Explore Montelupo

Exit the train station and you will already be less than 200 meters away from our Museum of Ceramics, where you will also find lots of parking spots if you are driving. Enjoy a flavorful coffee or an “aperitivoo” at the café and treat yourself to a journey through unique artworks and a piece of Tuscan history from the Medici era. Visiting the museum will take about 1 hour.

A little tip: remember to ask for a tour of the museum’s Furnace, an immersive experience that is included in your ticket! It will take about 20 minutes.

If what you’ve seen has piqued your interest, we have the perfect itinerary for you: after visiting the Museum, discover the Vittoriano Bitossi Archive, a hidden gem that merges the history of design with the lives of those who created unique ceramic pieces that are still trendy today. The visit will last about 45 minutes.

Do not forget: as soon as you arrive at the Ceramics Museum, ask at the frontdesk to schedule a visit to the Bitossi Museum Archive for you. The latter is located in an operational factory: at certain times, you will have the chance to see master artisans of the art of wheel turning at work.

Are you more into outdoor activities? Enjoy a nice stroll in the historic center then: discover Montelupo’s site-specific artworks, stop by one of our shops and enjoy a peaceful walk to the famous Villa Medici in the beautiful Ambrogiana park. Breathe, enjoy the quiet atmoshpere, and take some photos with the river Arno and the Frescobaldi tower in the background.

Do you love biking? You can enjoy the many local cycling itineraries; ask Circolo Il Progresso if they have a bicycle available for rental.

If you prefer walking, you can stroll through the city center with little to no effort. Ask the Museum staff or at our Info point for a map of the city and discover all the monuments and site-specific artworks.

At the end of a slightly uphill path, a breathtaking view awaits you at the Priory of San Lorenzo, a remarkable viewpoint at the top of the hill that overlooks Montelupo. In town, you will find several places where you can have lunch: you can have a light lunch at the MMAB, where you can recharge and get ready for a museum visit and a final art workshop (but remember to book your spot in advance).

After lunch, if you’re looking for an alternative option to the Museum, you can visit the picturesque Parco dell’Abrogiana, a natural “selfie station” with scenic views. If you have time, you can extend your walk behind the Villa Medici, where you’ll find the wonderful Archaeological Museum waiting for you.

A little tip: if you are in the mood for a picnic, just call the managers of the Archaeological Museum in advance and ask them about the museum’s garden!

If you stay for two days, you’ll have enough time to book some special and unique experiences, like visiting the workshop of one of our artisans and master turners or the ancient tower that houses the only museum dedicated to the traditional flask in Italy.

A little tip: if you need help making a reservation, ask at the MMAB frontdesk or at our Info Point.

Among the countless possibilities, you could try a short course in ceramic decoration or wheel throwing at our School of Ceramics.

Spoiler alert: your creations can be fired at the School and then safely shipped wherever you want!

Lose yourself in the history of ceramic art and craftsmanship at the Ceramic Museum. Visit the Bitossi Museum Archive to understand the importance of this craft for our community and enjoy local flavors while searching for the contemporary installations scattered throughout the town’s streets.

A little tip: try Pan Bistugio, you’ll only find it here in Montelupo!

If outdoor activities are your passion, the Camaioni loop and the local CAI itineraries are perfect for you: just go on a relaxing walk and dive into the beauty of nature.