Holidays in Montecatini

Montecatini is a Tuscan spa town with a lustrous past and a lively present – and all in easy reach of Florence and Pisa

The thermal waters of Montecatini have been a hit with visitors since Roman times, but they really took off in the 20th century, when famous composers and film stars cottoned on to its therapeutic qualities. But, there’s life beyond the baths. A funicular nips up to the heights of medieval Montecatini Alto and footpaths wind through forests and ancient pilgrimage routes. Montecatini is also a great spot for exploring the rest of Northern Tuscany, with public transport networks connecting to Florence, Pisa and the sandy Tuscan coast.

Star-studded spas

Follow in the footsteps of Verdi, Marie Curie, Audrey Hepburn and Versace by taking a dip in the thermal waters of Montecatini. Terme Excelsior is notable for its massages and mud treatments – as well as its extravagant Renaissance-style exterior. And don’t miss having a glug of the drinking waters in the Terme Tettuccio whilst admiring the Romanesque columns, fountains and pools. Alternatively, swap a swig of spa water for a cappuccino or Chianti on the piazza – one of the best places in Montecatini for a leisurely lunch.

Up to Montecatini Alto

A funicular links Montecatini to its medieval older sister, Montecatini Alto. Once a fortress-like town guarded by gated towers and well-armed sentries, it’s now a popular spot for admiring the views across Northern Tuscany – and for having pizza on the pretty piazza. On the return journey, you can swap the funicular for one of the many footpaths that twist and turn along Montecatini Alto’s forested hillside.

Walking the Camino of Tuscany

The path of Saint Jacopo follows the Via Cassia from Florence to Livorno via Montecatini, tracing the routes of pilgrims on their way to the celebrated Camino de Santiago. For something a little less epic, take a 10-minute bus ride to Colle di Buggiano, where walking paths come with classic Tuscan flavours – hilltop towns and trattorias included.

Florence, Pisa, Lucca and the Tuscan Riviera

Fancy exploring further afield? Head to Montecatini railway station, where trains can take you to the Renaissance wonders of Florence, Lucca and Pisa in an hour or less. The Tuscan coast – AKA Tuscan Riviera, if you’re feeling fancy – is also in easy reach by train. Pack a beach bag and aim for the sands of Viareggio, where rows of sun-bleached Art Nouveau buildings hint at its heyday as a 1920s beach resort. The sandy beach is still very popular, with sun loungers spanning into the horizon – and a coastal train line that provides a great escape from the crowds.

Why book a summer holiday in Montecatini with Inghams?

At Inghams, we do walking holidays differently. With no fixed itinerary, you have more time in your destination and the freedom to walk as much or as little as you like, discovering some of Montecatini best walking routes and activities at your own pace.

Plus, we've included two optional guided walks every week in Montecatini. Join a professional mountain guide and really get to know the area (see more details in the ‘walking’ tab below).

With over 85 years of outdoor travel experience, our holiday packages to Montecatini include flights, transfers, and accommodation, so you can relax and leave the small details to us. Our experts can help you choose the best holiday for you, and our team in resort can give you the inside scoop on how to spend your time away with us.

Added value

Inghams rep based in resort

Flights and transfers included

Exclusive to Inghams: Join up to two included walks with a professional, local guide (limited availability, pre-booking is essential)

Walking in and around Montecatini

On an Inghams walking holiday, you have the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. Make each day a new adventure, with as much or as little walking as you like.

Why we love walking in Montecatini

Montecatini Terme is passed through by the route of the famous Camino di San Jacopo. This is a bucket list route for many a keen walker and, for the most part, is very well sign-posted. The Tuscan countryside is famous for its Italian Cypress trees and rolling hills, we absolutely love walking here as it offers a completely different landscape compared to the usual mountainous walking areas. With wooded, hilly trails in areas such as the Colle di Buggiano and endless ancient villages to stumble upon, we can't get enough of walking around Montecatini.

Guided walks

Don't forget, you have the option to join two included Inghams guided walks per week, with a local, professional guide. Get to know our favourite walking trails with insider knowledge and the company of Inghams guests. Pre-booking is essential - check out the Guided Walks section below for more information.

Getting around Montecatini

Trains

During low season the trains run regularly with easy links to Pisa, Lucca and Florence and from Montecatini Centro station. They're fantastic for exploring nearby cities and all that Tuscany has to offer (train schedule changes may apply in high summer). You can also get to nearby towns such as Borgo a Buggiano in the Colle di Buggiano (Buggiano Hills) and access a wider walking area, in about 10 minutes on the train.

