Pistoia
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About Pistoia
At the foot of the snow-capped Apennines in a sea of terracotta roofs, Renaissance palaces and Romanesque churches, stands Pistoia, the "little Florence" of Tuscany. Yet at only 30 minutes away from regular-sized Florence, it’s remarkable Pistoia is as free of tourist throngs as it is! While Pistoia has the beautifully preserved centro storico of Florence it definitely doesn’t have the same range of accommodation, though it does have a large number of converted palazzos and villas, many of which are the best places to stay in Pistoia. Some of these conversions have resulted in elegant guesthouses and B&Bs, while some are small, or boutique hotels. There are also some great properties in the hills behind the town.
Pistoia’s location offers more than just proximity to Florence, it’s in the ‘Tuscan Chocolate Valley’, a hub for artisan chocolate makers, as well as other local producers, so it's a good destination for foodies, and chocolate lovers in particular. Pistoia’s weekly markets are on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, and fill the central Piazza del Duomo with colour, scent and plenty of opportunities to experience flavour too.
Pistoia is also a wonderful destination for those with an interest in art, history and architecture, and again, it’s not just about proximity to Florence, it has its own incredible, 67 metre bell tower, plus a collection of palaces, churches and even a cathedral. Whatever the reason for this town's under-the-tourist-radar status, it’s really worth visiting before that changes and the best places to stay in Pistoia become booked up year round.
The Best Places to stay in Pistoia
For a Rural Retreat
- The Villa Parri is a carefully converted historic villa, set in the Tuscan hills above Pistoia, surrounded by glorious landscaped gardens demonstrating the bounty of Tuscany’s flora. The villa now has 13 guest rooms and apartments, all unique, and decorated with classical style, featuring marble, rich fabrics and antiques, so that the atmosphere is sophisticated — while still being family friendly. The pool is a on a sunny terrace and offers wonderful views. Sophisticated but affordable.
For a Private apartment or villa
- If you think a self-catering option would best suit your needs then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.
Travel Information
- Pistoia’s closest international airport is Florence Airport, which is only about half an hour away by road, or 40 mintues on the train. Pisa Airport will be a useful connection for some too, it’s about three quarters of an hour away by road, or two hours on the train. Bologna Airport is next closest, also two hours away by train, or an hour in the car.
- If you plan to hire a car, which we would advise if you want to get out and explore further afield, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
- Staying this close to Florence means there will always be something going on, and there are always visitors about. The weather is at its nicest in the summer months, with the average daily temperature climbing to 27°C in July and August. And there’s a large Blues Festival in July too. This is peak tourist season, and so if you want to avoid the crowds (and pay less for accommodation) then maybe September's a better bet. Temperatures peak at around 20°C, perfect for sightseeing. Easter and Christmas are always special times to visit Italy, and this region is still very rewarding in winter.
Still not sure where to stay?
