Lari
Latest page update: 18 September 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The charming medieval village of Lari is situated in the province of Pisa. It has a population of approximately 6,000 residents.
Lari is best known for its well-preserved medieval fortress, the Castello dei Vicari, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The village also boasts picturesque streets lined with historic buildings, making it a popular destination for tourists. |
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Lari: a medieval gem in the Pisan hills
Occupying an area in the rolling hills of Tuscany, Lari enchants visitors with its timeless beauty and rich history. The imposing Lari Castle, perched atop a hilltop, dominates the skyline, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Wander through the charming streets of the medieval town centre, lined with historic buildings and artisan workshops.
Explore the town's culinary traditions at local trattorias, savoring authentic Tuscan flavours. Nearby, the scenic countryside invites exploration, with vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque hilltop villages waiting to be discovered. Lari promises a serene escape into the heart of Tuscany, where history and nature blend seamlessly.
Explore the town's culinary traditions at local trattorias, savoring authentic Tuscan flavours. Nearby, the scenic countryside invites exploration, with vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque hilltop villages waiting to be discovered. Lari promises a serene escape into the heart of Tuscany, where history and nature blend seamlessly.
Comune di Casciana Terme Lari
Province: Pisa
Region: Tuscany Population: 12,130 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Size: 45 km² Elevation: 130 metres Highlights: Castello dei Vicari, medieval wall Close by: Peccioli, Lajatico, Castiglioncello, Pisa, Livorno, Volterra Recommended hotel: Albergo Roma (9 km) |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Listed since: 2003
1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano
Listed since: 2003
1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano
What are the best things to do in Lari and the local area?
- Lari Castle: Explore the historic Lari Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress dating back to the 11th century. Visitors can admire the castle's impressive architecture, including its fortified walls, towers, and inner courtyard, and learn about its rich history through guided tours and exhibitions.
- Village of Lari: Wander through the charming village of Lari, known for its picturesque streets, Renaissance architecture, and artisanal shops. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Church of San Leonardo, the Palazzo dei Vicari, and the ancient city walls, while enjoying views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
- Olive Oil Tasting: Experience the flavors of Tuscany with olive oil tasting tours offered in the Lari area. Visitors can sample a variety of extra virgin olive oils produced locally, learn about olive cultivation and harvesting techniques, and enjoy guided tastings paired with traditional Tuscan bread and other local specialties.
- Wine Tours: Discover the renowned wine region of Tuscany with wine tasting tours at local wineries near Lari. Visitors can explore vineyards, cellars, and wine production facilities, sample a selection of Tuscan wines such as Chianti, Sangiovese, and Vernaccia, and learn about the region's winemaking traditions and techniques.
- Countryside Hiking: Take leisurely hikes or scenic walks through the picturesque countryside surrounding Lari. Visitors can follow trails that wind through rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards, enjoying panoramic views of the landscape and spotting wildlife such as deer, wild boar, and birds of prey along the way.
- Culinary Workshops: Immerse yourself in Tuscan cuisine with cooking classes and culinary workshops offered in Lari. Visitors can learn how to prepare traditional dishes such as homemade pasta, bruschetta, and tiramisu under the guidance of local chefs, using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the region.
Where should I eat in Lari?
- Ristorante Castello di Lari: Located within the historic walls of Lari Castle, Ristorante Castello di Lari offers a unique dining experience in a medieval setting. The restaurant features a menu of traditional Tuscan dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients, including homemade pastas, grilled meats, and seasonal specialties. Guests can dine indoors in the elegant dining room or outdoors on the terrace overlooking the surrounding countryside.
- Osteria di Lari: Situated in the heart of Lari's old town, Osteria di Lari is a cozy trattoria known for its warm hospitality and authentic Tuscan cuisine. The restaurant's menu showcases a variety of homemade pastas, hearty soups, and grilled meats, as well as an extensive selection of local wines. Guests can enjoy their meal in the charming dining room adorned with rustic decor and exposed stone walls.
