Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence
Italy
Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence
Via Doccia 4, 50014 Fiesole
Florence, Italy
www.belmond.com
HOTEL INFORMATION
Group
Belmond
Owners
N/A
Date of opening
28th April 2026
Hotel General Manager
Sofia Peluso, General Manager, Villa San Michele
Hotel Positioning
5 star luxury
Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence
History and Story
Perched majestically over Florence, Villa San Michele is a Renaissance masterpiece immersed in nature. Enter this storied former monastery to discover a Michelangelo-inspired façade, ancient frescoes, and woodlands where Leonardo da Vinci once trialled his flying machine. Relax into a holistic and mindful retreat, home to the first Guerlain urban spa in Italy, to flourishing, cascading gardens and a feeling of true serenity. As the sun sets over the Florentine skyline, sip an aperitif, engage in cultural and captivating conversations, and feel on top of the world.
Date renewal
Full closure 2025 for full renovation
Main strengths, special touch
An emblem of Renaissance architecture and a peaceful sanctuary with the most iconic view of Florence unfurling beneath, Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel reopens on 28 April 2026 following a meticulous 18-month renovation. Inspired by its storied heritage and idyllic hillside setting framing a picturesque vista, the hotel’s reimagination sees an emphasis on Tuscan craftsmanship, refined cultural curation and a harmonious connection to nature. The former 15th century monastery with its beloved cascading gardens, reveals 39 completely redesigned suites and rooms exuding indulgence and grandeur.
Location
Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence is nestled on a hilltop in the Italian village of Fiesole – only a short drive from Florence, the capital city of the region of Tuscany. The Villa dates back to the 15th century when it served originally as a Franciscan monastery. Surrounded by trees, terraces and lush Italian gardens. This unique property offers stunning views of the Arno Valley and the city of Florence with its picturesque skyline – russet rooftops and lofty domes.The property will proudly unveil its first-ever spa, Villa San Michele Spa by Guerlain, alongside a nature-immersive programme created to cultivate a profound sense of renewal. Marking this new chapter of wellbeing, the hotel will extend its season, open from spring through winter, inviting guests to embrace slow luxury year-round – disconnecting from the everyday and rediscovering the joy of savouring time.
Fun facts
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Key sites/activities in the area
• Garden Yoga & Meditation: Find your spot in a tranquil corner in our Leonardo woodland for a yoga or meditation session. In this peaceful and inspiring area, connect body and soul with the stunning landscape and marvel at the surrounding greenery.
• Florentine Food Tour: Join an expert guide to discover how gastronomy has developed throughout Florentine history. From street food to popular vegetables, pastries to ancient grain markets, every bite has a story to tell. Prepare to be surprised and delighted by anecdotes and guided tastings across five iconic sites in the city.
• Secret Florence: Join us as we draw back the curtain on some of Florence’s most exclusive cultural exhibitions, rooms and artifacts.Venture through hidden rooms at the Opificio delle Pietre Dure. Access Pietro Porcinai’s private archives, perhaps spotting how this renowned landscape architect was inspired to create our very own gardens. Or parse through fascinating archives at Florence’s Zeffirelli museum.
• The Art of Making: Discover why Florence is world-renowned for its creative craftsmanship. Head into the city to meet with the craftspeople spearheading Florence’s New Renaissance. Step behind the scenes and see how artists are preserving manual traditions with new materials and contemporary style. From jewelry to shoes, crystalware to perfumery, listen to each artisan talk passionately about their art’s heritage and style. End the morning at a Louis Vuitton boutique with an exclusive luggage organisation experience.
• Florence in an Ape Calessino: Hop into an Ape Calessino, the three-wheeled electric car that was so emblematic of Italy in the 50s and 60s. Discover the city at sunset in this classic vehicle. Access the most famous sights of central Florence that are usually out of bounds to motorists. Please note that this experience is only available after 6pm.
• Private view of the Duomo Terraces
• Street Food Tour
• Cashmere in the Chianti Hills
• Hidden Stores of Florence
Children’s corner
• Activities & Amenities On Property
• Baby Sitting Water Color Classes Art Classes
• Child Activities Off Property
• Farm of Maiano (huge park rich with friendly animals) Tour of Florence on board of the vintage Ape Calessino, three wheeled electric car. Private soccer training session at the Professional « Azzurri » National Italian Soccer Team Camp in Coverciano
• Museum Treasure Hunt Graffiti Classes
HOTEL FEATURES
Accommodation
• Number of suites: 27
• Number of Luxury rooms: 12
• Number of rooms, (keys) in all: 39
Restaurants & bars
• Ristorante San Michele: (breakfast, lunch, dinner) – Anticipate traditional, tasty Italian cuisine and a cosy welcome at Ristorante San Michele. As you take your seat overlooking the iconic Florentine skyline, the experience at our authentic eatery begins. Our menu champions specialties from the Slow Food Foundation, including raw milk pecorino from Maremma, red onions from Certaldo and Sorana beans. Dining here is a celebration of exceptional local ingredients.
