Planning a trip to the city of Florence, Italy? Be sure to make plans to spend at least a day in the lovely city of Lucca. With trains running between the two cities all day long, reaching this city is relatively easy and well worth the trip. The journey to this historic city takes approximately 80 minutes by train one way, which leaves plenty of time to visit the city and be back to your Florence apartments by the end of the day.
Lucca is entirely surrounded by walls and ramparts, providing its visitors with the sense that they are travelling back in time. Atop the walls, foot and bike paths provide tourists with a unique view of the city and the surrounding countryside. From this vantage point, travellers are able to see what soldiers defending the city saw during times of war.
Located in the Piazza San Martino, the Cathedral of St. Martin (Duomo di San Martino) is a lasting work of art that is full of tradition and history. The original church that occupied the site was replaced by the existing Cathedral in the 6th century and has undergone many changes since, including the addition of a tomb for the body of San Regolo which was added in the 8th century.
A local museum where the building is as compelling as the collections it houses is the Museo della Cattedrale. The building has several levels and contains historical objects including wooden sculptures of John the Baptist’s Head and other 16th century artwork. The museum also houses an authentic Francesco Vanni Crucifixion painting which is on display for all to see.
Arguably the most popular attraction in Lucca is the Torre Guinigi which is one of two towers still standing today. The Tower protrudes from the 14th century palace which was once the home of the ruling family of the time. The structure stands at an impressive 44 meters (144 feet) and is accessible via a 230 step stairwell. Upon reaching the top, visitors are treated to an amazing view of the Lucca skyline with the Garafagnana Mountains and Apuan Alps in the background.
Upon conclusion of taking in the sights of the city, sitting down to a nice meal before heading back to Florence is the perfect end to a perfect day. Gli Orti di Via Elisa, a pizzeria located near Porta Elisa at the easternmost gate, is both reasonably priced and full of old-world charm. With instruments lining the walls and a menu full of authentic dishes and some of the best pizza found anywhere, this is a must stop for anyone visiting the city.
When traveling to Lucca, plan on taking at least one full day to take in all the sights of this lovely city. Travelers have been known to stay on more than a single day; as such, a wide variety of accommodation is available in Lucca as well as apartments in Florence. Be sure to take a trip to this beautiful city when visiting Florence, you will not regret it.