Walking

For a keen walker, getting around shouldn't be a problem. You can walk up to the Colle di Buggiano in about an hour and have the opportunity to explore a new expanse of walking area. This is mostly uphill, so will require a good fitness level. Walking up to Montecatini Alto, for those viewpoints is also very doable and takes about an hour, uphill.

Guided Walks

Inghams guided walks - included in your holiday

We’ve included one full-day and one half-day walk per week in Montecatini, just for Inghams guests. Join a small group and be led by a professional guide on some of their favourite trails. It’s a great way to get to know the area.

The full-day walk will run every Monday and the half-day walk will run every Friday from the 3rd May until 11th October 2024. You can add the walks onto your holiday at the time of booking, through My Booking or by calling us on 01483 319 652.

Archangel Gabriel Trek

This walk is a total immersion into the Tuscan landscape surrounded by fantastic views and historical monuments. The path crosses vineyards and lush olive groves and passes by unique churches like the Pieve di San Gennaro. This church is a Romanesque jewel that houses a statue of the Archangel Gabriel made by the genius Leonardo Da Vinci! The walk will end with the chance to experience a local wine tasting- what more could you want?

  • Grade: Moderate (a decent fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
  • Distance: 8km
  • Duration: Half day (walking time approx. 4 hours)
  • Ascent/Descent: 300m
  • Terrain: Asphalt surfaces, dirt tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: You'll stop off along the walk to have your packed lunch in the open air. Make sure you come prepared with a packed lunch and snacks. Any public transport used to and from the walk is payable locally.

The Noble Villas of Lucca

This walk is full of incredible villas to admire, memories of a glorious past, within stunning landscapes. You'll walk along a mixture of roads and gentle paths, through picturesque settlements and past villas surrounded by the typical Tuscan landscape. What's more, you'll even have the chance to visit the magnificent Villa Torrigiani and the park that surrounds it.

  • Grade: Moderate (a decent fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
  • Distance: 8km
  • Duration: Half day (walking time approx. 4 hours)
  • Ascent/Descent: 300m
  • Terrain: Asphalt surfaces, dirt tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: You'll stop off along the walk to have your packed lunch in the open air. Make sure you come prepared with a packed lunch and snacks. Entry to the Villa Torrigiani is optional (approx. €8 per person entry, payable locally). Any public transport used to and from the walk is payable locally.

The Aqueduct and Springs of Lucca

Dating back two centuries, the monumental aqueduct of Nottolini brings pure water to the fountains of Lucca. On this walk you'll get to find out where this water originates from. You'll head to a valley which is a hidden gem, full of streams and little waterfalls called "Parole d'Oro", Golden Words. This place is magical and truly loved by the citizens of Lucca.

  • Grade: Moderate (a decent fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
  • Distance: 9km
  • Duration: Full day (walking time approx. 6 hours)
  • Ascent/Descent: 200m
  • Terrain: Asphalt surfaces, dirt tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: You'll stop off along the walk to have your packed lunch in the open air. Make sure you come prepared with a packed lunch and snacks. There may also the option to pre-book lunch in a farm house if the group would like to. To get to the starting point of the walk you can take the train which takes about 30 minutes (approx. €5 each way, payable locally).

The Olive Path

The first half of the walk is mainly up hill as you head up to 320 metres of altitude. The highest point of the walk is the area of Pinetone/Fontanelle di Violino, where you'll stop for lunch and have a chance to soak up the views around you. You'll walk along country roads, through olive groves, wooden paths and trekking trails. You'll begin the decent after lunch, passing by tiny villages such as Papa, Noni, Castelvecchio, Mulino di Maciste and then head back to Colle di Buggiano.

  • Grade: Moderate (a good fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
  • Distance: 8km
  • Duration: Full day (walking time approx. 5 hours)
  • Ascent/Descent: 320m
  • Terrain: Asphalt surfaces, dirt tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: When you get to Pinetone, the highest point of the walk, you'll stop off along the walk to have your packed lunch in the open air. Make sure you come prepared with a packed lunch and snacks. To get to the starting point of the walk you can take the train which takes about 5 minutes (approx. €1.60 each way, payable locally).

For every walk you will need:

Suitable walking shoes with good grip, appropriate clothing, sun-cream, sun glasses, rain jacket, rucksack, at least a litre of water, a snack and cash. You may find walking poles useful.

Early booking is strongly recommended as spaces are limited. All walks are subject to availability of local guides, weather conditions and maximum numbers. Planned routes are subject to change. Any distances and ascents/descents stated are approximate. Full details of the walks with the meeting points and routes will be provided to you on arrival. In some instances there may be a small charge for local transport that is payable locally. In resorts where the walks run over more than two days, the day of the walk will be allocated to you by your Rep in your welcome meeting. Where we cannot confirm your preferred option in resort, we will endeavour to offer an alternative subject to the above conditions.

