Capital of Tuscany and birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is an art-lover's paradise, with some of the world's finest art displayed in the many museums, galleries and historic buildings. Behind the tourist façade and the medieval buildings lies a traditional Italian city with many lesser known treasures such as the mile long San Lorenzo market and the food market with its bargain delicatessen fare. Florence is a relatively small city and in peak season the hotels are not cheap, but in the quieter autumn winter and early spring months there are some fantastic deals and the gallery queues are much shorter too. For the best discounted hotels, click here now to book.

Unlike many cities most of the Florence hotels are within walking distance of all the main sights of the historic medieval central quarter. Inevitably the cheapest Florence hotels are still outside this central area but this is balanced by their delightful surroundings close to colourful markets and wonderful restaurants, often away from the main tourist hubbub. A good example is the Hotel Villa Sull'Arno, originally a 14 th century villa converted into a modern hotel in a superb spot right on the banks of the River Arno and featuring its own pool. Because it's a little way out of the city centre the prices here are exceptionally good for a Florentine 4 star.

A little nearer to the centre is a real gem – the 2 star Orcagna. This property belies its 2 star category in terms of facilities and service but not prices and it is one of the few really cheap accommodations where you can be sure of a comfortable, enjoyable stay. Back in the centre of the city there is a clutch of 3 star accommodations in the area close to the main station, and only around 10 minutes stroll from the historic quarter, that are very convenient for those arriving by train or bus from the usual ‘gateway' of Pisa airport. City Hotels Direct has negotiated some excellent deals in hotels in this part of Florence and the best of the bunch, the Alba and the Porta Faenza , both receive our coveted Recommended Hotels award for their combination of reliable standards and value for money.

You must be prepared to pay rather more if you want to stay in 3 star accommodations right in the centre of the city, but CityHotelsDirect has negotiated some excellent discounted deals in this central area too. The Machiavelli Palace was originally built as a convent in the 16th century, rooms are individually decorated in traditional Florentine style and there's a rooftop terrace with a great view of the cathedral. Another favourite and one of City Hotels Direct's Recommended Hotels is the Paris, a delightful property located in the heart of the historical centre which dates back to the 16th century and is traditionally decorated to compliment the high ceilings, beautiful frescos and original features.

City Hotels Direct offer some of the best value 4 star lodging in the city including the Kraft, another of our Recommended Hotels, where we have negotiated some very special prices, especially outside the peak season. Guests appreciate its setting away from the main hustle and bustle but within walking distance of most sights. Other excellent deals on Florence 4 star accommodations in the heart of the city include the Londra and the Adler Cavalieri, but the best of the bunch is surely the Pierre, a superb 4 star and one of the most elegant hotel with its stylishly and traditional Florentine furnishings amidst a historic 13th century building. It boasts a fabulous location, just a short walk from the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio in the centre of the historic old town. With rave reviews it is not surprising that the Pierre receives our Recommended Hotel status.