Pistoia

Pistoia is a medieval Tuscan city about 30 km northwest of Florence, known as a “little Florence” thanks to its rich art, preserved architecture, and vibrant culture—without the crowds. It was named Italy’s Capital of Culture in 2017

Top Things to Do

1. Piazza del Duomo & Cathedral of San Zeno: Admire the Romanesque façade, climb the 60+ m bell tower for city views, and marvel at the exquisite Silver Altar of St. James with over 600 figures 

2. Baptistery of San Giovanni in Corte: A beautiful 14th‑century Gothic marble structure beside the cathedral

3. Palazzo dei Vescovi & Palazzo Comunale (Museo Civico): See medieval civic architecture and local art, plus enjoy the civic museum in the town hall near the Duomo 

4. Pistoia Sotterranea (Underground tour): Explore tunnels beneath the old Ospedale del Ceppo, once the course of the Brana river 

5. Fortezza di Santa Barbara: A 14th‑century fortress built under Medici rule, now a scenic park with ramparts and city views

6. Museo Marino Marini & Chiesa di San Giovanni Fuoricivitas: For modern art and Gothic frescoes by the Giotto school

7. Ecomuseo della Montagna Pistoiese: An open-air museum in the nearby Apennines showcasing local traditions & nature itineraries 

8. Zoo di Pistoia & Pinocchio Park: Great family attractions—home to 600+ animal species and a literary-themed park just outside town

Eat & Drink

• Visit the Mercato di Pistoia on Wednesdays and Saturdays for local produce, cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal specialties like crostini or pecorino 

• Signature dishes:

  • Maccheroni sull’anatra (pasta in duck sauce), pappa al pomodoro, ribollita

  • Tartara di Chianina (premium raw beef), Il Carcerato (traditional entrails dish), Castagnaccio chestnut cake, Brigidini anise biscuits, Corona di San Bartolomeo festival cake 

• Recommended venues:

  • La BotteGaia on Via del Lastrone—authentic tuscan cooking and wine list in a lively setting.

  • Ristocaffetteria Voronoi—cocktails, street‑food style bites, pizzas, risottos and duck pasta near Piazza della Sala

• For foodies: join a Tuscan cooking class (e.g., pici pasta, crostini), often ending with a wine‑paired meal

 Travel Tips

• Best time: May to September for mild weather, local festivals, open museums, and outdoor activities

• Events:

  • Giostra dell’Orso on July 25 – medieval joust of the Bear in full costume in Piazza del Duomo

  • Pistoia Blues Festival – international music event each July in Piazza del Duomo

• Getting there:

  • By train: Pistoia Centrale station is ~10 min walk to city centre. Frequent trains to Florence, Lucca, Pisa (~50 min) 

  • By car: Easily accessible off the Florence–Pisa motorway; parking available around the centro storico

• Length of stay: Even a half‐day captures the main centre, but plan for 2‑3 days to savour markets, museums, nature, nearby towns, and gastronomy 

 Where to Stay & Recommended Accommodations

• Hotel Patria – central, well-rated choice near Duomo 

• Locanda San Marco B&B – cozy guesthouse with top feedback in pedestrian area 

• Residenza d’Epoca Puccini – historic property, elegant and close to sights 

• Nearby countryside: Agriturismo Il Calesse, Villa Cappugi, Palazzo 42, Villa Morelli Gualtierotti—ideal for peaceful rural atmosphere 

• Tip: Staying near Piazza du Duomo puts you within walkable access to major museums, restaurants, and evening gathering spots; agriturismi offer silence and scenic serenity.