For the 2026 Easter holidays, let yourself be inspired by Pistoia and the Pistoia Mountains, the ideal destinations for those seeking to immerse themselves in art, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. The local museums, with their rich collections, will take you on a fascinating journey through history, traditions, and masterpieces spanning the centuries.
From charming medieval villages to unspoiled nature and cultural landmarks, every corner offers an authentic experience—perfect for a day trip or a spring weekend dedicated to discovery.
Visit our Events and Experiences sections to stay updated on scheduled activities and plan your visit. Looking for inspiration? Click here to discover a curated two-day itinerary designed to explore the territory during its most beautiful season.
Pistoia Musei
For Easter, Easter Monday, and Tuesday, April 7th, all Pistoia Musei locations will be open with extended hours from 10 AM to 7 PM. This is the perfect opportunity to discover the Museum of the Ancient Bishop’s Palace (Antico Palazzo dei Vescovi), the Museum of San Salvatore, and the 20th-Century Collections at Palazzo de’ Rossi.
Visitors can also explore Palazzo Buontalenti, which currently hosts the exhibition Io sono un architetto. Ettore Sottsass. Dedicated to Ettore Sottsass (1917–2007), a leading figure in 20th-century Italian design and architecture, the exhibition retraces his journey through painting, graphic art, and photography, offering a critical and sensitive look at the profound changes in contemporary society.
Pistoia Civic Museums
On Sunday, April 5th (Easter) and Monday, April 6th (Easter Monday), the Pistoia Civic Museums will be open with extended hours from 10 AM to 6 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity to visit the Civic Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of the Spedale del Ceppo, and the Museum of 20th-Century and Contemporary Art.
On Easter Sunday (April 5th), which coincides with the first Sunday of the month, all civic museums will participate in the Ministry of Culture’s #domenicaalmuseo initiative, offering free admission to all visitors.
Additionally, until Monday, April 6th, you can explore the temporary exhibition Marino Marini: The Painting, located on the second floor of the Museum of 20th-Century and Contemporary Art at Palazzo Fabroni
Pistoia Sotterranea
Pistoia Sotterranea (Underground Pistoia) will be open as usual on Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, with guided tours scheduled at 10:15 AM, 11:30 AM, 3:00 PM, and 4:30 PM. Booking is highly recommended.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the longest underground path in Tuscany, discovering the fascinating history of the ancient Ospedale del Ceppo and the events that led to the diversion and burying of the Brana River.
Direzione regionale Musei nazionali Toscana
The Fortezza Santa Barbara, a significant example of 16th-century military architecture, will be open to visitors on Sunday, April 5th, from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM.
The Ex-Church of Tau and the Oratory of San Desiderio are also available for visits by appointment only. Advanced booking is mandatory and must be arranged at least 3 days in advance by calling +39 0573 24212 or +39 0573 32204 (available from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM).
Admission is free for all locations.
Abetone Ski Museum
On Sunday, April 5th (Easter) and Monday, April 6th (Easter Monday), the Abetone Ski Museum will be open to visitors—an ideal stop to add to your holiday day trip.
Opened in July 2019, this municipal museum tells the story of one of the world’s most beloved winter sports, showcasing the rich heritage of the local skiing tradition.
Ferrucci Museum in Gavinana
Recently inaugurated, the Museo Ferrucciano in Gavinana, nestled in the Pistoia Mountains, pays tribute to Francesco Ferrucci. This brave commander of the Florentine Republic fought on these very grounds on August 3, 1530, against the Imperial troops of Charles V, who were then allied with the Medici in the war against Florence.
The collection, now reorganized and enhanced, includes artifacts and reconstructions ranging from period materials and 19th-century vestments to paintings, prints, and scale models that recreate the historic Battle of Gavinana.
For the Easter period, the museum will be open on Friday, April 3, from 9 AM to 1 PM, and on Saturday, April 4, from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Please note that the museum will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 5. However, there will be a special opening on Easter Monday, April 6, from 3 PM to 6 PM, offering a unique opportunity to discover this local heritage.
Church Opening Hours
The Cathedral of San Zeno and the Baptistery will both be open on Easter Sunday and Easter Monday. The Baptistery will welcome visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM. The Cathedral will follow its usual schedule, with one exception on Easter Sunday, when it will open at 4:00 PM instead of 3:30 PM.
The Church of Sant’Andrea will remain open during its regular hours, from 10 AM to 5 PM, on both Easter Sunday (April 5) and Easter Monday (April 6).
Additionally, the Church of San Jacopo in Castellare will be open on Easter and Easter Monday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Admission is free.
