Bellissima Grand Hotel Minerva

Discover the timeless charm of Grand Hotel Minerva in the heart of Florence

28 Mar 2025

If Florence were a love letter to art and architecture, the Grand Hotel Minerva would be one of its most elegant signatures. Nestled in the historic heart of the city right on Piazza Santa Maria Novella this boutique hotel is the perfect blend of Renaissance charm and contemporary Italian design. No wonder it’s often considered the best luxury hotel in Florence.

Centuries of charm

With a history spanning over 700 years, the Grand Hotel Minerva has lived many lives. Originally home to monks then noble families, the building was transformed into a hotel in 1869. In the 1950s, Italian architects Carlo Scarpa and Edoardo Detti gave it a modernist facelift turning it into a symbol of contemporary design while preserving its deep historical roots. Today it stands as the best luxury hotel in Florence, offering an unforgettable stay infused with history and style.

Suite dreams

Step inside and you’re met with a refined mix of modern minimalism and timeless craftsmanship. With 97 rooms and suites each space is thoughtfully designed — think sleek furnishings, curated artworks and panoramic windows that frame Florence’s postcard-perfect skyline. Whether you’re waking up to a sunrise over the Duomo or winding down with a nightcap overlooking the piazza every moment feels cinematic.

Sips and sunsets

But let’s talk about the real showstopper — the rooftop. From April to October guests can soak in the hotel’s spectacular rooftop pool where Florence stretches out in all its terracotta glory. Lounge with a spritz in hand take a dip and let the city’s golden-hour glow work its magic. No Italian evening is complete without aperitivo and Grand Hotel Minerva delivers in style. The bar here serves up fabulous cocktails — the Terrace Negroni is a must — making it the ultimate aperitivo spot.

Art meets hospitality

This isn’t just any hotel — it’s a nod to Florence’s deep artistic roots. The 1950s renovation not only modernized the space but also infused it with a keen appreciation for art. Scattered throughout the hotel you’ll find works by renowned artists like Emilio Greco, Renato Guttuso and Giuseppe Chiari blending past and present.

Florence at your doorstep

Getting to Grand Hotel Minerva is a breeze especially if you’re taking the train from Milan to Florence — high-speed options like Trenitalia and Italo get you from Milano Centrale to Firenze Santa Maria Novella in just 1.5 to 2 hours and from there the hotel is only a short stroll away. Once checked in Florence’s iconic landmarks are practically at your doorstep: the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is just a 4-minute walk, the majestic Duomo is 9 minutes away, the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery is 12 minutes on foot and the picturesque Ponte Vecchio is about 15 minutes. If you’re exploring beyond, the closest cities to Milan — like Bergamo, Pavia and Monza — are worth a visit before heading south.