Massa and Carrara Province
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Latest page update: 28 November 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The Massa and Carrara Province situated in northern Tuscany, has a population of around 200,000. It is renowned for its marble quarries, attracting visitors interested in the marble industry.
The province includes the towns of Massa, known for its historic centre and fortress, and Carrara, famous for Michelangelo's famous "David" statue carved from Carrara marble. |
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Massa and Carrara Province: hewn from the marble rocks
Massa and Carrara province, known as the land of marble, boasts stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visit the Carrara Marble Quarries to witness the extraction of the renowned Carrara marble, revered by artists for centuries. Explore the historic town of Massa, with its medieval Malaspina Castle offering panoramic views.
Don't miss the impressive Duomo and Piazza Alberica. Along the coast, enjoy the beautiful beaches of Marina di Carrara and the picturesque towns of Cinquale and Montignoso. Immerse yourself in the region's marble history at the Civic Marble Museum in Carrara, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of this iconic material.
Don't miss the impressive Duomo and Piazza Alberica. Along the coast, enjoy the beautiful beaches of Marina di Carrara and the picturesque towns of Cinquale and Montignoso. Immerse yourself in the region's marble history at the Civic Marble Museum in Carrara, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of this iconic material.
Provincia di Massa-Carrara
What are the most popular tours and activities in Massa and Carrara Province?
- Marble Quarry Tours: Explore the renowned marble quarries of Carrara with guided tours that provide insights into the extraction process and the history of marble mining in the region. Visitors can witness massive blocks of marble being excavated from the mountainsides and visit working quarries to see skilled artisans at work.
- Sightseeing in Carrara: Discover the historic city of Carrara with guided sightseeing tours that showcase its rich cultural heritage and architectural landmarks. Highlights include the imposing Carrara Cathedral, the medieval fortress of Fortezza di Sarzanello, and the Carrara Civic Museum with its collection of sculptures and artifacts.
- Cultural Visits to Massa: Explore the city of Massa with guided tours that delve into its fascinating history and cultural attractions. Visitors can admire the elegant architecture of the Ducal Palace, stroll through the charming old town with its narrow streets and historic buildings, and visit the imposing Malaspina Castle overlooking the city.
- Marble Sculpture Workshops: Channel your creativity with marble sculpture workshops that allow participants to learn the art of sculpting from local master craftsmen. Visitors can try their hand at carving marble blocks into works of art, guided by expert instructors who provide instruction and assistance throughout the process.
- Culinary Tours: Indulge in the flavours of Massa and Carrara with culinary tours that showcase the region's gastronomic delights. Visitors can sample local specialties such as testaroli (traditional flatbread), farinata (chickpea flour pancakes), and fresh seafood dishes, as well as wines from the nearby Colli di Luni wine region.
- Outdoor Adventures in the Apuan Alps: Explore the natural beauty of the Apuan Alps with outdoor adventures such as hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Guided tours take visitors through scenic landscapes of rugged mountains, verdant valleys, and pristine forests, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
What are the best restaurants in Massa and Carrara Province?
- Ristorante L'Arcobaleno (Carrara) - This restaurant offers a diverse menu of traditional Tuscan dishes, including homemade pastas, fresh seafood, and grilled meats, served in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
- Ristorante Il Bacaro (Massa) - Situated in the heart of Massa, this restaurant specializes in creative interpretations of classic Italian dishes, using locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce.
- Ristorante Al Bocconcino (Carrara) - Known for its excellent seafood dishes, this restaurant offers a menu of fresh and flavorful seafood specialties, as well as homemade pastas and regional classics.
- Ristorante Il Poggio (Montignoso) - Located in Montignoso, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and serves a menu of traditional Tuscan cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors.
- Ristorante La Pineta (Marina di Massa) - Set in a charming beachfront location, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a menu of creative seafood dishes, as well as homemade pastas and regional specialties, served in an elegant and relaxed atmosphere.
- Ristorante La Taverna del Metallo (Carrara) - Situated in the historic center of Carrara, this restaurant specializes in Tuscan cuisine, with a menu that features homemade pastas, grilled meats, and seasonal specialties, served in a rustic and inviting setting.
- Ristorante Il Bivio (Massa) - This family-run restaurant offers a menu of traditional Tuscan dishes, including homemade pastas, grilled meats, and fresh seafood, served in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
- Ristorante La Cantina di Bruno (Carrara) - Known for its excellent wine selection and hearty Tuscan cuisine, this restaurant offers a menu of homemade pastas, grilled meats, and regional specialties, served in a charming wine cellar setting.
