Montecatini funicular

Montecatini Funicular is a cable railway in the Italian spa town of Montecatini Terme that connects the lower town with the medieval hilltop village of Montecatini Alto along a track of approximately 1077 meters. The red carriages feature wooden benches and exterior balconies, operating regularly between these two different places throughout the day.

The funicular opened in 1898 with composer Giuseppe Verdi attending the inauguration ceremony. It sustained damage during World War II but returned to service in 1949.

The two cable cars are named Gigio and Gigia, reflecting local personality and tradition. They connect two very different places - a modern spa town and a medieval hilltop village - making this journey an important link between past and present for the community.

Each trip takes about 10 minutes with regular departures throughout the day connecting the spa town below with the village above. Morning and late afternoon tend to be less crowded times if you prefer a quieter journey.

The two cable cars pass each other at the midpoint of their journey, creating a special crossing moment. Passengers often watch with interest as they pass the other cabin moving in the opposite direction.