What to see and do in Lucca, a real gem in the heart of Tuscany
Are you planning a trip to Lucca and wondering what to see and do? This charming Tuscan town is full of history, culture, and delicious food. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Lucca.
Exploring Lucca’s walls
One of the must-see attractions in Lucca is the city’s historic walls. They are a prominent feature of Lucca since they date back to the 16th century and are some of the best-preserved Renaissance-era walls in Europe.
Nowadays, they are a pedestrian promenade that encircles the historic center and offer beautiful views of the city and surrounding Tuscan countryside.
Exploring the walls on foot is a popular activity for visitors to Lucca. The flat path makes for an easy walk, and several entrances to the walls are located throughout the city. You can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the views or jog along the path for some exercise.
If you feel more adventurous, rent a bike and ride along the walls. Bike rental shops are plentiful in Lucca, and you can easily rent a bike for an hour or a full day. Riding a bike along the walls is a unique way to see the city and offers a different perspective than walking. Plus, you can cover more ground and see more of the city in less time.
The walls definitely offer a unique perspective of the city’s beauty.
The attractions in the historic center
Lucca is renowned as “The city of one hundred churches” because of its abundance of preserved religious buildings. A visit to one of the city’s most significant churches, the Cathedral of San Martino, is highly recommended.
This stunning church is situated in the historic center of Lucca and is home to several impressive works of art, including the famous marble tomb of Ilaria del Carretto, sculpted by Jacopo della Quercia. Additionally, the cathedral features a museum that exhibits a remarkable collection of religious artifacts. A visit to the Cathedral of San Martino is a must for anyone interested in the city’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
Another must-see is the Guinigi Tower is a must. This tower is one of the few remaining towers in Lucca and was built in the 14th century by the wealthy Guinigi family. Climb the 230 steps to the top of the tower and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city.
If you want something more off the beaten path, head to the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. This square is built on the ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheater and features colorful buildings, charming cafes, and artisan shops.
No trip to Lucca is complete without indulging in some delicious Italian food. Be sure to try the local specialty, buccellato, a sweet bread made with anise and raisins. For something savory, try the local pasta dish, tortelli lucchesi, filled with meat.
Finish your day with a delicious meal at one of the local trattorias. The food in Lucca is a highlight of any visit to the city, and you’ll find an abundance of authentic Tuscan cuisine to choose from.
To live a truly authentic experience in Lucca, consider staying at the L’Antica Bifore Guesthouse. Our guesthouse is in the heart of the city, steps away from all the major attractions. With its charming rooms and historic atmosphere, the L’Antica Bifore is the perfect home base for your Tuscan adventure.
