Overview of Lucca
- Bike on Lucca’s Walls
- Visit San Michele in Foro Church
- Stop in San Martino Cathedral
- Explore the Church and Baptistery of San Giovanni
- Stroll Around the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
- Climb the Guinigi Tower
- Shop Via Fillungo and Torre delle Ore
- Visit the Villa Guinigi National Museum
- Relax in the Botanic Garden
- Take in the Architecture of San Frediano Church
- Go to the Puccini House Museum
- Villas and Gardens in the Countryside of Lucca
Bike on Lucca’s Walls
Address
Porta san Donato, Via delle Mura Urbane, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
Phone: +39 0583 2213
The walls surrounding Lucca’s historic center are among the best-preserved ramparts in Italy. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride atop the wall. In the 1800s, the wall’s surface was transformed into a lush park with trees and grass covering the area. Overall, the walls extend over four kilometers and feature six gates along with 11 bastions, making this a must-visit location.
Visit San Michele in Foro Church
Address
P.za San Michele, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
Phone: +39 0583 53576
San Michele Church is located in a vibrant square, originally home to the Roman Forum. This lively square is surrounded by charming medieval buildings housing cafes and shops. The stunning marble church, constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries, features a magnificent Romanesque facade. Topped by a statue of Archangel San Michele, this church is both an architectural and cultural landmark in Lucca.
Stop in San Martino Cathedral
Address
Piazza San Martino, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
Lucca’s San Martino Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Martin, is surrounded by remarkable medieval structures. Originally built in the 12th century, this Romanesque style cathedral stands out with its elaborately decorated marble facade. Next to the cathedral, the tall 13th-century bell tower adds to the stunning architecture. Inside, visitors can admire Gothic elements and significant artworks, including the Volto Santo and the 15th-century tomb, Ilaria del Carretto.
Explore the Church and Baptistery of San Giovanni and Reparata
Address
Piazza S. Giovanni, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
Phone: +39 0583 490530
San Giovanni Church, originally built in the 12th century, features some remarkable Romanesque characteristics. Visitors can explore underground to view archaeological excavations from the first century BC to the 11th century AD, showcasing Roman remains and an early Christian church. Additionally, the church hosts music performances each evening, enriching the cultural experience in Lucca.
Stroll Around the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
Address
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is a unique oval-shaped piazza, constructed where a Roman amphitheater once stood. Remnants of the original second-century structure are still visible, allowing visitors to appreciate the blend of history and modern life. The piazza is filled with lively shops, cafes, and restaurants, creating a vibrant atmosphere. During the summer months, it serves as a venue for various open-air music performances.
Climb the Guinigi Tower
Address
Torre Guinigi, Via Sant’Andrea, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
Ascend the 130 stairs to the top of the Guinigi Tower for breathtaking views of Lucca and its picturesque surroundings. The Guinigi Tower is easily recognizable, featuring an oak tree adorning its summit. Nestled on Via Guinigi, this medieval structure offers a glimpse into Lucca’s architectural history.
Shop Via Fillungo and Torre delle Ore
Address
Via Fillungo, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
Lucca presents an excellent shopping opportunity, particularly along Via Fillungo, the main shopping street located in the historic center. The pedestrian-friendly street features a variety of stores, from gourmet food shops to boutique clothing stores. Along the way, you can also find the Torre delle Ore, or clock tower, which offers another chance for a unique climb.
Visit the Villa Guinigi National Museum
Address
Via della Quarquonia, 4, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
Phone: +39 0583 496033
The Villa Guinigi National Museum, located in a historic 15th-century villa, showcases local artifacts and artworks spanning from prehistoric times to the 17th century. Highlights include a vast collection of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance art, featuring remarkable decorations and intricately made wood inlays. Combination tickets allow access to both Villa Guinigi and the National Museum in Palazzo Mansi, which boasts stunning paintings and rich frescoes from the palatial residence.
Relax in the Botanic Garden
Lucca’s botanic garden offers a serene escape featuring a small lake, collections of mountain plants, succulents, and medicinal herbs. Visitors can unwind amidst nature, away from the bustle of the city. The garden also hosts evening concerts during the summer months, adding to its charm.
Take in the Architecture of San Frediano Church
Address
Piazza S. Frediano, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
Phone: +39 349 844 0290
The San Frediano Church features an extraordinary 13th-century Byzantine-style mosaic covering its facade, predominantly made with gold leaf that glimmers in the sunlight. Originally constructed in the 6th century and later remodeled in the 12th century, the church also houses a Romanesque baptismal font and numerous artworks, including the mummified body of Santa Zita.
Go to the Puccini House Museum
Address
Viale Giacomo Puccini, 266, 55049 Torre del Lago Puccini LU, Italy
Phone: +39 0584 341445
The renowned opera composer Puccini was born in Lucca, and his birthplace is now a museum. Visitors can explore his piano, musical scores, and various memorabilia reflecting his illustrious career, alongside a bronze statue of Puccini in the nearby piazza.
Villas and Gardens in the Countryside of Lucca
Exploring the villas and gardens near Lucca makes for a delightful day trip, whether by bicycle or car. This scenic excursion adds an enriching dimension to your experience of this enchanting Italian region.
