floor also has a landing lounge area, with a smattering of chairs and antiques. Breakfast is included.