Destinations
Montecatini Terme
3/23/23
Montecatini Terme, located a few kilometers from some of the major Tuscan cities of art and the two main regional airports, owes its fame to the therapeutic properties of its waters, for the refinement of the buildings and for the architectural heritage built around the springs.
The perfect combination of wellness and health, Montecatini is a prestigious destination for all those looking for regenerating holidays, high-quality hospitality, opportunities for fun, sports, shopping and relaxation.
The 1800s saw an infinite number of kings and queens, politicians and businessmen, actors and dancers, cardinals and Presidents of the Republic walking on the Viale dei Bagni in Montecatini. Among the well-known names is Giuseppe Verdi, who often stayed in this area.
In 2021, Montecatini became part of the UNESCO World Heritage list as one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. The transnational serial site "The Great Spa Towns of Europe" includes an inseparable group of 11 cities located in 7 European countries (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom), considered by UNESCO as the most representative sites of noted European thermal activity, from the 1700s until the 1930s.
Known for centuries, the Montecatini hot springs owe their fame to the waters that flow from the depths of the soil. Following a journey through deposits of limestone, jasper and clay, the waters flow into spas immersed in wonderful parks including Tettuccio, Regina, Excelsior and Redi.
Montecatini is a perfect oasis in which to seek harmony and well-being: its pure and mineral-rich waters allow the possibility of a large number of treatments , based on water and thermal mud. Dive into the thermal pool fed by the source of the water, with a temperature of 33°C.
The exhibition space dedicated to contemporary art was created inside the 20th-century Palazzo Comunale in the historic center, in 2012.
You can't miss the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, built in the 1950s in place of a previous 19th-century building of worship.
The Castle of Montecatini Alto can be reached by funicular, two red-painted iron trains, in perfect liberty style and is still the same authentic model since 1896.
For centuries, the territory of the Valdinievole that extends between Lucca and Pistoia, has been a crossroads of cultures. The area boasts famous spas with untouched nature and renowned artistic treasures.
A short distance from Montecatini we find Monsummano Terme, a relaxing place with a unique feature in the form of the Giusti cave. This underground gallery is located in a centuries-old park: so breathtaking is it that Giuseppe Verdi called it the eighth wonder of the world.
The Padule di Fucecchio, the largest Italian marsh, is a paradise for birdwatchers. It's home to 200 species of birds including herons, which nest here in colonies, to cranes and black storks.
Some of the most important events of the artistic and cultural life of Montecatini Terme take place between June and September. Among these is Estate Regina that features concerts, awards and events related to the world of classical music, many of which take place at Teatro Verdi.
You must taste Montecatini waffles, a delicious biscuit made in a light and nutritious circle, perfect with tea or sweet wines. They are made from two sheets of pastry with an almond filling in the center, without butter or other fats. They have been handcrafted by the Bargilli family since 1936.