Top 10 Things To Do in Montecatini Terme

Looking for the best things to do in Montecatini Terme? Whether you’ve just arrived in Montecatini Terme or are planning to visit soon then you will certainly want to make the most of your time in this historic Tuscan spa town. Here are our top 10 things to do and see while visiting Montecatini Terme.

1. Breakfast like an Italian in Piazza del Popolo

piazza del popolo, shopping in montecatini
The impressive Guidotti fountain in Piazza del Popolo, Montecatini Terme

Make sure you have at least one breakfast in a coffee bar in Piazza del Popolo in the centre of Montecatini. The square is perfectly positioned for early morning sun and the hubbub of activity makes it an ideal location for a spot of people watching.

2. Drink the thermal water at Terme Tettucio

Tettuccio Terme drinking water in Montecatini Terme
Thermal water drinking taps at Terme Tettucio, Montecatini Terme

While in Montecatini Terme you must visit Terme Tettucio and drink some of the famous thermal water. If drinking the water is not your thing you can still enjoy the art and architecture of the amazing Terme Tettucio building.

3. Take the funicular to Montecatini Alto

Funicolare/Funicular to Montecatini Alto
Distinctive red train of the funicular making it’s way to Montecatini Alto

Perhaps the most enjoyable way for young and old alike to arrive at Montecatini Alto is by the funicular (Funicolare di Montecatini in Italian). The two iconic red cable carriages climb the steep hill up to Montecatini Alto and run regularly through most of the year. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Montecatini Terme.

4. Shop for designer brand clothing on Corso Giacomo Matteotti

Shopping in Gucci Store Montecatini Terme
Gucci shop on Corso Giacomo Matteotti in Montecatini Terme

If you love designer brands, then you should head to Corso Giacomo Matteotti. This street is lined with designer stores like Gucci. The shops are open until late, so why not saunter down on an evening for a spot of pre-dinner shopping.

5. Relax in the Parco delle Terme

Montecatini Terme park - Parco delle Terme in Summer
Parco delle Terme in Montecatini Terme

Montecatini’s Parco delle Terme is a green oasis just a short walk from the centre of Montecatini Terme. The park is beautifully maintained and is a hive of activity throughout the day. Why not take a stroll and enjoy the scenery or make the most of the ideal picnic spots if you have children.

6. See a show at the Teatro Verdi Theatre

Entrance to Teatro Verdi in Montecatini Terme
Teatro Verdi theatre in Montecatini Terme

The Teatro Verdi theatre in Montecatini Terme hosts a variety of shows throughout the year. From operas to musicals and everything in between. The theatre is situated on Viale Verdi in the centre of Montecatini Terme making it an ideal choice for an evening out while staying at one of the many hotels nearby.

7. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art – MO.C.A.

Montecatini Terme Museum of Contemporary Art MO.C.A.
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Montecatini Terme

Italy has so much to offer when it comes to art! It’s the homeland of some of the greatest artists of all time. We often think of classical artists like Michelangelo and Raphael but Italy also has a lot to offer when it comes to modern art. The Museum of Contemporary Art (Mo.C.A) is free to visit and showcases some of the best modern art from Italy and beyond.

8. Grab a bargain at the weekly market

Montecatini Terme market day
Thursday morning market in Montecatini Terme

The main market day in Montecatini Terme is every Thursday morning. This popular weekly market is a jam packed full of goodies, from fresh fruit and vegetables to jewellery, clothes, shoes and household items. The market has a reputation for selling high street and designer excess stock at knock down prices, so you are sure to grab a bargain.

9. Enjoy a day trip to Florence by Train

Florence Duomo rooftop view across city
View from the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence

Montecatini Terme has excellent rail links to the beautiful and historic city of Florence. Trains run regularly from both Montecatini Terme train stations. Hop on a train and arrive at Santa Maria Novella in the centre of Florence in under an hour.

Be sure to buy your ticket and validate it before you board the train. Tickets can be purchased at the self-service ticket machines in the train station or pre-booked online.

10. Eat the famous Cialde wafer biscuit from Bargilli

Cialde di Montecatini wafer biscuits from Bargilli
Famous Cialde di Montecatini wafer biscuits from Bargilli, Montecatini Terme

Food lovers must try the famous Cialde di Montecatini from Bargilli. The Bargilli family have been making the wafer biscuit since 1936. Delicious with Italian gelato or sweet Vin Santo wine. Presented in a beautiful tin, Cialde di Montecatini also makes a great gift for friends and family.