Discover Pistoia

Pistoia offers several distinct ways to explore art, history and outdoor activities. When looking for a hotel in Pistoia, it can help to first decide what you want to focus on during your trip: are you especially interested in Gothic architecture and painting, archaeological themes, or parks, the zoo and cycling? The places and activities below differ not only in subject, but also in how you can experience Pistoia.

Gothic art, frescoes and local art

The Baptistery of San Giovanni in corte is considered one of the finest examples of Tuscan Gothic architecture. The frescoes in the church of San Jacopo in Castellare offer another way to explore art history: they provide a view of the development of local painting between the 13th and 14th centuries. While Gothic architecture takes centre stage at the baptistery, the frescoes offer a clearly defined glimpse into the history of painting.

At the Museo dello Spedale del Ceppo, a dedicated section focuses on the polychrome glazed Robbiano terracotta frieze above the exterior loggia. The Museo del Novecento e del Contemporaneo di Palazzo Fabroni displays the city of Pistoia’s permanent collection of modern and contemporary art. The exhibition traces the development of art from the 1920s to the present day. The permanent exhibition at Palazzo de’ Rossi has a different focus: it is dedicated to artists who have worked in Pistoia since the beginning of the 20th century. These different approaches sit side by side: a chronological overview in the city collection and a focus on artists with ties to Pistoia.

Museums and archaeological experiences

At the Museo dell’Antico Palazzo dei Vescovi, an underground archaeological trail reconstructs the history of the site, from the first Roman settlement and its establishment in the Middle Ages to later changes. The interactive Museo di San Salvatore focuses on the history of the oldest part of the city centre. It opened in 2022 after a long and complex restoration of the old church of San Salvatore. The two museums therefore have different focuses: one traces the historical phases of a site, while the other explores the history of the oldest part of the city centre.

Pistoia Sotterranea is a guided archaeological tour beneath Pistoia. It explores the relationship between the ancient city and water, offering a different format from museum tours. If you are interested in history, you can therefore choose between a tour beneath the city and archaeological trails that bring the development of a site or city centre to life.

Nature, activity and tastings

At San Jacopo Orchard Park, you can walk, relax, eat fruit and pick it straight from the trees. The Pistoia Zoological Garden has a different focus: it covers seven hectares and is home to more than 400 animals. Animal numbers can change over time. The “Cycling through the Pistoia Hills” bike tour starts at Piazza del Duomo in Pistoia and passes through villages and olive groves. It is described as an easy ride suitable for everyone. Check route conditions before setting off.

Tastings are also among the experiences on offer. “Pistoia, live it and taste it” includes samples of “confetti pistoiesi”, “brigidini” from the tradition of the Province of Pistoia, and the distinctive bread “la jacopina”. This bread is named after the patron saint San Jacopo. If you would like to include the tasting in your plans, confirm current availability before booking.

Discover more destinations: Piastre, Santomato, Sarripoli, Pontelungo, Arcigliano, Ponte Nuovo, Bottegone, Sammommè, Piteccio, Cireglio.

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