Florence, Italy
Il Salviatino is a sympathetically restored 15th century villa set in extensive landscaped grounds in the hills of Fiesole. From its magnificent terrace overlooking Florence, one can see the Duomo and in the gardens below are the heated swimming pool and spa.
Our review
Driving up through a drive lined with pine trees, a final hairpin sees us at Il Salviatino, a smart, imposing villa hidden in the hills just north of, and overlooking, Florence.
The villa has been beautifully restored and although it is a hotel, the owners want it to feel like you are staying in a friend’s home (admittedly a wealthy one).
So there is no formal reception area, but people arrive to take your bags and you are ushered in to the library and offered coffee whilst the check-in takes place.
The bedrooms – some of which are large – have wooden polished floors and no rugs, which may feel a bit bare. They are also a little dark, but this is typical of the period in which the villa was built. There is no minibar, which I liked – drinks are on a tray and you own up to any you have had. If you want ice, you just have to ask. Complimentary mineral water is supplied. There is no obvious TV either – it’s cunningly hidden in the large mirror on the wall, so it does really feel like a normal room, as opposed to a hotel room. Some bathrooms have stand-alone cast iron bathtubs, but all have showers with LED lights and a seat. There is no room service menu, but food is available to order whenever you like.
The library is a fine room, crammed with interesting arty books, handy if you like art (which I do). On the terrace, with lovely views of Florence, one can take some tea, have a meal, or just sit with a book. The views are quite splendid, the Duomo peeking through the greenery.
One can get to the spa by walking down through the grounds, but we lazily took the golf buggy. It’s quietly positioned and treatments use the famous Florentine Dr Vranjes products.
Il Salviatino is well placed just outside Florence in its own quiet grounds. A complimentary minibus will take you to the centre in about 15 minutes.
This villa would appeal to those who don’t particularly like hotels, but want the five star service many of them offer. It’s quirky (in a good way) and does have a friendly, houseguest feel to it.
Open all year
Final words: Close to Florence, but not too close, this magnificent villa is a very individual place in which to unwind, with the attractions of the city on its doorstep.
Rooms
Il Salviatino offers 39 individually designed rooms and suites set within a restored Renaissance villa and its landscaped grounds. Each room blends historic details such as frescoes and original artwork with contemporary comforts, Italian linens and marble bathrooms. Many rooms feature garden views, while select suites enjoy terraces or dramatic views towards Florence and the Duomo.
Food and Drink
Da Giacomo al Salviatino is the hotel’s signature restaurant, presenting authentic Italian and Tuscan cuisine inspired by the celebrated Giacomo Milano. Dishes focus on seasonal ingredients and are served in an elegant dining room or on a panoramic terrace overlooking Florence.
Rosa Bar offers a relaxed yet refined setting for cocktails and aperitivi, while the Pool Bar serves refreshing drinks, light meals and garden‑fresh dishes throughout the day in the warmer months.
Wellness
Aquae Vitali Spa is housed within the estate’s former greenhouse and offers a holistic wellness experience. Facilities include treatment rooms, hammam, sauna, steam room and relaxation areas. Treatments use luxury products by Augustinus Bader and Santa Maria Novella, complemented by yoga, personal training and nature‑focused wellbeing programmes.
Facilities
- Destination spa and holistic wellness programmes
- Outdoor infinity swimming pools
- Fine dining restaurant and bars
- Fitness area and yoga sessions
- Five‑hectare private gardens and parkland
- Complimentary shuttle to Florence city centre
- Concierge and bespoke experiences
- Free Wi‑Fi and parking
Location
Il Salviatino is located in the hills of Fiesole, just outside Florence, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. The historic centre, Duomo, Uffizi Gallery and cultural landmarks of Florence are easily reached by the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service.
Getting there
Address: Vía del Salviatino 21, Fiesole, Firenze 50137, Italy
Arriving by train: Santa Maria Novella Train Station: 15 minutes awayCampo di Marto High Speed Train Station: 5 minutes away
Arriving by air: Florence Peretola Airport: 25 minutes awayPisa 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.