routes / Out of town

Pistoia and its hills

From Piazza del Duomo in search of panoramic views

Pistoia

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routes

Out of town

Pistoia

length

24 km

Difference in altitude

460 m

Means of transport

MTB, e-bike

A scenic medium-difficulty route for e-bikes through the northern hills of Pistoia, following the ancient Via Baiana, among villages and forests.

A route suitable for everyone, mostly paved but with fun off-road sections, perfect for a half-day e-bike ride. It starts from Piazza del Duomo in Pistoia and leads to the northern hills, offering history, nature, and breathtaking views.

Leaving the historic centre behind, we climb through olive groves and landmark villas like Villa Sbertoli, reaching the village of Germinaia. After a panoramic stop, the route continues with gentle ups and downs through forests and hillside villages, passing through Iano and Villa di Baggio. Here, we take an off-road section that leads us along the Bure stream, once lined with water mills.

The final stretch offers a scenic passage over the hill of Sant’Alessio before completing our loop and returning to Piazza del Duomo.

Itinerary by Tuscany Hiking

Stages Itinerary

Pistoia

stage 1

Pistoia

Pistoia, a city of art, boasts treasures within its medieval walls. Piazza del Duomo houses the Cathedral of San Jacopo, Palazzo degli Anziani, and Palazzo del Podestà. Piazza della Sala, a historic and vibrant hub, features the Pozzo del Leoncino, a food market, and trattorias. Romanesque gems include San Giovanni Fuorcivitas and Sant’Andrea, while Renaissance highlights are the Basilica della Madonna dell’Umiltà and Spedale del Ceppo. Museums span ancient to modern art, including Pistoia Sotterranea and the Marino Marini Museum. Beyond the walls, explore the Medici Fortress, Villa Puccini, and the Zoological Garden.

Pistoia hills

Pistoia

stage 2

Pistoia hills

The Pistoia hills offer a charming landscape of medieval villages, chestnut forests, and centuries-old olive groves. Crossed by ancient paths like the Via Baiana, they preserve historic villas, water mills, and breathtaking valley views. Ideal for trekking and cycling, these lands tell the story of Pistoia through nature, culture, and enduring traditions.