Montecatini Terme is world-famous for the natural thermal hotsprings, gorgeous gardens and and health spas located in the town. The town is divided into lower and upper regions connected by a funicular railway that was built in 1897. The upper part of the town is known as Montecatini Alto, a fortified medieval town commanding spectacular views of the Tuscan countryside which is dotted with many villages and towns, and divided by well-tended farms, vineyards and olive orchards. On our sister site, VisitsItaly, you can see read the full history of the town which is very interesting.
For visitors who wish to explore Tuscany, Montecatini can make for a very strategic position and is often less-expensive than staying in Florence or Lucca, while still offering easy access to numerous sites of interest which are in very close proximity including: Lucca, Pisa, Volterra, Forte Dei Marmi, Viareggio and the Cinque Terre national park.
The benefits of staying here include access to the thermal parks, a variety of incredible spa treatments and access to a variety of excellent dining options.