- Ristorante La Loggia del Grillo: Nestled in the scenic countryside just outside of Lari, Ristorante La Loggia del Grillo offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. The restaurant specializes in traditional Tuscan dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, including homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and grilled meats. Guests can dine on the outdoor terrace while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
- Ristorante Pizzeria Il Caminetto: A popular choice for casual dining in Lari, Ristorante Pizzeria Il Caminetto serves up delicious pizzas, pasta dishes, and other Italian favorites in a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant's menu features a variety of pizza toppings, from classic margherita to creative combinations with local ingredients. Guests can also enjoy homemade pastas, fresh salads, and grilled meats.
- Ristorante Pizzeria Il Portico: Located in the town center of Lari, Ristorante Pizzeria Il Portico is a family-friendly restaurant offering a diverse menu of Italian and Tuscan dishes. The restaurant's specialties include wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood, and homemade desserts. Guests can dine indoors in the cozy dining room or outdoors on the covered terrace.
Lari Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Lari?
- Agriturismo Il Gelso: Located in the countryside near Lari, Agriturismo Il Gelso offers peaceful accommodations in a restored farmhouse surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Guests can stay in cozy rooms or apartments, enjoy homemade meals made with ingredients from the farm, and relax in the garden or by the swimming pool.
- La Sorgente di Lari: Situated in the hills near Lari, La Sorgente di Lari offers tranquil accommodations surrounded by nature. Guests can stay in comfortable rooms with modern amenities, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and explore the nearby hiking trails and natural parks.
- Podere Sant'Antonio: Located in the countryside near Lari, Podere Sant'Antonio offers cozy accommodations in a traditional Tuscan farmhouse. Guests can stay in charming rooms with rustic decor, enjoy homemade breakfasts made with local ingredients, and relax in the garden or by the outdoor swimming pool.
- Villa Arianna: Situated in the hills near Lari, Villa Arianna offers elegant accommodations in a historic villa surrounded by gardens. Guests can stay in stylish rooms with antique furnishings, enjoy a complimentary breakfast served in the dining room, and relax in the garden or by the outdoor swimming pool.
- Agriturismo San Martino: Located in the countryside near Lari, Agriturismo San Martino offers peaceful accommodations in a renovated farmhouse. Guests can stay in comfortable rooms or apartments, enjoy homemade meals made with ingredients from the farm, and relax in the garden or by the swimming pool.
What's the closest airport to Lari?
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport) (PSA):
Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci Airport) (FLR):
- Located approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Lari.
- From Pisa Airport, you can reach Lari by various means of transportation:
- By Car: Renting a car at the airport and driving to Lari. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and route.
- By Bus/Train: Take a taxi or a bus from the airport to Pisa Centrale Railway Station, then take a train to Pontedera-Casciana Terme Station. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Lari.
Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci Airport) (FLR):
- Located approximately 70 kilometers northeast of Lari.
- From Florence Airport, you can reach Lari by various means of transportation:
- By Car: Renting a car at the airport and driving to Lari. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and route.
- By Train: Take a taxi or a bus from the airport to Florence's main train station, Santa Maria Novella (Firenze SMN), and then take a train to Pontedera-Casciana Terme Station. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Lari.
What's the closest train station to Lari?
Pontedera-Casciana Terme Train Station:
- Located approximately 10 kilometers southeast of Lari.
- Pontedera-Casciana Terme Train Station is served by regional trains connecting it to major cities like Florence and Pisa.
What private transfer options are there for Lari?
A private transfer from Pisa Airport to Lari takes around 30 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 Lari?
- Pisa: Pisa is a larger city located approximately 25 kilometers west of Lari. You can find several car rental agencies in Pisa, both in the city center and possibly at Pisa's train station or airport.
- Pontedera: Pontedera is a town located approximately 15 kilometers northwest of Lari. While smaller, it may have car rental options available, especially around its transportation hubs.
- Regional Airports: While there are no major airports very close to Lari, you could consider looking for rental options at airports such as Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei) or Florence Airport (Peretola), though they are further away.