Grand Hotel Minerva

Set in a prime location in Florence’s Piazza Santa Maria Novella, this four-star hotel is just a short walk from the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio. Its central position allows you to explore the city’s rich history, art, and architecture with ease. The train station is also nearby, making it convenient for regional travel, if you’re looking to throw in some day trips from Florence.

The building first housed the monks of Santa Maria Novella, more than 700 years ago, and was then home to various aristocratic Florentine families through the centuries. Now though, its doors are open to you, and there’ve been a few modern updates since the monks’ days. The star of the show is the stunning rooftop terrace with a panoramic swimming pool and a trendy pool bar, offering incredible views of Florence’s skyline. There’s also a fitness centre and a caldarium – a large, hot plunge bath used to bathe and relax, like a big Jacuzzi room. The monks would have loved that.