Montecatini Terme, one of the top Tuscany spa towns, is in the heart of Tuscany near Florence, Lucca, Pisa, and Viareggio on the coast. It’s a pleasant and peaceful town reminiscent of bygone days with a big park in the center, three thermal establishments, an elegant wellness center, high-quality shops, and nice bars and restaurants.
Additionally, its many reasonably-priced hotels and convenient location on the rail line make Montecatini Terme an excellent base for exploring Tuscany.
How to Get There
Montecatini Terme is conveniently located on the rail line between Lucca and Florence, both accessible within less than an hour’s train ride. Two trains per hour connect these cities while stopping at both of Montecatini’s stations, with one train per hour continuing to Viareggio on the coast. Both stations are right in town.
The closest airports are Florence and Pisa. For travelers driving, take the A11 to the Montecatini exit and follow the signs. Most parking in town is metered.
Where to Stay
Grand Hotel and La Pace, a 5-star historic Liberty style hotel, is distinguished as one of the most elegant accommodations in Montecatini Terme.
Things to Do
- Terme Tettuccio: This historic spa is renowned for its thermal waters. It features a lavish Liberty-style building surrounded by a stunning park, with comfortable spots to sit outside. Often, there’s live music with orchestras in the mornings and piano performances in the afternoons. The spa is operational daily from May through September—visiting even just to admire its beautiful interior is worthwhile.
- Spa treatments: A broad selection of classic and wellness spa treatments are offered at various wellness centers and 5-star hotels. Excelsior Spa hosts a large wellness area with treatments ranging from beauty services to massages and baths. Terme Redi provides modern bathing options and equipment, while the recently restored Terme Leopoldine stands out as another historic spa.
- Viale Verdi: This main street runs from Piazza Popolo to the spas and is bordered by the lovely park. Viale Verde features an array of shops, cafes, and restaurants, along with two theaters, the tourist office, and the historic Gran Cafe Gambrinus, a vibrant local meeting point.
- Music and theater: Montecatini Terme hosts a diverse range of musical events at the Verdi Theater, Terme Tettuccio, and outdoor venues during the summer months. The summer music festival, Estate Regina, is a highlight, occurring from late May through early October.
- Relax: The spa towns of yesteryear were designed for relaxation. Beyond the spas, the park, shopping districts, and cafes provide delightful spaces for leisurely strolls or simply enjoying the ambiance.
- Day trips: Many fascinating places in Tuscany are reachable within an hour. Notable destinations accessible by train include Florence, Lucca, and Viareggio.
Montecatini Alto
A historic funicular railway, over 100 years old, ascends from Montecatini Terme up the hillside to the charming hilltop village of Montecatini Alto. This picturesque area features a small castle, three churches, a spacious square filled with restaurants and outdoor cafes, a few local shops, and breathtaking views over the enchanting countryside.
