Lucca
Timeless elegance meets culinary excellence in Tuscany's crown jewel
Highlights
Stroll hand-in-hand along the perfectly preserved Renaissance fortifications encircling the historic city center
Savor exquisite Tuscan cuisine at award-winning restaurants showcasing regional traditions with contemporary flair
Stay within centuries-old noble family residences converted into intimate luxury boutique hotels
Discover this elliptical plaza built atop Roman amphitheater ruins, now a charming gathering place with cafés
Experience manicured Tuscan landscapes at historic villas offering spa treatments and romantic settings
Marvel at masterpieces inside the ornate Lucca Cathedral, including Volto Santo and Renaissance sculptures
Where to Stay
2 picks
Palazzo Dipinto
4.9-rated historic palazzo in Lucca's medieval center with elegantly decorated rooms honoring the building's Renaissance origins and sophisticated ambiance
Hotel Ilaria
4.6-rated boutique hotel highly recommended for honeymoons, featuring contemporary luxury within Lucca's historic walls with personalized service
Where to Eat
5 picks
Buca di Sant'Antonio
Historic trattoria in central Lucca serving traditional Lucchese cuisine including farro soup, fresh pasta, and local wines in an intimate setting
Caffetteria San Colombano
Charming caffetteria in a historic palazzo courtyard serving artisanal coffee, pastries, and light lunch in an intimate romantic setting
Ristorante Giglio
Michelin-starred restaurant in Lucca presenting refined Tuscan and Italian cuisine with seasonal ingredients and elegant presentation in intimate dining rooms
Trattoria da Giulio in Pelleria
Family-run trattatoria preparing traditional Lucchese pasta dishes including tortelli and pappardelle using generations-old recipes in warm, convivial atmosphere
Osteria Baralla
Intimate Michelin-starred venue showcasing contemporary interpretations of Lucchese traditions with exceptional wine pairings and personalized tasting menus
What to Do
7 picks
Lucca Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Martino)
Grand Renaissance cathedral featuring ornate marble façade, the revered Volto Santo wooden crucifix, and masterworks by Renaissance artists including intricate interior frescoes
Walls of Lucca Walking Tour
Complete circuit of 2.6-mile Renaissance fortification walls featuring manicured lawns, tree-lined pathways, and panoramic city and Tuscan countryside views at sunset
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
Elliptical plaza built atop Roman amphitheater ruins, surrounded by colorful buildings, cafés, and restaurants with medieval charm and authentic local atmosphere
Private Art Tour of Historic Lucca
Exclusive guided tour of palazzo interiors, Renaissance churches, and hidden artistic treasures with expert commentary on Lucca's role as Renaissance cultural center
Spa Retreat at Hotel Palazzo Treatment
Luxury spa experiences featuring Tuscan wine therapies, couples massages, and organic skincare treatments in serene historic palazzo settings
Lucca Opera or Concert Performance
Evening performances at Teatro dell'Giglio or other historic venues featuring classical music, opera, or chamber performances in ornate Renaissance theaters
Villa La Principessa Tour and Grounds
Historic villa outside Lucca featuring gorgeous manicured gardens, swimming pool, and period rooms reflecting centuries of noble history in serene countryside setting
Good to Know
5 picks
Book Fine Dining in Advance
Michelin-starred restaurants throughout Lucca region require reservations 2-4 weeks ahead, especially for weekend dinners. Contact your hotel concierge for assistance or book directly online.
Explore On Foot or By Bicycle
Lucca's historic center is largely car-free with narrow medieval streets perfect for walking. Rent bicycles to traverse the famous walls and explore surrounding countryside efficiently.
Respect Italian Dining Culture
Lunch typically 1-3pm and dinner starts 8pm; many restaurants close between services. Coffee and pastry for breakfast, aperitivo with snacks before dinner are cultural traditions.
Speak Basic Italian or Learn Key Phrases
While English is spoken in touristy areas, learning simple greetings, 'per favore' (please), and 'grazie' (thank you) earns warmth from locals and enriches cultural connections.
Visit During Shoulder Seasons
Late April-May and September-October offer ideal weather (70-75°F), fewer crowds than summer, and vibrant seasonal produce at markets and restaurants.
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