River Hotel & Spa

River_Hotel_&_Spa
River Hotel & Spa

River Hotel & Spa

Great for couples and friends, with an intimate, boutique feel Wellness spa with sauna, Turkish bath and massage treatments* Only 70m from the nearest bus stop for easy city exploring About 600m from the Basilica of Santa Croce and the medieval centre Prime position on the banks of the River Arno Free Wi-Fi throughout

Official rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rooms 38 | Floors: 4 | Lifts: 1
Board options Bed and Breakfast
Child age guideline Infants up to 2 years (older children generally priced as adults; ideal for adults and older teens)

Overview

 
In a handsome late‑19th‑century palazzo right on the banks of the Arno, River Hotel & Spa blends frescoed ceilings and period details with sleek black leather sofas and contemporary art. Wake to a generous buffet breakfast before wandering Florence’s cobbled streets, then return to elegant, cocooning rooms and a calm little spa – a stylish base for couples and friends who want historic character without sacrificing comfort.

Think high ceilings, polished parquet floors and a riverside setting that feels wonderfully Florentine. River Hotel & Spa places you in an authentic residential quarter just east of Santa Croce, so you can stroll to the Duomo and Uffizi yet retreat to a quiet address when the day‑trippers go home. Add a petite spa and a cosy bar and you have a refined, grown‑up city bolthole. For couples seeking Italy’s Renaissance capital with a relaxed riverside vibe, River Hotel & Spa delivers the perfect balance. It’s around 25–35 minutes from Florence Airport or about 1 hour 20 minutes from Pisa Airport by road. See more Italy holidays.

Map & location


Florence City, Florence, Italy

River Hotel & Spa enjoys a privileged spot along Lungarno, right on the Arno’s banks in a quieter, authentic corner of Florence. From here, you can wander riverside streets lined with artisan workshops and local cafés, then cut through to the historic heart in 10–15 minutes on foot. Santa Croce, the Uffizi and Piazza della Signoria are all close enough for easy sightseeing, while the famed Ponte Vecchio and Duomo are a scenic stroll away. It’s a lovely compromise between local neighbourhood feel and headline‑sight convenience.
  • bus stop 70m
  • Basilica of Santa Croce 600m
  • Uffizi Gallery 1km
  • Piazza della Signoria 1.1km
  • Ponte Vecchio 1.2km
  • Duomo & Giotto’s Bell Tower 1.5km
  • Boboli Gardens 2.4km
  • Approx. transfer time from Florence Airport (FLR) 25–35 minutes by taxi
  • Approx. transfer time from Pisa Airport (PSA) 1 hour 15–30 minutes by road (or train plus short taxi)

Facilities

Pool & outdoors


River Hotel & Spa is a classic urban boutique property without a swimming pool, making it best suited to guests who plan to spend most of their time exploring Florence’s galleries, churches and piazzas rather than sunbathing. In lieu of a pool, the Arno’s riverfront promenades, nearby gardens and rooftop terraces around the city offer plenty of spots to relax in the open air between sightseeing stops.

Spa, sports & wellness


After a day of ticking off masterpieces and viewpoints, the hotel’s wellness area offers a welcome pause. Unwind in the spa with its sauna and Turkish bath, or book a massage or beauty treatment* for full holiday indulgence. A small but well‑equipped gym, with cardio machines and a free‑weights area, lets you keep up your routine while away.

Elsewhere, thoughtful touches such as 24‑hour reception, luggage storage and equipment hire (including kettles on request) keep city‑break logistics simple. Opening hours for spa and gym are typically 12:00–20:00 and may vary with occupancy and season.

Activities


?️ Step‑out access to Florence’s headline sights and galleries
? Spa time with sauna, Turkish bath and massage menu*
? Workouts in the on‑site gym with cardio and free weights
? Riverside walks along the Arno at sunrise or sunset
?️ Easy public transport (bus stop ~70m) for reaching wider Florence districts

As an urban boutique hotel, organised entertainment is minimal – the city itself is the star – but the concierge can usually help with museum tickets, walking routes and restaurant recommendations.

Guest services


?️ Reception with luggage storage and local information
? Assistance with taxis and airport transfer arrangements (on request)
☕ Equipment hire including kettles (subject to availability)
? Complimentary Wi‑Fi throughout the hotel
? Daily housekeeping and regular linen/towel changes
♿ Lift access to most floors (note: heritage building layout may limit full accessibility in some areas)

Services and facilities may vary slightly by season and occupancy; some incur a local charge, especially spa treatments and selected in‑room amenities.

Food & drink

Mornings centre on the atmospheric breakfast room, where a buffet spread of continental favourites, pastries, fruit and hot options sets you up for a day on your feet. Later on, the hotel’s intimate bar serves a range of Italian wines, classic aperitivi and international drinks from late morning into the evening – ideal for a pre‑dinner Negroni or a quiet nightcap after strolling home along the river.

