By staying outside of Florence, you'll experience the best of both worlds: Florence just a short bus ride away and the rest of Tuscany at your fingertips for exploration. If you stay out of Florence in the countryside, we would recommend renting a car to move around.

Deciding whether to stay in the heart of Florence or in the surrounding Tuscan hills depends on your priorities for convenience versus tranquility. In 2026, staying in Florence's historic center (Centro Storico) offers immediate access to world-class landmarks like the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery, allowing you to walk everywhere and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. However, it can be crowded and expensive. Staying outside the city, such as in Fiesole or the hills of Oltrarno, provides a much more peaceful, rural experience with cooler temperatures and stunning views of the city skyline. Many suburban villas offer pools and green spaces that are impossible to find in the city center. A peer-to-peer tip for 2026: if you are visiting for only two or three days, stay central to maximize your time. If you have a week or more, consider a split stay or a villa on the outskirts with easy rail or bus access to the city to enjoy the "best of both worlds" without the constant tourist "crush."