Lucca
A perfectly preserved walled city where Renaissance walls have become a tree-lined promenade.
About Lucca
Lucca is Tuscany at its most liveable. This elegant city is completely enclosed by Renaissance walls—4 kilometres of them—that have been converted into a tree-lined promenade where locals walk, cycle, and jog above the rooftops. Inside the walls, a compact centro storico of medieval towers, Romanesque churches, and handsome piazzas retains a genteel atmosphere that contrasts with Florence's intensity. The oval Piazza dell'Anfiteatro preserves the shape of the Roman amphitheatre that once stood here. Lucca was home to composer Giacomo Puccini, and his birthplace museum is a pilgrimage for opera lovers. The food is pure Tuscan comfort: tordelli (meat-filled pasta), farro soup, and the famous buccellato sweet bread.
Best Time to Visit
April to October. The Lucca Summer Festival (July) brings major international music acts to the piazzas. September is perfect for cycling the walls and exploring without summer crowds.
Local Tips
- Cycle the walls.
Lucca's 4km tree-lined walls are the city's living room—perfect for a leisurely bike ride. A local will rent you a vintage bike and plan a route that includes the best viewpoints and a gelato stop.
- Climb the Torre Guinigi.
This medieval tower has a garden of oak trees growing on top. A local will tell you to climb it late afternoon for views over the terracotta rooftops to the Apuan Alps, painted gold by the setting sun.
- Visit Puccini's Lucca.
The composer's birthplace is now a museum, but Puccini's presence is felt throughout the city. A local can trace his footsteps to the church where he played organ, the café he frequented, and the annual festival in his honour.
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Maria
Florence, Siena +1
I design personalized journeys in Florence and throughout Tuscany for travelers who want to experience Italy with depth, beauty, and ease. From handpicked boutique hotels and exceptional restaurants to private cultural experiences and seamless logistics, every detail is thoughtfully curated around your style and rhythm. Whether it’s exploring masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery, admiring the Duomo di Firenze, or escaping to the Tuscan countryside, I craft experiences that feel authentic, elevated, and effortlessly Italian. Florence is my home — designing meaningful stays here is my passion. Let’s create your unforgettable Italy. MARIA
Mike
Rome, Florence +7
5.0(2)I’m Mike from Rome with Mike, an American who’s called Italy home since 2003. I help travelers plan relaxed, unforgettable Roman holidays—at a local’s pace. Think hidden corners, underground sites, and experiences not everyone gets to see. No rushing, no tourist traps—just smart planning and insider insight. Whether you’re here for art, history, or food and wine, I’ve got you covered. Let’s slow it down and make Rome feel like home. The goal is simple: to help you experience Rome not as a tourist, but as a Roman.
Massimo
Florence, Pisa +3
My name is Massimo Coppo, I live in Florence, I am a tourist guide in English and French, I also work as a driver and sommelier, I have a degree in philosophy and a degree in literature, I love being able to introduce my country to those who come from far away and always learn something new.
Renata
Florence, Siena +2
I am an expert local guide in Tuscany, half Italian half Brazilian with a great passion for Art! Throughout my life I have done numerous courses about art history, painters, theatre and music. I love going to museums, concerts, art galleries, theatres but also walking in the nature and relaxing on the beach. I love being around people from different cultures. I graduated in Art and Drama and I concluded a Master and a Doctorate Degree in these areas. Professionally, I've been working for 20 years as a touristic guide, a teacher and an actress. I've been living in Florence for 12 years. During this period I have taken people from all over the world to see the gorgeous landscapes in Tuscany and to visit the beautiful medieval cities such as Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Val D'orcia, Chianti, Pisa, Lucca, Volterra and many more. Visiting the historical buildings, the museums, squares and parks with so much history is a unique experience!