Hotel Lungarno

Hotel Lungarno has stood on the south bank of the Arno, right beside the Ponte Vecchio, for more than half a century. It is the flagship of the Lungarno Collection, the hotel group of the Ferragamo family, and its position is almost unbeatable: many rooms look straight across the river to the Uffizi and the old town, or along the water to the bridge itself.

The hotel is known for its art. More than 400 works from the 20th century hang in the rooms and public spaces, including pieces by Picasso, Cocteau and Bueno, together with Italian artists such as Sironi, Rosai, Morlotti and Guidi. Several of the suites are named after the artists. The style is elegant and residential, and the overall feel is closer to a private home than a grand palace hotel. The hotel holds a Michelin Key and a Forbes Travel Guide award.

Rooms and suites come in several categories, including rooftop terrace rooms, river-view suites, family rooms and studios. Rooms with river views are the ones to ask for, and some have private terraces. Borgo San Jacopo, the hotel's restaurant, holds a Michelin star and is set right above the river, making it one of the most romantic dinner settings in Florence. The more informal Picteau Bistrot and Bar serves lighter meals and drinks. The hotel is pet friendly.

It suits couples, art lovers and travellers who want to be in the heart of things while staying on the slightly quieter Oltrarno side. Rates are high, particularly for river views in spring and early autumn, so book well ahead. Service is attentive and the staff can arrange tours, transfers and restaurant bookings.

Borgo San Jacopo is a short street of boutiques and restaurants leading from the Ponte Vecchio towards Santo Spirito. The Uffizi and Piazza della Signoria are about five minutes' walk across the bridge, the Palazzo Pitti five minutes south, and the artisan workshops of the Oltrarno are all around. Taxis can reach the hotel entrance, which helps with luggage. Mention a special occasion when booking, as the team can help with restaurant reservations and arrangements. Ask for a high floor if you want the widest views over the river.