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Lucca is famous for its intact Renaissance-era city walls. 

Lucca with its cobblestone streets, situated on the River Serchio, was a very pleasant one-day excursion nestled in Tuscany, Central Italy

The great opera composer Giacomo Puccini was born (1858) in this city with its broad, tree-lined pathways. You may want to visit the Casa di Puccini museum. Other legendary names born here are Pope Lucius III and Leo Nomenelli (professional wrestler).

The city is also rich in history with Elisa Bonaparte Baciocchi, announced by her brother Napolean, as the “Queen of Etruria” in 1805.

 
Saint Martin Cathedral, travel and home
Saint Martin Cathedral in Lucca (meaning "illuminated glade"), Italy

How many days…

There was more to see than I expected. So, I guess another day would not have been wasted to further explore the small narrow path that goes around the 16th-century walls. Also, cramming everything into just one day was a bit rushed. Two days in Lucca (one night) is a better choice, thus a perfect weekend getaway!

Best time to visit 

Expect warm days from May to October, with June to August being the summer season.

The peak season in this beautiful region is July and August.  Also, this is the European summer school holiday season. If you want fewer crowds, maybe travel before July and after August.

Winter months range from December to February when it is cool.

Travel tips and tricks

  • You will find a great selection of restaurants. 
  • Make sure your shoes are comfy because you will be doing a lot of walking.
  • We visited in September and the weather was hot and sunny. I was very happy for having sunscreen in my bag.

Things to do

  • Roman amphitheater. (It became a roman village in 180 BC).
  • Cathedral dating back to 1063.
  • Duomo di San Martino, Piazza di San Martino. 
  • Romanesque cathedral dating to 14th century.
  • Torre (tower) Guinigi, and look it has trees on top!
  • Torre (tower) delle Ore is an ancient clock tower.
  • Palazzo Mansi.
  • Saint Michael’s Church. 
  • Saint Frediano’s Church.
  • Shopping and quenching your thirst at Via Fillungo Main street.

Best of where to stay...