Lucca city breaks

Ringed by Renaissance-era ramparts and rolling Tuscan hills, laid-back Lucca looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a fairytale. Get lost among the tangle of cobbled side streets and sun-kissed piazzas and you’ll soon fall for the charms of this teeny Italian city. There are handsome palaces, beautiful churches, pretty gardens and Roman relics to tick off among the medieval lanes, though hit Piazza San Michele for bustling shops and cafés. As the sun sets on another day of exploration, nights are dedicated to eating and drinking like a local. Join in the fun at a jolly trattoria, share slices at a pizzeria or get cosy at an enoteca (wine bar).

Popular places to stay in Lucca

Dreamy day trips

Lucca’s a brilliant base for exploring more of Tuscany. See the sights of stunning Sienna, the medieval towers of romantic San Gimignano or treasure-stuffed Florence. The bus network is handy for visiting nearby cities but hiring a car is the best way to explore the gorgeous countryside at your own pace.

Verdant vineyards

Love wine? You’ll adore Lucca – it’s in the prime place for sampling locally-made bottles. Explore the idyllic vineyards surrounding the city, with more than 20 wineries to choose from. Fattoria al Dotto is one of our favourites, where you can pair wines with antipasti while soaking up beautiful rural views.

Walk the walls

Trimmed by trees and lush gardens, Lucca’s perfectly preserved city walls are a must-do. Meander along the 4.9km centuries-old promenade that runs along the ramparts and enjoy the sweeping views into the city’s medieval streets. You can even cycle the circuit if you fancy, with bike hire from Piazza Santa Maria.

Hotel Ilaria

Lucca City, Lucca

Our rating

Based on 1619 reviews

Located within the city walls
Charming character
Terrace with whirlpool
60m from the nearest bus stop
Classic style

Best Western Grand Hotel Guinigi

Lucca City, Lucca

Our rating

Based on 1485 reviews

Quiet and relaxing location
Great for a good value stay
80m from the nearest bus stop
2.5km from Torre Guinigi
Gym and Sauna

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Basilica of San Frediano

Lucca

The Basilica of San Frediano is a well-preserved example of Lombard architecture. The striking gold Byzantine mosaic over the entrance was added in the 13th century. Inside leaflets in different languages guide...

Le Mura di Lucca/Lucca City Walls

Lucca

You can’t visit Lucca without exploring Le Mura di Lucca, the city wall dating from the Renaissance era. Built for defence, it later became a pedestrian promenade full of trees and places to sit. Enjoy a taste...

Palazzo Pfanner

Lucca

Palazzo Pfanner is a glorious 17th-century palace with an enchanting garden. Climb the grand outdoor staircase and stroll around the ornamental pond, lemon house and 18th-century statues of Greek gods. Scenes...

Language

Italian

Currency

Euro (€)

Time difference

+1hr

Local beer

£4.30

One-way Ticket (Local Transport)

£1.50

Meal for two

£40.60

Sightseeing

Renaissance-era city walls stand as Lucca’s really famous marvel. There’s a grand Gothic cathedral and characterful neoclassical aqueduct, making this historic city quite charming. If you’re looking for a meeting place, Piazza Napoleone is a majestic square doubling as a hive of activity and was designed by Napoleon’s sister herself!

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Eating and drinking

Among traditional Lucchesi cuisine, the famous focaccia from local bakeries, delightful chocolates and local farro soup should be top of your to-nibble list – all with decadent Italian touches. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for an evening drink, China Massagli is the liqueur of choice after dark.

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Shopping

Shopping addicts will be wide-eyed as Via Fillungo comes into shot. It’s the most popular area for a dash of retail therapy and well worth visiting for its sparkling range of brands and outlets. There are highly recommended alcohol shops dotted about, too – great for picking up a liquid souvenir!

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Getting around

It’s easy to discover Lucca by foot and soak up the sights, but cycling’s the really popular way to get around this old-world city. If your legs become weary, don’t fret – there’s the option to take a bus, or navette, around the city, which usually runs between 6am and 8pm.