If you’re planning a trip to Florence and want to keep up with your fitness routine without breaking the bank, you might be wondering: are there any budget hotels in Florence with a gym? The short answer is yes, but they are not as common as in larger cities. Florence’s historic center is compact, and many budget hotels prioritize location over amenities. However, a handful of affordable options do offer fitness facilities. In this guide, we’ll explore the best budget-friendly hotels with gyms, what to expect, and how to save money while staying active.
Table des matières:
Why Finding a Budget Hotel with a Gym in Florence Can Be Tricky
Florence is a city of art and history, not typically known for large hotel chains with extensive amenities. Many budget hotels are housed in historic buildings where space is limited. Installing a gym is often not feasible due to structural constraints. Additionally, the demand for gyms among budget travelers is relatively low, so many affordable hotels choose to forgo fitness facilities to keep rates low. However, there are still options if you know where to look.
Top Budget Hotels in Florence with a Gym
Here are some of the best budget-friendly hotels that offer a gym or fitness center. Prices are approximate and can vary by season.
| Hotel Name | Price Range (per night) | Gym Facilities | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Cerretani Firenze | €80–€130 | Small fitness room with cardio machines | Near Santa Maria Novella station |
| Hotel Diplomat | €70–€120 | Fitness area with treadmill, bike, weights | Close to the Duomo |
| Hotel Spadai | €90–€140 | Modern gym with machines and free weights | Piazza del Duomo area |
| Hotel De La Pace | €60–€100 | Basic fitness room (treadmill, stationary bike) | Near Piazza della Signoria |
| Hotel Delle Nazioni | €70–€110 | Small gym with multi-gym machine | Near Santa Croce |
These hotels are often classified as 3-star or 4-star, but they offer competitive rates, especially if you book in advance or during the off-season. Keep in mind that the gyms are usually compact—don’t expect a full-scale fitness center.
What to Expect from a Hotel Gym in Florence
Hotel gyms in budget properties are typically limited. You’ll likely find:
- Cardio machines like treadmills, stationary bikes, or elliptical trainers
- A few dumbbells or a multi-gym machine
- Limited floor space for stretching or bodyweight exercises
Some hotels may have a partnership with a nearby gym, allowing guests to use their facilities for a reduced fee or free of charge. Always check with the hotel before booking if fitness is important to you.
Alternative: Hotels with Nearby Gym Access
If the hotel’s own gym is too basic, some budget hotels offer discounted passes to local fitness centers. For example, Hotel Santa Maria Novella and Hotel Bernini (both mid-range budget) have agreements with nearby gyms. This can be a great compromise—you get access to better equipment without paying for a luxury hotel.
How to Save Money on a Fitness-Friendly Hotel in Florence
Here are practical tips to find a budget hotel with a gym without overspending:
- Book directly: Sometimes hotels offer perks like free gym access if you book on their website.
- Travel off-season: November to February (excluding holidays) sees lower rates.
- Look for package deals: Some booking sites bundle hotel and gym access.
- Check for hidden fees: Some hotels charge extra for gym use; confirm upfront.
- Consider hostels with gyms: Hostels like Plus Florence have a gym and are very affordable.
Budget-Friendly Hostels with Gyms in Florence
If you’re open to hostels, you’ll find more options with fitness facilities. Hostels often have basic gyms or workout areas. Here are a few:
- Plus Florence: Offers a gym, pool, and sauna. Dorm beds from €25, private rooms from €60.
- Hostel Archi Rossi: Has a small fitness corner with equipment. Dorms from €20.
- Galleria D’arte: Includes a gym and is near the train station. Dorms from €22.
Hostels can be a great way to save money while still having access to a gym.
What If Your Hotel Doesn’t Have a Gym? Day Passes and Outdoor Workouts
If you can’t find a budget hotel with a gym, don’t worry. Florence offers alternatives:
- Day passes at gyms: Many gyms in Florence offer day passes for around €10–€20. Examples include FitActive and Virgin Active (check locations).
- Outdoor workouts: The Boboli Gardens and Parco delle Cascine are great for running or bodyweight exercises. The latter has a long path along the Arno River.
