Hotels in Prato

Prato: A Journey Through Time Amidst Art, Archways, and Enchantment

Discover Prato, the heart of Tuscany, where medieval charm meets vibrant culture. Stroll through its historic center, featuring the stunning Cathedral of Santo Stefano and the impressive Palazzo Pretorio. Explore captivating museums and monuments that showcase Prato's rich textile history and artistic heritage. Don't miss the enchanting Castello dell'Imperatore, offering panoramic views of the city. With its delightful blend of history, art, and local cuisine, Prato is a hidden gem perfect for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience, away from the usual tourist crowds. Embark on a journey through time and savor the essence of Tuscany in Prato. For the best hotel rates in Prato, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Prato

Some of the best places to stay in Prato are Duomo, Santa Maria Novella and Oltrarno. In Prato, Tuscany, the Duomo offers stunning architecture and historical significance, making it a must-visit for first-time travelers. Santa Maria Novella is known for its beautiful art and proximity to the city center, ideal for exploring. The Oltrarno is perfect for those seeking a local vibe with artisan shops. Accommodations range from boutique hotels with rooftop terraces to charming city center hotels, providing options for every traveler's preference in comfort and style. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Prato:

1. DuomoOpens in a new window: The Duomo area is a cultural treasure, home to iconic landmarks such as the Historic Center - Downtown, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and the Ponte Vecchio. This vibrant neighborhood is perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in Florence's rich history and culture. For a luxurious stay, consider Hotel Number NineOpens in a new window, which offers business amenities and family-friendly services, or Helvetia & Bristol Firenze – Starhotels CollezioneOpens in a new window, known for its unique decor and central location. Another great option is The Place FirenzeOpens in a new window, featuring romance packages and a range of amenities for families and business travelers alike.
2. Santa Maria NovellaOpens in a new window: Located conveniently in the heart of Florence, Santa Maria Novella is ideal for exploring significant cultural sites, including the Historic Center - Downtown and the Ponte Vecchio. The St. Regis FlorenceOpens in a new window stands out with its business services and family amenities, while Dimora Palanca Boutique & SPAOpens in a new window offers a luxurious experience in the city center. The Westin Excelsior, FlorenceOpens in a new window is another fantastic choice, featuring romance packages and spa services for a relaxing getaway.
3. OltrarnoOpens in a new window: The Oltrarno district is renowned for its artisanal charm and cultural richness, with easy access to the Historic Center - Downtown and the Ponte Vecchio. Hotel Lungarno - Lungarno CollectionOpens in a new window is perfect for adventure seekers and families, offering onsite activities and business facilities. For golf enthusiasts, Villa CoraOpens in a new window provides a unique experience along with family amenities. Alternatively, Villa Tolomei Hotel & ResortOpens in a new window caters to business and family travelers, ensuring a central location and essential services for a comfortable stay.

Things to do in Prato for first time

Three days in Prato offer travelers a chance to explore its charming blend of historical architecture and vibrant cultural scenes. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush parks, visitors can enjoy hiking, art exhibitions, and lively performances, while indulging in delicious local cuisine at various restaurants. It’s a captivating Italian experience. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Prato:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration in the Historic Center of Prato, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of the downtown area. Afterward, visit the magnificent Pitti Palace, known for its stunning architecture and art collections. As the day winds down, make your way to Piazza della Signoria, a beautiful square perfect for relaxing and enjoying the local ambiance, perhaps with a gelato in hand.
• Day 2: Your day starts at the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, famous for its magnificent dome and intricate facade. Next, stroll over to the Basilica of Santa Croce, where you can admire its beautiful frescoes and the tombs of notable figures like Michelangelo. Conclude your day at the Uffizi Gallery, home to some of the world's most celebrated artworks, where you can spend hours marveling at the masterpieces.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a visit to the stunning Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with shops selling jewelry and art. Then, explore the atmospheric Piazza del Duomo, where you can appreciate the impressive cathedral and its surroundings. Finally, head to Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, a lively square featuring beautiful architecture and the famous Santa Maria Novella Church, offering the perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon.

5 tips to find a great Prato hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for a budget-friendly getaway, consider visiting Prato in January, February, or November, when hotel rates are at their lowest. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure more affordable fares. To truly appreciate the city's charm and explore its key attractions, such as the stunning cathedral and fascinating museums, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days. This way, you get great value for your money while soaking in the rich history and culture of Prato.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Last-minute deals to Prato can lead to fantastic savings on accommodations, including popular favorites like Prato apartments. For those looking for great availability and attractive hotel deals, explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of catching limited-time offers, consider setting up email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about special promotions and flash sales. Don't miss the opportunity to save on your Prato getaway!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you find lower hotel costs in Prato.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Prato is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving, taking the bus, or walking to explore the area, which can help you save money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Prato and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Prato

Here are a few popular dishes in Prato, Tuscany, Italy:

• Pici Cacio e Pepe: A traditional Tuscan pasta made from hand-rolled wheat, served with a simple yet flavorful sauce of Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.
• Panino con Mortadella: A classic Italian sandwich featuring slices of rich, flavorful mortadella, often served on fresh Tuscan bread, ideal for a spontaneous lunch while exploring the charming streets of Prato.
• Ribollita: A hearty Tuscan soup made with leftover bread, beans, and seasonal vegetables, showcasing the region's philosophy of waste not, want not, often enjoyed as a communal dish.
• Cantucci with Vin Santo: A delightful almond biscuit typically dipped in a sweet dessert wine, perfect for a relaxed afternoon treat while soaking in the local culture.

Best time to go to Prato

Prato experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 39.9°F (4.4°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 75.0°F (23.9°C). November is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Prato, February, April, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, August, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.