Prato Province

Prato is the smallest province in Tuscany: it was separated from the province of Florence in 1992 and comprises only seven municipalities – Prato, Cantagallo, Carmignano, Montemurlo, Poggio a Caiano, Vaiano and Vernio – with around 260.000 inhabitants. Its capital is Prato , the second largest city in Tuscany after Florence and a center of textile production for centuries.

What to expect in the province of Prato

Prato: Textile city with a Renaissance core

The Cathedral of Santo Stefano features an exterior pulpit by Donatello and Michelozzo, as well as frescoes by Filippo Lippi. The Castello dell'Imperatore dates back to Emperor Frederick II. The Museo del Tessuto tells the story of textiles, while the Centro Pecci showcases contemporary art.

Poggio a Caiano and Carmignano

The Medici Villa in Poggio a Caiano is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Medici Villas and Gardens. The vineyards for the red wine of the same name grow around Carmignano; you can read more about the wine-growing regions under Wine Regions of Tuscany.

Bisenzio Valley

North of the city, the Bisenzio valley leads via Vaiano and Vernio into the Apennines – a quiet area for hiking and cycling off the beaten track.

Cantucci and Mortadella

The almond biscuits "Biscotti di Prato," better known as Cantucci, originate from here, as does Mortadella di Prato. For restaurant recommendations in the region, see the list of the best restaurants in Tuscany.

Practical information

Getting there: Prato is located on the A11 Florence–Pisa motorway and can be reached from Florence by regional train in approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Florence Airport is only a few kilometers away.

Good to know: Prato is a good base for day trips to Florence and Pistoia . You can find information about weekly markets in the region in the overview of markets in Tuscany.