J.K. Place Firenze, Florence

Set in an elegant townhouse in the heart of the city, JK Place Firenze defined by the atmosphere of a discreetly luxurious private residence. Oozing style and class, it’s one of the most sought-after boutique hotels in Florence.

The location of JK Place Firenze couldn’t be better. It’s seconds from the door of the iconic church of Santa Maria Novella and from the famous 700-year-old Farmacia (apothecary) of the same name (it is here that the fictional character Hannibal Lecter made some perfumed purchases…)

Only a small chrome plaque at the door reveals the identity of JK Place Firenze. It’s an apt preamble to the things to come: the interiors are highly refined, the service discreet and unassuming. The check-in, with a drink in hand, is performed in a dark wood library filled with books and art objéts.

Unpretentious luxury

The sophisticated décor contributes to the positive first impressions. Muted colors abound, with crisp cream soft furnishings, occasionally contrasted with dramatic black. Tall mirrors hang on the walls, accompanied by framed life drawings and prints, images and books, sculptures and lacquered oriental pieces. Here and there, many restored historical features adorn the rooms.

The building is part of a historic palazzo and part modern townhouse. The two halves come together around a glass-covered lightwell, which drops to an airy dining room. Arranged around it are the hotel’s 20 bedrooms: snazzy, characterful, no two alike—from cozy little dens to spacious master rooms and the penthouse suite with wrap-around windows offering spectacular views of the piazza and beyond.

Lounging and dining

The hotel has plenty of spaces to lounge. There’s a library room with sofas and armchairs arranged in front of the fire and the elegant main lounge is filled with art books. A panoramic teak deck with loungers and flickering candles on the top floor of the hotel is a romantic must-visit. One of the more surprising spaces of the hotel is the “Pink Room”—filled with a pink neon light, with cushions and comfy sofas.

JK Lounge is JK Place’s bar and restaurant and one of Florence’s hippest lounge bars. A small but perfectly formed menu of light bites and aperitifs is available throughout the week, and the Sunday brunch is said to be one of the best in Florence. Breakfast is served around a large oval table in a glass-covered courtyard. It’s a communal affair, though guests can also order to the room.

Especially popular with the hip and the fashionable, JK’s extremely well-curated décor offers sophisticated, understated luxury. And the service is perfectly balanced between immaculate and homely, with every need and desire of guests anticipated. It’s impeccable and without pretense. No wonder then that the hotel is a favorite place of celebrities — among the former guests are Kylie Minogue and Stella McCartney.

Check availability for JK Place Firenze: Booking.com | Hotels.com | Tablet Hotels |Mr And Mrs Smith or see what others think on TripAdvisor.

in our opinion

This trendsetting boutique hotel is a go-to place for the cool-looking fashionista travelers—but a safe bet for everybody else too.

Check out our reviews of J.K. Capri and J.K. Roma!

What we love

• Great location on the Piazza Santa Maria Novella
• The best to book is the penthouse room. It comes with plenty of space and great views towards the iconic Santa Maria Novella church. Or book the multilevel Duplex Double Deluxe, which also offer views over the Piazza
• The rooftop terrace is a great place to watch the sun setting over Florence’s red top roofs
• The sophisticated atmosphere of understated modern luxury
• Guest rooms are well soundproofed and equipped and decorated in calm cream-greys
• Very high level of service with the second to none concierge—they can arrange private access to museums, personal shopping, sightseeing and more. Staff-to-guest ratio is 2:1
• Complementary: drinks throughout the hotel, mini-bar, and coffee, tea, breakfast and snacks during the day
• The Pink Room!

What you should know

• The hotel is only some 15 minutes by taxi from the airport and a 5-minute walk from the local train station (also, it’s just about ten minutes to the Ponte Vecchio)
• The facilities are limited: there is no spa, gym or swimming pool
• Breakfast is served at a large communal table
• The Classic rooms are on the small size and have less-desirable views
• Children under 12 stay for free. The hotel can arrange babysitting
• The pedestrianized Piazza Santa Maria Novella is a popular spot all-year-round, but especially in summer, with plenty of neighboring bars and restaurants. It can get noisy at night
• J.K. Terrace is open seasonally, March through November