Holidays in Montecatini

Tuscany , Italy

  • Sightseeing
  • Countryside
  • Self Drive

Montecatini is a Tuscan spa town with a lustrous past and a lively present– ideal for a summer holiday exploring the nearby towns of Florence and Pisa

  • Rolling Tuscan hills
  • Al fresco wine tastings
  • Thermal spas
  • Terme Tettuccio, Montecatini, Tuscany Holidays, Italy
    Terme Tettuccio
  • Montecatini Alto, Italy Summer Holidays
    Terracotta Rooftops of Montecatini Alto
  • Montecatini Terme, Tuscany Holidays, Italy
    Marble Corridor in Montecatini Terme
  • Montecatini Alto at Sunset, Summer holidays in Tuscany
    Montecatini Alto at Sunset
  • Ancient Church, Montecatini, Tuscany, Italy
    Ancient Church
  • Nottolini Aqueduct in Lucca, Summer Holidays in Tuscany
    Nottolini Aqueduct in Lucca
  • Terme Tettuccio, Montecatini, Tuscany
    Fountain in the Terme Tettuccio
  • Summer holidays in Montecatini, Tuscany
    Kursaal Building in Montecatini Terme
  • Montecatini, Tuscany, Thermal Baths
    Thermal Baths
  • Funicular, Montecatini Alto, Italy Holidays
    Montecatini Alto Funicular
  • Montecatini Terme, Summer Holidays in Italy
    Ornate Corridor in Montecatini Terme
  • Montecatini, Tuscany, View Of Montecatini Alto
    View Of Montecatini Alto
  • Montecatini Alto funicular at dusk, Italy Holidays, Tuscany
    Montecatini Alto Funicular at Dusk

Inghams Guided Walks included in Montecatini

Available between 12 May-26 Sep 25 and 11 May-25 Sep 26 (subject to availability)

Save up to £150pp this summer

Book your Italy 2025 walking holiday and take advantage of savings up to £150pp!

Walking in Montecatini

Walking Trails:
150km of walking trails

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

Montecatini at a glance

  • Italian
  • Euro (EUR)
  • London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester Int. (MAN), Birmingham Int. (BHX), Bristol (BRS), Leeds Bradford (LBA), London Luton (LTN)
More about Montecatini

Travel included to Montecatini

Depart on: Saturday or Wednesday 

Fly into: Pisa (approx. 2 hours 15 minutes)

Transfer time: approx. 1 hour from Pisa Airport

More about travel & transfers

Included in your walking holiday to Montecatini

  • Inghams Guided Walks included from 12 May-26 Sep 25 and 11 May-25 Sep 26 (subject to availability)
  • On holiday support and tailored advice from our Destination Experts based in Montecatini
  • Access to Inghams Digital Resort Guide with things to do, walks and useful information
  • Flights from the UK, transfers and accommodation

Walking in Montecatini

Walks and hikes

Walking Trails:
150km of walking trails
Terrain:
Rolling hills, agricultural land, wooded trails, asphalt surfaces, dirt tracks

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 train to Borgo a Buggiano, where you can walk up to the towns in Tuscany's Colle di Buggiano, where walking paths come with classic Tuscan flavours – hilltop towns included. You can also walk from Montecatini to the Colle di Buggiano which is about 4km uphill.

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.

We’ve included one full-day and one half-day walk per holiday 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 12 May-26 Sep 25 (please note that walks will not take place between 07 Jul-29 Aug 25) and 11 May-25 Sep 26. You can them onto your holiday at the time of booking, through My Booking or by calling us.

Routes may vary from week to week but as a guide you can see some of our planned routes below.

Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. Walks depend on weather, guide availability, and group size, and routes may change. Details are provided on arrival, and some may include a small local transport fee. Walks are not suitable for under 12s (under 18s must be with an adult). Please ensure the walk is right for you, our guides have the final say. See our booking conditions for full details.

Our guided walks in Montecatini

Dating back two centuries, the monumental Nottolini aqueduct 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-Challenging (a decent fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
  • Distance: 15km
  • 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)

Walking up from the Montecatini funicular station you'll walk up hill to the stunning Montecatini Alto, which is the best place to experience those classic Tuscan post-card views. Enjoy learning about the history, culture and the flora and fauna of the area as you go along, our guide will give you a fantastic insight into Montecatini Alto and all it has to offer.

