The understated facade of the Hotel Helvetia & Bristol in the city’s centro storico provide an air of exclusivity. Portraits of Italy’s 17th century aristocracy cast a watchful eye over the hotel’s grand entrance hall, which opens into a charming Belle Epoque winter garden, where Florentine noblemen and local literati would meet for late night drinks. A sweeping, wide staircase leads to the guest floors, each of which is filled with antique furniture and ornaments. From the enormous portrait windows of the fifth floor suites, Brunelleschi’s famous cupola atop the Duomo appears within touching distance, a classic view of Florence.