Things to do in Lucca...
Walk or Bike the City Walls
The iconic Renaissance walls of Lucca are one of the city's main attractions. You can walk or bike along the top of the walls, enjoying the views of the city, the surrounding countryside, and the beautiful gardens within the walls.
Visit the Historic Center
Lucca's historic center is charming, with cobbled streets, beautiful squares, and medieval architecture. Key spots include:
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro: A stunning oval-shaped square built on the ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheater.
Piazza Napoleone: A grand square with elegant buildings.
Torre Guinigi: A tower with a small garden on top, offering great views over the city.
Explore the Duomo di San Martino
Visit the Cathedral of St. Martin (Duomo di San Martino), a beautiful medieval church with remarkable art and architecture, including a lovely pulpit and stunning frescoes.
Tour the Lucca Botanical Garden
The Orto Botanico di Lucca is a lovely green space where you can enjoy the blooming flowers and peaceful surroundings. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.
Visit the Villas Around Lucca
The area surrounding Lucca is dotted with beautiful historic villas and gardens. A popular day trip is to visit Villa Reale di Marlia, a stunning estate with beautiful gardens, fountains, and a palace. You can also explore Villa Torrigiani for more beautiful countryside escapes.
Enjoy Lucca's Cafes and Restaurants
Lucca has an array of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy the local Tuscan cuisine. Don’t miss trying the tordelli lucchesi (a type of ravioli) or a classic bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak).
Lucca’s Antique Markets
May is also a great time to explore some of the city’s antique markets, especially the Antique Market which often takes place in the city center. You can find unique pieces of furniture, art, jewelry, and more.
Explore the Museums
Lucca is home to a variety of interesting museums, such as:
Museo Nazionale di Villa Guinigi: A museum located in a beautiful villa showcasing Tuscan Renaissance art.
Museo di Arte Contemporanea Lucca: A museum dedicated to contemporary art.
Museo del Fumetto: A museum dedicated to comics, which Lucca has a strong tradition of.
Lucca Film Festival
You might be able to attend the Lucca Film Festival, which is typically held in May. The festival features screenings of international films and special events, attracting filmmakers and movie enthusiasts.