Massa
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Latest page update: 10 December 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The historic Massa is a city in northern Tuscany with a population of around 70,000 people. It is located in the province of Massa-Carrara, renowned for its marble quarries that have supplied materials for iconic sculptures like Michelangelo's David.
Massa itself is known for its historic center, featuring landmarks such as the Renaissance-era Malaspina Castle and the Cathedral of San Pietro. The city also offers access to the stunning Apuan Alps, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and exploring picturesque mountain villages. |
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Massa: built in marble
Massa, a coastal town in northern Tuscany, boasts a rich history and stunning landscapes. Its centerpiece is the Malaspina Castle, a medieval fortress perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Francis is a notable architectural gem, showcasing intricate marble façades and religious artifacts.
Nearby, the Apuan Alps offer outdoor enthusiasts hiking and mountain biking opportunities amidst breathtaking scenery. The nearby coastal towns of Marina di Massa and Marina di Carrara provide beautiful beaches and seaside charm. Massa's blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination in Tuscany.
Nearby, the Apuan Alps offer outdoor enthusiasts hiking and mountain biking opportunities amidst breathtaking scenery. The nearby coastal towns of Marina di Massa and Marina di Carrara provide beautiful beaches and seaside charm. Massa's blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination in Tuscany.
Comune di Massa
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Province: capital of Massa and Carrara
Region: Tuscany Population: 66,288 (in 2024 - source) Size: 94 km² Elevation: 65 metres Highlights: Piazza Aranci, Palazzo Ducale, Cathedral, Castle Close by: Carrara, Forte dei Marmi, Lido di Camaiore, Viareggio Recommended accommodation: Hotel Il Buongustaio |
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Public transport: train station 2 km from centre, local buses
By train: Forte dei Marmi - 6 minutes, Pietrasanta - 10 minutes |
By car: Pisa - 43 mins (50 km), Lucca - 44 mins (50 km)
Fly to: Pisa Airport - 36 minutes by car (55 km) |
What are the most popular tours and activities in Massa?
- Malaspina Castle: Explore the imposing Malaspina Castle, a historic fortress dating back to the 15th century. Guided tours offer insights into the castle's history, architecture, and strategic importance, as well as panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside from its towers.
- Historic Centre: Wander through the charming historic center of Massa, characterized by its medieval streets, Renaissance palaces, and picturesque squares. Visitors can admire architectural landmarks such as the Palazzo Ducale, the Cathedral of San Pietro, and the Church of San Giovanni Battista.
- Marble Quarries: Take a guided tour of the famous Carrara marble quarries, located just outside Massa. Visitors can learn about the extraction process of this prized marble, visit working quarries, and admire spectacular views of the Apuan Alps.
- Beach Resort: Relax and unwind at the nearby coastal resort of Marina di Massa, known for its sandy beaches, clear waters, and seaside promenade. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, water sports, and beachside dining while soaking in the Mediterranean sun.
- Villa Massoni: Visit Villa Massoni, a historic villa surrounded by lush gardens and parkland, located on the outskirts of Massa. Guided tours provide access to the villa's elegant interiors, art collections, and landscaped grounds, offering a glimpse into the aristocratic lifestyle of times past.
- Cultural Events: Attend cultural events and festivals held in Massa throughout the year, showcasing local traditions, music, and arts. Visitors can experience traditional processions, food fairs, and concerts, immersing themselves in the vibrant cultural scene of the city.
Where should I eat in Massa?
- Ristorante La Tavernetta: Located in the historic center of Massa, Ristorante La Tavernetta is a charming trattoria known for its authentic Tuscan dishes and warm hospitality. The menu features a variety of homemade pastas, grilled meats, and seafood dishes, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Osteria del Vecchio Frantoio: Situated in a restored olive mill just outside Massa's city center, Osteria del Vecchio Frantoio offers a unique dining experience in a picturesque setting. The restaurant specializes in traditional Tuscan cuisine, with a focus on olive oil-based dishes and seasonal ingredients. Guests can dine al fresco on the terrace overlooking the surrounding countryside.
