Grosseto
|
Latest page update: 24 May 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The city of Grosseto is the capital city of the Province of Grosseto with a population of 82,353 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 10 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 474 km² and lies 140 kilometres south west of Florence, the regional capital of Tuscany. The southernmost of Tuscany's 10 provincial capitals, Grosseto is situated around 10 kilometres inland of the Tyrrhenian Coast, and is one of the principal towns of the Maremma. |
|
The first thing you notice when you enter Grosseto is the towering complex of defensive walls that surrounds the city. Construction of the walls started in the latter part of the 16th century; commissioned by the Medici family, they are now known as the Medicean Walls. The walls remain an integral part of life in modern Grosseto; you can enjoy a pleasant stroll around them, which also helps to gain an understanding of the city's layout.
Inside the city walls the centre is neat and compact. The main square is Piazza Dante and this is where you'll find the main religious building in the city: Grosseto Cathedral. The Cathedral was started in the 13th century but has undergone extensive renovation, modification and refurbishment in the intervening years.
Once a week, on Thursdays, Grosseto comes to life with market day. The market takes place both inside and outside the city walls and is one of the most important in the local area. For the rest of the week it's business as usual; there are plenty of shops and places to eat and drink around but this is certainly one of the quietest of the major cities in Tuscany.
Inside the city walls the centre is neat and compact. The main square is Piazza Dante and this is where you'll find the main religious building in the city: Grosseto Cathedral. The Cathedral was started in the 13th century but has undergone extensive renovation, modification and refurbishment in the intervening years.
Once a week, on Thursdays, Grosseto comes to life with market day. The market takes place both inside and outside the city walls and is one of the most important in the local area. For the rest of the week it's business as usual; there are plenty of shops and places to eat and drink around but this is certainly one of the quietest of the major cities in Tuscany.
Related links
Discover
Discover Grosseto
Grosseto is the capital of the province of the same name, located in the southern part of Tuscany, near the Tyrrhenian Sea. Situated on the flat plain of the Maremma region, it is surrounded by lush landscapes, with the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside to the east and the coastal areas to the west. The town has a rich history that dates back to Roman times, and it is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the impressive city walls, gates, and the historic centre. Grosseto serves as a vibrant hub for the region, combining cultural attractions with the beauty of its natural surroundings.
The town is home to several interesting landmarks, including the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, which boasts an elegant façade and beautiful artwork inside. The Museo Archeologico and Museo di Storia Naturale provide insight into the area's history, from its ancient Etruscan past to its natural heritage. Grosseto is also known for its lively piazzas and traditional Tuscan eateries, where visitors can enjoy local specialties in a charming atmosphere. The nearby Maremma Regional Park offers an expansive natural reserve, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
Nearby, the coastal town of Marina di Grosseto is easily accessible and offers sandy beaches and seaside activities, perfect for those looking to enjoy the sea. The medieval town of Magliano in Toscana, with its ancient walls and panoramic views, is just a short drive away. Additionally, the towns of Pitigliano and Sovana, known for their Etruscan heritage and charming architecture, are within reach, making Grosseto an ideal starting point for exploring the beautiful and historically rich Maremma region.
The town is home to several interesting landmarks, including the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, which boasts an elegant façade and beautiful artwork inside. The Museo Archeologico and Museo di Storia Naturale provide insight into the area's history, from its ancient Etruscan past to its natural heritage. Grosseto is also known for its lively piazzas and traditional Tuscan eateries, where visitors can enjoy local specialties in a charming atmosphere. The nearby Maremma Regional Park offers an expansive natural reserve, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
Nearby, the coastal town of Marina di Grosseto is easily accessible and offers sandy beaches and seaside activities, perfect for those looking to enjoy the sea. The medieval town of Magliano in Toscana, with its ancient walls and panoramic views, is just a short drive away. Additionally, the towns of Pitigliano and Sovana, known for their Etruscan heritage and charming architecture, are within reach, making Grosseto an ideal starting point for exploring the beautiful and historically rich Maremma region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Historic Centre: Stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic centre, enclosed by medieval walls, and discover the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, dating back to the 13th century. The Piazza Dante Alighieri is a lively square, perfect for enjoying a coffee and people-watching.
- Medicean Walls: Explore the impressive Medicean walls, constructed during the Renaissance, which still encircle the town. Walk along the ramparts for panoramic views of the surroundings.
- Archaeological Museum of Grosseto: Learn about the area's Etruscan and Roman history at this museum, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts.
- Natural Parks: Grosseto is surrounded by natural parks, including the Maremma Regional Park and the Uccellina Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, and unspoiled landscapes.
