Lucca

Day Trips

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying a fresh pastry and a robust Italian coffee. Afterward, stroll along the ancient walls of Lucca, taking in views of the surrounding countryside and the charming rooftops of the city. Visit the iconic Guinigi Tower, where you can climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views.

For lunch, indulge in traditional Lucchese cuisine at a rustic trattoria, savoring dishes like tortelli lucchese. Post-lunch, explore the stunning Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, where the ancient Roman amphitheater once stood, now filled with shops and cafes. Spend some time visiting the Basilica di San Frediano, known for its beautiful mosaics and serene atmosphere.

As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk through the cobblestone streets, allowing the warm glow of street lamps to illuminate your path. Dine at a local ristorante, enjoying regional wines paired with seasonal dishes. Cap off your evening with a gelato from a nearby gelateria while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Lucca's nighttime ambience.

Begin your day with a visit to the Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Mansi, where you can admire exquisite Baroque art and historic furnishings. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Church of San Michele in Foro, known for its stunning facade and intricate sculptures. Enjoy a quaint coffee break in one of the nearby piazzas, surrounded by local artists displaying their work.

After lunch, head to the Lucca Center of Contemporary Art to explore thought-provoking exhibitions by both Italian and international artists. Spend some time wandering through the charming artisan shops, where you can find unique handcrafted souvenirs. Consider visiting the Puccini Museum to learn about the famous composer who was born in Lucca.

Enjoy dinner at a cozy osteria, where you can delight in local specialties while listening to live music. After your meal, take a leisurely evening walk along the city walls, where you can reflect on the day’s artistic adventures. End your night with a glass of limoncello at a rooftop bar, overlooking the illuminated cityscape.

Rent a bicycle and set off on a refreshing ride around Lucca's well-preserved Renaissance walls, enjoying the lush greenery and vibrant flowers lining the pathways. Stop at various lookout points to capture stunning photos of the city and its surroundings. Pause for a mid-morning snack at a quaint café, savoring a slice of torta di ceci, a chickpea flour cake popular in the region.

After biking, return your bicycle and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a pizzeria known for its wood-fired pizzas. Post-lunch, explore the Botanical Garden of Lucca, where you can unwind amidst diverse plant species and serene landscapes. Don't miss the chance to join a local cooking class in the early afternoon, learning to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes.

After your cooking class, enjoy the fruits of your labor as you dine on the meal you prepared, paired with local wines. Take a twilight stroll through the streets of Lucca, where the atmosphere is filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local theater, potentially catching a performance or concert.

Set off early for a short train ride to Pisa, where your first stop will be the iconic Leaning Tower. Marvel at this architectural wonder, and consider climbing the tower for a unique perspective of the surrounding area. Grab a quick breakfast at a nearby café, enjoying a classic Italian cornetto.

After exploring the tower, visit the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the Baptistery and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a trattoria, sampling the delicious local cuisine. Spend your afternoon wandering the streets of Pisa, discovering quaint shops and the beautiful Arno River.

Return to Lucca and unwind with a casual dinner at a local eatery, reflecting on your day in Pisa. As the evening settles in, consider attending a local concert or cultural event, often held in historic venues throughout the city. End your night with a stroll along the illuminated city walls, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of Lucca at night.

Embark on a scenic drive into the surrounding hills of Lucca, where vineyards and olive groves create a picturesque landscape. Begin your day with a visit to a local vineyard, where you will learn about the winemaking process and taste some exquisite local wines. Enjoy a light breakfast at the vineyard, featuring fresh bread, cheeses, and locally sourced produce.

After your wine tasting, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a charming agriturismo, where you can savor traditional dishes made from ingredients sourced directly from the farm. Spend your afternoon exploring the beautiful countryside, perhaps stopping at small villages like Montecarlo or Collodi, known for its enchanting gardens and historical sites. Take the time to visit a local olive oil mill to learn about the production of this quintessential Italian staple.

Return to Lucca and relax with a dinner at a wine bar, where you can pair regional dishes with the wines you sampled earlier in the day. Engage with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and recommendations over a glass of Chianti. End your evening with a stroll through the streets, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and perhaps catching a street performer or local musician in action.

Start your day with a visit to the local market, Mercato di Lucca, where you can browse fresh produce, cheeses, and meats while mingling with local vendors. Sample some local delights, like prosciutto and pecorino cheese, as you gather ingredients for a cooking adventure later. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café, fueling up for the day ahead.

Join a cooking class where you will learn to prepare traditional Lucchese dishes, guided by a passionate local chef. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch, indulging in the dishes you created alongside a selection of local wines. Spend the afternoon visiting local pastry shops, tasting sweet treats like Buccellato, a traditional sweet bread of Lucca.

For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where innovative takes on Tuscan cuisine will delight your palate. Pair your dishes with exquisite local wines, enhancing the flavors of your meal. Conclude your night with a visit to a wine bar, sipping on a glass of Vin Santo while enjoying the relaxed ambiance.

Set off for a day of adventure in the nearby Garfagnana region, known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities. Begin with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before embarking on a hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the Apuan Alps. Enjoy the fresh mountain air as you trek through lush forests and past cascading waterfalls.

After hiking, enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot, surrounded by nature and the sounds of the wilderness. Post-lunch, consider engaging in activities like rock climbing or canoeing in the Serchio River, where you can experience the thrill of outdoor adventure. Alternatively, visit the charming town of Barga, known for its medieval architecture and artistic heritage.

Return to Lucca and unwind with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on your day spent in nature. Choose a restaurant with outdoor seating to savor the evening breeze and view of the stars. End your day by enjoying a leisurely stroll through Lucca's historic streets, allowing the day's experiences to settle in.

Take the day to unwind by starting with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, enjoying fresh fruit and baked goods. After breakfast, head to a local spa for a morning of relaxation, indulging in massages and rejuvenating treatments inspired by traditional Italian wellness practices. Spend some time in the sauna or steam room, allowing your body to detox and recharge.

After your spa session, enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, savoring fresh salads and healthy options. Spend your afternoon walking through the serene parks of Lucca, such as the Parco Fluviale del Serchio, where you can unwind by the riverside. Consider visiting a local artisan shop to browse unique handmade products and enjoy a bit of self-care shopping.

Choose a tranquil restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in comforting dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Afterward, take a leisurely evening walk through the illuminated streets, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of Lucca at night. End your spa day with a glass of herbal tea or a calming digestif at a local bar, reflecting on a day dedicated to relaxation.

Spend your morning visiting the bustling local market, where you can interact with vendors and sample regional delicacies. Browse through stalls filled with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade goods, picking up local ingredients for a workshop later. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh bread and local jams at a nearby café, fueling up for an exciting day ahead.

Join a craft workshop where you can learn traditional Lucchese skills, such as pottery or leatherworking, guided by local artisans. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling dishes that highlight the flavors of Lucca. Afterward, explore the local shops to find unique handcrafted items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

For dinner, choose a restaurant that specializes in local cuisine, allowing you to indulge in the flavors of the region. Attend an evening cooking demonstration or food tasting event, where you can learn more about Lucchese culinary traditions. End your day with a stroll through the charming streets, relishing the vibrant atmosphere of Lucca.