- Ristorante Da Tano: A local favorite, Ristorante Da Tano is known for its delicious seafood dishes and elegant atmosphere. Located near Massa's marina, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the sea and a menu that features fresh fish, shellfish, and homemade pastas, all prepared with care by the skilled chefs.
- Trattoria da Giuliano: Tucked away in a quiet corner of Massa's historic center, Trattoria da Giuliano is a cozy family-run restaurant known for its hearty Tuscan fare and friendly service. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and bistecca alla fiorentina, all served in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
- Ristorante Il Piattofondo: Situated in the nearby town of Marina di Massa, Ristorante Il Piattofondo offers a casual beachfront 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 laid-back atmosphere perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal by the beach.
What should I eat in Massa?
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A classic Tuscan dish, bistecca alla Fiorentina is a thick-cut T-bone steak, usually sourced from locally raised Chianina cattle, seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil, then grilled over a wood fire to perfection.
- Pappa al Pomodoro: A traditional Tuscan bread soup made with stale bread, ripe 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, creating a hearty and flavorful dish.
- Risotto ai Frutti di Mare: A flavorful seafood risotto made with Arborio rice slowly cooked in a broth infused with shellfish, squid, shrimp, and other seafood delicacies. It's often finished with a splash of white wine and garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- Tortelli di Zucca: A delicious pasta dish consisting of large squares of fresh pasta dough filled with a creamy mixture of roasted pumpkin, Parmesan cheese, and spices such as nutmeg or cinnamon. The tortelli are usually served with a simple butter and sage sauce, highlighting the flavors of the filling.
- Cacciucco alla Livornese: A traditional seafood stew originating from Livorno but enjoyed throughout Tuscany, including in Massa. It features a variety of fish and shellfish cooked in a tomato-based broth with garlic, onions, olive oil, and red pepper flakes, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.
What are the best places to stay in Massa?
- Hotel Hermitage: Located in the coastal town of Marina di Massa, Hotel Hermitage offers luxurious accommodations with panoramic views of the sea. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a private beach area, outdoor swimming pools, and gourmet dining options.
- Hotel Villa Maremonti: Situated in the heart of Marina di Massa, Hotel Villa Maremonti is a charming boutique hotel housed in a historic villa. It offers stylish rooms, a garden terrace, and easy access to the beach and town center.
- Hotel Cavalieri del Mare: This family-run hotel is located in the seaside resort of Ronchi, just a short drive from Massa. Hotel Cavalieri del Mare offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.
- Agriturismo Fattoria di Nonno Tobia: For a rustic retreat in the Tuscan countryside, consider staying at Agriturismo Fattoria di Nonno Tobia. This farmhouse offers cozy rooms and apartments surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, with amenities such as a swimming pool and restaurant serving farm-to-table meals.
- Hotel Michelangelo: Situated in the center of Massa, Hotel Michelangelo offers modern accommodations and convenient access to the town's attractions, including the Ducal Palace and Cathedral of San Pietro Apostolo. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a complimentary breakfast buffet.
What's the closest airport to Massa?
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport) (PSA):
Florence Airport (Peretola) (FLR):
- Located in Pisa, approximately 50 kilometers south of Massa.
- Pisa Airport is a major airport in Tuscany, serving domestic and international flights.
- From Pisa Airport, you can reach Massa by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Massa takes around 45 minutes to 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 Massa Centro Train Station. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach your final destination in Massa.
Florence Airport (Peretola) (FLR):
- Located in Florence, approximately 120 kilometers east of Massa.
- Florence Airport serves domestic and international flights.
- From Florence Airport, you can reach Massa by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Massa 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 Massa Centro Train Station. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach your final destination in Massa.
What's the closest train station to Massa?
Massa Centro Train Station:
- Located in the town center of Massa.
- Massa Centro Train Station serves regional and local train services.
- From Massa Centro Train Station, you can take local buses or taxis to reach various destinations within Massa and its surroundings.
What private transfer options are there for Massa?
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 to visit Massa?
- Nearby Cities: Since Massa 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 Massa, some rental agencies may offer shuttle services to pick up your rental car from the airport.
