This historic residence, located in the heart of the Oltrarno district of Florence, has welcomed famous guests and world travelers since the 19th century. With stunning rooms, fine dining, a luxurious spa, and easy access to Florence’s top attractions, Villa Cora gives you the chance to experience true Italian elegance.
Rooms & Suites
At Villa Cora, each room and suite is like a piece of art, designed to make your stay feel special. With 43 individual rooms, you’ll find historic frescoes, antique furniture, and spacious marble baths, creating a blend of luxury and charm. The “Imperial Suite” is especially memorable—this suite once hosted Japan’s Emperor Akihito. You’ll enjoy views of the villa’s private garden and Florence from your own cozy balcony.
If you’re traveling with family, the “Family Room” on the third floor offers plenty of space, including two bedrooms and a private terrace. For solo travelers or couples, options like the “Junior Suite” or “Deluxe Room” deliver elegance and comfort, with hand-painted details, wood floors, and views of the lush gardens or the city skyline. Every room is thoughtfully designed to make you feel at home in this historic setting.
Villa Cora provides special welcome gifts for VIP guests and always arranges an in-room amenity, such as fine chocolates or sweets presented on an Ardazia black board, or a bottle of wine. Honeymooners can also expect thoughtful touches to celebrate their stay.
For larger groups or those seeking extra privacy, the property offers a full buyout of the Pink House, Villino Eugenia, a charming villa in town with 13 rooms. Guests who reserve the Pink House enjoy access to all of the hotel’s services.
Villa Cora itself has a romantic history. It was originally a gift from a German baron to his beloved Eugenia, intended to surprise her and convince her to marry him. Later, Eugenia Bonaparte—distinct from Napoleon’s wife—lived here for nine months. She adored roses of every color except red, and to this day, the gardens bloom spectacularly from March through November.
Dining
The day begins with a generous buffet breakfast featuring homemade pastries, fresh fruit, and a variety of Tuscan cheeses and cured meats. Guests can enjoy an array of sweet and savory options, including house-made marmalades, yogurt, and an à la carte menu offering hot dishes and even pizzas. Breakfast can also be savored outdoors on the terrace overlooking the gardens.
Starting on June 5th, Villa Cora introduces the Breakfast in the Night event—where the breakfast menu is served as an evening dinner, enhanced with a selection of special dishes alongside the traditional buffet favorites.
Lunch showcases classic Italian dishes ideal for a relaxed business meeting or a casual meal. In the evenings, Executive Chef Alessandro Liberatore highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients to create sophisticated regional cuisine. You can dine at Le Bistrot Restaurant, where the setting transforms with the seasons—from elegant poolside tables in the summer to the warm, colorful ambiance of the Moorish Room in winter.
For a more informal experience, the Santa Garden Cocktail Club by the pool is perfect for enjoying signature cocktails amid the villa’s lush Italian garden. Guests can also join special events, such as the pizza and champagne evenings by the pool and a traditional aperitivo.
Highlights from the cocktail menu include the Welcome to Tijuana, a spicy blend of goji berry-infused tequila and hemp vermouth; the Martini Aglio e Olio, an inventive take on the classic Italian pasta transformed into a savory martini; and the Paloma 2.0, a refreshing combination of tequila, agave and tonka bean cordial, and pink grapefruit soda.
Don’t miss a visit to the “Bellevue Roof Terrace” for drinks with a view, or relax in the elegant “Il Salotto del Santa” lounge for a refined pre-dinner or late-night cocktail. Il Salatto del Santa has a relaxing speakeasy atmosphere.
Spa
Escape into relaxation at Villa Cora’s Spa BENé. Tucked beneath Villino Eugenia, this wellness retreat is easy to access from the main villa through an underground tunnel. You’ll find a sauna, steam bath, tepidarium, and a soothing Jacuzzi, as well as a variety of beauty treatments and massages to help you unwind.
Treat yourself to one of their signature treatments with the luxury skincare brand Natura Bissé. For example, the “Diamond Energy” facial boosts your skin’s radiance, while the “Royal Citrus Experience” combines body and facial treatments that leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. There’s even a cozy duo cabin for couples looking to share a relaxing massage together.
The spa at Villa Cora features products by Naturo de Esse, a renowned, family-owned cosmetic line from Barcelona celebrated for its quality across South America, Russia, and beyond.
If you’d like to stay active during your visit, the hotel also offers a well-equipped fitness room exclusively for guests.
Villa Cora is home to the only heated outdoor pool in Florence, open year-round—a rare resort-style amenity in the heart of the city.
Nearby Points of Interest
Villa Cora has a shuttle to city center that operates about every ten minutes.
Boboli Gardens: Just outside Villa Cora’s grounds, this famous Renaissance garden is filled with beautiful sculptures, fountains, and scenic paths, offering a peaceful escape with panoramic views of Florence.
Uffizi Gallery: A short walk or shuttle ride away, this world-renowned museum showcases masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and other Renaissance greats.
Florence Cathedral: Marvel at the iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi and take in the stunning architecture of this historic cathedral.
Ponte Vecchio: Visit this medieval stone bridge lined with charming jewelry shops, an iconic symbol of Florence. Walking distance to Ponte Vecchio is 20 minutes from Villa Cora.
Santo Spirito Neighborhood: Enjoy a lively atmosphere with local markets, artisan shops, and cozy cafes for a taste of authentic Florentine life.