Collodi: The Enchanting Home of Pinocchio
Discover Collodi, the Tuscan village that inspired Pinocchio, with its charming streets, historic gardens, and magical theme park.
Collodi, a captivating village in the Province of Pistoia, Tuscany, is forever linked to Carlo Lorenzini, better known as Carlo Collodi, the creator of Pinocchio. The village itself is a cascade of small houses tumbling down a steep hillside, reminiscent of a waterfall. At the hill's base stands the majestic Villa Garzoni, built upon the ruins of an ancient medieval castle. Collodi's history dates back to the 12th century. The village's strategic position led to a turbulent past, particularly due to the Garzoni family's conflicts with Florence. Today, Collodi thrives as a tourist destination, largely thanks to its Pinocchio connections. Key attractions include the Pinocchio Park, a unique open-air museum featuring sculptures and buildings inspired by the famous tale. Visitors can also explore the historic Garzoni Garden, a stunning example of Italian Baroque gardens, and the Butterfly House, a greenhouse filled with exotic butterflies. A stroll through the village's narrow, stone-paved streets offers a glimpse into its medieval past.
Local tips
- Combine your visit to Pinocchio Park with the Garzoni Garden and Butterfly House for a full day of exploration.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the steep, cobblestone streets of Collodi.
- Check the opening hours of the Pinocchio Park, Garzoni Garden, and Butterfly House, especially during the off-season.
- Consider visiting during the Feast of San Bartolomeo in August for a traditional celebration.
A brief summary to Collodi
- Collodi, Province of Pistoia, IT
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Pescia, the nearest town, Collodi is easily accessible by bus. Several bus lines connect Pescia to Collodi, with frequent departures throughout the day. The bus ride takes approximately 10 minutes, and a single ticket costs around €1-€2. Buses leave from Pescia P.za XX Settembre. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
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Walking
From Ponte All'Abate, a location about 1.5km from the Pinocchio Park, you can reach Collodi with a 20 minute walk. Take Via Pesciatina and walk for about 1.5km until you reach Collodi. There are no costs involved.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Pescia and can take you directly to Collodi. The taxi ride is short, and the fare is approximately €15-€20. Taxi services can be found near the Pescia train station.
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Driving
If driving, take the A11 highway to the Chiesina Uzzanese exit. Follow the signs towards Pescia, and then to Collodi. Paid parking is available near the Pinocchio Park. Expect to pay around €1-€2 per hour, with daily rates available. Free, unequipped parking is also available.
Attractions Nearby to Collodi
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Pinocchio Park
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Natale con Pinocchio!
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L'albero di Pinocchio
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Storico Giardino Garzoni - Casa delle Farfalle
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Collodi Butterfly House Pinocchio
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Church of Saint Mary of the Assumption
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Santa Maria Assunta
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Villa Torrigiani
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Azienda Agricola Colle di Bordocheo
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Fattoria Il Poggio
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Fortezza di Montecarlo
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Centro storico Montecarlo Lucca
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Fattoria Carmignani
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Tenuta San Beda
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Villa Reale di Marlia
Landmarks nearby to Collodi
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Il Quercione
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Luccaorganizza
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Saint Pietro Bulwark
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Lucca
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Bulwark of Freedom
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Piazza Santa Maria
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Apartment in the Historic Center of Lucca, for a Visit to the City
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Guinigi Tower
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Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
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Le Antiche Scale
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Palazzo Guinigi
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San Frediano Basilica
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Carmen's square
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LUCCA ART FAIR
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Real Collegio di Lucca