- You could expand your search to include the best places to stay in Tuscany
- Include other local towns, like Lucca, Pisa, or even head into more central Florence
- You may also want to search by the type of accommodation you fancy, opting for the best family hotels in Tuscany, the best wine hotels in Tuscany, or the best B&Bs in Tuscany
- Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
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Best Hotels in Pistoia
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B&B Pistoia Inn Pistoia (Tuscany) 4 rooms from AU$147
Charming - Spacious rooms come with contemporary design and all the mod cons, alongside period tiled floors and other original featuresLocal exploring - An ideal place to stay in the heart of this historic town, with sights within walking distanceFamilies - It's a good value b&b for families, with a triple room for kidsSights nearby - You're right in the historic centre of townClose to the historic centre of Pistoia, this charming B&B offers quality accommodation and a warm welcome in a converted 18th century townhouse. Four spacious rooms feature contemporary design alongside period features, plus there's a communal terrace. The ideal spot to relax and explore the city. See More
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Casa Rowe Pistoia (Tuscany) 4 rooms from AU$147
Value chic - A beautifully renovated property with four chic rooms offering lots of space and light at incredibly reasonable ratesLocal exploring - Located right in the centre of historic Pistoia, and Florence is only an hour away by train or carSights nearby - Most of the major sights of Pistoia are within walking distance. Florence is a short train awayLocal markets - There is a great market in Pistoia on Wednesday and Saturday, taking up the whole townEarly 1900s mansion converted into an elegant four-room B&B in the heart of Pistoia. Sound-proofed windows ensure a restful stay, with all you need within walking distance. Bedrooms are large and bright, with high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. An excellent, good value choice. See More
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Villa Parri Pistoia PT 13 rooms from AU$161
Romantic Break - With its polished antiques, sumptuous furnishings and pretty whimsical gardens it is ideal for a romantic getawayLocal exploring - A glorious base from which to explore Lucca, Florence and Montecatini, while Pistoia itself is a gemSights nearby - Don't miss Pistoia's beautiful medieval square and hidden gems like the medieval town of Vinci, Cutigliano or Montecatini TermeGreat walks - Pistoia Apennine Mountains offer several hiking trails, great for walking or for mountain bikesRecommended by - SawdaysAn historic home set in the Tuscan hills above Pistoia, surrounded by landscaped gardens containing a riot of flora typical of the region, a welcoming pool and a sauna. Rooms and apartments are furnished in typical stately style with antiques, rich fabrics and marble. A sophisticated treat! See More
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Dimora Storica Palazzo Puccini Pistoia (Tuscany) 8 rooms from AU$179
Local exploring - It's located right in the historic heart of Pistoia, so ideally placed for all the highlightsHistoric - Once the home of philanthropist and writer Niccolo PucciniShort break - A great place for a good value short breakSights nearby - In the heart of historic Pistoia, just minutes from the DuomoThis historic and intimate converted palazzo in Pistoia blends Renaissance grandeur with modern amenities. It offers eight beautifully restored period bedrooms in an intimate setting with original frescoes and a quiet library for relaxing. The perfect retreat for discerning travellers. See More
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Villa Giorgia Pistoia Pistoia (Tuscany) 18 rooms from AU$210
Views - Sweeping views of the Tuscan hills, just above PistoiaGarden - Two hectare park with lovely viewsRestaurant - Offers typical Tuscan specialties with panoramic views and al fresco dining when the weather allowsGreat walks - There's good walking in the surrounding countrysideA modern villa hotel on a hilltop above Pistoia, overlooking the Tuscan hills. Designer rooms have parquet floors and many have panoramic views. With acres of parkland, a swimming pool and an excellent restaurant, this is a relaxing stay in beautiful surroundings. See More
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Rivo della Corte Pistoia (Tuscany) 4 rooms from AU$251
Local exploring - Bring a car and explore the villages and towns of northern TuscanyCountry Escape - Set in beautiful Tuscan countryside north of FlorenceSights nearby - Florence, Pisa and Lucca are all about an hour's drive away, whilst historic Pistoia is on the doorstepGreat walks - There are lots of lovely walking and hiking trails from the doorstepCharming historic farmhouse turned agriturismo in a fabulous location — amid woods and olive groves, just outside Pistoia. Three bright rooms and an apartment come in classic Tuscan style with Impruneta terracotta floors and wood-beam ceilings, plus a relaxing pool. A hidden gem. See More
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Palazzo 42 Pistoia (Tuscany) 23 rooms from AU$326
City Style - This period property has been totally renovated and now offers beautifully designed, chic, modern accommodationLocal exploring - The hotel is well placed in the centre of the town, so many of the sights are within walking distanceFamilies - The spacious family suites can easily accommodate a family of four or there's an apartmentSights nearby - The property is surrounded by attractions including the Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della SalaBoutique B&B hotel in a townhouse palace in the historic centre of town. Romantic bedrooms have been elegantly and individually designed with bold wallpaper and primary colours. Great location and welcoming staff make for a good value stay in an overlooked but historic Tuscan town. See More