Funicolare di Montecatini
Ride historic carriages from Montecatini Terme to a charming medieval village with breathtaking Tuscan views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Funicolare di Montecatini
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride historic carriages from Montecatini Terme to a charming medieval village with breathtaking Tuscan views.
"Like a fairytale. Old coupe goes up and down every half an hour. On the hill there is a great view."
🎟️ Book Round-Trip Tickets
Save money and time by purchasing a round-trip ticket for the funicular. It's around €7.50 and well worth it!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Montecatini Alto is a medieval village with cobblestone streets, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Funicular Ride
Montecatini Terme to Montecatini Alto
Ride the charming, historic 'Gigio' and 'Gigia' carriages, operational since 1898, for a scenic journey.
Medieval Montecatini Alto
Top of the Funicular line
Explore a picturesque medieval village with narrow streets, artisan shops, and stunning Tuscan vistas.
Panoramic Tuscan Views
Montecatini Alto
Soak in breathtaking views of the surrounding Tuscan landscape and Montecatini Terme below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Tickets & Village Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Round-Trip Tickets
Save money and time by purchasing a round-trip ticket for the funicular. It's around €7.50 and well worth it!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Montecatini Alto is a medieval village with cobblestone streets, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from Montecatini Alto are spectacular, especially during golden hour. Don't forget your camera!
🕰️ Check Operating Hours
The funicular is seasonal, typically open from late March to late October. Always check the latest schedule before your visit. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Round-Trip Tickets
Save money and time by purchasing a round-trip ticket for the funicular. It's around €7.50 and well worth it!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Montecatini Alto is a medieval village with cobblestone streets, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from Montecatini Alto are spectacular, especially during golden hour. Don't forget your camera!
🕰️ Check Operating Hours
The funicular is seasonal, typically open from late March to late October. Always check the latest schedule before your visit.
☕ Enjoy a Village Aperitivo
After exploring, relax with a drink or gelato in Montecatini Alto's charming central square.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Funicolare di Montecatini, calling the ride charming and the destination, Montecatini Alto, like stepping into a fairytale. The historic carriages and the stunning panoramic views are consistently highlighted as major attractions, offering a romantic and memorable experience.
"Riding the funicolare to the top of the mountain is totally worth it!! While you are up there- explore the small medieval village! The view is fabulous! 👍❤️"
lonianne1
"Like a fairytale. Old coupe goes up and down every half an hour. On the hill there is a great view on Montecatini and a big number of caffes and restaurants. Very romantic and prestige."
Данијела Мандић
"The journey is gentle and slow enough to be able to enjoy the view. Staff were friendly and a return ticket is €7. We enjoyed our visit to Montecatini Alto, there are several small shops and a central square with restaurants, a bar, and Gelato shop. lots of outdoor seating and shade in a medieval village."
Anna Bradshaw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Funicolare di Montecatini is located in Montecatini Terme, easily accessible by public transport or car. It's situated near the central station, making it convenient for travelers arriving by train.
Yes, there are parking options available in Montecatini Terme, though they can be busy. Consider public transport if possible to avoid parking hassles.
While it's possible to drive or walk up to Montecatini Alto, the funicular offers a unique and scenic experience that is highly recommended by visitors.
The easiest way to reach Montecatini Terme from Florence is by train, with frequent services available. The journey takes approximately one hour.
Montecatini Terme is a well-connected town in Tuscany, offering a good base for day trips to nearby cities like Lucca and Florence, with the funicular providing a local highlight.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A round-trip ticket for the Funicolare di Montecatini typically costs around €7.50 per person. Discounts are available for children.
Yes, there are discounted fares for children aged 6-10 for both one-way and round-trip tickets.
The funicular usually operates seasonally, from late March to late October. It's best to check the official operating dates and hours before your visit.
The historic carriages, 'Gigio' and 'Gigia', run approximately every 30 minutes throughout the day during operating season.
While it's possible to purchase tickets at the station, buying them upon arrival is common. Information on advance online booking is limited, but the frequency of service usually means minimal wait times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Montecatini Alto is a charming medieval village with narrow streets, artisan shops, cafes, restaurants, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
Yes, families often enjoy the funicular ride and exploring the quaint village. It offers a unique experience for children.
The views from Montecatini Alto are described as fabulous and breathtaking, offering a sweeping panorama of Montecatini Terme and the Tuscan hills.
Absolutely! Montecatini Alto has several cafes and restaurants, particularly around the central square, perfect for enjoying a meal or a gelato.
Most visitors spend 1-3 hours exploring the village and enjoying the views after their funicular ride. This allows time for a leisurely stroll and a refreshment.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for vantage points offering panoramic views of the valley, charming medieval alleyways, and the historic funicular carriages themselves. The main piazza is also picturesque.
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers beautiful light for capturing the Tuscan landscape and the village. Early mornings can also be less crowded and offer soft light.
Yes, you can take photos inside the historic carriages, capturing the vintage wooden benches and the journey itself.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other visitors and private property.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a standard zoom lens is versatile for village details. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The ride itself is short and engaging, providing a fun way to reach Montecatini Alto. Once in the medieval village, kids can enjoy exploring the narrow streets, imagining themselves in a bygone era. There are also opportunities for them to enjoy a gelato or a treat in the main square, making it a well-rounded outing. Remember to check for child ticket prices, which are usually discounted.❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The journey up offers dynamic shots of the landscape unfolding. Montecatini Alto provides a wealth of photographic opportunities, from its medieval architecture and narrow alleyways to the sweeping Tuscan vistas. Aim for the golden hour in the late afternoon for the most dramatic light, or early morning for softer tones and fewer crowds.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Funicular: Gigio & Gigia
The two iconic carriages, affectionately named 'Gigio' and 'Gigia', are among the oldest functioning funicular cars in the world.+1 They have been meticulously maintained and updated over the decades, retaining their original charm with wooden benches and a gentle, slow ascent that allows passengers to fully appreciate the journey.This historic funicular was a symbol of the Belle Époque era, catering to the elite who frequented the thermal baths of Montecatini Terme. Riding Gigio or Gigia is like stepping back in time, offering a unique perspective on the region's past. The journey itself is an experience, providing increasingly stunning views of the Tuscan landscape as you climb. It’s a romantic and nostalgic way to reach the charming village above, making it a must-do for many visitors.
+2Visitors consistently praise the funicular ride for its charm and the opportunity it provides to enjoy the scenery. The slow pace allows for soaking in the atmosphere and capturing memorable photos. It’s a gentle introduction to the beauty of Montecatini Alto and a delightful experience for all ages.
Exploring Montecatini Alto: A Medieval Gem
Wandering through its narrow, cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a fairytale, with charming stone houses, small artisan shops, and picturesque squares.The heart of Montecatini Alto is its central piazza, which is lined with cafes and restaurants. This is the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a coffee or a gelato, and soak in the atmosphere. Visitors often recommend taking a leisurely stroll, discovering hidden corners, and browsing the local craft shops for unique souvenirs. The village offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into a slower pace of life, making it a highlight for many who visit the area.
The panoramic views from Montecatini Alto are another major draw. From various vantage points, you can gaze out over the rolling Tuscan hills and the town of Montecatini Terme spread out below. These vistas are particularly stunning during the golden hour of late afternoon, offering photographers and sightseers alike a memorable spectacle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit