Carrara
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Latest page update: 18 September 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The city of Carrara has a population of approximately 65,000 people. It lies in the province of Massa-Carrara.
Carrara is renowned worldwide for its high-quality marble quarries, which have been mined for centuries. The city's marble has been used in famous sculptures and buildings, including Michelangelo's David and the Pantheon in Rome. |
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Carrara: home of the marble quarries
Carrara, renowned worldwide for its marble quarries, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town is nestled at the foot of the Apuan Alps, which house the iconic marble quarries. Visitors can explore the quarries through guided tours, witnessing the extraction process of the renowned Carrara marble.
The Civic Museum of Marble showcases the history and craftsmanship of this prized material. Nearby attractions include picturesque medieval villages like Colonnata, known for its marble caves and lardo di Colonnata, a delicacy made from seasoned pork fat. Carrara's marble legacy and scenic surroundings make it a captivating destination in Tuscany.
The Civic Museum of Marble showcases the history and craftsmanship of this prized material. Nearby attractions include picturesque medieval villages like Colonnata, known for its marble caves and lardo di Colonnata, a delicacy made from seasoned pork fat. Carrara's marble legacy and scenic surroundings make it a captivating destination in Tuscany.
Comune di Carrara
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Province: Massa and Carrara
Region: Tuscany Population: 59,986 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Size: 71 km² Elevation: 100 metres Highlights: Piazza Alberica, Cathedral, marble quarries Close by: Massa, Forte dei Marmi, Pietrasanta, Viareggio Recommended accommodation: Hotel Michelangelo |
What are the most popular tours and activities in Carrara?
- Marble Quarries Tour: Embark on guided tours of the famous Carrara marble quarries, offering insights into the extraction process, history, and significance of this prized marble. Visitors can witness the massive marble blocks being excavated, learn about the quarrying techniques, and admire breathtaking views of the Apuan Alps.
- Michelangelo's Quarries: Explore the quarries where Michelangelo sourced marble for some of his most iconic sculptures, including the Statue of David. Guided tours provide access to the historic quarries where visitors can learn about Michelangelo's techniques and see evidence of his work.
- Marble Sculpture Workshops: Participate in hands-on marble sculpture workshops led by local artisans, learning basic carving techniques and creating your own small marble masterpiece. Visitors can experience the artistry and craftsmanship of marble sculpting while gaining insight into Carrara's artistic heritage.
- Carrara Civic Museum: Visit the Carrara Civic Museum (Museo Civico del Marmo), dedicated to the history, geology, and art of Carrara marble. Guided tours offer access to the museum's exhibits, which include geological specimens, historical artifacts, and sculptures carved from Carrara marble.
- Historic Centre Exploration: Wander through Carrara's historic center, admiring its medieval streets, Renaissance palaces, and cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore architectural gems such as the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, the Piazza Alberica, and the Palazzo Cybo-Malaspina.
- Carrara Marble Festival: Experience the annual Carrara Marble Festival (Festa del Marmo), celebrating the city's marble heritage with exhibitions, demonstrations, and artistic events. Visitors can witness marble carving competitions, sculpture displays, and street performances, immersing themselves in Carrara's vibrant cultural scene.
Where should I eat in Carrara?
- Ristorante Albergo Tenda Rossa: Located near the city center of Carrara, Ristorante Albergo Tenda Rossa is a family-run restaurant known for its warm hospitality and authentic Tuscan dishes. The menu features a variety of homemade pastas, grilled meats, and seafood dishes, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Osteria del Vignaiolo: Situated in the heart of Carrara's historic center, Osteria del Vignaiolo is a cozy trattoria known for its delicious food and charming atmosphere. The restaurant specializes in traditional Tuscan cuisine, with a focus on regional specialties such as bistecca alla fiorentina, pappa al pomodoro, and ribollita.
- Ristorante Osteria del Chiasso: Located in the nearby town of Marina di Carrara, Ristorante Osteria del Chiasso offers a relaxed dining experience with stunning views of the sea. The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood dishes, including grilled fish, seafood risotto, and pasta with clams, all served in a casual atmosphere perfect for enjoying a meal by the beach.
- Ristorante Pizzeria Il Gallo: Situated just outside Carrara's city center, Ristorante Pizzeria Il Gallo is a popular spot for delicious pizza and traditional Tuscan cuisine. The restaurant's wood-fired oven produces authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, while the menu also features a variety of pasta dishes, grilled meats, and seafood specialties.
