Pistoia Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Pistoia, Tuscany including cultural attractions, natural sights, hiking trails, food and drink scene, where to stay, and transportation options.


The Ultimate Guide to Pistoia, Tuscany

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Tuscany, you might want to add Pistoia to your travel itinerary. Nestled in the heart of Italy, Pistoia offers a perfect blend of art, history, nature, and food. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the best things to do in Pistoia and its surrounding areas, including attractions, activities, and tours, hiking and biking routes, accommodations, local culture, and much more.

Introduction to Pistoia

Located in the northwestern part of Tuscany, Pistoia is a small medieval town that boasts a rich cultural heritage. Its compact historic center, enclosed by ancient walls, is home to several well-preserved architectural marvels, including Romanesque and Gothic churches, palaces, and piazzas. Pistoia is also known for its traditional crafts, such as wrought iron, ceramics, and embroidery, which are showcased in its many art galleries and museums.

List of Places to Visit in Pistoia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Piazza del Duomo: This lively square in the heart of Pistoia features the Cathedral of Saint Zeno, the Baptistery of San Giovanni in Corte, and the Palazzo del Comune, which houses the Civic Museum.
  • San Giovanni Fuoricivitas: This unique Romanesque church, located outside the city walls, is one of the most important landmarks in Pistoia. Admire the intricate carvings and frescoes in this serene setting.
  • Palazzo Rospigliosi: This grand palace, built in the 17th century, is now a museum and art gallery. Be sure to see the Baroque frescoes by Guercino and the collection of Renaissance sculptures.
  • Ospedale del Ceppo: Although originally a hospital, this building is now home to a magnificent series of artworks by famous Renaissance artists like Pontormo and Vasari.
  • Museo Civico: This museum houses remarkable exhibits and artworks from the medieval, Renaissance and modern eras. Explore the impressive collection of archaeological finds, ceramics, and fine art from various eras.

Natural Attractions of Pistoia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parco di Collodi: This beautiful park, located just outside Pistoia, is a natural wonderland of greenery, trails, and hidden treasures. Visit the villa that inspired the creation of Pinocchio and walk through the enchanting gardens.
  • Montalbano: This mountain ridge with a height of 1,000 meters is home to numerous hiking and biking trails, offering sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Abetone: This ski resort, located in the Apennine Mountains, is a popular winter destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
  • Goraiolo: This tiny village, situated around a scenic lake, offers a gorgeous view of the mountains and is excellent for fishing, swimming, and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pistoia

  • Sentiero della Bonifica: This relatively easy biking trail takes you along a former canal path from Arezzo to Chianciano Terme. It offers stunning landscapes of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves along the way.
  • Sentiero degli Dei: This is a challenging hike, but the views are incredibly rewarding, with stretches of sea and sky. The path stretches from Bologna to Florence and is part of the famous Via degli Dei.

Best Things to Do in Pistoia: Activities and Tours

  • City Walking Tours: Expertly guided tours of Pistoia’s historic center will take you through centuries of architectural history.
  • Food and Wine Tours: Sample delectable Tuscan cuisine with guided tours and tastings of local produce and wines.
  • Artisan Workshops: Experience the traditional arts and crafts of Pistoia, including ceramics, embroidery, and wrought iron.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pistoia

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Pistoia’s historic center, including Piazza del Duomo, the Baptistery of San Giovanni in Corte, and the Museo Civico.
Day 2 Take a biking trip along the Canal dell’Inferno and visit the Medici Villas in the surrounding hillsides.
Day 3 Visit the San Giovanni Fuoricivitas and Palazzo Rospigliosi, then take an afternoon trip to Vinci, the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci.
Day 4 Spend the day in Montecarlo, a beautiful medieval village surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.
Day 5 Take a food and wine tour of the Chianti region and pienza in Tuscany.
Day 6 Travel west to the coastal town of Livorno, and take an afternoon boat ride along the city’s canals.
Day 7 Wind down by visiting Abetone, a winter resort in the Apennine Mountains, for a day of skiing or snowboarding.

Food and Drink Scene of Pistoia

Must-Try Dishes

When it comes to Tuscan cuisine, Pistoia doesn’t disappoint. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

  • Brigidini: A type of wafer cookie made with sugar and anise.
  • Porcini mushrooms: Wild mushrooms that grow in the surrounding hills and are used in many Tuscan dishes.
  • Castagnaccio: A rustic cake made with chestnut flour, pine nuts, and raisins, typically served during autumn.
  • Migliaccio: A sweet pancake made with semolina flour, eggs, milk, and ricotta, typically eaten for breakfast.