  • Grade: Easy-Moderate (a decent fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
  • Distance: 4km
  • Duration: Half day (walking time approx. 3 hours)
  • Ascent/Descent: 290m
  • Terrain: Asphalt surfaces, dirt tracks, natural trails, rocky terrain, some steep ascents
  • Useful information: Make sure you come prepared with lots of water and snacks. You may also have the opportunity to book onto an olive oil tasting at the end of the walk (€39 per person, payable and bookable locally, subject to availability and minimum numbers). The walk starts from the base station of the Montecatini funicular, which you can walk to from our hotels.

Our favourite self-guided walks in Montecatini

This walk will take you on the footsteps of the medieval wars between Lucca and Florence to Castelvecchio, an old hamlet that was razed to the ground by its neighbours from Altopascio.

  • Grade: Easy
  • Distance: 4km
  • Walking time: 40 minutes

Another walk that will take you on the footsteps of our ancestors from medieval times, in an idyllic atmosphere where you can breathe in the scent of flowers mixed with citrus. History is written on the walls of the houses, and the remains of the hamlet walls.

  • Grade: Easy-Moderate
  • Distance: 8.6km
  • Walking time: 2 hours

You need strong legs for the first part of this walk, but you'll be rewarded for it because along the way you will come across the Nostrale Craft Brewery, where you can stop, relax, and enjoy a beautiful panorama.

  • Grade: Moderate-Challenging 
  • Distance: 11km
  • Walking time: 2 hours 30 minutes 

Our accommodations in Montecatini

  • 4
    Offers available
    Grand Hotel Plaza Montecatini Pool Terrace

    Grand Hotel Plaza

    Montecatini, Tuscany, Italy

    Historic hotel Overlooking Piazza del Popolo Tuscan restaurant
    Couples Holidays Central Location
    • Half Board
    • London Gatwick
    • London Luton
    • Manchester Int.
    • Leeds Bradford
    • Birmingham Int.
    • Bristol
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    From £849 View details
  • 4
    Offers available
    Hotel Francia Quirinale Montecatini Lounge

    Grand Hotel Francia & Quirinale

    Montecatini, Tuscany, Italy

    Elegant décor Short walk from the centre of town Peaceful pool
    Family-Run Central Location
    • Half Board
    • London Gatwick
    • London Luton
    • Manchester Int.
    • Leeds Bradford
    • Birmingham Int.
    • Bristol
    • +1 More
    Save £30pp
    From £899 View details
  • 4.5
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    Grand Hotel Vittoria Montecatini Typical Deluxe Room

    Grand Hotel Vittoria

    Montecatini, Tuscany, Italy

    Quiet location Relaxing spa Elegant, traditional style
    Couples Holidays Central Location
    • Half Board
    • London Gatwick
    • London Luton
    • Manchester Int.
    • Leeds Bradford
    • Birmingham Int.
    • Bristol
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    Save £80pp
    From £1,159 View details
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    Hotel Ambasciatori Palace Montecatini Typical Junior Suite

    Hotel Ambasciatori Palace

    Montecatini, Tuscany, Italy

    Close to the thermal spas and park Roof terrace with pool
    Central Location
    • Bed & Breakfast
    • London Gatwick
    • London Luton
    • Manchester Int.
    • Leeds Bradford
    • Birmingham Int.
    • Bristol
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    Save £30pp
    From £809 View details
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    GH Croce Di Malta Montecatini Hotel Exterior

    Grand Hotel Croce di Malta

    Montecatini, Tuscany, Italy

    Fantastic spa facilities Quiet yet central location Elegant, modern rooms
    Central Location Spa & Wellness
    • Half Board
    • London Gatwick
    • London Luton
    • Manchester Int.
    • Leeds Bradford
    • Birmingham Int.
    • Bristol
    • +1 More
    From £1,074 View details

Discover Montecatini

  • Walk up to Montecatini Alto for post-card perfect views of rolling Tuscan hills
  • Admire ornate architecture and drink the healing waters of the Terme Tettuccio
  • Indulge in Chianti Wine Tastings and walk in the footsteps of Leonardo Da Vinci

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 their 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, ideal for avid walkers. In the summer, 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.

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 to and from Montecatini Alto is a real treat, with all manner of plant and animal life to learn about as you go along. 