Please ensure you are comfortable with the grade of walk, planned distance covered and terrain before booking. The decision of the guide on the suitability of the walk for you is final and no compensation will be paid where the guide believes, in their professional opinion, that it is not suitable. Please ensure you are well-equipped for the walk have suitable clothing and footwear. Walks are not recommended for guests under 12 years. Any guests under 18 years will need to be accompanied by an adult.

Our Favourite Walks

The walking around Montecatini is so good that every route could be classed as a favourite, but here are just a few routes that we really love:

Cammino San Jacopo

You can hop on and off this bucket list walking route, with transport links that will take you to various starting points. Overall the route is 170km in length stretching from Florence to Livorno, but you can enjoy some sections of it from Montecatini. Due to its popularity it's pretty well sign-posted in most places, but it's always worth having a map with you just in case! The route heads past towns and cities of great historical significance (including Florence, Lucca, Pescia and Pistoia and Pisa) and is based around an ancient Roman road. It's an excellent route to dip in and out of.

Via Francigena

All roads lead to Rome! The Via Francigena is an ancient pilgrimage route which runs through rural Italy. It stretches all the way from the Swiss Alps to Rome! One stage of the route heads from Lucca to Siena, so if you fancy a long day out, you could catch the train to Lucca in the morning and hop onto the route there, walking as much or as little of it as you want. It's a great one to say you've done!

Montecatini Alto

Walking up to Montecatini Alto is a great way to experience the views of the Tuscan countryside as you gradually get higher and higher. The walk takes about an hour (depending on your pace) and requires a decent level of fitness. Montecatini Alto is famous for it's viewpoints, so well worth a visit. There are also a few walks from the top, so if you don't fancy walking all the way up you can also hop on the funicular which will take you straight up.

Useful Information & Guidelines

Recommended equipment

Suitable walking shoes with good grip, appropriate clothing, sun cream, sun glasses, rain jacket, rucksack, at least a litre of water, a snack and cash. You may find walking poles useful.

Walking maps & apps

For a paper map we'd recommend Kompass Toscana 2440 - Foglio 1 (1:50,000) (Heart of Tuscany - Map 1).

Hiking guidelines

The Tuscan countryside is a natural paradise, with lots to explore and discover. To help it stay that way, and remain an enjoyable and safe place for everyone, we recommend following our little list of do's and don'ts:

  • Plan your route well and don't over-estimate yourself
  • Check the weather forecast
  • Tell someone where you're planning to walk and what time you're expecting to be back
  • Take all the recommended equipment
  • Make a note of emergency numbers:
    • Italian Emergency Services: 112
  • Don't leave the marked trails without a guide
  • Let nature stay wild by not picking flowers (it's illegal in some places) or getting close to/making contact with wild animals
  • Always leave gates as you found them
  • Leave no trace

  • from£649pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

Grand_Hotel_Francia_e_Quirinale_Junior_Suite1.jpg

The Grand Hotel Francia & Quirinale is one of the most elegant hotels in Montecatini and is well known for its high standards of service and excellent food. The location's ideal and makes getting out and explore easy. Head to the nearby thermal spa or jump on a train to Florence, Lucca or Pisa. 

  • from£589pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

258658.jpeg

This is one of Montecatini's oldest hotels and it's perfect if you're looking for somewhere grand to stay in the centre of town. The hotel has a traditional style with many original architectural features in the lobby. It has a small pool and lovely Tuscan restaurant and there's plenty to explore nearby, including the thermal spas and shops.

  • from£669pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4.5 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

Grand_Hotel_Vittoria_Outside_pool.jpg

The Grand Hotel Vittoria is within walking distance of Montecatini's best sights, and the train station for trips further afield. There's an air of luxury here thanks to the historic building and excellent quality throughout - make sure you stay for dinner for some great local food.

  • from£629pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

Bar

Ercolini & Savi's a fantastic base for exploring the towns and cities around Tuscany. It's near to the train station and the centre of Montecatini so you'll have great access to to all that Tuscany has to offer.

  • from£649pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

IMG 5759

Hotel Torretta's a cosy hotel in Montecatini Terme, surrounded by panoramic Tuscan views and endless countryside.

Excursions

Pre-book your excursions online or give us a call

Siena & San Gimignano from £102 per person (full day)

Discover the biggest medieval town in Tuscany, Siena. Visit the unique Cathedral, piazza del Campo and Accademia Musicale Chigiana. Take a beautiful drive through the Tuscan vineyards and olive-groves to San Gimignano. The famous town of the towers dates back to the Etruscan period. You'll also have the opportunity to try some of the region's best wines.