Local Beverages

  • Chianti: The famous red wine from the Chianti region has a full-bodied taste that pairs well with Tuscan cuisine.
  • Vin Santo: A sweet dessert wine usually served with dry cookies.
  • Caffè: An Italian-style coffee served in espresso form, typically enjoyed after lunch or dinner.

Where to Stay in Pistoia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pistoia has many options for accommodations, from luxurious hotels to humble agriturismo farm stays. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel Villa Cappugi: This four-star hotel is surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering an excellent location for exploring Pistoia and the surrounding areas.
  • Agriturismo Il Casale: This traditional farmhouse offers cozy accommodations with an outdoor pool and terrace overlooking the rolling hills of Tuscany.
  • Villa Giorgia: This charming bed and breakfast in Pistoia’s historic center offers spacious rooms with antique furnishings and modern amenities.

What to Buy in Pistoia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ceramics: Pistoia is famous for its handmade ceramics, featuring vibrant colors and intricate designs.
  • Wrought iron: Pistoia has a long tradition of ironworking, producing a range of hand-crafted products, from candelabras to tables.
  • Prosciutto Toscano: One of Tuscany’s most famous cured meats, with a deep, rich flavor.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The olive groves surrounding Pistoia produce some of the finest olive oil in the world.

Local Culture and Customs of Pistoia

Pistoia is a lively town with a strong sense of community and tradition. Some local customs and habits include:

  • Flag-Throwing Competition: Pistoia has an annual Palio di San Jacopo flag-throwing competition held in late July, where teams compete to catch a suspended flag.
  • Saint Zeno and the Snail Race: Saint Zeno is Pistoia’s patron saint, and every June, a snail race is held to honor his miraculous escape from a Roman prison.
  • Alpe Adria Ballet Festival: Every August, a dance festival takes place in Pistoia, which presents works from Italy, Austria, and Slovenia.

Best Time to Visit Pistoia

The best time to visit Pistoia is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and crowds are fewer. Temperatures in summer can be high, so it’s best to dress accordingly or avoid the midday sun.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pistoia

Do:

  • Visit Pistoia’s historic center and admire its many architectural wonders.
  • Try the delicious Tuscan cuisine and wine.
  • Take a hike or bike ride through the lush hills and countryside.
  • Attend one of Pistoia’s many cultural events and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful of the local customs and traditions.
  • Ignore the traffic laws or park illegally, as it could result in a fine.
  • Worry about speaking Italian, as many locals speak English and are happy to assist visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pistoia

Pistoia is a safe and welcoming town with a low crime rate. However, tourists should take the usual precautions when visiting any new destination, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding dimly lit areas at night.

Health in Pistoia

Pistoia has several hospitals and clinics, including an emergency room, open 24/7. It’s advisable to get travel insurance before traveling to Italy, as healthcare costs can be expensive.

Getting to Pistoia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pistoia

The nearest airport to Pistoia is Florence Airport, which is about 25 kilometers away. Other airports that offer flights to Pistoia include Pisa International Airport and Bologna Airport.

Bus Stations Near Pistoia

Pistoia has a major bus station, connecting the town with other cities and towns in Tuscany and Italy. The bus station is also located close to the train station, making it easy to travel between locations.

Other Options

One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty and culture of Pistoia is by car. Several car rental companies operate near Pistoia, including Avis, Hertz, and Europcar.

How to Get Around in Pistoia

Pistoia’s historic center is compact enough to explore on foot, but the town also has an efficient bus service that connects various parts of the town. Otherwise, cycling is a popular mode of transport in the area, with several biking routes and bike rental shops available in Pistoia.

Where to Go Next from Pistoia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Pistoia is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas of Tuscany. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth the trip:

  • Florence: The birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence is just a 30-minute train ride from Pistoia, offering a wealth of art, history, and culture.
  • Lucca: This charming walled city is known for its history, architecture, and spectacular scenery. It’s just an hour’s drive from Pistoia.
  • Pisa: Most people visit Pisa to see the famous leaning tower, but the city has much more to offer, from its historic center to its vibrant food scene.
  • Siena: This medieval hill town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to breathtaking architecture, museums, and beautiful countryside.

Conclusion

Pistoia is a hidden gem in Tuscany, filled with art, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing vacation or an adventure in the great outdoors, Pistoia has something to offer. From walking tours and museum visits to hiking and biking in the surrounding hills, Pistoia has all the ingredients for an unforgettable experience.