Florence, Italy
Opulent 19th‑century villa with spa, gardens and pool, overlooking the Boboli Gardens just outside Florence’s historic centre.
Our review
We stayed in a Roses Deluxe room on the second floor. The room was absolutely to my taste as I adore roses. However, the rose theme is done with a light and subtle touch. As well as a rosy armchair and a few flourishes in the room itself, there is a small rose insignia on one of the towelling robes and rose-scented toiletries. The room was immaculate, the bed comfortable and I could not fault it.
The public rooms are stunning, with frescoes, marble columns, gold clocks, sparkling chandelier or original parquet floor drawing your eye. There is plenty of quiet space for private reading or poring over a map planning a trip.
The summer restaurant is situated a few paces away from the main building overlooking the swimming pool. We had an excellent gourmet evening meal here with good service. Our ample breakfast was served on the terrace, catching the morning sun. A large cold buffet selection – including William pears poached in ginger, and delicately smoked fish – is supplemented with a waffle station and an egg station for those who would like something hot. I enjoyed my egg white and fresh herbs omelette, served with hot toast and my favourite butter – Beurre d’Isigny.
Attractive gardens surround the property and it is in a peaceful location.
Other plaudits – free Wi-fi throughout was appreciated and the front of house staff are helpful and friendly.
We caught the shuttle bus to the city one evening and it only takes a quarter of an hour or so. We got a taxi back without any difficulty.
This very individual hotel is ideal for those who want to combine visiting Florence with a bit of relaxation – the large pool is a real boon. It’s also quiet for those who find cities noisy.
An added bonus is onsite car parking- a benefit in a city if you are on a driving holiday
Last words: I really liked this property. Our bedroom was faultless, I appreciated the large, airy very individual public rooms and I enjoyed the food. It suited me perfectly.
Rooms
Grand Hotel Villa Cora offers approximately 45 individually styled rooms and suites. Each reflects a distinct historical or artistic theme and features antique or reproduction furnishings, high ceilings, rich fabrics and period artwork. Marble bathrooms are a standout, often with both a separate bathtub and walk‑in shower, and luxury Florentine bath products from Officina Santa Maria Novella. Several suites are named and inspired by historical figures, enhancing the villa’s aristocratic character.
Food and Drink
The hotel’s principal dining venue is Le Bistrot Restaurant, serving refined Italian cuisine with a strong focus on Tuscan ingredients and regional wines. Guests dine in the richly decorated Sala Moresca during cooler months or outdoors beside the pool in warmer weather.
A stylish bar and poolside bar offer cocktails, wines, spirits and light dishes throughout the day. Villa Cora is known for relaxed social experiences such as champagne and pizza evenings. While the restaurant does not currently hold Michelin stars, the hotel itself is recognised with Two Michelin Keys for outstanding hospitality. An executive chef name is not publicly specified.
Wellness
The Spa at Villa Cora is a serene wellness retreat designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. Facilities include a sauna, Turkish bath, steam room, Jacuzzi and a fully equipped fitness centre. A wide menu of massages and beauty treatments is available on request, using premium products, including those from Officina Santa Maria Novella, reflecting Florence’s historic wellness traditions.
Facilities
- Outdoor heated swimming pool (year‑round)
- Spa and wellness centre
- Fitness centre
- Italian garden and private park
- Restaurant and bar
- Poolside bar
- Complimentary city‑centre shuttle
- Free Wi‑Fi
- Free on‑site parking
- 24‑hour reception and concierge
- Babysitting services on request
- Pet‑friendly accommodation
- EV charging station
- Meeting and event spaces
Location
Grand Hotel Villa Cora is located on Viale Machiavelli in Florence’s Oltrarno district, just above Porta Romana. Set within a private gardened estate, it enjoys a peaceful hillside position close to the Boboli Gardens, Pitti Palace and Piazzale Michelangelo. The historic city centre and landmarks such as the Uffizi Gallery are around a 20‑minute walk away, with a complimentary shuttle providing easy access.
Getting there
Address: Viale Machiavelli, 18, 50125, Florence, Italy
Arriving by car: Parking onsite
Arriving by train: Santa Maria Novella Train Station: 10 minutes away
Arriving by air: Florence Peretola Airport: 25 minutes away Pisa Galileo Airport: 75 minutes away
More information
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* Note: The hotel review was last updated in early 2026. Please let us know if you spot any factual errors.