The Hotel Guru
20 of the Best Hotels in Tuscan Towns

20 of the Best Hotels in Tuscan Towns

There’s no end of fantastic places to stay in Tuscany, the main challenge is choosing exactly where you want to be based. The Tuscan hills certainly have their charms and our Gurus have put together a useful list of the best hotels in rural Tuscany, but there’s also a strong argument to be based in a town — where there are cafes, gelaterias, restaurants and transport links if you’re travelling without a car. So our Gurus have helpfully put together a second list, this time of the best hotels in Tuscan Towns. To help with your decision, our recommendations only includes properties which are open all year, some of their country cousins close during the winter.

In Smaller Tuscan Towns

San Gimignano is small, but in size alone, it’s got quite a reputation and is a memorable stop for many visitors to Tuscany. After hours, however, it’s very quiet, and it starts to feel much more like Tuscany’s other small, beautiful, hilltop towns. Here we recommend L'Antico Pozzo, a carefully restored 15th Century townhouse with original terracotta floors and beamed ceilings, and delicate frescos throughout. There are 18 rooms, the best of which are at the top - the views are incredible.
The Palazzo del Capitano also dates from the 15th century, but this mansion with a manicured garden, complete with fountains, is just within the town walls of San Quirico d’Orcia. The rooms have whimsical spiral staircases and four-poster beds, so this is a romantic spot - there’s quite a bit of pink around too. And a cosy lounge with a vaulted ceiling and an open fire, plus an excellent restaurant and spa.

Historic Charmers

The Albergo Pietrasanta is a stylish conversion of a 17th Century Palazzo in the famed marble town of Pietrasanta. Inside guests discover delicate frescos and intricate plasterwork, interesting antiques — and surprisingly, a very fine collection of contemporary art. And it’s just ten minutes from the beach.
The Grand Hotel Continental in Siena offers a concoction of grandeur, elegant end luxury in a great location close to the Duomo. Some the 51 rooms have stunning floor to ceiling frescoes, as well as having some very nice antiques and art, and the restaurant is excellent. there’s also plenty on offer, from truffle hunting with hounds to hot air ballon rides, to cheese, olive oil and balsamic vinegar tastings in house.
Or, still in Siena, there are the six rooms of the Campo Regio Relais. They’re romantic and stylish, but it’s the incredible views over Siena which will really make your stay. The hotel itself is tucked away down a delightful, narrow alleyway, and the service is very personal.

For Luxury Lovers

The Grand Hotel Imperiale, in the rather glitzy resort of Forte dei Marmi on the Tuscan coast, has 46 airy, sophisticated rooms and suites, some with balconies overlooking the ocean. When it comes to luxurious details they’re offering a private beach, a wellness centre and a choice of three restaurants.
Just outside Forte dei Marmi is the Hotel Byron, also right on the coast, this is a smaller hotel, with 29 rooms, but the restaurant has a Michelin star, the grounds are idyllic, and we think it’s one of the best beach hotels in Tuscany. It’s fun and unfussy, but with all the luxury that really counts.
If you like the sound of seaside luxury you might also be interested in the Grande Hotel Principe di Piemonte, a splendid, 1920s-built charmer right on the seafront in Viareggio. There are 106 rooms and suites split over five floors, with a different decorating scheme on each: Art Deco, Colonial, Empire, Modern or International? There’s also a great spa and a lovely rooftop pool. And you’re just opposite the Excelsior Beach Club, a well groomed sandy beach with all the facilities you might need.
If you were thinking of the hills rather than the sea consider the Fonteverde Tuscan Resort and Spa, a magnificent, 17th century Medici palace turned five star hotel, and thermal spa, in the hills above Siena. The natural hot springs and Renaissance architecture, complete with marble bathrooms and airy suites, make this a memorable stay. Definitely one of the best small luxury hotels in Tuscany. And the food is excellent.

For Romance

Alla Corte degli Angeli is a charming, upmarket B&B within Lucca’s old town walls — close to the Piazza del Anfiteatro and within a short stroll of several very nice restaurants. There are six rooms, beautiful decorated with wonderful murals, some are suitable for families as well as couples, and all have either whirlpool bathtubs or jetted showers.
The Villa di Piazzano was built by the Medici family as a hunting lodge, just outside of Cortona, and is now a magical, family-run hotel with 21 romantic rooms, a beautiful pool and Italianate gardens and a restaurant serving excellent Tuscan food and wine. They have an excellent cellar and run cooking classes too…
Once a monastery, Il Chiostro di Pienza is now an elegant, 37 room hotel in the heart of pretty Pienza. The decor is traditional, but in natural colours, against arched ceilings and tiled floors, and there’s an excellent restaurant, beautiful gardens and a pool overlooking the valley below.
Just outside the centre of Siena is the Palazzo Ravizza, a prettily furnished pensione with bags of old-world elegance and stunning views. Built in the 14th century as a Renaissance palace, this quiet, family-run property has retained much of its original character and is tastefully and traditionally decorated.
If you’re looking for a small, historic, affordable, yet romantic hotel, it’s hard to go past La locanda del Loggiato, in the charming medieval town of Bagno Vignoni, which is right in amongst the vines of the Brunello wine region. There are just six unique rooms with wood beams and terracotta flooring.

