Hotel Perseo

Twelve steps from the corner of Via de' Cerretani, Hotel Perseo places guests at one of Florence's most walkable addresses — the Duomo's terracotta dome visible from the street, Santa Maria Novella station four minutes on foot — a three-star that suits culture-focused travellers who want the centro storico without a luxury price.

Hardwood floors and private bathrooms run through each room; the in-room bar includes wine and champagne, and a tea and coffee maker handles early mornings before the museums open. The 24-hour front desk accepts contactless check-in, useful for late Trenitalia arrivals.

Parking is available for those driving into Tuscany's hill towns by day and returning to the city at night — a less obvious advantage for a hotel this central.