Pistoia is located in Tuscany, nestled between Lucca and Florence. As the capital of the Pistoia province, it is approximately 30km northwest of Florence.

Why Visit Pistoia?

Pistoia is often called a “little Florence” due to its remarkable concentration of art and architecture within a smaller geographical area. The stunning main square, Piazza del Duomo, is surrounded by exceptional examples of medieval architecture, including the Cathedral of San Zeno and its bell tower, as well as the 14th-century Gothic Baptistery of San Giovanni in Corte. Adjacent to the square lies the medieval marketplace, which remains active to this day, showcasing market stalls that retain their historical charm with heavy shutters and stone benches.

Moreover, Pistoia is renowned for its culinary delights, with La Botte Gaia Restaurant near the Piazza Duomo receiving high recommendations for its fine dining experience.

Visitors should plan to stay at least one night in Pistoia, or even longer to explore nearby Tuscan cities such as Florence, Lucca, and others. Many can experience Pistoia in a day trip from Pisa or Lucca.

Pistoia Train Station

Pistoia Centrale is situated to the south of the city, only a 10-15 minute walk from the center, specifically near the Piazza del Duomo. Trains to Lucca and Florence take approximately 50 minutes from Pistoia, making it a convenient travel hub.

Pistoia Tourist Information

The Tourist Information center can be found in a small building opposite the Baptistery at Piazza del Duomo. They provide assistance with maps, event information, lodging options, and enthusiastically promote local restaurants.

Where to Stay

A highly recommended accommodation is Bed and Breakfast Locanda San Marco, while the Hotel Patria also receives excellent feedback. For those looking for top-rated options near the main attractions, the Residenza d’Epoca Puccini stands out.

Major Events in Pistoia

The Pistoia Blues Festival takes place on the second weekend in July, attracting music lovers from all around. Additionally, the Giostra dell’Orso (Joust of the Bear) occurs in the Piazza del Duomo on July 25th. This event features a month of festive activities culminating in knights jousting on horseback, accompanied by a (fake) bear dressed in a checked cloak—the symbol of Pistoia.

Top Museums in Pistoia

Pistoia proudly claims to have “seven museums within 100 meters,” all conveniently located around the Piazza del Duomo. Here are three notable museums worth a visit:

• Percorso Archaeologico – Museo de San Zeno (Archaeology walk and cathedral museum).
• Museo Civico – The civic museum housed within the Palazzo Comunale.
• Museo C Rospigliosi – located in the Palazzo Rospigliosi, showcasing the art and history of a wealthy merchant family, and includes the Diocesan Museum.

A “Biglietto Cumulativo” is available for a reasonable price, granting access to three museums valid for three days, making it an excellent value for culture enthusiasts. Check with the tourist office for information.

Attractions

Pistoia is a delightful city to explore on foot, particularly around the Cathedral Square (Piazza del Duomo) and the adjacent old market.

San Zeno Cathedral dates back to 923 but suffered a fire in 1108. It was rebuilt and extended during the 12th century, undergoing various additions over the centuries. Visitors will find a mix of Romanesque structures alongside Baroque and Renaissance elements, with the stunning silver Altar of St James weighing nearly a ton.

The octagonal Gothic Baptistery of San Giovanni in Corte was constructed in the mid-14th century by Cellino di Nese, and behind it lies the popular La BotteGaia restaurant.

The historic bell tower rises over 66 meters and provides visitors the opportunity to climb its 200 steps for panoramic views of Pistoia, available only on weekends.

Located a short five-minute walk from the city center is Ceppo Hospital, which hosts a fascinating collection of surgical instruments from the 17th to 19th century in the “Filippo Pacini” Medical Academy Hall. Founded in 1277 by merchants, the hospital was sustained through donations deposited into a hollowed-out tree trunk, known as the “ceppo.” Visitors can view the unique surgical instruments, the tiny Anatomy Amphitheatre built in 1785, and further explore the city’s rich history with the Pistoia Underground Tour, now one of the top attractions in Pistoia.