For great value

The Palazzo Alexander is an elegant B&B in central Lucca with rooms are beautifully decorated in the noble Lucchese style with original wooden floors, and antiques throughout.

For Families

The Albergo san Martino is a well positioned, and comfortable hotel in Lucca. The suites are generous and well designed for families, there’s a breakfast courtyard and the hosts are very friendly. And room rates are very reasonable.

For Food and Wine Lovers

La Bandita Townhouse in Pienza is a sophisticated 10 room townhouse with a modern Italian restaurant that has a great reputation. The decor is minimalist: think exposed brickwork, whitewashed walls, angular four-poster beds and stand alone baths.
We also like the Villa Tolomei, which is an elegant, 14th century villa converted into a 31 room retreat, surrounded by gardens, olive groves, vineyards and an outdoor pool, yet just five minutes from the centre of Florence. The views over the city are stunning, and the restaurant is wonderful.
If you’re here to learn how to cook like the Tuscans consider staying at the Tenuta San Pietro, a small gourmet hotel with just ten rooms. Its location is superb, just outside Lucca, and it's surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. The interiors of this 16th century farmhouse are lovingly restored, yet still charmingly rustic. They also run art classes.
Montepulciano is a big name in Italian wine, and this gorgeously cobbled, Medieval hilltop town bats above its weight in the calibre of its restaurants too. The Locanda di San Francesco is a great gourmet restaurant in the centre of town, with just four rustic chic rooms — all with fabulous views over the surrounding countryside. Their wine tasting events are excellent too…

Still not sure?

expand your search to include the best hotels in rural Tuscany,
drill down to the Tuscan region you’re most interested in by using the search box,
consult our Guru’s Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Tuscany,
or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
- Grand Hotel Continental, Tuscany Siena (Tuscany) 51 rooms from AU$701
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Elegance and history make this the perfect place for a romantic weekend with your loved one
  Local exploring  -  The heart of Siena and perfect for exploring its sights
  Great walks  -  Explore the Orto Botanico dell'Università di Siena - bontanical gardens kept by the University of Siena.
  Sights nearby  -  Steps away from Piazza del Campo and the Duomo.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Kiwi Collection
  
  A concoction of grandeur, elegance and luxury. Sumptuous rooms include stunning floor to ceiling frescoes, terracotta floors, period furniture and artworks. The restaurant is elegant and Tuscany is on your doorstep: a perfect romantic getaway. See More
  
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- Campo Regio Relais Siena 6 rooms from AU$310
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Conveniently located for the Piazza del Campo, one of Europe's most beautiful and architecturally interesting squares.
  Great walks  -  Wander around the streets of the Medieval town and absorb the architecture and beauty.
  Views  -  Stunning views over the Duomo
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Sawdays
  
  Romantic, stylish hotel furnished with antiques and enjoying splendid views over Siena. Elegant and spacious individually decorated bedrooms with parquet floors, four poster beds, antique furniture and beautiful fabrics. Lovely breakfast terrace. A romantic spot from which to explore Siena. See More
  
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- L'Antico Pozzo San Gimignano (Tuscany) 18 rooms from AU$173
  
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  Romantic  -  There are special romance packages: starting with champagne!
  Sights nearby  -  Located in the centre of San Gimignano
  Cooking classes  -  Can be arranged in Certaldo Alto
  Full of character
  
  15th Century restored townhouse with original terracotta floors, beamed ceilings and delicate frescoes throughout. Romantic bedrooms feature pastel colour schemes, four posters and billowing drapes. Breakfast in bed or in the courtyard - a charming spot for romantics and local exploring. See More
  
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- Palazzo del Capitano San Quirico d'Orcia (Tuscany) 22 rooms from AU$293
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Relax in the hot tub, explore the local area and spoil yourself in one of the four poster bed suites
  Great walks  -  The Val d'Orcia is the perfect place for hikers and nature lovers to explore the south of Tuscany.
  Cooking classes  -  Learn not one but five traditional Tuscan dishes.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  
  Traditional 15th Century Tuscan mansion with manicured garden and fountains behind the town walls of San Quirico d'Orcia. Pretty in pink rooms feature four-poster beds and whimsical spiral staircases. There's a cosy lounge with a vaulted roof and open fire plus an excellent restaurant and spa. See More
  
