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.