- Ristorante Pizzeria Da Tito: Located in the nearby town of Marina di Carrara, Ristorante Pizzeria Da Tito offers a casual dining experience with a menu that includes both traditional Tuscan dishes and classic Italian pizzas. Guests can enjoy a variety of pasta dishes, grilled meats, and fresh seafood, as well as a selection of wood-fired pizzas cooked to perfection.
What should I eat in Carrara?
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A renowned Tuscan dish, bistecca alla Fiorentina is a thick-cut T-bone steak, usually from locally raised Chianina cattle, grilled over a wood fire and seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Pappa al Pomodoro: A classic Tuscan bread soup made with stale bread, fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and sometimes onions or other vegetables. The bread is soaked in the tomato mixture until it becomes soft and stew-like.
- Risotto ai Frutti di Mare: A flavorful seafood risotto made with Arborio rice cooked slowly in a broth flavored with shellfish, squid, shrimp, and other seafood delicacies. It's often finished with a splash of white wine and garnished with parsley.
- Trofie al Pesto: Trofie pasta, a short, twisted pasta shape typical of Liguria, served with pesto Genovese, a fragrant sauce made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It's a delicious and aromatic dish popular throughout Tuscany.
- Cacciucco alla Livornese: A hearty seafood stew originating from Livorno, but widely enjoyed in Carrara and other coastal areas of Tuscany. It's made with a variety of fish and shellfish, tomatoes, garlic, onions, and red pepper flakes, simmered together to create a rich and flavorful broth.
Carrara Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Carrara?
- Hotel Michelangelo Carrara: Located in the heart of Carrara, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It's a convenient base for exploring the town's marble-related attractions, such as the Marble Museum and the nearby quarries.
- B&B La Cava di Terzo: Set in a beautifully restored farmhouse surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, this bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms and a peaceful atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast featuring local produce and relax in the garden or by the pool.
- Agriturismo Montagna Verde: Nestled in the hills overlooking Carrara, this agriturismo offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Apuan Alps. Guests can stay in rustic-chic rooms or apartments, dine on traditional Tuscan cuisine made with organic ingredients, and explore the farm's olive groves and vineyards.
- Albergo Ristorante Roma: Situated in the town center, this family-run hotel offers comfortable accommodations and a restaurant serving authentic regional dishes. Guests can easily access Carrara's landmarks, shops, and restaurants from this convenient location.
- B&B L'Affaccio: Located in a historic building overlooking Carrara's main square, this bed and breakfast offers elegantly furnished rooms and a central location close to shops, cafes, and attractions. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and personalized service during their stay.
What's the closest airport to Carrara?
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport) (PSA):
Florence Airport (Peretola) (FLR):
- Located in Pisa, approximately 53 kilometers south of Carrara.
- Pisa Airport is a major airport in Tuscany, serving domestic and international flights.
- From Pisa Airport, you can reach Carrara by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Carrara takes around 1 hour, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be expensive for long journeys. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Pisa Centrale Train Station and then catch a train to Carrara Train Station. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach your final destination in Carrara.
Florence Airport (Peretola) (FLR):
- Located in Florence, approximately 115 kilometers east of Carrara.
- Florence Airport serves domestic and international flights.
- From Florence Airport, you can reach Carrara by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Carrara takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be expensive for long journeys. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Florence Santa Maria Novella Train Station and then catch a train to Carrara Train Station. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach your final destination in Carrara.
Does Carrara have its own train station?
Carrara Train Station:
- Located in Carrara, serving regional train services.
- Carrara Train Station is well-connected with nearby cities like Pisa, Florence, and La Spezia.
- From Carrara Train Station, you can take local buses or taxis to reach various destinations within Carrara and its surroundings.
What private transfer options are there for Carrara?
A private transfer from Pisa Airport to Carrara takes around 50 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit Carrara?
- Nearby Cities: Since Carrara is located near larger cities like Pisa and La Spezia, you can consider renting a car from one of the rental agencies in these cities. Pisa and La Spezia have more rental options available, including at the train stations, airports, and in the city centers.
- Regional Airports: You could also consider looking for rental options at airports such as Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei) or Florence Airport (Peretola). Although they are further away from Carrara, some rental agencies may offer shuttle services to pick up your rental car from the airport.