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- Albergo Pietrasanta Forte dei Marmi (Tuscany) 20 rooms from AU$473
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Pietrasanta’s 14th century San Martino's Cathedral with its red brick belltower, is just a 5-minute walk away.
  Great walks  -  The hotel's fragrant landscaped gardens are perfect for an afternoon stroll.
  Local markets  -  Pick up some local produce from the weekly market in Piazza dello Statuto.
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels
  
  17th Century Palazzo in the famed marble town of Pietrasanta. Interiors feature delicate frescoes, intricate plasterwork and antiques, as well as the owner’s fine collection of contemporary art. An elegant spot for romantics, great location for exploring and just minutes from the beach. See More
  
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- La locanda del Loggiato Bagno Vignoni, Tuscany 6 rooms from AU$196
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Visit local villages: Montalcino, Abbadia San Salvatore, visit the thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni and nearby Bagni san Filippo
  Foodies  -  Brunello wine region. In the Autumn, Montalcino food festival in medieval fortress, with vats of polenta and cooking on spits
  Views  -  Over the water-filled square of Bagno Vignoni
  Sights nearby  -  Siena, Pienza, Montalcino, Montepulciano
  
  A romantic hotel within a medieval village. Unique rooms feature wooden beams, views over the square and terracotta floors. A thermal spa in the village, walking tours, and wine tasting in the surrounds. An enchanting weekend for couples in typical Tuscan style. See More
  
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- Grand Hotel Imperiale Forte dei Marmi (Tuscany) 46 rooms from AU$513
  
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  Families  -  Fully staffed kids club on site
  Restaurant  -  Three restaurants offering everything from beach side dining to sophisticated gourmet cuisine
  Local markets  -  Visit the weekly Wednesday market for a designer bargain!
  Sights nearby  -  Minutes away from Forte dei Marmi fortress
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Five star luxury family friendly property in the glitzy resort of Forte dei Marmi on the Tuscan coast. Forty six sophisticated, airy rooms and suites some with balconies some with balconies looking out to sea. Three restaurants, wellness centre and private beach. Glamourous seaside luxury See More
  
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- Principe Forte dei Marmi Forte dei Marmi 28 rooms from AU$636
  
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  Beach Life  -  Private beach club.
  Foodies
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, CN Traveller
  
  Luxurious beach front hotel with its own private beach club. A classical facade, contemporary designer rooms and suites with private balconies, seafood restaurant, fully equipped spa. Perfect for a beach holiday with all the frills, family friendly too. See More
  
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- Hotel Lungarno Florence (Tuscany) 73 rooms from AU$815
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Setting couldn't be more romantic with view of the River Arno and the city
  City Style  -  Luxury lodgings in the heart of the city
  Local markets  -  Leather markets, food stalls, clothes markets and more fill the streets in the summer months
  Sights nearby  -  Ponte Vecchio is a medieval bridge over the River Arno and is close by
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels, Michelin Travel, Tablet
  
  Elegance and style are what encompass this fantastic hotel located right on the River Arno. Boutiquey rooms feature unique artworks yet all the amenities of a chain. The best rooms boast terraces overlooking the river. The Borgo San Jacopo Restaurant comes well recommended by all. See More
  
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- Palazzo Ravizza Siena (Tuscany) 37 rooms from AU$227
  
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  Restaurant  -  Il Giardino Restaurant serves traditional cuisine with most ingredients sourced from local farms
  Sights nearby  -  Located in the historic centre of Siena close to the cathedral.
  Great walks  -  The Tuscan countryside is beautiful, serene and calm.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Recommended by  -  Frommers
  
  Family-run, quiet, and elegant hotel with stunning views and classic interiors. Rooms ooze old-world elegance — tiled floors, wooden beams, vaulted ceilings, some with fireplaces. Manicured garden showcases a fantastic valley view & there's a restaurant serving traditional fare — a romantic spot. See More
  
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- Palazzo Alexander Lucca, Tuscany 6 rooms from AU$285
  
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  Families
  Whirlpool Bathtub  -  Junior suites come with bathrooms with whirlpool tubs
  Sights nearby  -  Located in the centre of Lucca
  Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
  Recommended by  -  I Escape
  
  An elegant B&B in central Lucca. Gold and chintz bedrooms and suites, some with whirlpool tubs and balconies. A great choice for families or couples. See More
  
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- Palazzo Magnani Feroni Florence (Tuscany) 12 rooms from AU$650
  
