Steeped in centuries of history and tradition, this hotel stands in the city center on a small square amid buildings that showcase Renaissance architecture. The hotel overlooks the River Arno near some of the world's finest museums.

Tranquility suffuses the hotel, an ambience appropriate to the restored villa, where 18th-century residents also sought haven from the hurly-burly of Florentine life.

Hotel Regency occupies a 19th-century building in a residential area removed from the tourist hubbub. Originally a private mansion, the property stands on a large, tree-lined square between the Accademia Art Gallery and Santa Croce Church—both within 1 kilometer. Inside, fresh flowers, antiques, and tapestries abound. Guests are primarily tourists and couples, and some families.

What to expect: The marble entrance opens into a lavish central lounge area, complete with domed ceiling, marble columns, and furnishings in red-and-gold silk. A proscenium arch leads to the reception desk. The hotel's regal atmosphere draws many tourists (primarily adults).

Amenity highlights: Grand Hotel Villa Medici offers an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by grass and shady trees. There is also a fitness center with exercise machines, sauna, and steam room. Meeting rooms range from small to grand, and the largest can accommodate banquets.

Insider tip: The fifth floor offers a small terrace with extensive city views. There is also a secluded sun trap, as well as tables and chairs.

Westin Excelsior is a restored 12th-century mansion—once partly owned by Napoleon's sister. Inside, the six-floor hotel has a pillared hallway and marbled floor in colors inspired by the Tuscan hills. The large marble lobby has a stone staircase and a bar with wooden paneling. Decor includes walnut furnishings, Asian rugs, and Neo Classical frescoes. Famous for its service, the property draws businesspeople, leisure travelers, pop stars, and presidents.

What to expect: This hotel is set one block from Via Tornabuoni—the "Madison Avenue" of Florence (upmarket shops, cafes, and restaurants). Through crystal doors, a fireside lobby showcases antique furnishings and 16th-century paintings. The terra-cotta floor is topped with Asian rugs, and velvet sofas with brocade pillows complement leather high-back chairs, marble-topped end tables, and walnut bookcases. Long the retreat of the artistic rich, present clientele includes fashion designers and musicians; primarily vacationers.

Amenity highlights: A 19th-century bookcase houses a small library of books in English, Italian, French, and German. There is also a discreetly hidden video-library (every room is equipped with a video player and stereo system).

Insider tip: Across from the hotel, Palazzo Strozzi is the largest of Florence’s 15th-century palaces. Construction took 44 years, and the owner watched its construction from a small house on the square. At the main entrance, corner lamp brackets bear original (and rare) Renaissance ironwork designed by popular artisan of the time, Niccolo Grosso.

The hotel sits on a high river bank buttressed by an ancient stone wall. Broad lawns, cypress trees, flower beds, and a vine-covered chapel highlight the grounds. Open from late March until early November, this hotel attracts an international clientele seeking rest and relaxation in the sun-drenched Tuscan countryside. Guests are near enough to Florence to tour the city and then escape from the crowds.

17th-century palace-turned-hotel in central Siena