Hotel Regency, Florence
Archive article. Updates at the end of the article.
Regency Hotel Florence is a partner property to Lord Byron in Rome, where I stayed a couple of years ago, and the connection between the two is immediately apparent. Both belonged to The Leading Hotels of the World collection at the time of my stay and both are now with Small Luxury Hotels of the World. There’s a shared sense of understated elegance and intimacy that defines the experience.
With just 35 rooms, the Regency feels more like a private residence than a traditional hotel. The lobby is modest in size, but tastefully arranged, and it opens onto a quiet garden that adds a welcome sense of calm after a day in the city. The location works well—about a 10-minute walk from the main train station—set in a residential neighbourhood that feels removed from the crowds without being inconvenient.
I arrived in the afternoon and, much like my experience in Rome, was personally escorted to my room. The service felt attentive, even if slightly old-fashioned; my bell attendant didn’t speak English, but managed just fine regardless. I stayed in a Classic Deluxe Room, which leaned toward a clean, contemporary style. The bed was comfortable, the lighting well thought out, and while the bathroom featured a shower-over-bathtub setup, it was well functional.
The Wi-Fi is complimentary and was impressively fast, which wasn’t always a given in historic European properties. The minibar being fully stocked and included in the rate was another thoughtful touch that elevated the stay in a subtle but meaningful way.
What stands out most about the Regency is its scale. In a city filled with larger, more impersonal hotels, having only 35 rooms allows the staff to create a more tailored experience. Requests were handled efficiently, and there was a genuine willingness to help that never felt forced. It’s the kind of place where the staff can remember small details, and that makes a difference over even a short stay. Beyond the basics, the hotel has a quiet charm. The garden, in particular. Interiors strike a balance between classic and modern.
Breakfast was a highlight and a fitting end to the stay. It was well-presented, with a good mix of options, and served in a setting that felt relaxed rather than rushed. It’s clear the hotel understands its audience: travellers looking for comfort, consistency, and personalised service.
Overall, the Regency Hotel Florence delivers an experience very much in line with Lord Byron in Rome. It’s a contemporary city hotel that prioritizes service and atmosphere over flash, making it a dependable and comfortable base in Florence.
