16.08.2021.
The medieval walls of this lovely town make it a perfect stop between the major towns of Tuscany like Florence and Pisa. Amazing tower views and touch of Puccini, vibrant local lifestyle- are just few of memorable sights.
This lovely Etruscan town is filled with churches at almost every corner and soft colours. Not only Puccini, the traces of Pinocchio are everywhere as in nearby village Collodi lies the birthplace of its writer.
Strolling around without aim will give you enough reasons to enjoy as the sweetness of Lucca is placed inside of its old town.
15 things you should put your attention in Lucca
1. Torre Giunigi with its fabulous views
Though more than 250 towers have enriched Lucca’s appearance, the tower Guinigi remains well maintained since the 14th century. Small garden on the highest point gives the unique charm to Lucca offering amazing views to the town and nearby mountains.
Climbing the tower is the touristic highlight though Lucca breaths with the off beaten vibe.
The oaks at the top were planted by Guinigi family to signify rebirth and renewal. Within 44 metres this is the highest tower of Lucca and imposant heights gave social meaning and family prestige.
2. Walk at the walls
Encircled by walls Lucca is one of the rare places to put your foot actually on the wall and not only inside. Lovely promenade gives another panorama inside the beauty of Lucca.
To talk about numbers means to say 4 km of walls, 6 ancient gates.
3. Go out at the drink and enjoy the whole brunch
Quite surprising and quite fun, it must be noted that the drinks are delicious as well as the food. Caffe del Mercato is the place to be.
4. Orto botanico di Lucca
Small oasis of peace at the centre of Lucca enchants with the small lake, turtles and amazing collection of plants. It originates at 1820. giving thanks to the request of former Duchess Maria Luisa of Lucca.
5. Piazza del’ Anfiteatro
Piazza del’ Anfiteatro is a charming square with the historical feeling and authentic italian vibe. Soft palette of colourful houses is enriched with lovely caffe bars and restaurants. Special praise goes to Gelateria Anfiteatro Lucca.
6. Take a day trip to Pisa
Legendary Pisa is located only 20 minutes by train, what else to say?
7. Take a day trip to Collodi village
The author of Pinnochio grew up at this picturesque hilly place which got his name. Not only you could explore the Pinochio Parque but the lovely gardens of Villa Garzoni.
8. Try the local cuisine
I loved the chickpeas pie, the traditional delicacy of Lucca traditionally named as pizza though no addings.
9. Explore the artisan shops
It’s the hidden corners that define the life.
10. Museum of Villa Mansi
Palazzo Mansi is the hidden elegance of Lucca where the national museum is placed nowadays. Fabulous rooms are rich with art among which the most impressive are the Music Hall, the Hall of Mirrors and the Art Gallery filled with Medici collection.
11. Palazzo Pfanner
Impressive building encircled with the lovely gardens shines hiddenly at the centre of Lucca. Beautiful fountain decorated with elegant statues can be seen from city’s walls.
Built in 16th century for the rich local family nowadays it takes name of the current owner.
12. Visit Lucca during the Comics festival
Comic festival is the highlight of Lucca town where the the whole Italy celebrates comics dressed in special costumes.
13. Climb Apuian Alps
Majestic Appuian Alps offer the stunning views above the sea among the charming italian villages. Off beaten side of Tuscany needs to be explore which is a special treat for mountain lovers.
14. Explore the churches
Lucca is called the city of 99 churches as there are 101 churches inside of the city walls. Typical tuscanian architecture findsits treasure here.
15. Villas of Lucca
Lucca doesn’t lack the elegant treasure of history, take a deeper look and dare to explore more. Villa Reale di Marlia is praised as the most impressive where lovely gardens create the touching scenery.
Villa di Camigliano, Villa Torrigiani, Villa Garzoni, Villa Grabau and Villa Olivia are among the villas worth the visit.
All in all
Not only within its walls, Lucca is just charming in its lifestyle that shows the vibrant culture. Not only this, visit the birth house of Giacommo Puccini and admire the exquisite touch of art. Hidden canals will show even more charm if you let yourself to roam carelessly.
I love the idea of a comic festival. Lucca looks quaint and intriguing, nestled in such a beautiful part of Italy.
wonderful article
I’ve been to Pisa and Florence but never Lucca, which seems like a shame as it’s so close. And as a big fan of the Medicis, I think Museum of Villa Mansi sounds like a must see.
I didn’t know this was so close to Pisa! Very cool! This part of Italy looks absolutely beautiful!
I visited Tuscany when I was a teenager and it left a lasting impression on me. It was a wonderful place to explore and spot all the quirky, artisanal aspects it surprises you with. Your photos were a lovely reminder that I need to travel again!
This looks like an interesting place to visit even though I haven’t been to the UK before. There are still so many places and will add this. Thank you for sharing!
I’ve never heard of Lucca before but it’s so convenient that it’s right between Florence and Pisa – I’d love to visit both of them one day so I’ll make sure to stop here too! The architecture all looks stunning and I love the idea of the Comics Festival! Thanks for sharing.
This looks like such a cute little town. Added to my list of places.
I love this area of Italy and would like to revisit it one day! I really enjoyed your photos and reliving my time in the area. Thanks for sharing.
I absolutely love Lucca, it is so beautiful, I haven’t been back in so long! I miss travelling!
My husband and I plan to go to Italy sometime soon hopefully. I enjoyed reading your article and seeing the pictures to know what to look forward to. I didn’t know there were hidden canals. That is really cool.
Wow Lucca is gorgeous! Thank you for sharing, I need to explore Tuscany some day x
WOW! What a beautiful place Lucca is. I’d love to visit one day!
Oh this place looks fantastic, its now on our list of places to visit. Great pictures
You are reminding me of my trip to Lucca and Tuscany a few years ago and wow do I miss traveling! Thanks for the walk down memory lane and the great tips for anyone visiting.
The Palazzo looks beautiful! I love off-the-beaten-path towns, and Lucca seems to fit the bill!
Great post and information!! I love the little towns! I’ve been to Florence and loved it! Maybe we will get back there again! Thanks for sharing!
Lucca looks absolutely gorgeous! We had a Florence/ Tuscany trip planned last spring but that obviously didn’t happen and this looks exactly how I hoped it would be. This is such a great post, hopefully it will help me plan the trip that never happened x
Lucca looks like a beautiful town with some great things to see. Is love to visit someday!
There are so many great options here. I’ve never been to Lucca but this has me thinking it would be a great place to visit. I was especially sold after reading about the Apuian Alps. My husband and I are both outdoor lovers and are always on the search for new places to hike and explore. Thank you for sharing this! I’m going to look into the alps further and share this with my husband.
A great list here – and that chickpea pie looks interesting.
Loved your photos! Honestly, the whole post makes me want a walk, as well as hungry for that chickpea pie and some gelato.