Follow in the footsteps of Verdi, Marie Curie, Audrey Hepburn and Versace by walking through the Terme of Montecatini. Don’t miss having a glug of the drinking waters in the Terme Tettuccio whilst admiring the Romanesque columns, fountains and pools. You could also book in for a treatment at one of the local spas and spend time in relaxation bliss. After you've done the Terme, why not swap a swig of spa water for a cappuccino or Chianti on the piazza– it's a great place in Montecatini for a leisurely lunch in the summer sun and a cold glass of white wine.

Fancy exploring further afield? From Montecatini it's easy to explore Tuscany's Renaissance wonders, Florence, Lucca and Pisa on the public transport network or by taking part in one of our excursions. The Tuscan coast– AKA the Tuscan Riviera, if you’re feeling fancy – is also in easy reach. 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– the public transport links to the Tuscan Riviera are really useful if you want to explore a new part of Tuscany. If you fancy a day in the city, then Florence is also within easy reach on the train, with its dramatic Church of Santa Maria del Fiore or the Duomo as it's better known, and Renaissance art around every corner.

By train

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 and rail replacement buses may take place 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. This will take about 10 minutes on the train and you'll have to walk from the train station to the starting points of many walks and to the towns in the Colle di Buggiano.

By car

Hiring a car in Montecatini opens up a world of Tuscan treasures. Explore the southern gems of Siena, Pienza, and Sant’Anna in Camprena, or visit hilltop favourites like San Gimignano and Volterra for breathtaking views and medieval charm. Wine lovers shouldn’t miss Montepulciano’s underground wine cellars and the renowned Vino Nobile, or a scenic tasting at Castello di Brolio in Chianti. For something more relaxing, soak in the thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni or enjoy coastal breezes in seaside towns like Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi. Keen walkers can head to Garfagnana or the Colle di Buggiano for scenic trails and a glimpse into traditional Tuscan village life.

Travel to Montecatini

Travel by air

Holidays to Montecatini depart on Saturdays or Wednesdays from 03 May-11 Oct 2025  &  02 May-10 Oct 2026

Transfer time:

  • Approx. 1 hour by coach from Pisa airport

Please be aware transfer times may vary depending on weather conditions and volume of traffic, especially during peak season.

Car hire is also available from Pisa airport.

Things to do in Montecatini

Head up to Montecatini Alto on the funicular railway- it's over 100 year's old and will take you up to some incredible viewpoints! It's a lovely place to go for lunch and a gelato on a sunny day and you can dip in and out of old churches, admiring the architecture. If you join our guided walk to Montecatini Alto, you'll learn all about the flora and fauna of the surrounding area, as well as the history of the town.

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!

If you want to explore further afield on your summer holiday, then many 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.

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

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.

The area around Montecatini and the Tuscan hills are famous for wine making and vineyards, so why not 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. Chianti is one of our favourite wine growing regions, some much so that we have an excursion that will take you to a local Chianti vineyard where you can try a selection of wines, including the revered Vin Santo, all whilst looking over a hilly Tuscan landscape at sunset.

from £119 per person

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.

Details: Departs on Thursday and Sundays. The pick-up and drop off point for this excursion is the Tourist Information Office located in the centre of town. This is a short walk away from all of our hotels.

Accessibility: Not suitable for guests with limited mobility and accessibility requirements.

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.

from £85 per person

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. 

Details: Departs on Fridays. The pick-up and drop off point for this excursion is the Tourist Information Office located in the centre of town. This is a short walk away from all of our hotels.

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.

Cinque Terre Liguria Italy Colourful Houses Riomaggiore
from £127 per person

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!

Details:

  • Departs on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
  • The pick-up and drop off point for this excursion is the Tourist Information Office located in the centre of town. This is a short walk away from all of our hotels.
  • Discounts available for guests aged 65+ when booked locally.
  • This excursion is only bookable locally between 20-27 May 2025.

Accessibility: Not suitable for guests with limited mobility and accessibility requirements. 

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.

from £76 per person

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.

Details: Departs on Mondays and Wednesdays. The pick-up and drop off point for this excursion is the Tourist Information Office located in the centre of town. This is a short walk away from all of our hotels.

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.

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.

Details: Departs on Mondays. Return taxi transfers to the Tuscan Farmhouse are payable on the spot locally for an additional fee (approx. €55 per person). You can book this excursion locally with your Destination Expert.

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.

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.

Details: Departs on Wednesdays and Thursdays. You can book this excursion locally with your Destination Expert.

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.

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