Fodor's Expert Review The St. Regis Florence

The stunning St. Regis sits atop the Arno River in a converted palace designed by Filippo Brunelleschi himself (architect of The Duomo). Like its sister properties around the world, this five-star hotel provides guests with the best of all things from a Michelin-starred restaurant and top-rated spa, to their signature butler service and St. Regis traditions like sabering and afternoon tea. Well-heeled travelers familiar with the brand will feel right at home in this super lux incarnation.

room

Named after famous historic Italians, the rooms are decked out in Renaissance style with plush carpeting, sweeping drapes, and views of the Arno River. Upper tier rooms come with the famed butler service and suites are equipped with their own espresso machines.

Butler service is a really nice touch and you can get help packing and un-packing, coffee and tea service, and assistance with any need you can surmise.

bathroom

Marble bathrooms have TVs in the mirror (great for watching movies in the bath), double sinks, shaving mirrors, and bidets. Remede bath products are standard.

lobby

A travel-theme permeates the rich wood-accented lobby with high ceilings, hardwood floors, area rugs, leather furnishings, and a grand terrace that looks over the water. Art pieces include globes, ancient maps, and other explorer-related works.

spa

The hotel spa is a real treat with a large menu of options that include massages, facials, wraps, manicures, and more. Inside, you’ll also find a giant Jacuzzi and steam shower to soothe any aching muscles after long walks around the city.

gym

Open 24/7, the fitness area includes TechnoGym cardio machines and free weights, and has water, apples, and protein bars to help you get the most of your workout.

dining

Winter Garden by Caino is the hotel’s classic one Michelin-starred restaurant that takes Florentine cuisine to a whole other level for lunch or dinner. There’s also live music every night. Breakfast is another treat at the hotel as you dine on a mezzanine that looks down on Winter Garden and has a buffet with every breakfast item imaginable.

drinking

The Winter Garden Bar is home to the famous St. Regis afternoon tea and later champagne sabering ceremony. The bar also serves a great apperitivo where for the price of drink, you get Michelin-starred finger foods along with an oyster. The hotel also has a one-of-a-kind wine cellar. Dubbed La Cantinetta, you’ll be treated to more than 300 local and international varietals.

Don’t forget, the St. Regis in New York is the originator of the Bloody Mary, and at this location, there’s an added Florentine twist.