With its midnight blue hues, brutalist concrete walls, and rich gold accents, c-hotels Diplomat is no design slouch. Its modern, urban-chic style is decidedly on-trend. Though its location by the main train station makes for a hectic environment, the hotel itself is calm. An extensive lounge area, highlighted with vintage objects and angular lamps, has a distinguished yet relaxed atmosphere -- not to mention sofas in tweed and velvet that are as comfy as they are stylish. There isn’t much to remind you of Florence here, but as one of the first hotels in the city with a modern trendy sensibility, it’s a refreshing change. Along with its three similarly-styled sister hotels on the same block, Hotel Diplomat emphasizes a relaxed approach to guests, with staff in smart casual dress to break down the formal barrier (you won't see any formal uniforms here). The hotel attracts mostly younger couples from the U.S, East Asia, and Western Europe, as well as business travelers.

The hotel's location just across the street from the main train station is one of its major draws. All attractions are within reasonable walking distance, including the Mercato Centrale, the Duomo, and high-end shopping on Via dei Tornabuoni. Budget around 10 minutes or so to reach any of these destinations on foot. The Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio are about a 20-minute walk away, while Florence’s airport is a 20-minute drive. 

In contrast to the trendy public areas, the 83 rooms have a more classic feel, decorated in neutral tones and accented with black-and-white photographs depicting Florence’s Renaissance heritage. All feature tasteful wood floors and come with standard amenities like minibars with savory snacks, flat-screen TVs with international channels, tea- and coffee-making facilities with biscotti, free safe access, and free Wi-Fi. Slippers and special welcome gifts are offered to those visiting on special occasions. Some rooms have city views -- including glimpses of the Duomo -- and a small handful add spacious furnished balconies. Bathrooms are modern, with neutral-toned tiling and shower or shower/tub combo. Rooms are divided into two main categories: Economy Rooms are smaller and cheaper, while Comfy Rooms are larger, and some have chaise longues or sofabeds. Although some rooms face the busy street below, soundproofing is effective and blocks out most of the noise.

Public spaces are fabulously hip, including a handsome wood-and-concrete bar with vintage and industrial accents. The bar serves drinks as well as a savory aperitif buffet during its evening happy hour, and guests can find free welcome drinks and snacks there throughout the day. A good breakfast buffet -- complete with numerous fresh-made cakes and a separate savory spread including scrambled eggs, pancakes, and bacon -- is served in the vintage breakfast room. While the rooftop gym is small, guests are free to use its Technogym equipment. It also has views to the Duomo. The hotel partners with a private parking garage nearby that offers valet service with its standard parking rates. A small business center provides free printing and use of computers, and there’s free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. Meeting space can be used at a sister hotel around the corner.