Please note: a smart dress code may apply and restaurant/bar offerings can vary by season. Reservations may be required and supplements can apply depending on your board basis. Information is based on previous seasons and is subject to change.

Rooms
Classic Double Room for Sole Use / Single Room Sleeps 1


Sleeps 1. Cosy options for solo travellers, offering the same key amenities in a more compact footprint.

Superior Double or Twin Room (including Sole Use) Sleeps 1–2


Sleeps 1–2. More spacious than Classic rooms, with upgraded furnishings and extra room to unpack and relax. Some may have partial river or city views.

Executive Double Room Sleeps 1–2


Sleeps 1–2. Elegant rooms that dial up the comfort with additional space or enhanced decor – a good choice for longer stays or special occasions.

Triple Room / Superior Triple Room


Sleeps up to 3. Ideal for friends or small families who prefer to share one room, with flexible bedding configurations and the same core amenities.

Junior Suite & Deluxe Junior Suite Sleeps 2–3


Sleeps 2–3. Open‑plan layouts with a defined sitting area, often featuring higher ceilings or period details. Deluxe options offer more space or finer finishes, making them a lovely treat for couples.

Superior Junior Suite Sleeps 1–3


Sleeps 1–3. A versatile suite with added living space, suitable for couples wanting extra room or small groups seeking a more premium feel.

Suite / Superior Suite


Sleeps up to 4. The hotel’s most generous accommodation, usually comprising a separate bedroom and living area. Ideal if you value space, are travelling with older children, or simply want a boutique‑apartment feel in the heart of Florence.

*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary.
*Local charges may apply for some in‑room services such as minibar.

More info

Florence is a compact, walkable city where comfortable shoes matter more than public transport. Expect cobbled streets, occasional steps and plenty of atmospheric, narrow lanes. The local language is Italian, currency is the Euro (€), and the time difference from the UK is typically +1 hour. Approximate guideline costs: a beer from around €4–5, a single local bus ticket from around €1.50 and a three‑course meal from roughly €40 per person, depending on venue.

City tourism tax: Florence applies a nightly city tax, payable locally in cash or card; the amount varies by star rating and length of stay.

Spa and gym: Usually open between 12:00 and 20:00, hours may flex with season and occupancy. Age restrictions can apply for spa facilities.

Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all Italy city breaks.

For entry rules and health guidance see the UK FCDO Italy advice.

Prices & book

Find your dates

Live availability and real-time offers. Low deposits, full ATOL protection.

=

FAQs
Is River Hotel & Spa suitable for couples?
Yes. With just 38 rooms, a cosy bar and a small spa, River Hotel & Spa has an intimate, boutique atmosphere that’s particularly appealing for couples and friends on a city escape. Many of Florence’s most romantic viewpoints are within a 15‑minute walk.
Does River Hotel & Spa have a swimming pool?
No, River Hotel & Spa does not have a swimming pool. It’s an urban boutique property focused on comfortable rooms, good breakfasts, a wellness area and a prime riverside location rather than resort‑style facilities.
What spa and fitness facilities are available?
The hotel offers a wellness area with a sauna, Turkish bath and a menu of massage and beauty treatments, along with a compact gym equipped with cardio machines and free weights. Both are generally open from around midday to early evening and may operate shorter hours in quieter seasons. Treatments incur an extra charge.
How far is River Hotel & Spa from Florence’s main sights?
From the hotel it’s roughly 600m to the Basilica of Santa Croce, about 1km to the Uffizi Gallery, 1.1km to Piazza della Signoria, 1.2km to the Ponte Vecchio and around 1.5km to the Duomo and Giotto’s Bell Tower. Most guests find they can explore the historic centre entirely on foot.
What board basis can I book at River Hotel & Spa?
Stays at River Hotel & Spa are typically on a Bed and Breakfast basis, with a buffet breakfast served in the breakfast room. For lunch and dinner, you’ll have Florence’s excellent trattorias, wine bars and pizzerias within easy reach.
Is Wi‑Fi available at the hotel?
Yes, free Wi‑Fi is available throughout River Hotel & Spa, including guest rooms and public areas, making it easy to plan your sightseeing or stay connected with home.
Are there family rooms or can the hotel accommodate three or four guests?
Yes. Alongside classic doubles, the hotel offers triple rooms, junior suites and suites that can sleep up to three or four guests. These are ideal for small groups of friends or families with older children happy to share a room.
How do I get to River Hotel & Spa from the airport?
From Florence Airport you can take a taxi directly to the hotel in around 25–35 minutes, or use the tram into the city centre then a short taxi ride. From Pisa Airport, you can travel by train to Florence Santa Maria Novella station and take a taxi from there, or pre‑book a private transfer.