- Hotel room workouts: You can do bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and yoga without any equipment.
Checklist: What to Look for When Booking a Budget Hotel with a Gym
Use this checklist to ensure you get what you need:
- ☐ Does the hotel have an on-site gym? Request photos if possible.
- ☐ Is the gym free for guests? Some hotels charge a fee.
- ☐ What equipment is available? Confirm it meets your needs.
- ☐ Are there operating hours? Some gyms are not 24/7.
- ☐ Is there a partnership with a nearby gym? If so, what’s the cost?
- ☐ Read recent reviews mentioning the gym to verify condition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming all 4-star hotels have gyms: In Florence, many 4-star hotels in historic buildings lack fitness facilities.
- Not checking gym hours: Some hotel gyms close early or have limited hours.
- Overlooking hostels: Hostels can offer better fitness amenities than some budget hotels.
- Ignoring location: A hotel with a gym far from attractions may cost more in transport. Balance your priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do any 3-star hotels in Florence have a gym?
Yes, some 3-star hotels like Hotel Cerretani Firenze and Hotel De La Pace have small fitness rooms. They are budget-friendly but the gym may be basic.
Are there budget hotels near the Duomo with a gym?
Hotel Spadai and Hotel Diplomat are near the Duomo and offer gyms. They are slightly higher in price but still budget-friendly compared to luxury options.
Can I use a hotel gym without staying there?
Most hotel gyms are for guests only. However, some hotels sell day passes if you ask. Alternatively, look for public gyms.
What is the cheapest hotel in Florence with a gym?
Hostels like Plus Florence or Hostel Archi Rossi are the cheapest options with gyms. Among hotels, Hotel De La Pace often has rates under €80.
Do hotels in Florence charge extra for gym access?
Some do. Always confirm if the gym is complimentary. For example, Hotel Diplomat includes gym access, but others may charge a small fee.
What if I only need a treadmill?
Many budget hotel gyms have at least one treadmill. Check photos or reviews to confirm. If not, consider a day pass at a nearby gym.
Practical Recommendations for Your Stay
To summarize, budget hotels in Florence with a gym do exist, but you need to search carefully. Prioritize hotels like Hotel Cerretani Firenze or Hotel Diplomat for a balance of cost and fitness amenities. If you’re flexible, consider hostels or day passes at local gyms. Always verify the gym’s condition through recent reviews and contact the hotel directly. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy Florence’s art, culture, and cuisine without sacrificing your workout routine.
Photo by Jim Richter on Pexels
Great article! One tip: if you’re okay with a short walk, some hotels near the train station have gym partnerships. I stayed at a B&B that gave me a discount at a nearby fitness center.
That’s a great point! Many budget hotels in Florence collaborate with local gyms. Always ask at the front desk—they may have vouchers or discounted rates. It’s a smart way to get better equipment without paying for a hotel gym.
We’re on a tight budget—under €80 per night. Which of these hotels is most likely to have availability in that range and still have a gym?
Hotel De La Pace and Hotel Diplomat sometimes have rooms under €80, especially in the off-season (November–February). Book well in advance and consider weekdays. Their gyms are basic but functional.
Thanks for the list! Do you know if any of these hotels allow day passes for non-guests? I’m staying in an Airbnb but want to use a hotel gym.
Generally, hotel gyms are for guests only. However, it’s worth contacting the hotel directly to ask if they offer day passes. Some may allow it for a fee, especially during low season. Alternatively, consider a local gym like Virgin Active or a public fitness center.
I’m planning a trip to Florence and really want to stay active. Are there any budget hotels that have a decent gym, or are they all just a treadmill and a bike?
Most budget hotel gyms in Florence are compact, typically with a couple of cardio machines and light weights. Hotels like Hotel Diplomat and Hotel Spadai offer slightly better equipment. If you need more, check if the hotel has a partnership with a nearby gym for discounted access.
I noticed Hotel Cerretani Firenze is near the station. Is the gym open 24/7 or limited hours?
Hotel Cerretani’s gym typically has limited hours, often from 7 AM to 9 PM, but it’s best to confirm at check-in. Many small hotel gyms in Florence are not open 24/7 due to staffing constraints.