The moment I stepped foot in the ancient walled city I knew I belonged there. It never ceases to amaze me how I feel more at home in foreign countries.
Lucca is a lesser known location in the Tuscany region of Italy, although it is starting to gain popularity among tourists-and for good reason. Its immaculately preserved 16th century renaissance walls enclose the entire historic district. The historic city boasts traditional Tuscan architecture, cobblestone streets and true Italian charm. If you are looking to immerse yourself in Italian culture and travel like a local, Lucca is a must see city on your Italy itinerary.
And for my fellow traveling families-Italy is extremely kid friendly! Don’t be afraid to venture over to Italy for your next family adventure. Lucca is the perfect location to let you kids get a taste of authentic Italian life.
How to spend a day in Lucca
Walk or Cycle the Ancient City Walls
The walls surrounding the historic city are quite symbolic. They preserve the old city by keeping the modern world out, which is is one of my favorite parts about Lucca. If you have been around Europe, you probably have noticed that modernization and chain restaurants have taken over. Luckily, the moment you step through the gates of Lucca you are greeted with true Italian authenticity.
The walls of Lucca are a total of 4km. Taking a leisurely walk or bike ride gives you views of the Tuscan countryside on one side and the beautiful city of Lucca on the other. Many locals take their nightly passeggiata along the city’s walls. We rented bikes from one of the many bike rental shops and loved every minute.
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
A real life Roman amphitheater turned into the famous oval shaped piazza that is now a bustling tourist attraction. I wouldn’t recommended dining here, but it isn’t a bad place to sit and have a spritz and soak up the atmosphere.
Guinigi Tower
Torre Guinigi is unmistakable by the 7 holly oak growing out of the top. Not every day that you see trees growing on top of a building that is 45 meters high. You can climb 232 steps to the top to get a fantastic view of the city.
Via Fillungo
Lucca offers an authentic cobblestone street, only open to pedestrians. Look no further than Via Fillungo. This ancient street crosses the entire walled city and is lined with shops, restaurants and is brimming with locals.
Piazza San Michele
This piazza, with its stunning church, was my favorite place in Lucca. I loved to sit and enjoy appertivo while my daughter ran free with the pigeons.
Piazza Napoleone
Welcome to the largest square in Lucca. It is another lovely spot to sit and converse with the locals, have your kids play in the piazza and grab a bite to eat. Many markets and musical festivities take place here as well.
Botanical Gardens
These beautiful gardens were founded over 200 years ago and provide a green oasis in the heart of the walled city. The gardens extend for 2 acres in the southeast corner of the city. It is a wonderful place to relax if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Where to eat
You can’t go to Italy without indulging in endless pasta, pizza and gelato, am I right? Here are my top recommendations for traditional Italian cuisine in Lucca.
Pasticceria Pinelli
This bakery encompasses everything that an authentic Italian bakery should posses. The Italians lining up outside the door for their morning cornetti, Italian business men drinking their espresso at the bar with their newspapers…and not a single english speaking person. I highly recommend getting an assortment of their pastries and a cappuccino. Remember, a cornetto (Italian croissant) and a cappuccino is the gold standard for a traditional Italian breakfast! Grab a table across the street and enjoy your breakfast with the locals.
Da Nonna Clara
Did someone say ravioli? Head to Da Nonna Clara for fresh made ravioli and an unforgettable Italian ambiance.
Pasticceria Dianda
I found this pasticceria by chance when I needed to stop in somewhere to escape the rain. I ended up returning here twice! It is a small little bakery that had delicious treats and coffee. I am pretty sure I was the only foreigner inside each time I visited.
SUDD Pizzeria
Don’t have time to visit Naples and try traditional pizza from that region? You are in luck. SUDD serves Neapolitan pizza that attracts all the locals.
Da Umberto
This was the best pizza I have ever had in my life, and my daughter agreed. I have no other words, you’ll have to try it for yourself. Make sure you get a reservation! It is located in Piazza Napoleon. I recommend sitting outside to soak in the atmosphere of the bustling piazza.
Giusti
This is a little hole in the wall bakery that specializes in focaccia. Lucky for us, it was right outside our AirBNB. Everything we tried was absolutely delicious! The focaccia pizza was a perfect afternoon snack for walking around the city.
Osteria Baralla
If you are visiting Lucca, it is a must that you order Tordelli Lucchese. It is a traditional pasta dish from Lucca. The dish consists of large ravioli stuffed with meat and smothered in a red sauce. I was told directly from the locals that Osteria Baralla prepares the best in the city.
I highly recommend that you eat gelato every day that you are in Italy. These are my top picks in Lucca for authentic Italian gelato. Remember, avoid the places that have high piles of overly colorful gelato. Those aren’t made with authentic ingredients and tend to be tourist traps.
Paniko
Veneta
Momo Gelato
Have you been to Lucca? If you haven’t, make sure you add it to your Italy itinerary! You won’t regret visiting this charming Italian city.
Planning to visit other regions of Italy? Be sure to check out my tips for Rome and Florence!
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