
Toscana · Pistoia · Italy
Agliana
Historic town in Tuscany, near Pistoia and Florence; notable for parks and nature trails.
At a glance
About Agliana
Agliana, located in the Pistoia plain of Tuscany, presents an appealing blend of history and community for expats and retirees. This quaint town is just a short drive from Pistoia and offers easy access to larger cities like Florence. Key attractions include the historic Church of San Piero, situated in the central Piazza Gramsci, and the tranquil Querciola Nature Protected Area, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate diverse avian life. Sandro Pertini Park provides ample space for relaxation, while the Villa Baldi adds a touch of elegance to the local landscape.
Despite its charm, Agliana poses challenges such as limited healthcare facilities and a reliance on nearby cities for comprehensive services. Nonetheless, its walkability and proximity to a range of amenities enhance its appeal. The town’s moderate climate further complements its inviting atmosphere, making it an attractive option for those seeking a leisurely lifestyle in Tuscany.
✓ Pros for expats
– Pleasant climate suitable for outdoor activities year-round.
– High air quality rating ensures a healthier living environment.
– Low unemployment rate indicates a stable local economy.
– Comprehensive healthcare facilities providing reliable medical services.
– Good infrastructure supports convenient transportation and connectivity.
– Rich cultural and historical backdrop enhances community life.
– Opportunities for integration with friendly local community.
– Non-touristic atmosphere offers tranquility and local charm.
– Access to educational facilities catering to various needs.
– Well-connected transportation options facilitate travel within Tuscany.
! Things to consider
– Healthcare quality could be better; room for improvement exists.
– Limited nightlife options may not suit younger expats’ preferences.
– Internet speed may not satisfy heavy streaming or gaming needs.
– Small-town living can feel isolating for some expats.
– Cultural events might not appeal to everyone’s tastes or interests.
– Public transportation frequency can be less than ideal at times.
– Local shops may lack variety compared to larger cities.
– Limited job opportunities for expats seeking employment locally.
– Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Italian speakers.
– Seasonal weather extremes may not be enjoyable for everyone.
Where is Agliana
Getting there
Agliana is well-connected, situated near the A11 autostrada, facilitating travel to major cities. Amerigo Vespucci Airport in Florence is the nearest, followed by Galileo Galilei Airport in Pisa. Two train stations provide reliable rail connectivity, contributing to Agliana’s overall infrastructure rating of 72 out of 100.
Housing & cost of living
Estimated cost of an 80 m² home: €174,160
Housing availability: Relatively Low
Cost of living
Living in Agliana offers a balanced perspective on affordability, especially for expats and potential investors. With relatively low housing costs, residents can find spacious apartments at reasonable prices, making it feasible to live comfortably on a local salary. The town’s low unemployment rate and solid economic health signal stability and opportunities. However, while daily expenses are manageable, they can add up, particularly for families. Overall, Agliana presents a moderately affordable living option, ideal for those seeking a blend of quality lifestyle and economic viability.
Climate & weather
Above Average (51st-60th percentile)
Somewhat Low (21st-30th percentile)
Average (41st-50th percentile)
High (71st-80th percentile)
Agliana, Italy boasts a temperate climate marked by distinct seasonal changes, ideal for those seeking to experience the variety of European weather. During the winter months, the town experiences mild snowfall, blanketing its historic streets with a light, picturesque layer of snow. Summers in Agliana are warm but not excessively hot, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities and leisure. The region enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, ensuring that days are generally bright and inviting. Rainfall is well-distributed across the months, supporting lush local vegetation without causing significant inconveniences to daily life. This balanced climate makes Agliana an appealing destination for expats and retirees from the Magic Towns readership.
Air quality & environment
Air quality rating: ★★★★★
Agliana offers an appealing environment for those considering life in Italy, with notable air quality that aligns with comfortable living standards. The small particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) in Agliana consistently maintains measures within the 'Good' classification, indicating a lower risk of respiratory discomfort, which is particularly significant for retirees. Alongside these, nitrogen and sulfur dioxide levels also present minimal health risks, adhering to the 'Good' category. Ozone levels hover in a 'Fair' range, possibly influencing sensitivity among those with particular vulnerabilities, but overall the town provides a clean air scenario conducive to healthy living.
Healthcare & safety
Road accidents: 38.0 per 10k inhabitants.
ASL Toscana Centro serves Florence, Prato, Pistoia, and the Empolese — Florence city, Prato, Pistoia, Empoli, Mugello, Chianti. The listing as ‘Provincia di Firenze’ reflects the multi-province ASL structure. Composite of 66/100, top three per cent nationally. Profile is balanced across all three pillars in the high 60s. The Florence AOU Careggi sits as an autonomous university hospital outside the AULSS, but unlike elsewhere in Italy the surrounding AULSS performance is independently strong.
Internet & connectivity
Transport & proximity
✈️ Airports
| Airport | Drive | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Amerigo Vespucci (Florence) | 17 min | 6 |
| Galileo Galilei (Pisa) | 41 min | 7 |
| Guglielmo Marconi (Bologna) | 51 min | 7 |
🚂 Rail stations
| Station | Drive | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Montale Agliana | 6 min | 6 |
| Prato Centrale | 16 min | 9 |
| Pistoia | 13 min | 7 |
What's nearby
Life in Agliana
Local cuisine
Agliana, situated in Tuscany, boasts a vibrant culinary scene that is heavily influenced by traditional Tuscan dishes and international flavors. Notable traditional dishes include Pici all’Aglione, a handmade pasta served with garlic and tomato sauce, Ribollita, a hearty bread and vegetable soup, and Bistecca alla Fiorentina, renowned for its quality and flavor. The dining options in Agliana include a variety of establishments serving authentic Italian cuisine, seafood, and Mediterranean dishes. The town is home to eateries such as Ristorante Pizzeria Siviglia and Mat Osteria Creativa, which blend local and international cuisines. Currently, there are no Michelin-starred restaurants in Agliana, but the nearby region features several distinguished Michelin-rated establishments, ensuring that culinary enthusiasts have access to high-quality dining experiences. Overall, the culinary landscape reflects a mixture of traditional Tuscan offerings and an evolving palate for international flavors, catering to diverse dietary preferences including vegan and gluten-free options.
Where to shop
Shopping in the area features a diverse range of options accommodating both everyday needs and more specialised preferences. Supermarkets provide essential groceries, while shopping centres host a mix of retail outlets, including fashion and household goods. Expats can access several boutique stores offering local products, alongside markets that sell fresh produce. Additionally, renowned outlet malls nearby present opportunities for discounted shopping on various brands, enhancing the overall retail experience.
Green areas & parks
Agliana, located in the Tuscan plain, offers several outdoor activities suitable for expats and retirees. The Parco Pertini is a central green area ideal for leisurely walks. Diverse hiking routes are accessible nearby, including the Ambalagi loop from Montemurlo and the easy hike to Carbonizzo Bridge from Javello. For those seeking more challenging trails, the expert Campiglia House loop provides extensive trekking experience. Community places like Area Verde via XX Settembre also offer green spaces for relaxation. These options present a balanced mixture of accessibility and adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.
Education
People & tourism
Annual tourists (2023): 1,445