We Review the Oldest Hotel in Italy, the NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

If you are searching for the best hotel in Florence, that offers luxury amidst a historical setting, consider staying at the NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa. Believed to be one of Italy’s oldest hotels, this gem in Florence offers timeless elegance and contemporary luxury no matter the reason for your visit. 

We recently stayed at the hotel, immersing ourselves in the hotel's rich history, generous service, and delectable culinary offerings. Read on for our review of the NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa to find out if this blend of old-world charm and modern luxury is for you.

Conveniently Located at Porta Rossa, Florence

It can’t get more central than Porta Rossa, a charming cobblestone street filled with luxurious retail offerings in Florence. Nestled in the heart is the NH Collection Firenze that sets itself apart as an unparalleled base for exploring the city's iconic treasures. Just steps away from the world-renowned Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo, you can enjoy the best of Florentine delights without having to venture too far. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this hotel's central location ensures that it is all within easy reach.

NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa 

As you enter, it becomes apparent that this is more than a hotel. The NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa complete with its 13th century tower and frescoes makes time truly stand still in the otherwise busy centre of Florence. Infact, a recent renovation has been awarded “Best restoration for an existing building”, highlighting the way the hotel has maintained its historical value. From its untouched frescoes to antiques spread across the hotel premises, you can indulge in the fact that this is a living museum, and you a guest at one of the oldest hotels in country!

Rooms and Suites for the Ultimate Holiday Experience

Each of the hotel's 70 rooms offer a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary design. Many rooms boast meticulously restored frescoes, offering a glimpse into the hotel's rich history. For the ultimate in luxury, the Panoramic Suite or Torre Monalda Suite, housed within a 13th-century tower, provides breathtaking views of Florence. 

Travelling in a large group? NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa caters to all types of travelers, including families. In addition to its luxurious rooms and suites, the hotel offers Special Family XL accommodations, perfect for groups of up to eight. 

We checked into a Junior Suite that houses a queen size bed, sumptuously comfortable pillows aand mattress, and a luxurious bathroom with a separate dresser area. For those who prefer to stay in, there is a flat TV, sofa bed and coffee machine in each room. You can also request for connecting rooms, to stay close to family and children. Best of all? Open your windows for partial views of Florence and its streets with live performances by singers streaming in – stuff Italian holiday dreams are made of!

Finally, guests also get to select from a variety of pillows and fragrances from the hotel's special pillow menu.

Savour Florentine Cuisine at NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

An unmissable experience, the breakfast buffet at NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa is designed to delight all palettes - from the youngest to the old! Begin your day with a delightful culinary spectacle where a decadent spread of sweet and savoury options awaits. 

Indulge in freshly baked pastries, a variety of breads, and a tempting selection of cold cuts and cheeses. You can also request hot dishes such as eggs to be made to order. For those seeking a lighter start, fresh fruits and yogurt along with your choice of coffee, tea and fresh juices are available. 

Kids too have an extensive spread to enjoy including croissants, cakes, pies, tarts, a muffin wheel as well as a selection of gluten-free dishes. Don’t miss the daily curation of local specialities such as Schiacciata Toscana and roasted vegetables for the perfect Florentine experience. 

Aside from breakfast, you can enjoy authentic Tuscan flavours at the Porta Rossa Bistrot which offers a selection of delicious dishes from Italian tradition, and with some Sicilian touches. Known as one of the top places to eat in Florence, the Bistrot allows guests a unique opportunity to savour traditional dishes in a historical location. There’s also the NH Porta Rossa Bar which makes for the perfect pitstop after a long day of sightseeing. 

Service at NH Firenze Collection Porta Rossa

The hallmark of NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa is its exceptional service. Staff members blend old-world charm with modern efficiency, ensuring guests feel cared for at every turn. From the warm greeting upon arrival to the personalised concierge recommendations, the hotel’s dedication to guest satisfaction is the reason for their obviously high number of repeat customers. 

The experience extends beyond the basics. Thoughtful touches, such as handwritten suggestions and a sweet farewell gift, create an inviting atmosphere where guests feel truly welcomed. We certainly will be back for more!

Pro Tips for Florence and Your Stay at NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

1. Getting there: The Florence airport is an easy taxi or tram ride away from the city centre. While many tourists also prefer to rent a car, we would recommend making note of the ZTL or Limited Traffic Zone in the city centre to avoid hefty fines. 

2. NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa: Request for a tour of the hotel to understand its history in detail and don’t miss the original frescoes in the dining hall - these hail from the early 13th century!

   While Florence boasts an endless list of culinary delights, we strongly recommend indulging in the hotel's breakfast buffet. Not only will it provide a nourishing start to your day, but the range of fresh flavours and regional specialties is simply irresistible.

   The hotel also has cold water(still and sparkling) and ice in the common areas at every level. This is particularly helpful during the summer months when you want to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

3. Things to do in Florence: As with any tourist destination, plan ahead and make sure you have tickets for popular attractions in Florence. Starting with the Cathedral of Santa Maria(free entry), where while the queues tend to be long, these move quickly. Also make sure to pack a scarf as most churches will not allow entry for those wearing sleeveless tops. 

   Climbing the Duomo requires tickets(book in advance) which can be purchased from the official ticketing website. Missed booking these in time? You could try climbing Giotto's Bell Tower instead that offers unmissable views over Florence and also allows you to admire the Duomo from that height.

   Make plenty of time for the mesmerising Uffizi Gallery, David at the Accademia Gallery in Florence, and also for the Basilica of Santa Croce where you will find many famous tombs including those of Galileo and Michelangelo. For some respite from the crowds and the heat, consider heading to the Medici Chapels the burial place of the Medici family. 

   Finally, don’t forget to pack a picnic and experience a sunset like none other at Piazzale Michelangelo which offers stunning views of Florence and the Duomo from afar. 

4. Eating in Florence: You can rarely go wrong with food in Florence, a culinary capital by itself. That being said consider booking a few well-known restaurants in advance such as Trattoria Mario and La Buchetta Food & Wine Restaurant. Queue up at Gusta Pizza Florence for the best pizza the city has to offer. And of course, don’t forget to try the famous All' Antico Vinaio, for the most memorable sandwiches of your trip. Queues can also get long for Vivoli Cafe where the affogato is a must-try. 

    

5. Side trips from Florence: A visit to Tuscany’s vineyards is necessary and we highly recommend booking a tour so you don’t have to drink and drive! If you do intend on renting a car, get the rental from Florence airport instead to avoid the confusing ZTL rules and accompanying fines. San Gimignano also makes for a beautiful pit stop with Gelato World Champion Gelateria Dondoli serving up the best gelato you will ever taste! Amongst their usual flavours lie regional must-haves like the Crema di Santa Fina® (cream with saffron and pine nuts), Champelmo® (pink grapefruit and sparkling wine) and  Dolceamaro® (cream with aromatic herbs). 

Experience the magic of Florence at NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa. Book your stay here.

NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

Via Porta Rossa, 19, 50123 Florence Italy

Reservations (+34) 91 398 46 61 Tel.: (+39) 055 2710911

Email: [email protected]

Ready to plan your next trip? Our Travel Section offers a wealth of inspiration, from in-depth destination guides to real traveler reviews.