Portrait Firenze: A high-style hotel from the Ferragamo family
Fabulous Florentine flair comes as standard at this elegant luxury hotel from one of Italy’s most fashionable families
Aside from perhaps the Medicis, there is no family quite so synonymous with Florence as the Ferragamos. Salvatore Ferragamo founded his eponymous fashion house here in 1927, going on to become a global powerhouse so famous that the brand’s Florentine museum now ranks among the city’s most popular tourist attractions. What you might not know, however, is that the family is also behind one of Florence’s most elegant hotel groups – the Lungarno Collection – and Portrait Firenze is the jewel in the crown.
The Ferragamo family’s ventures into hospitality began when it acquired the historic Hotel Lungarno in 1995. Its impressive seven-strong collection of luxury hotels now spans Florence, Rome and Milan, with Portrait Firenze, which opened in 2014, an obvious star of the show.
The stylish hotel is situated on the north bank of the Arno, mere moments from the Ponte Vecchio and a short walk from the city’s most famous sights, including the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery. For the style set, the aforementioned Museo Ferragamo is just around the corner, as is the chic Via Tournabuoni with its collection of designer boutiques. But, despite this buzzy, central location, Portrait Firenze’s intimate grounds, discreet entrance and spacious all-suite accommodation make for a serene escape for those seeking privacy. No surprise then, that it is a popular spot for celebrities and supermodels.
As well as being endlessly chic, Portrait Firenze offers unrivalled attention to detail when it comes to service. The luxury experience begins the moment you confirm your booking, with a pre-arrival form offering pillow and bed linen menus and a choice of music styles to pick from for a personally curated background playlist. On arrival, you’ll find yourself ushered into a sitting room where, instead of a check-in desk, you’re greeted with a refreshing welcome drink and cosy armchairs where the hotel’s Ferragamo-clad team help you settle in before escorting you to your room.
Style abounds in every suite at this elegant boutique bolthole. Celebrated Florentine architect and interior designer Michele Bonan drew on the charm of 1950s cinema to craft luxurious spaces that feel like stepping onto a glamorous film set. Think retro furniture, dark wood furnishings, cashmere rugs, a sophisticated grey and black palette, gold accents and high-end textiles across expansive suites, many with personal balconies from which to enjoy river views.
Adding to the refined glamour is an array of archival photographs showcasing Salvatore Ferragamo’s stylish clients, including Audrey Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot and Grace Kelly, displayed alongside stacks of fashion books. Marble-clad bathrooms offer large shower areas, bathtubs and signature Ferragamo toiletries while each suite includes a hidden kitchenette complete with a coffee machine, hob and mini dishwasher should you choose to whip up a feast.
Alternatively, head downstairs to the chic Caffè dell’Oro for a relaxed meal with al fresco tables looking over the Ponte Vecchio. In the kitchen, executive chef Antonio Minichiello offers a straightforward menu of Italian classics with a contemporary touch. The spaghetti aglio e olio with octopus, hand-cut beef burger with Tuscan bacon, and Tuscan tiramisu are all reliable signatures while seasonal dishes, such as Orecchia di Elefante veal cutlets and a grilled mango dessert, are fresh and fuss-free options.
Guests can also benefit from the collection of restaurants housed at nearby Lungarno Collection hotels: Michelin-starred Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo offers decadent tasting menus while La Terrazza bar, perched atop the Hotel Continentale, serves exquisite cocktails with stunning views over Florence.
The hotel’s local team boasts personal connections across the city and can help craft unique and exclusive experiences. Live la dolce vita at Il Borro’s olive groves and vineyards or discover the city on an electric Vespa. For families, Portrait Firenze’s kids’ club organises child-friendly museum excursions, treasure hunts and food tours.
With chic interiors, seamless service and one of the best locations in Florence, Portrait Firenze has firmly established itself as the place to see and be seen in the city. Just be sure to pack wisely - at Portrait Firenze everyone is part of the style set.
Rooms from £709 per night, visit lungarnocollection.com
