Florence

Couchsurfing in Florence often means hosts pointing guests toward a neighborhood osteria instead of the tourist-priced restaurants near the Duomo, or a sunset view from a lesser-known hillside spot beyond the crowded Piazzale Michelangelo. The historic center is stunning and walkable but also the most expensive and crowded part of the city. Santo Spirito, across the Arno, offers a quieter, more local alternative with a real neighborhood feel and good food at lower prices. San Niccolò, also across the river, is known for its wine bars and views up toward the hills. Florence's historic center has some of the highest accommodation prices in Tuscany given constant tourist demand, which makes Couchsurfing a genuine budget travel option and hostel alternative here, freeing up money for a proper Tuscan meal or a day trip to the countryside. Connecting with a local host matters especially in Florence, since a host can point you toward the Oltrarno side of the river that many visitors never cross to see.