• San Michele Grill: (Lunch, dinner) Soak in sumptuous views as you enjoy lunch or a light snack beside our inviting swimming pool. With Florence a breathtaking web below, our hilltop San Michele Grill restaurant is tempting at any time of day. Take a shaded seat on the terrace for a lazy lunch – our freshly prepared pizzas are perfect for leisurely dining. Or toast the day’s adventures with a poolside sundowner. Salute!
• Bar San Michele: (all day) Set in the small historic cloister, the bar welcomes you in a warm, sophisticated space nestled within the main body of the hotel. Or head outside into our gardens for a long, lazy al fresco aperitivo with a view.
Wellness
The new Spa by Guerlain, located in the Monastery building, invites guests into a sanctuary of calm and refinement dedicated to Dolce Vita and renewal. Guerlain has imagined a collection of exclusive treatments that capture the spirit of the Renaissance and the timeless beauty of Tuscany. The design of the spa, including two treatment rooms and a double suite, pays homage to local craftsmanship and is tailored for deeply personalised rituals.
The Spa Suite and the two single treatment rooms all have ensuite bathroom, shower and changing room, creating a quiet, almost spiritual environment. The overall lighting atmospheres, colours, music and perfumes will convey a sense of great comfort and relaxation. Outdoor heated swimming pool is available.
Corporate and celebration events
• When it comes to the best day of your life, Villa San Michele offers something quite unique. From the idyllic views over Florence to the charm of an historical location with a façade attributed to Michelangelo. Our retreat couldn’t be more picturesque, our venues more drenched in atmosphere. Host your sumptuous banquet in our panoramic gardens and let our expert staff take care of every detail. Choose from 39 beautifully renovated rooms and suites, most with terraces or balconies affording spellbinding views over Florence. The décor evokes the spirit of the Villa’s storied past blending elegance and comfort. Connecting options available on request.Three restaurants with unparalleled views on the Renaissance city: fine dining La Loggia, all day dining Ristorante San Michele and San Michele Grill by the pool. Bar San Michele, located in the lush gardens with sensational views, complements the gastronomic offer. Private dining experiences and customized menus. One-of-a-kind swimming pool immersed in nature with views of Florence, gym, sanctuary of rejuvenation by Guerlain, courtesy shuttle to Florence, calendar of experiences to be enjoyed on property. Fiesole, 30 minutes by car to Florence Airport and 75 minutes by car to Pisa Airport.
• Ideal for: Incentives, Executive Retreats, Celebrations, Weddings, Buyout/ Charters, Car Rallies and Car Launches, Corporate & Board Meetings, Product and Brand Launches, Photo/ Video Shoots
Extra notable features
Villa San Michele is not just a hotel near Florence; it is the destination. A modern-day retreat where the journey is inward, the pace is gentle, and the experience is timeless.
• A Renaissance Haven in Fiesole
Perched in the hills of Fiesole, just 20 minutes from Florence.
• Fiesole: A Legacy of Prestige
For centuries, Fiesole has been a destination for high society, artists, and intellectuals. Villa San Michele continues this tradition, offering guests a place of refined retreat and inspiration.
• Historic Soul
Housed in a 15th-century Franciscan monastery with a façade inspired by Michelangelo, the Villa embodies 600 years of history.
• Fully Renovated Suites & Rooms
39 bespoke accommodations, designed to foster a deep connection with Florence’s landscapes and culture.
• Botanical Terraced Gardens
Designed by Porcinai, these Renaissance gardens are a sanctuary for celebration, reflection, and natural beauty.
• Destination Dining
Three restaurants, including a new fine dining concept, each offering unforgettable views over Florence.
• Elevated Pool Life
A panoramic pool terrace with a grill and bar, overlooking the Arno Valley.
• Villa San Michele Spa by Guerlain: Belmond spa in partnership with Guerlain in Italy
A luxurious wellness sanctuary offering exclusive treatments.•
Hotel and restaurant(s) Awards
2025 Key Accolades
• Retained 1 Michelin Key
• #1 Hotel in Florence, Condé Nast Traveller UK List, 2025 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards
Number of employees
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