Carrara,
Carrara is a picturesque town located in Tuscany, Italy, famous for its high-quality marble quarries. The town's economy revolves around the marble industry, with many sculptors and artists drawn to the area for its fine marble. Visitors can take tours of the marble quarries to learn about the extraction process and see the stunning landscape.
Carrara is also known for its historic buildings, charming streets, and delicious local cuisine.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Ciao" - Hello
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Buonasera" - Good evening
- "Per favore" - Please
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Carrara's Marble Quarries
morning:Start your day with a visit to the spectacular Carrara Marble Quarries, where you can witness the expertise of the local marble miners. Be sure to visit the Marble Museum to learn about the rich history of the region. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a delicious breakfast at Café del Corso.
afternoon:After marveling at the marble quarries, head over to Piazza Alberica to explore the historic city center. Marvel at the striking architecture of the Carrara Cathedral and take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets. Treat yourself to a delightful lunch at Ristorante Brillo Parlante, known for its authentic Italian cuisine.
evening:In the evening, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Alberica and its surrounding streets, where you can find a variety of cozy bars and cafes. For a delightful night-out, we recommend La Cava d'Ispiga, a lively wine bar offering a wide selection of local and international wines.
Artistic Treasures of Carrara
morning:Embark on a cultural journey with a visit to the Carrara Academy of Fine Arts, admired for its impressive collection of artworks by renowned artists. Take a serene stroll through Giardino dei Suoni to appreciate the tranquil beauty of nature. Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast at Bar Pasticceria Puccini.
afternoon:Spend the afternoon discovering the captivating exhibitions at the Civic Marble Museum, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship behind marble. Delve into the rich history of Carrara at the Civic Museum of Marble and take a break with a delectable lunch at Il Mattarello, a charming eatery known for its savory pasta dishes.
evening:As the sun sets, head to Piazza Alberica to witness the enchanting evening ambiance. For a delightful night-out, immerse yourself in the cozy atmosphere of Caffè Roma, a historic café offering a wide range of beverages.
Seaside Charm and Local Cuisine
morning:Begin your day with a refreshing seaside experience at Lido di Carrara, where you can soak in the stunning coastal views and bask in the Mediterranean sunshine. Explore the picturesque Fishermen's Harbor and indulge in a mouthwatering breakfast at Bar Acapulco.
afternoon:After a leisurely morning by the sea, venture to the lively Mercato dei Fiori to immerse yourself in the vibrant local market scene. Delight in the authentic flavors of Carrara by savoring a delightful seafood lunch at Ristorante La Pineta, renowned for its fresh catch of the day.
evening:In the evening, savor the serene atmosphere of the Carrara waterfront as you take a leisurely stroll along Lungomare di Ponente. For a memorable night-out, we recommend La Cantinetta, a charming wine bar offering a delightful selection of regional wines and exquisite aperitivos.
Historical Gems and Culinary Delights
morning:Explore the historical gems of Carrara with a visit to the impressive Palazzo Binelli, renowned for its architectural splendor. Immerse yourself in the captivating exhibits at the Modern and Contemporary Art Gallery. Enjoy a delectable breakfast at Caffè Roma to energize for the day ahead.
afternoon:After delving into Carrara's history, journey to the medieval village of Colonnata, celebrated for its exquisite marble and savory lardo. Embark on a guided tour of the Larderia, where you can witness the traditional lardo production process. Indulge in a delicious lunch at Ristorante Al Lago, known for its mouthwatering local specialties.
evening:As evening descends, savor the delightful ambiance of Piazza Matteotti and the surrounding ancient streets. For a memorable night-out, experience the convivial atmosphere of Osteria del Vecchio Borgo, a charming tavern offering a delightful array of local wines and traditional delicacies.
Carrara Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Lardo di Colonnata
A specialty of the region, Lardo di Colonnata is a type of salumi made of cured pork fatback seasoned with herbs and spices. It is often served thinly sliced on crusty bread or paired with honey and aged cheeses. Visit Antica Macelleria Bedogni in Colonnata for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Tordelli
Tordelli are a type of stuffed pasta similar to ravioli, typically filled with a flavorful mixture of meats, such as beef, pork, and mortadella, and seasoned with nutmeg and Parmigiano-Reggiano. Savor this dish at Trattoria Albiano, known for its outstanding homemade pasta.
BacalĂ alla Carrarina
This dish features salted cod cooked with tomatoes, black olives, capers, and a hint of chili. It's a beloved local specialty with a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors. Sample this delightful dish at Ristorante Ariston.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Mercato dei Sapori
The Mercato dei Sapori is a vibrant food market where you can immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and find an assortment of local produce, cheeses, meats, and freshly baked bread. Don't miss the chance to savor regional specialties at the market's various food stalls.
Carrara Street Food Festival
For an authentic street food experience, head to the Carrara Street Food Festival, where you can indulge in an array of delectable treats from gourmet food trucks and vendors. From crispy arancini to fragrant porchetta sandwiches, there's something to satisfy every craving.
Things to do in Carrara
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Carrara
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!