Things to Do and See in Lucca

When visiting Lucca, you should start in the historic center and then venture beyond the city walls—which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries—to admire the sights that make this province so special. The historic center has preserved its medieval character intact, with picturesque alleyways and squares flanked by towers, terracotta-clad houses with loggias, and palaces. In particular, we recommend strolling along one of the most picturesque streets: Via Fillungo, the main thoroughfare of the medieval town, surrounded by stately palaces and ancient towers, including the famous Torre delle Ore and Via Guinigi. Throughout the rest of the province, there are numerous tourist itineraries for exploring the marvelous villas built from the late 16th century to the mid-19th century as country residences for wealthy landowners. A visit to the medieval castles scattered throughout the Lucca Plain is a must; among the historic medieval towns, Altopascio stands out—thanks to its location along the Via Francigena route—and boasts Romanesque-style buildings such as churches and the famous bell tower. The tourist destinations known for their social scene and beach life include Viareggio—famous for its Carnival, beaches, and nightclubs—as well as Forte dei Marmi, Pietrasanta, and Camaiore.