Lucca, One Of The Best Weekend Breaks

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.

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.