Montecatini Terme holidays

How to reach Montecatini Terme

• Flight time: Flights to Montecatini Terme involve landing at either Florence or Pisa, the closest airports. Flights from London to Florence take about 2 hours 15 minutes, while it’s roughly 10 minutes less from London to Pisa.

• Transfer time: Florence Peretola Airport is approximately 45 minutes from Montecatini Terme by car or taxi. If you prefer to use public transport, take the T2 tram from the airport to Florence Santa Maria Novella station, followed by a regional train to Montecatini Centro. The whole journey takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. You can also catch the train from Pisa station, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

• Price: The tram from Florence Airport to Santa Maria Novella station costs €1.70. Regional train tickets to Montecatini Centro are around €5–€10. A taxi directly from the airport costs closer to €100, making it a pricey, albeit convenient, option.

Best time to visit Montecatini Terme

While Montecatini Terme’s charm is evergreen, the different seasons will shape your holiday experience. From average temperatures and tourist levels to local festivities, here’s a handy guide to what to expect throughout the year:

• April to June is the high season in Montecatini Terme, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 18°C to 28°C. These months promise plenty of sunshine (7–10 hours daily) and minimal rain, making them ideal for exploring the sites of this Tuscan jewel.

• July to August brings the intense summer heat, with average highs of 30°C or more. Rainfall is rare and you can expect roughly 11 hours of sunshine each day, so it’s wise to plan your sightseeing for the mornings and late afternoons if you want to escape the highest temperatures. While the town has a vibrant atmosphere, expect crowds at popular spots.

• September to November offers cooler weather, with temperatures dropping from around 27°C to 15°C. Rain increases slightly, but the autumnal landscapes are beautiful if you want to get out and explore the surrounding countryside. Tourist numbers gradually fall, making it a more relaxed shoulder season for Montecatini Terme holidays.

• December to March sees daytime temperatures hover between 8°C and 12°C. Rain is relatively frequent, but fewer tourists mean you can enjoy a quiet retreat, savouring thermal treatments and cosy evenings in Tuscan trattorias.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Italian is the official language, and while English is widely spoken, a friendly “buongiorno” or “grazie” is much appreciated by the locals.

• Local habits and customs: Italians value politeness, so it’s customary to greet restaurant staff and shopkeepers when you enter. The more leisurely pace of life also means that many businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon – usually between 1 pm and 4 pm. Dinner also starts later, so don’t expect restaurants to fill up before 8 pm.

• Currency: Italy uses the Euro. ATMs are common and most places accept card payments, but it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

• Getting around: Montecatini Terme is a compact town, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. Local buses cover surrounding areas, with tickets costing €1.70 when purchased in advance. For scenic trips, take the vintage funicular railway to Montecatini Alto for €7 return.

• Electricity and plug types: Italy uses 220V Type F plugs (two round pins). UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Montecatini Terme operates on Central European Time, which is one hour ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens need a valid passport to enter Italy, but visas aren’t required for stays of less than 90 days.

Best things to do in Montecatini Terme

Holidays to Montecatini Terme offer a blend of laid-back Italian charm and sophisticated spa culture. Whether you're here for relaxation, exploration or family-friendly fun, here’s what you should add to your itinerary:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Montecatini Alto: This charming medieval village perched above Montecatini Terme offers incredible views of the Tuscan countryside. Riding to the top in the vintage funicular railway is great fun too.

• The Torre di Ugolino (Tower of Ugolino): This historic tower located in Montecatini Alto is the best vantage point for admiring the rolling hills and town below. Head here at sunset to see the scene lit up with a stunning golden glow.

Historical monuments

• Terme Tettuccio (Thermal Baths): The crown jewel of Montecatini’s thermal spa scene, this grand building dates back to the 18th century. Marvel at its Art Nouveau architecture and intricate decorations before sipping the coveted mineral water.

• Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta (Church of Saint Mary of the Assumption): This modernist-style church offers a striking contrast to the traditional Tuscan architecture. Step into the sleek, serene interior and admire its unusual stained glass windows.

• Villa Forini Lippi: This elegant villa is a fine example of Renaissance architecture. Its surrounding lush gardens provide a peaceful spot to appreciate the town’s tranquil atmosphere.

Parks and gardens

• Parco delle Terme (Thermal Bath Gardens): This large park is the heart of Montecatini Terme. Take a stroll along its leafy pathways while enjoying the relaxing sound of trickling water from the nearby fountains. It’s the perfect place to continue unwinding after a spa session.

• Pinocchio Park: Just a short drive away in nearby Collodi, this whimsical park full of sculptures and themed gardens is dedicated to the world-famous wooden puppet.

