Lucca, Italy – Discover the Best Things to Do

1. Introduction

Lucca is a small city located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, known for its picturesque streets, historic city walls, and delicious food and wine. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Lucca has plenty to offer. In this blog post, we’ll share the top things to do in Lucca to help you plan your trip.

2. Exploring Lucca’s Historic City Walls

Lucca is famous for its well-preserved Renaissance-era walls that encircle the historic center of the city. You can take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. The walls are also home to several parks and gardens, making them a great place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
• To explore the walls, simply enter through one of the gates and start walking or biking. There are several bike rental shops in Lucca where you can rent a bike for a few hours or a full day.
• Don’t miss the panoramic views from the Baluardo San Colombano, one of the most scenic spots on the walls.

3. Visiting Piazza dell’Anfiteatro

Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is a charming oval-shaped square that was built on the site of an ancient Roman amphitheater. The square is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, and is a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and people-watch.
• To visit Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, simply head to the center of Lucca’s historic district. The square is easily recognizable by its distinctive oval shape and colorful buildings.
• Grab a coffee or gelato at one of the cafes around the square and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

4. Climbing the Guinigi Tower

The Guinigi Tower is one of Lucca’s most recognizable landmarks, known for its distinctive tree-topped roof. The tower was built in the 14th century and offers stunning views of the city from its rooftop terrace.

• To climb the Guinigi Tower, head to the tower entrance located in the historic center of Lucca. There is an admission fee to enter the tower.
• Be prepared to climb several flights of stairs to reach the rooftop terrace, but the views are well worth the effort.

5. Discovering Lucca’s Churches

Lucca is home to several beautiful churches, each with their own unique history and architecture. Some of the most famous churches in Lucca include the Cathedral of San Martino, the Basilica di San Frediano, and the Church of San Michele in Foro.
• To visit Lucca’s churches, simply head to the historic center of the city. Many of the churches are located within walking distance of each other.
• Check the opening hours of the churches before you go, as they may be closed during certain times of the day or week.

6. Biking on the Lucca Walls

Biking on the Lucca walls is a popular activity for visitors to the city, offering scenic views of the city and surrounding countryside. There are several bike rental shops in Lucca where you can rent a bike for a few hours or a full day.

• To rent a bike, head to one of the bike rental shops in Lucca. Many of the rental shops are located near the entrances to the city walls.
• Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as well as a helmet. Follow the rules of the road and be aware of other bikers and pedestrians on the walls.

7. Sampling Local Cuisine

Lucca is known for its delicious food and wine, with many local specialties to try. Some of the most popular dishes in Lucca include cecina (a type of chickpea flour pancake), tortelli lucchesi (a type of stuffed pasta), and farro soup (a hearty soup made with spelt).

• To sample local cuisine, head to one of the many restaurants and cafes in Lucca. Look for traditional dishes on the menu, and don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations.
• Pair your meal with a glass of local wine, such as Sangiovese or Vermentino.

8. Suggested Itinerary for a Day in Lucca:

If you’re planning a trip to Lucca, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

• Start the day by exploring the city walls, either by walking or biking.
• Visit the Cathedral of San Martino and marvel at the stunning artworks and architecture.
• Grab a coffee or gelato at one of the cafes on Piazza dell’Anfiteatro and enjoy the local atmosphere.
• Climb the Guinigi Tower for panoramic views of the city.
• Stop by a local restaurant for lunch and try some traditional Tuscan dishes.
• Shop for local products and souvenirs in the historic center of Lucca.
• End the day by biking on the Lucca walls and enjoying the scenic views.

Conclusion

Lucca, Italy is a city that should not be missed on any trip to Tuscany. With its well-preserved city walls, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in Lucca. From exploring the city walls to trying local specialties like buccellato, there are countless things to do and see in this charming city. By following the tips and suggestions in this guide, visitors can make the most of their time in Lucca and experience all that the city has to offer. So start planning your trip today and get ready to discover the best of Lucca, Italy.