Florence Villas & Luxury Vacation Rentals : Rental Escapes

Your Guide to Florence Luxury Villas

Florence is the capital of Tuscany, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and undoubtedly one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations. And while there’s no shortage of hotel rooms available, Florence luxury villas are the best way to experience this beautiful part of Italy, especially if you’re traveling with a group.

Like so much that’s great about the region, the history of Florence villas also dates back to the Renaissance period, when wealthy families would develop large, ornate villas in the countryside surrounding the city. This tradition continues today, and many of the best villa rentals in Florence are restored farmhouses dating back to that period.

If you’re traveling with a group, Florence villas are an ideal way of experiencing not just this beautiful city, but also the surrounding Tuscan countryside. They make for a perfect retreat, allowing you to experience the best of Florence – including its museums, landmarks, operas, restaurants, and nightlife – while giving you your own private refuge to retreat to.

Renting a luxury villa in Florence is easy with Rental Escapes. First, determine your approximate travel dates and party size. From there, your Rental Escapes villa specialist will be able to present you with the best villa options for your group. Once booked, your concierge helps arrange additional details like airport transfers, chef service, and anything else your group may need.

Luxury Villas near Florence

While so many come to Florence to experience its world-renowned art and culture, as well as its fascinating history and architectural beauty, just outside the city lies the Tuscan countryside with its rolling hills, rich vineyards, verdant olive groves, and charming small towns.

Florentine countryside options include the Chianti region, between Florence and Siena; Val d’Orcia, south of Florence; and Mugello, a valley area north of Florence. Surrounding towns also include Fiesole, on the hills surrounding Florence; and San Gimignano, a lovely medieval town known for its medieval architecture and outstanding views.

Often located in these verdant, charming areas, luxury villas in Florence run the gamut from restored farmhouses with illustrious histories that have been passed down across generations, to modern constructions with large pool areas and every modern amenity, as well as luxury apartments in the heart of the city itself.

Farmhouse Villas near Florence

When Florence’s patricians chose to build villas in the surrounding countryside during the Renaissance, they often built farmhouses so they could fulfill their agrarian ideals. Today, these restored farmhouses represent some of the most historic and luxurious villa rentals in Florence. They include:

Machiavelli: A true historical villa, Machiavelli is a restored 15th-century farmhouse that belonged to the Machiavelli family and, later, the Mazzei family of winemakers. Appropriately, it is located amid a vineyard by the town of Sant Andrea in Percussina, where Machiavelli wrote The Prince and was later exiled. It is a true testament to Renaissance opulence, renewed and restored with the latest amenities.

Feronia: One of the largest and most historic villa rentals near Florence, Feronia is a superb 14th-century villa that can accommodate up to 38 guests. It’s surrounded by abundant, verdant fields, and features breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and of the city itself, punctuated by its Duomo. It can be booked separately or all together, making it perfect for groups of different sizes, as well as large events like weddings.

Adorna: A restored 14th-century farmhouse, Adorna is surrounded by centuries of history, expressed in everything from the ceramic tiles, beamed ceilings, and heirloom art on the inside, to the 400-year-old trees that surround the pool on the outside. It’s this melding of the old and the new – as well as its full staff - that makes Adorna such an unforgettable experience for up to 20 guests.

Villas Near Florence with Pools

So much of the beauty of renting a luxury villa near Florence is taking in the surrounding countryside. If you’re traveling when the weather’s warm, there’s no better way to do that than by lounging around a big pool with your family and friends. Here are some of the best villas near Florence with pools:

Isimora: Isimora is a beautiful countryside retreat that features classic interiors with stunning artwork and original frescos, as well as an expansive pool and a well-manicured garden that’s perfect for children. It’s all surrounded by an enchanting park, giving you the chance to enjoy your own little Tuscan playground. Little touches, like the fireplace in the kitchen and the traditional dining room, round out a villa experience that’s as authentic as it is charming.

Augusta: A converted 16th-century mansion, Augusta exudes patrician taste and elegant refinement. Step inside and gasp at the antique furniture and countless works of art or step out to the pool area and marvel at the beauty of the Tuscan countryside before you. It’s no wonder this villa has such a celebrated guest list, including Paolina Bonaparte (Napoleon’s sister and the former Grand Duchess of Tuscany).

Leila: High atop a hill you’ll find Leila, a luxurious Florentine villa with understated elegance, punctuated by grand views of the Tuscan countryside. It’s a great choice for families, with a large, heated swimming pool, tennis court, bocce court, and futsal court, as well as a variety of bedroom layouts and full staff.

Luxury Apartments in Florence

Florence is truly a magical city, and while its major landmarks rightfully earn a lot of attention, there’s also much to be said for its more quant side streets, with their charming buildings and the beautiful façades that ordain them. Luxury apartments in Florence let you experience this more authentic side of the city firsthand. They include:

Gismonda: Located on the first floor of a Liberty-style building, Gismonda is a 2,600-square-foot apartment in the heart of historic Florence. It perfectly captures that uncompromising Italian sense of style with everything from its rich materials to its sleek-yet-traditional layout. A sophisticated choice that promises the absolute best of the city.