Day trips in the area

• Lucca: Located less than an hour from Montecatini, this enchanting medieval city is famous for its charming piazzas and walkable Renaissance-era wall.

• Florence: A straightforward train journey takes you to Tuscany’s beating heart. Spend a day soaking up Florence’s glorious Renaissance art and architecture.

• Pistoia: This lesser-known gem is also a short train ride away and boasts more beautiful architecture and an atmospheric old town – plus fewer crowds than Florence.

Activities for families in Montecatini Terme

Montecatini Terme’s warm climate, rich history and relaxed vibe make it a fantastic destination for families. You should have no trouble finding ways to keep all ages entertained.

• Parks and gardens: Head to the Parco delle Terme, where children can play in the open green space or the whole family can enjoy a picnic in the shaded areas.

• Interactive activities: Pinocchio Park in nearby Collodi offers a magical escape into the world of the beloved character. Younger children will love the life-sized sculptures and storytelling elements scattered throughout the park.

• Adventure: Take a ride on the Montecatini funicular railway. The charming vintage train is a novelty for kids, while the views from Montecatini Alto are a treat for the whole family.

• Swimming and spas: Many of Montecatini Terme’s hotels offer family-friendly pools, and some spas cater to younger guests with specially designed wellness treatments.

Free things to do in Montecatini Terme

Travellers on a budget will find plenty of free and low-cost ways to enjoy Montecatini Terme. From natural beauty to cultural gems, it’s easy to make memories without breaking the bank.

• Explore Montecatini Alto: While the funicular has a small fee, you can also opt to hike up to this hilltop village for free. Its cobbled streets, charming piazzas and views are well worth the effort.

• Free events: Keep an eye on the town’s calendar for seasonal festivals and concerts that celebrate everything from music and food to local traditions. Many take place during the summer in the town’s piazzas, so are open to the public.

• Public transport exploration: The regional trains and buses make it easy to explore the surrounding Tuscan villages like Pescia or Vinci. Tickets start from as little as €1.70, but once there, walking around these locations and taking in the scenery is priceless.

• Parks and gardens: Spend an afternoon wandering the Parco delle Terme, where you can relax and enjoy the serenity of its well-maintained grounds.

Wellness in Montecatini Terme

• Spas and thermal baths: The thermal waters of Montecatini are legendary, making it one of Italy’s premier wellness destinations. Of all the town’s elegant spas, the Terme Tettuccio is a must-visit. Alongside its opulent interiors and serene atmosphere are the renowned mineral-rich waters thought to aid digestion and detoxification.

• Traditional body care: Indulge in treatments inspired by local Tuscan traditions, like massages with olive oil and herbal wraps. Many spas also offer mud therapies sourced from the region’s mineral-rich earth that will leave your skin feeling renewed and refreshed.

• Yoga and meditation: You’ll find several wellness centres and hotels in Montecatini that provide restorative yoga and meditation classes. Or start your day with an invigorating sun salutation overlooking the Tuscan hills.

• Nature walks and outdoor relaxation: Montecatini’s parks and gardens provide peaceful settings for mindful walking – perfect for unwinding after a spa session.

Food and drink in Montecatini Terme

Discover the delights of traditional Tuscan dining in Montecatini Terme. The town offers everything from rich, hearty dishes to indulgent sweet treats. Don’t forget to sample the local wines, too.

Some typical dishes

• Ribollita: A classic Tuscan soup made with bread, cannellini beans and vegetables. This rustic dish is perfect for warming you up during the cooler months.

• Pappa al Pomodoro: This thick tomato and bread soup is a staple of Tuscan home cooking. You’ll find it served warm or chilled depending on the season.

Meat dishes

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina: Though more closely associated with Florence, this huge T-bone steak is popular throughout Tuscany. Grilled to perfection and finished with a simple drizzle of olive oil, it’s usually accompanied by vegetables and shared between diners.

• Peposo: A rich beef stew slow-cooked with garlic, black pepper and red wine, often served with crusty bread.

Sweets and desserts

• Cialde di Montecatini: Delicate wafer biscuits filled with almonds or vanilla. These treats are often served with coffee or dessert wine, and are the perfect edible souvenir.

Local drinks

• Montecatini mineral water: This staple of spa-goers is known for its therapeutic properties. You’ll often find it consumed as part of wellness rituals at the thermal baths.

• Chianti wine: No trip to the region is complete without sampling some world-renowned Chianti wine. Rich in flavour and history, let a glass prove the perfect accompaniment to a hearty Tuscan meal.