Pescia
Latest page update: 17 February 2025
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By Dion Protani
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The charming town of Pescia is located within the province of Pistoia and has a population of approximately 19,000.
Situated along the Pescia River, it boasts a historic center filled with medieval architecture and cultural landmarks like the Gipsoteca Libero Andreotti, which houses sculptures by the famous artist. Pescia is renowned for its tradition of flower cultivation, making it a hub for floriculture, particularly carnations. The town hosts an annual flower festival celebrating this heritage. |
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Pescia: home of the Gipsoteca Libero Andreotti
Pescia, in Tuscany, is renowned for its historic charm and natural beauty. Key sights include the Church of San Francesco, featuring stunning frescoes, and the 17th-century Palagio, now housing the town's art gallery.
The town is also famous for the Gipsoteca Libero Andreotti, showcasing works by the sculptor. Pescia's proximity to the Pinocchio Park in Collodi, dedicated to the famous literary character, makes it a great destination for families. Additionally, the town is near the beautiful Pescia River and the surrounding hills, offering opportunities for nature walks and exploring traditional Tuscan villages like Montecarlo and Uzzano.
The town is also famous for the Gipsoteca Libero Andreotti, showcasing works by the sculptor. Pescia's proximity to the Pinocchio Park in Collodi, dedicated to the famous literary character, makes it a great destination for families. Additionally, the town is near the beautiful Pescia River and the surrounding hills, offering opportunities for nature walks and exploring traditional Tuscan villages like Montecarlo and Uzzano.
What are the best things to do in Pescia and the local area?
- Historic Center Walks
Pescia’s medieval center offers visitors the chance to explore its narrow streets, historic squares, and ancient buildings. Key sights include the Church of San Francesco and the Palazzo del Vicario, which reflect the town’s rich history. - Pescia’s Paper Museum
Pescia is famous for its paper-making tradition. The Paper Museum (Museo della Carta) showcases the history of paper production, with exhibits that include old machinery, tools, and informative displays about the local paper industry. - Visit to the Pistoia Zoo
Located near Pescia, the Pistoia Zoo is a popular family attraction. The zoo features a wide variety of animals from around the world, as well as educational exhibits focused on wildlife conservation. - Botanical Gardens of Villa Garzoni
A short distance from Pescia, the Villa Garzoni is home to stunning Italian gardens. Visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, fountains, and sculptures that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. - Wine and Olive Oil Tours
The area around Pescia is known for its vineyards and olive groves. Visitors can join guided tours of local wineries, sampling Tuscan wines and learning about the wine-making process. Olive oil tasting tours are also popular, where guests can enjoy the fresh flavors of local oils. - Hiking and Nature Walks
Pescia is located in the scenic Valdinievole area, which offers a variety of hiking trails through lush forests, rolling hills, and vineyards. Popular routes lead to panoramic viewpoints and quiet, picturesque landscapes. - Cooking Classes
Visitors can experience the culinary traditions of Tuscany by taking part in cooking classes near Pescia. Local chefs teach participants to prepare regional dishes such as pasta, soups, and desserts, often using fresh, seasonal ingredients from the area. - Day Trip to Collodi
Pescia is close to the charming village of Collodi, famous for being the birthplace of the creator of Pinocchio. Visitors can explore the Parco di Pinocchio, a park dedicated to the beloved character, and the beautiful Villa Garzoni Gardens. - Explore the Montecatini Terme
Montecatini Terme, a famous spa town located near Pescia, offers relaxing thermal baths and wellness treatments. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful day at the thermal baths, surrounded by stunning historic architecture and lush parks. - Cycling Tours in the Tuscan Countryside
The rolling hills and scenic roads around Pescia are ideal for cycling. Guided cycling tours take participants through picturesque landscapes, passing vineyards, olive groves, and historic villages, offering an immersive experience of Tuscany’s beauty.