If you would like to add a guided walking tour of Siena to your excursion, this is optional and can be requested locally for an extra €25 (payable locally)

Departs on Thursdays and Sundays

Florence with the Uffizi Gallery from £85 per person (full day)

Visit the home town of the Medici family and look out for works by incredible Renaissance artists like Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli and Raphael as you explore Florence on a walking tour with our local guide. The tour lasts around two hours and is followed by an introduction to the Uffizi Gallery (payable locally), where you can discover even more great works of art. 

Departs on Fridays. Please note that skip the line Uffizi entrance fees are not included and are available for approx. €26 (payable locally).

Cinque Terre from £110 per person (full day)

Discover some of the most picturesque seaside villages in the Mediterranean. You'll see the UNESCO protected coastline from the water on a boat trip. Explore the colourful fishing villages of Manarola, Vernazza and Monterosso and have free time for shopping or even a swim. Don't forget your camera!

Departs on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Discounts available for guests aged 65+ when booked locally. Not suitable for guests with walking difficulties. 

Chianti Wine & Vinci from £76 per person (half day)

Visit a family-run wine estate for a guided wine tasting with the experts. Try the best Chianti wines accompanied by tasty Tuscan snacks like bruschetta and extra-virgin olive oil. After, you’ll have time to explore the medieval village of Vinci, the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci.

Departs on Mondays and Wednesdays

Please note that the pick-up and drop off point for all Montecatini excursions is the Tourist Information Office located in the centre of town. This is a short walk away from all of our hotels. The excursions are not suitable for guests with limited mobility. They’re available to pre-book between June and mid-September.

Book locally

Cooking Class in a Tuscan Farmhouse €89 per person

Cook up a storm! Learn how to make home-made Italian style pasta like ravioli or gnocchi and discover the secret to the perfect tiramisu. You’ll then enjoy the food you’ve prepared accompanied by a glass of Tuscan wine.

Departs on Mondays (bookable and payable locally) return taxi transfers to the Tuscan Farmhouse are payable on the spot locally for an additional fee (approx. €55 per person).

Olive Oil Tasting in Montecatini Alto £33 per person (half day)

Take a special guided tour of an olive oil farm to learn how the delicious extra-virgin olive oil is produced. Explore the 200-year-old olive groves on the terraces above Montecatini and enjoy fantastic views over the spa town while you try the finest quality olive oil and herbal tea with olive leaves.

Departs on Wednesdays and Thursdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Things To Do

Things to see

Head for the town's main street, Via Verde in Montecatini's centre for plenty of shops and restaurants to explore. Head up to Montecatini Alto in the funicular railway - it's over 100 year's old and will take you up to some incredible viewpoints! 

If stalagmites and stalactites are your thing, make sure you visit the inferno-like cave Grotta Maona. Home to a colony of rare bats it's quite the experience, walking through the tunnels in eerie silence!

We'd also recommend getting out of the town - lots of Tuscany's best towns are close by. Fill your days with trips to Florence, Siena and Pisa. Don't forget the lesser-known places too. You can escape the crowds in little towns like Fosdinovo and Collodi.

Things to do

While it's easy to get around by train to some of the major cities and towns, you can't beat putting on your hiking boots and heading out into the hills. There are some fantastic countryside views to be found.

Make sure you check out the famous thermal spas while you're here. Book in for a treatment and spend time in the healing waters. 

In July, don't miss the Lucca Summer Festival, a huge outdoor concert for music lovers. It's a great event for dancing the night away. Or, if books and food are more your speed then try out the annual Food and Book Festival in Montecatini Terme in May.

Food & drink

Tuscany is famous for its food and wine so you can be sure of trying some amazing food while you're here. Our favourite dishes are bistecca alla fiorentina and panzanella. Head out into the vineyards for a spot of wine tasting. Some of Italy's most famous wines are produced here and we absolutely love sipping them whilst gazing out over the vines.

Good to know

Hiking Trails: 150km of hiking trails around Montecatini with trains to even more nearby areas

Terrain: Rolling hills, agricultural land, wooded trails, asphalt surfaces, dirt tracks

Best time to go: May-June & September-October.

Recommended for: Experienced hikers, regular walkers, new walkers,  nature lovers, culture lovers, couples and friends, families with teens

Fly into: Pisa Airport (approx. 2 hours 15 mins)

Transfer Time: approx. 1 hour 30 mins

Feefo badge