Where to stay in Massa: between the old town and the Apuan Alps
Massa spans a historic centre at the foot of the Apuan Alps and a distinct seaside area (Marina di Massa): where to stay depending on what you're after.
Davide Papalini, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Massa is split into two clearly separate parts, about 5 km apart: the historic centre, gathered around Piazza Aranci and the Malaspina fortress overlooking the town from a hill, and Marina di Massa on the coast, with its seaside character. Staying in the centre means being close to Palazzo Ducale and the Duomo, getting around on foot, and having more direct access to the Apuan Alps and the marble quarries surrounding the town.
Those looking for a beach base will find a more summer-holiday-oriented offer in Marina di Massa, closer to the seafront promenade and beach clubs, but further from the historic heritage. The choice therefore depends on the goal of the trip: culture and mountains in the centre, sea in the coastal hamlet.
Massa Centro station conveniently connects both areas via the regional network, useful for those without a car who still want to move between the town's two sides.
Practical info
When's the best time to go to Massa?
We recommend April, May, June, September and October, the period with the smallest crowds.
How touristy is Massa?
Massa is very quiet compared to the more visited destinations.
What's the location of Massa?
Massa is found in the area of Tuscany.
How to get there
- 🚆 Nearest station: Sarzana ~16 km as the crow flies
- ✈️ Nearest airport: Aeroporto internazionale Galileo Galilei PSA ~44 km as the crow flies
Nearest points as the crow flies (source OpenStreetMap): actual times depend on the roads, often mountain ones.