Medea: A five-bedroom villa just one minute from the Ponte Vecchio in the heart of historic Florence, Medea is an eclectic combination of style and sophistication. Every aspect of the décor has been carefully considered, and the unique art, elaborate materials, and minimalist aesthetic combine to create a truly unique space. An exquisite choice for up to 8 guests.

Turan: Located in Oltrarno, just across the Arno River from Florence’s historic center, Turan offers guests a chance to experience a more authentic Florence, which locals flock to for its markets and nightlife. It’s here you’ll find Turan, an elegant 2-bedroom apartment that, like the neighborhood, has a personality all of its own – as well as some of the best riverside views of Florence that you’ll find anywhere.

Florence FAQ

What are the Entry Requirements for Florence?

Italy is part of the Schengen area, so you’ll only have to show your passport once upon entering the area, including if you’re traveling from the UK, the US, or Canada. Once inside the area, which includes most EU countries, you can travel without having to show your passport.

How to Travel to Florence?

Florence is serviced by its own airport, Amerigo Vespucci Airport, which primarily services flights within Europe. If you’re traveling from outside of Europe, then you may be landing in Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport, which is about an hour and a half to two hours away by train. You may also land in Milan or Venice, which are both about 2 hours away by train.

Once you’re in Florence, getting around will depend on where you’re staying. If you’re staying outside of the city, then you’ll want to arrange a rental car or private driver to take you into the city. Do be aware, though, that driving within the city can be tricky, especially if you need to park. That said, trains between Tuscany’s towns are plentiful and reliable, so parking at a nearby train station can be a great solution if you want to visit the city.

Once you’re in the city, you’ll be able to get around by foot or by taxi quite easily, as the city is compact and walkable. Bikes can also be easily rented.

Your Rental Escapes concierge is happy to help with airport transfers, car rentals, private drivers, and more.

When is the Best Time to Visit Florence?

Summertime is the high season in Florence, when temperatures are highest, and crowds are at their peak. It’s a very lively time, and also when you’ll find some of the city’s best festivals, such as the Calcio Storico tournament.

For many, though, shoulder season during spring and fall is the best time to visit. Temperatures are a little cooler, the crowds are fewer (especially at the museums) and there are tons of little perks, like seeing the flowers bloom in spring or the rich foliage in autumn. Prices are also lower at this time, and many Florence villas have heated pools.

Wintertime, lastly, is decidedly low season, though this could still be a great time to visit if you want to experience a more authentic side of the city, or if you want to appreciate the local customs for the holidays.

Best Things to do in Florence?

Visit the Uffizi Gallery: One of the world’s most exquisite museums, the Uffizi Gallery is home to countless works of art from Renaissance masters like Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Botticelli, and more. It’s also a converted Medici palazzo that’s a work of art unto itself, with each room dedicated to different periods and artists. Be sure to book tickets online to avoid crowds.

Climb the Duomo: Florence’s landscape is dominated by its iconic Duomo, also known as Santa Maria del Fiore. No visit to Florence is complete without taking in its immaculate and intricate façade, as well as climbing to the top and admiring the most stunning view of the city that you’ll find anywhere.

Explore the countryside: The Tuscan countryside is home to some of the world’s best vineyards, and a litany of charming little towns that are just waiting to steal your heart, including UNESCO heritage sites like San Gimignano (and nearby Siena – Florence’s former rival). Book a rental car or a tour to explore this storied part of Italy.

How’s the Food in Florence?

Florentine cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, prepared simply.

Specialty dishes include Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a T-bone steak cooked over a fire and drizzled with olive oil; arista, a succulent roast pork loin; and a variety of pasta dishes, including heartier fare like wild boar ragu.

For dessert, try the cantucci with vin santo – almond biscuits with sweet wine – or some of the local gelato, served in a variety of flavors.

Your Rental Escapes concierge can also arrange villa pre-stocking and private chef service on any villa rental, so your favorites will always be ready for you.

How’s the Weather in Florence?

Florence benefits from a Mediterranean climate, which means warm, dry summers and mild winters.

Springtime sees average temperatures vary from 13-22°C (55-72°F), with average rainfall between 82-92mm (3.2-3.6in). Overall, the weather is mild and pleasant at this time, but with a chance of showers.

Summer sees average temperatures increase to 18-31°C (64-88°F), with average rainfall between 31-50mm (1.2-2in). Visitors can expect plenty of sunshine, though with the occasional chance of thunderstorms.

Fall sees average temperatures drop to 12-22°C (54-72°F), with average rainfall between 82-104mm (3.2-4.1in). Like spring, this is a mild and comfortable time to visit, though it’s also the wettest.

Winter, lastly, sees temperatures drop further to 3-12°C (37-54°C), with average rainfall between 72-82mm (2.8-3.2in). The weather can be damp and cool, and there’s even the occasional snowfall, though in general winters are milder than in other parts of Europe.

Book a Villa in Florence with Rental Escapes

If you’re hoping to visit this beautiful part of Italy, Rental Escapes can elevate your Florence villa rental into a true luxury experience.

Our portfolio includes the finest villa rentals in Florence, including villas with private pools, farmhouse villas, luxury apartment rentals, and more.

Your Rental Escapes reservations expert can find the best villa for your group, and your concierge personalizes your trip to create the ultimate Florence luxury villa experience.