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  Honeymoons  -  An elegant Palazzo fit for royalty, with private butler service, champagne breakfast, palatial suites & magnificant furnishings.
  City Style  -  Each suite has a salon big enough to hold a cocktail party in, plus painted ceilings, marble fireplaces and fabulous antiques.
  Local markets  -  Explore the Medieval streets of Oltrarno, traditionally home to Florence's milliners, silk-weavers and leather-makers.
  Sights nearby  -  Five minutes walk from the historical Ponte Vecchio.
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Fodors
  
  A magnificent Renaissance Palace, turned luxurious hotel, south of the river. Indulgently large suites are packed with frescoes, elegant antiques and historic charm. Enjoy breakfast in the courtyard or drinks on the rooftop. Manages to retain and enhance the private Palazzo feel. See More
  
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- Il Chiostro di Pienza Pienza (Tuscany) 37 rooms from AU$209
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Candlelight meals on the rooftop, lazy days by the pool and magnificant suites, some featuring original ceiling frescoes.
  Local exploring  -  Right in the centre of this ancient and orginal example of Rennaissance townplanning, explore and soak up the history.
  Sights nearby  -  In the historic central square of Pienza, only 100m from the famed Pienza Cathedral
  Great walks  -  The Tuscan hillsides and vineyards make for some spectacular walking.
  
  Former monastery in the heart of Pienza offers elegance and style, with delightful bedrooms in natural tones with tiled floors and arched ceilings. The cloister terrace restaurant serves delicious food and there are beautiful gardens and a pool that overlook the undulating valley. A romantic spot. See More
  
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- Alla Corte degli Angeli Lucca (Tuscany) 21 rooms from AU$249
  
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  Cooking classes  -  Following a trip to the local market head to the kitchen and learn some traditional Tuscan recipes.
  Sights nearby  -  Located within Lucca's city walls, close to all sights
  Full of character
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Michelin Travel
  
  Charming B&B located within the town walls. Sophisticated, pretty bedrooms in pastel shades include hand painted murals and plenty of charm. A true breakfast spread is served and restaurants dotted around the historical town. A brilliant Tuscan gem that welcomes couples and families with open arms. See More
  
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- Tenuta San Pietro Lucca 10 rooms from AU$253
  
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  Foodies
  Sights nearby  -  Not far from Lucca. The hotel provides a free shuttle service to and from the town
  Cooking classes  -  One day classes or cooking holidays available
  Restaurant  -  Serving regional and Mediterranean cuisine
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Tablet
  
  A small gourmet hotel with rustic rooms, sweeping valley views, an olive farm and surrounding vineyard. Bedrooms with stone walls, wooden beams, and private terraces. Fabulous food, cookery lessons, and art classes. An excellent choice for an active gourmet holiday. See More
  
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- La Bandita Townhouse Pienza 12 rooms from AU$530
  
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  Foodies  -  Home to a laid-back Tuscan restaurant with locally sourced produce and great wines, this hotel works well for foodies
  Romantic Break  -  With well-appointed suites and romantic soaking tubs, book this hotel for a tranquil couples' getaway
  Hideaway  -  Offering quiet rooms in a picturesque Tuscan village, book this hotel for an idyllic hideaway holiday
  Great walks  -  See the sights of UNESCO heritage village Pienza on a long walk; ask your host for local tips
  Recommended by  -  CN Traveller, Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape
  
  Sophisticated townhouse oozing contemporary chic with a fantastic restaurant. Minimalist bedrooms and suites have exposed brickwork, white washed walls, wooden four poster beds and stand alone bath tubs. Fresh modern Italian food with daily a changing menu. Contemporary townhouse vibe. See More
  
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- Villa Tolomei Florence 31 rooms from AU$373
  
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  Country Escape  -  Set in the picturesque Tuscan countryside yet with easy access to Florence, this property gives the best of both worlds
  Foodies  -  The Il Conventino a Marignolle restaurant, offers exquisite Tuscan cuisine using fresh produce from the estate
  Views  -  Fantastic views over Florence and the Arno Valley
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool with terrace and plenty of loungers
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  14th century frescoed villa five minutes from the centre of Florence. Villa Tolomei is a five-star hotel set in a peaceful 20 hectares with olives groves and vineyards, a spa, outdoor pool, lovely gardens and a wonderful restaurant. Beautiful views overlooking the city. See More
  
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- Locanda di San Francesco Montepulciano Siena, Tuscany 4 rooms from AU$326
  
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  Foodies
  Sights nearby  -  Located in the centre of historic Montepulciano
  Views  -  Wonderful views across the Val d'Orcia
  Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
  Recommended by  -  I Escape
  
  A small hotel and restaurant in a charming hilltown. Four rustic chic bedrooms with fabulous views, excellent gourmet restaurant, and lots to do in the surrounding area from wine tasting to local music festivals. See More
  
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