Prato is often overshadowed by Florence, but this city in Tuscany offers some surprisingly engaging tours that highlight its multicultural side, industrial history, and vibrant local scene. Among the options, we particularly love a tour that combines a multicultural street walk with hands-on art and an aperitif, giving you a taste of Prato’s contemporary pulse. The other standout is a craft brewery tour that reveals the secrets behind Italy’s booming craft beer scene. Both experiences offer more than just sightseeing—they invite you to participate and connect with local culture, making your visit truly memorable.
Below, we’ve rounded up the two best tours in Prato, carefully chosen for their unique appeal, quality, and value. Whether you’re interested in art, food, or local brews, these options will give you a richer perspective of this lesser-known Tuscan city.
1. Prato: check out Chinatown and paint in a real artist’s studio with an aperitif
This tour is a delightful way to explore Prato’s multicultural side while engaging in a creative activity. Starting at Via Pistoiese, 3, the tour begins with a visit to Chinatown and a look at Prato’s industrial archaeology, revealing the city’s diverse heritage. Then, you’ll step into a 400-square-meter contemporary art studio, which has become a hub for local artists and pop culture enthusiasts. Here, you’ll get to create your own art piece with guidance from a practicing artist—no prior experience needed. The tour also includes a fun aperitif in the studio, making it a relaxed, social experience.
What sets this tour apart is its blend of multiculturalism, history, and participatory art. The studio, called Lanarchico, is a space without rules, encouraging creativity and spontaneity. The itinerary also features tasting regional snacks, exploring hidden corners of Prato, and enjoying local wines. This makes it ideal for travelers who want an immersive, interactive experience that captures the city’s modern vibrancy. With a user rating of 5/5 from two reviews, it’s clear many find this tour both fun and inspiring.
Bottom line: This tour offers a rare combination of street culture, artistic creativity, and local flavors—perfect for curious travelers eager to get their hands dirty and their taste buds satisfied.
2. Guided tour of the La Foresta craft brewery with tasting in Prato
For those interested in Italy’s craft beer movement, the La Foresta brewery tour is a fantastic choice. Located at Birrificio La Foresta, this experience is a one-hour guided walk that reveals how craft beer is made right in the heart of Tuscany. The guide, a master brewer, shares insights into brewing techniques, ingredients, and what makes their beers stand out. After the tour, you’ll have the chance to sample four different styles of beer, each with its own unique flavor profile.
What makes this tour special is the chance to see the brewing process up close and chat directly with the person responsible for the creations. The brewery’s reputation for quality and innovation makes this a worthwhile stop for beer enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Italy’s emerging craft scene. Although it moves quickly, the experience is packed with information and tastings at just $30 per person, making it a great value.
Guests have commented on the “friendly and knowledgeable” guide and the chance to taste a variety of beers in one sitting. Suitable for those who enjoy drinks or want a different taste of Tuscany beyond wine.
Bottom line: If you enjoy discovering local specialties and learning how handcrafted beers come to life, this intimate brewery tour in Prato is a perfect pick.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between these two options, consider your interests and schedule. The Prato art and multicultural experience is ideal if you want a mix of street culture, active participation, and art. It suits travelers looking for a creative, social outing that’s more than just sightseeing. Meanwhile, the craft brewery tour appeals if you’re a beer lover or want a quick, educational taste of local production. Both tours are highly rated, but the art experience offers a broader culture, while the brewery provides a focused, fun tasting.
To maximize your trip, think about combining a visit to Prato’s historic sites with one of these activities, depending on your interests. Book early, especially in peak travel seasons, to secure your spot—these experiences tend to fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Prato offers a range of engaging tours that go beyond traditional sightseeing. Whether you prefer creating your own artwork in a lively studio or tasting local craft beers in an authentic brewery, these options allow you to experience the city’s vibrant, modern side.
For travelers interested in art and multiculturalism, the Prato artist studio tour is a unique chance to participate and socialize. If craft beer is more your style, the La Foresta brewery offers an authentic look at Italy’s craft brewing scene, coupled with tastings that satisfy any palate.
Ultimately, both tours showcase different facets of Prato’s lively local culture and are well worth adding to your itinerary. Booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences.