- Ristorante Il Gallo Nero (Massa) - Set in a historic building in the center of Massa, this restaurant offers a menu of classic Tuscan dishes, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors, served in an elegant and refined atmosphere.
- Ristorante L'Arte (Carrara) - Situated near the Carrara marble quarries, this restaurant offers a menu of creative and contemporary dishes inspired by traditional Tuscan cuisine, as well as a selection of local wines and artisanal cheeses.
Massa and Carrara Province Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Massa and Carrara Province?
- Hotel Villa Tiziana (Massa): This charming hotel is located near the beach and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a garden, a pool, and a restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.
- Hotel La Bussola (Marina di Massa): Situated just steps from the beach, this hotel offers bright and airy rooms with sea views. It features a rooftop terrace, a restaurant specializing in seafood dishes, and easy access to the town's shops and restaurants.
- Hotel Michelangelo (Carrara): Located in the heart of Carrara, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the Apuan Alps. Guests can relax in the garden, enjoy a buffet breakfast, and explore the nearby marble quarries and historic sites.
- Villa Belverde (Massa): Nestled in the hills overlooking Massa, this elegant villa offers luxurious rooms and suites with panoramic views. Guests can unwind by the pool, enjoy gourmet meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and explore the surrounding countryside.
- Hotel Morgana (Marina di Carrara): This family-run hotel is situated near the beach and offers cozy rooms with balconies overlooking the sea. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast, relax in the garden, and take day trips to nearby attractions such as the Cinque Terre and Pisa.
Massa and Carrara province travel advice
- Regional Trains (Trenitalia): Trenitalia operates regional train services connecting Massa Centro and Carrara-Avenza Stations to major cities in Tuscany, including Pisa, Florence, Lucca, and Livorno.
- Bus Services: Local and regional bus services connect various towns and villages within the Massa and Carrara Province. Check the schedules and routes for bus connections to your destination.
- Car Rental: Renting a car gives you flexibility and allows you to explore the province and its surroundings at your own pace. Major car rental companies have offices at airports and in nearby cities.
Which airports serve Massa and Carrara Province?
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport - PSA):
Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci Airport - FLR):
- Pisa Airport is the closest major airport to the Massa and Carrara Province, located approximately 60-70 kilometers (37-43 miles) southwest of the area.
- From Pisa Airport, you can continue your journey to Massa and Carrara by train, bus, or car.
Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci Airport - FLR):
- Florence Airport is another option, located approximately 120-130 kilometers (75-81 miles) southeast of the Massa and Carrara Province.
- While farther away compared to Pisa Airport, Florence Airport offers more international flight options.
What are the main train stations in Massa and Carrara Province?
Massa Centro Train Station:
Carrara-Avenza Train Station:
- Massa Centro is the main train station serving the city of Massa in the Massa and Carrara Province.
- It offers connections to various destinations in Tuscany and other regions of Italy through the regional and Intercity train services operated by Trenitalia.
Carrara-Avenza Train Station:
- Carrara-Avenza Train Station serves the city of Carrara and nearby areas.
- Like Massa Centro Station, it provides train connections to destinations within Tuscany and beyond.
How do you reach Massa and Carrara Province by car?
Driving Directions:
- If you're traveling by car from Pisa Airport, take the A12 highway northbound towards Genoa. Exit at Massa or Carrara, depending on your destination within the province.
- From Florence Airport, take the A11 highway towards Pisa. Merge onto the A12 highway towards Genoa and exit at Massa or Carrara.
What private transfer options are there for Massa and Carrara Province?
A private transfer from Pisa Airport to Massa takes around 40 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 in Massa and Carrara Province?
- Massa City Centre: There are several car rental agencies located within the city of Massa itself, making it convenient to rent a car directly within the province. These agencies may have offices in the city center or near major transportation hubs.
- Carrara City Centre: Similarly, you can find car rental agencies within the city of Carrara, providing options for renting a car directly within the province.
- Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport): While not within the Massa and Carrara province, Pisa Airport is nearby and offers a wider selection of rental options. You can rent a car from one of the agencies located at the airport and then drive to Massa or Carrara.
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Neighbouring regions: Emilia Romagna, Liguria
