The Westin Excelsior – Florence, Italy

Set along the banks of the River Arno, The Westin Excelsior – Florence blends historic grandeur with modern luxury. With five-star service, refined rooms, and its crown jewel restaurant Cosimo, this landmark hotel remains a quintessential Florentine destination.

This Hotel Is Permanently Closed.

Hotel Rating

5/5

Located at:

Piazza Ognissanti 3, 50123 Florence, Italy

Staff Rating

5/5

Table of Contents

  • Exceptional service: staff consistently meet five-star standards. 
  • Rooftop dining at Cosimo with world-class views. 
  • Prime location within walking distance of Florence’s cultural landmarks. 
  • Comfortable rooms with signature Westin Heavenly Beds®. 
  • Eco-conscious operations and modern amenities
  • Premium pricing for services such as breakfast, valet parking, and airport transfers (Expedia). 
  • Some dining venues may close on weekends (Hotels.com). 
  • Pet policies and fees require advance confirmation (Marriott Pet Policy).

Florence is a city defined by its art, history, and timeless style—and The Westin Excelsior captures all three under one roof. Located in Piazza Ognissanti, the property offers unparalleled views of the Arno River and walking distance to iconic landmarks such as the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery. From the moment of arrival, guests are greeted by staff who embody the warmth and attentiveness you expect from a five-star property.

History & Founding

The Westin Excelsior occupies a storied palace with roots stretching back to the 19th century. Once linked to Caroline Bonaparte, the building has long been a fixture of Florentine society, evolving into one of the city’s most distinguished hotels. Its legacy blends historic frescoes and Renaissance elegance with updated interiors designed for the modern traveler.

Property & Development

The hotel features 171 individually styled rooms and suites. Many boast private balconies or terraces overlooking Florence’s skyline. Interiors combine Westin’s signature Heavenly Beds® with Italian design flourishes, offering a comfortable yet luxurious stay. Guests also benefit from 24-hour WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio access, business and meeting facilities, and eco-friendly certifications such as Green Key, affirming the hotel’s sustainability commitments.

Dining – Cosimo Restaurant & Donatello Bar

The property’s culinary centerpiece is Cosimo, the rooftop restaurant and bar. With panoramic views spanning from the Duomo to the rolling Tuscan hills, Cosimo serves elevated Tuscan cuisine alongside an impressive wine list and crafted cocktails. It is as much a visual experience as a culinary one, making it a must-visit even for non-guests. Downstairs, the Donatello Bar offers a refined space for aperitivi and light fare, perfect before an evening stroll through Florence.

Guest Experience

Service is where The Westin Excelsior excels. From concierge to housekeeping, the staff is attentive, multilingual, and genuinely invested in guest comfort. Breakfast is a generous spread of local and international dishes, while in-room amenities include plush linens, marble bathrooms, and well-considered touches such as blackout curtains and hypoallergenic bedding.

Closing

The Westin Excelsior – Florence is more than just a hotel; it’s an immersive Florentine experience. Combining old-world elegance, modern luxury, and a staff that consistently delivers five-star service, it earns its place as one of the finest stays in the city. Whether dining atop Cosimo or stepping out to explore Renaissance treasures, this property remains a hallmark of hospitality in Florence.

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