This Boutique Florence Hotel With City Views, Luxury Suites, And Creative Cocktails Feels Like A Private Palace

Florence is a city renowned for its Renaissance art and architecture, historic monuments, and stunning palazzos, making it one of those destinations you simply can't get enough of. In fact, many travelers describe Florence as both full of art and history and the world's most walkable city. Choosing where to stay while in Florence can be an adventure in and of itself, and one Italian hotel, The James Suite Hotel Firenze 1564, has really raised the bar by opening in a restored 16th-century palazzo right in the heart of the city. 

This luxurious hotel features 14 opulent suites that offer guests an intimate boutique atmosphere. Walking into the James feels as though you've traveled back in time. Hand-painted frescoes and elegant furniture create a luxurious indoor setting while the outdoor courtyard feels like stepping into a Tuscan villa.

Suites span the hotel's four floors, from the lobby level to the third floor, and can accommodate up to three guests comfortably. One of their standout suites is the Florence Suite, located on the top floor and featuring a balcony overlooking the city. Then there's the Court Suite, the most spacious room at 603 square feet, complete with a private inner patio. With a goal to retain the building's original architectural features while offering all the comforts of home, suites are decorated with both antique and modern furniture and artwork, and are equipped with Dyson hairdryers, Ortigia Sicilia bath amenities, and freestanding bathtubs.

While the suites at The James are certainly plush, their communal spaces are equally impressive. The James Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily, and features a Mediterranean-inspired menu rooted in Tuscan tradition. If you're visiting for the first time, you may want to take a look at our guide to what tourists should expect their meals to be like in Italy. As for the decor, The James primarily features calming, earthy tones with pops of color in furniture and accents such as red and white striped chairs and lamps with brass detailing. To give it an airy feel, the restaurant features a glass ceiling, similar to a greenhouse, that allows natural light to stream in during the day.

Also located on the hotel's ground floor is the 1564 Mixology Lounge Bar, named after the year the palace was first constructed. Velvet furnishings, tassel lampshades, stone fireplaces, and a multi-tiered beaded pink chandelier truly transform the space. While wine and beer are always on offer, it's worth trying one of their signature cocktails made with rare spirits and botanicals. Depending on the weather, and typically open seasonally, the rooftop terrace welcomes guests to order from the 1564 Lounge Bar menu while enjoying panoramic views of the Florence skyline. 

The closest international airport to Florence, Italy, is Florence Airport (FLR), located just outside the city center. If traveling from the U.S., you will most likely need to first connect in one of Europe's major airport hubs, such as London, Amsterdam, or Paris, before boarding a second flight to Florence. Many travelers opt to explore Florence on foot, while those eager to head out to Tuscany and other nearby regions might benefit from renting a car. The journey from the Florence airport to The James Suite Hotel Firenze 1564 takes about 30 minutes by taxi, and is also accessible by public transit. 

Depending on where you're flying in from, you may arrive before the hotel's standard check-in time. However, the James Suite Hotel Firenze 1564 (like most other hotels), will gladly store your luggage so you can make the most of your time. While you wait, consider exploring some of Florence's hidden gems. For example, among the historic buildings in Florence is a hidden church museum filled with Renaissance art.

Another immersive way to experience Italian culture is to sample the local cuisine and sweet treats. Il Pizzaiuolo is right around the corner from the James and is the perfect excuse to sample classic Neapolitan pizza cooked right in front of you in a wood-fire oven. For something more upscale, enjoy a romantic, candlelit dinner a few blocks away at La Giostra. For authentic gelato, order a scoop at RivaReno Gelato Firenze. Before heading out into the city, though, make sure to inquire at The James about the many off-site experiences it offers to guests, with themes ranging from cuisine to design heritage.