Towns and cities in Tuscany
Lucca Travel Guide
Framed by the verdant Apuan Mountains to the north, Lucca is an irresistibly pretty, charmingly atmospheric, and culture-packed town. Its panoramic, tree-topped walls are a delight to stroll around, and its streets and piazzas are lined with architectural treasures, independent shops, and a welcoming array of restaurants, cafés and bars.
Villa Matchmaking service
Because our local experts have personally visited each of our destinations, we know exactly what makes them special. Tell us what your ultimate villa holiday looks like, and allow us take care of the rest
About the town
Luccca's long history, which predates the Etruscans, was set in stone by the Romans, who laid down a street plan that largely survives today. For some 500 years, from the middle of the 12th century, Lucca was, like Venice, an independent republic. Most of what you will see - from the numerous churches, to the elegant palazzi that line the streets - date from this period.
Things to see in Lucca
- Do the circular park walk: Lucca's tree-lined walls are nearly 20m wide and 4.2km long, so in essence it's a linear park. Walking around the walls will give you a great sense of the old town, and there are several places where you can pop down for a drink or to explore something that's caught your eye.
- Have a night at the opera: the town's most famous son is the composer Giacomo Puccini. He's honoured each year with a open-air opera festival in nearby Torre del Lago, where the maestro had his summer house. If you're in the area between mid-July and the beginning of September, it's not to be missed.
- Visit three piazze: Lucca's three main squares - Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, Piazza Napoleone, and Piazza San Michele - provide a great snapshot of the town's history (as well as a good selection of bars and restaurants). The first traces the outline of the Roman amphitheatre that once stood there; the second is home to the imposing and handsome Palazzo Ducale; the third is overlooked by the town's stunning cathedral and campanile.
- Take in a view like no other: the 45m-high Torre Guinigi is one of only two towers (out of around 130) still standing in the centre of Lucca. You'll have to climb up 230 steps, but at the top, under the shade of a copse of holm oaks, you'll be able to take in breathtaking, 360-degree panoramas over the town and the surrounding countryside.
Your keys to our house
Sign up to our newsletter for beautiful villas, destinations and things to do
Voted best villa rental company in the world seven years in a row