Comune di Pescia
Province: Pistoia
Region: Tuscany Population: 19,253 (in 2024 - source) Size: 79 km² Elevation: 62 metres Close by: Montecarlo, Montecatini Terme, Montecatini Alto, Lucca Recommended accommodation: SmArt Hotel Bartolini |
What are the best places to stay in Pescia and the local area?
- Hotel Montebello
Located in the heart of Pescia, this charming 3-star hotel offers comfortable rooms, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a central location with easy access to nearby attractions, including the famous Villa Garzoni and the Butterfly House. - Villa La Magia
This historic villa is located just outside Pescia and offers elegant rooms in a beautifully restored 16th-century building. The property is surrounded by lush gardens, and guests can enjoy the peaceful Tuscan countryside and explore the nearby cultural sites. - Agriturismo Il Bucine
A tranquil agriturismo set in the hills near Pescia, offering spacious rooms with traditional Tuscan décor. Guests can enjoy homemade meals, locally produced wine, and the serene beauty of the surrounding olive groves and vineyards. - Hotel Collecchio
A family-run hotel located just outside Pescia, offering modern rooms, a restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine, and a peaceful setting surrounded by nature. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxing stay with convenient access to both Pisa and Florence. - La Locanda del Gallo
Situated in the countryside near Pescia, this boutique hotel is set in a historic building surrounded by gardens and scenic views. It offers a cozy atmosphere with personalized service, a spa, and an ideal location for exploring the Tuscan hills and nearby attractions.
Whats the best way to reach Pescia?
Pescia is located in the northern part of Tuscany, easily accessible by car, rail, and air. The nearest major airport is Pisa International Airport, approximately 50 km away, offering both international and domestic flights. Florence Airport is another option, about 70 km from Pescia. From either airport, travelers can rent a car or take a private transfer, with the drive taking roughly 1 to 1.5 hours.
Pescia is well connected by rail, with its own train station located on the Florence-Lucca line. Direct trains run frequently from Florence and Lucca, with journey times of approximately 1 hour. For those traveling by bus, Pescia is served by local bus lines connecting it to nearby towns such as Montecatini Terme, Lucca, and Florence. Local buses are available, but for greater flexibility, renting a car is recommended for exploring the beautiful Tuscan countryside and nearby attractions at your own pace.
Pescia is well connected by rail, with its own train station located on the Florence-Lucca line. Direct trains run frequently from Florence and Lucca, with journey times of approximately 1 hour. For those traveling by bus, Pescia is served by local bus lines connecting it to nearby towns such as Montecatini Terme, Lucca, and Florence. Local buses are available, but for greater flexibility, renting a car is recommended for exploring the beautiful Tuscan countryside and nearby attractions at your own pace.
Where should I eat in Pescia?
- Ristorante Il Capitano
A cozy, family-run restaurant in the heart of Pescia, known for its traditional Tuscan dishes and warm atmosphere. The menu features local specialties such as pappardelle with wild boar, ribollita soup, and fresh seafood, paired with regional wines. - Osteria al Bivio
This rustic osteria offers authentic, home-cooked Tuscan meals with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy classic dishes like grilled meats, pasta, and seasonal vegetables in a friendly, welcoming environment. - Ristorante La Foresta
Located just outside Pescia, this restaurant offers an elegant dining experience with a menu inspired by traditional Italian and Tuscan cuisine. Highlights include homemade pasta, fresh fish, and regional wines, all served with a modern touch in a scenic location. - Trattoria Il Boscaiolo
A charming trattoria nestled in the countryside, offering simple yet flavorful Tuscan fare. The menu includes hearty dishes like wild boar stew, grilled meats, and fresh vegetables, all made with care and attention to detail. - Ristorante Il Ristoro di Vinci
Located near Pescia, this restaurant serves a variety of Tuscan dishes, focusing on local specialties like pappa al pomodoro, roasted meats, and delicious pasta. The warm atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among both locals and visitors.