Things To Do
in Aulla
Aulla is a historic town in Lunigiana, perched above the Magra river and surrounded by rolling Tuscan-Ligurian hills. Its skyline is dominated by the Rocca di Aulla, a fortress that overlooks the old town and valley below. The narrow stone streets, arcades, and piazzas breathe medieval character, while small shops and trattorie invite you to linger.
As a gateway to nearby castles, riverside paths and hillside villages, Aulla blends heritage with easy access to nature and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Aulla, take a moment to soak in the charming medieval atmosphere of the town. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets and marvel at the historic buildings that date back to the Roman era. Stop by a local café for a delightful Italian breakfast and a cappuccino.
Visit the impressive Castello di Aulla, where you can explore its ancient walls and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a traditional trattoria, savoring local dishes made with fresh ingredients. Spend some time in the town's market square, mingling with locals and picking up some artisan products.
As the sun sets, find a cozy pizzeria for dinner, indulging in authentic Italian flavors. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals as you enjoy your meal. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll to appreciate the illuminated buildings and serene ambiance of the town.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby Abbey of San Caprasio, an intricate monument showcasing Romanesque architecture. Take time to admire the ancient frescoes and serene surroundings that bring peace to the spirit. Enjoy a light breakfast in a nearby café that offers local pastries.
Post-lunch, venture out to a local vineyard for a wine tasting experience, immersing yourself in the traditions of winemaking. Learn about the various grape varietals and the art of pairing wine with local dishes. This is a perfect opportunity to buy a few bottles to take home.
Return to Aulla for dinner at a local osteria, where you can try hearty regional specialties. Engage with fellow diners to share food stories and enhance your cultural experience. Wrap up the evening with a gelato as you stroll through the town, enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🧀Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
| 🚌Public transport pass (weekly) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich medieval heritage and scenic landscapes
- Easy access to both inland hills and coastal areas
- Relaxed pace with welcoming locals
- Quality regional cuisine and fresh markets
- Limited nightlife and larger-city amenities
- Some services may operate on reduced hours in off-season
- Public transport can be infrequent on Sundays in rural areas
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi può consigliare un buon ristorante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in Aulla
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval fortress perched above the town, with sweeping views of the Magra valley and surrounding hills, especially breathtaking at sunrise or sunset.
Historic stone bridge crossing the Magra River, perfect for long-exposure shots of flowing water and reflections.
Historic squares lined with arcades and stone facades, ideal for atmospheric street photography.
A short trip away, the castle and surrounding terraces provide dramatic panoramic compositions over Lunigiana.
Coastal estuary with water, reeds and light-filled skies—great for landscape and sunset photography.
Food in Aulla
Aulla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pale, square pancakes often served with pesto or tomato sauce as a Lunigiana specialty.
Must-Try!
Thin flatbreads baked on terracotta plates, traditionally eaten with cheese, olives or cured meats.
Savory chickpea pancake found in coastal and inland eateries; great with a drizzle of olive oil.
A rustic cake or savory pie featuring local ingredients, sometimes with chestnuts or greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where you can taste and buy local olive oil, cheeses, bread, produce and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Buonasera. A polite, relaxed demeanor is appreciated. Use small talk in social settings and thank you with Grazie.
Modest dress when visiting churches; avoid loud behavior in quiet historical areas, especially early mornings or devotion times.
Safety
Tipping in Aulla
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. Round up the bill or leave around 5-10% for good service unless a service charge is already included.
Cash and cards are commonly accepted; some small shops and portions of the countryside may prefer cash or have limited card capability. Contactless payments are increasingly used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make it ideal for walking and urban photography. Expect seasonal markets and local festivals as the countryside greens up.
Warm days with sunshine; stay hydrated and enjoy riverside and coastal escapes; evenings are pleasant for al fresco dining and strolls.
Golden light and harvest flavors; good for hikes in the hills and town events celebrating local cuisine.
Cool and wetter months with fewer crowds; the town feels quieter but nearby castles and viewpoints can still be accessible in dry spells.
Aulla at Night
Hiking in Aulla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short circular trail around the fortress offering viewpoints over the valley.
A hillside loop from Fosdinovo leading to scenic overlooks and the Malaspina castle ruins.
Coastal route along the Magra estuary with sea views and wildlife opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Aulla by plane.
Approximately 100-120 km away; major gateway with frequent international connections; train or drive to Aulla via Ligurian coast or inland routes.
About 140-160 km away; convenient for northern routes and connections to Liguria and Tuscany.
Around 180-220 km away; longer drive or train ride, suitable for a longer Italian itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many local families live in and around Aulla; family-friendly restaurants and parks exist in the town.
Aulla has a steady elder population, reflecting a traditional, slower-paced lifestyle.
Visitors seeking medieval heritage, scenic views and day trips to Fosdinovo, Pontremoli and Bocca di Magra.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Locally popular and played in schools and clubs; matches add regional flavor to weekends.
Hilly road routes through Lunigiana attract cyclists and enthusiasts.
Numerous scenic trails in the surrounding hills and along rivers attract outdoor enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aulla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pasta, risotto and vegetable-forward dishes are available. Ask for pesto without cheese if avoiding dairy, and request vegetable toppings for panigacci or testaroli.