Portrait Firenze

Owned by the descendants of Salvatore Ferragamo, the magician-shoemaker whose presence is very much felt in Florence, the Portrait Firenze combines spectacular views of the river Arno and Ponte Vecchio with the timeless glamour and style of Italy’s dolce vita years and the birth of Italian haute couture in the 1950s.

The interior, by local Michele Bönan, takes inspiration from traditional Florentine craftsmanship with midcentury furnishings and original photographs from the Ferragamo archives. 37 flexible rooms and suites feel like private addresses, perfect for romantic getaways as well as families and small groups. Carrara marble bathrooms feature oversized showers and baths.

The restaurant, Caffè dell’Oro, serves a generous breakfast, light lunches and multi course dinners. For something a little more spectacular, head around the corner to the Portrait’s sister hotel, Continentale, to sip cocktails on its pretty terrace perched on a mediaeval tower and enjoy wonderful views across Florence’s red-tiled roofs.

Every major site in Florence is within walking distance and guests get special privileges such as free entry to Salvatore Ferragamo Museum, benefits at the Ferragamo boutique, VIP tours of the famous Vasari Corridor and an exclusive photo experience with Leica. Children are also made welcome, with special amenities for each age group and unique children’s activities in the city and countryside.