Lucca

ACCOMMODATION
- Relax in the peace and quiet of the Tuscan countryside, enjoying the breathtaking views from your pool of your Lucca Villa, maybe even sipping on a glass of local Tuscan wine. Then, when you have the urge to explore, hop in the car and you can be in Lucca and other local towns in a matter of minutes. We have a wide range of villas near Lucca. Click on the nav bar on the left for more information.

– If you'd prefer to be in the centre of things then stay at a hotel in Lucca town centre, (here are some of our favourite Lucca Hotels available from our hotels partner) ). leave your car in one of the many car parks round the walls. You’ll be able to enjoy its unique Italian small town atmosphere and then go on day trips exploring the wonderful Tuscan countryside or seaside nearby.

Whichever you choose, Lucca Villa or Lucca Hotel, you're sure to enjoy this stunning part of Tuscany.


ABOUT LUCCA
Lucca, unlike its more famous hilltop neighbours, with their steep, narrow alleyways, sits on a plain surrounded by massive 16th century walls, once used for defence against marauding armies, but today the setting for locals taking leisurely bicycle rides. Historically, Lucca has had a turbulent past, however these days it has an air of elegance and charm, attracting a more discerning visitor than Florence or Pisa. It is also sufficiently off the normal tourist trail to have kept is civility and slower pace of life. Not surprisingly, the favoured form of transport inside the city walls is the bicycle. This fascinating town is home to some of Italy's finest medieval and renaissance architecture, which today houses top class boutiques, antique shops and superb restaurants. Many stunning Lucca Villas are situated in the hills surrounding the town within easy reach of Lucca and also within 30 minutes of the Versilian coastline with its miles of safe, sandy beaches and 'chic' resorts, such as Forte dei Marmi. This video gives a glimpse of the relaxing atmoshere in Lucca.

- Old city walls, either walk or cycle for a unique bird’s eye view of Lucchese life.

- Torre Guinigi - a tower with trees atop it, a very dramatic sight, with good views of the city. No lift, lots of stairs!

- Torre delle Ore - ancient clock tower with original clock still working; is it possible to go upstairs on this tower too.

- Via Fillungo - Main street full of shops and bars. Great for people watching.

- Duomo di San Martino, Piazza di San Martino. Romanesque cathedral dating to 14th century. Includes a sculpture of the crucifixion attributed to an eyewitness, Nicodemus. Some interesting carvings in the marble exterior, including a labyrinth.


DO
- Puccini Festival, The composer, Puccini was born here, and operas are held regularly during the summer months.

-Music Festivals, many top names, including Elton John, Mark Knopfler, Anastasia, Simply Red, George Michael to name but a few have played concerts in Lucca in the last few years.

- City Walls. Walk or cycle on top of the ancient city walls. The entire perimeter is approximately 4 km. This gives a good introduction to the city layout. A unique Lucca experience.


EAT

Budget
- Trattoria da Leo, Via Tegrimi 1, 0583 492236. Fairly typical Tuscan cuisine with some Lucchese touches. The menu is only in Italian (a good sign). Reservations are a good idea or arrive around 7:00. An excellent meal for the price.

- Pizzeria La Bersagliera, Via Pisana 2136, 0583510758. If you happen to have a car, do check out this pizzeria, just ten minutes drive outside of town, it's worth it. The owners come from Calabria, so you are likely to find all kinds of spicy salami, olives, mushrooms etc on top of your pizza. You can't make reservations: Be there by 7 pm.

- Forno a vapore Amedeo Giusti, Via Santa Lucia 18/20, 0583 496285. Strolling along the Torre Guinigi (the one with trees on top), you'll probably sniff some irresistible oily and floury smell. It's called focaccia, the Lucchese idea of a snack.

MID RANGE
- Vecchia Trattoria Buralli One of the best restaurants in Lucca, practically hidden on Via San Giorgio . Constantly changing menu and an extensive wine list.

FINE DINING
-Buca di San Antonio situated just off the Piazza San Michele and enjoys a high reputation for local dishes prepared in the traditional Lucchese style.

-Ristorante Giglio in the Piazza Giglio is excellent - offering wonderful Lucchese cuisine, attentive staff and a delightful terrace overlooking the square.

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