- Beaches: The nearby coastal areas of Marina di Grosseto and Castiglione della Pescaia offer beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters, making them popular destinations for sunbathing and swimming.
- Local Cuisine: Savour the flavors of Maremman cuisine, which includes dishes like acquacotta, tortelli maremmani, and wild boar stew. Pair your meal with excellent local wines, such as Morellino di Scansano.
- Festivals: Experience the town's vibrant cultural scene by participating in local events and festivals, such as the Palio Marinaro dell'Argentario, a historic rowing race.
Comune di Grosseto
My recommended accommodation options for Grosseto:
- Grand Hotel Bastiani Located in the historic centre of Grosseto, this hotel offers elegantly furnished rooms with classic décor. Guests appreciate the proximity to the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the Medici Walls. The hotel's historic ambiance and central location make it ideal for exploring the city. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Airone Situated near the city centre, this hotel provides modern rooms with contemporary furnishings. Visitors enjoy the on-site restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine, the wellness centre, and the complimentary breakfast. The hotel's blend of comfort and convenience caters to both business and leisure travellers. €€ (mid-range)
- Fattoria San Lorenzo Set amidst the Tuscan countryside, this property offers apartments with rustic décor and modern amenities. Guests value the outdoor swimming pools, the on-site restaurant, and the serene environment. The property's rural setting provides a peaceful retreat while still being accessible to Grosseto. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel I Crespi Located a short drive from the city centre, this hotel features rooms with minimalist design and private balconies. Visitors appreciate the eco-friendly initiatives, the on-site restaurant, and the free parking facilities. The hotel's modern style and focus on sustainability offer a unique lodging experience. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Nuova Grosseto Situated opposite the Grosseto train station, this hotel provides simple yet comfortable rooms with classic furnishings. Guests enjoy the convenient location for travel, the friendly staff, and the complimentary breakfast. The hotel's accessibility makes it a practical choice for travellers. € (budget)
Grosseto Gallery
Grosseto Travel
Grossseto's train station is situated north west of the city centre, a 15 minute walk from Piazza Dante (1.2 km). You can take a train from Grosseto to Florence (2 hours 49 minutes) without having to change but there are more frequent services to Livorno (1 hour 29 minutes) and Pisa (1 hour 49 minutes) from where you can find further connections available. Trains also run north east from Grosseto to Siena (1 hour 45 minutes), stopping along the way at minor countryside towns including Buonconvento (1 hour 7 minutes). Heading south there's a train to Rome (1 hour 58 minutes); its only stops being at the port town of Civitavecchia (51 minutes) and the outskirts of Rome.
The most convenient airport for Grosseto is Pisa Airport which is an hour and 32 minute drive away (155 km), while Tuscany's other major airport, Florence Airport, is the next best option at an hour and 49 minutes away (156 km).
Places to visit close to Grosseto include the seaside town of Castiglione della Pescaia while just a little further in the same direction will take you to the port of Piombino from where you can take a ferry to the island of Elba. It's also only a short distance south to another port, Porto Santo Stefano from where you can sail to two other islands in the Tuscan Archipelago: Giglio and Giannutri. Also to the south but inland, lies a quartet of interesting places all clustered together: the hill towns of Pitigliano, Sorano and Sovana as well as the famous outdoor spa of Saturnia. A short distance north of Grosseto lies an important hill town: Massa Marittima.
The most convenient airport for Grosseto is Pisa Airport which is an hour and 32 minute drive away (155 km), while Tuscany's other major airport, Florence Airport, is the next best option at an hour and 49 minutes away (156 km).
Places to visit close to Grosseto include the seaside town of Castiglione della Pescaia while just a little further in the same direction will take you to the port of Piombino from where you can take a ferry to the island of Elba. It's also only a short distance south to another port, Porto Santo Stefano from where you can sail to two other islands in the Tuscan Archipelago: Giglio and Giannutri. Also to the south but inland, lies a quartet of interesting places all clustered together: the hill towns of Pitigliano, Sorano and Sovana as well as the famous outdoor spa of Saturnia. A short distance north of Grosseto lies an important hill town: Massa Marittima.
|
Close by: Castiglione della Pescaia, Piombino, Porto Santo Stefano
Recommended accommodation: Fattoria San Lorenzo (5 km) Public transport: Train station 1.2 km from centre, local buses |
By train: Livorno -1 hour 29 minutes, Pisa - 1 hour 49 minutes
By car: Siena - 1 hour (75 km), Livorno - 1 hour 39 mins (135 km) Fly to: Pisa Airport - 1 hour 32 minutes by car (155 km) |
