Lucca is a 30-minute trip from Peralta. You can either go by train from Viareggio station to the city center of Lucca or by car.
Lucca, a charming city in Tuscany, is renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance walls and cobblestone streets. Known as the city of a hundred churches due to its numerous historic religious buildings, Lucca offers a blend of history, art, and culture. Visitors can explore its iconic landmarks such as the Guinigi Tower, Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, and the stunning Cathedral of San Martino. The city is also famous for its vibrant piazzas, local cuisine, and picturesque landscapes. With its medieval charm, captivating architecture, and warm atmosphere, Lucca is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Italian experience.
TOP 5 ACTIVITIES
1. Guinigi Tower (Torre Guinigi)
A medieval tower with ancient oak trees at the top, offering panoramic views of Lucca’s rooftops and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
Official website: https://www.turismo.lucca.it/en/torre-guinigi
2. Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
A uniquely oval-shaped piazza built on the remains of a Roman amphitheater, surrounded by colorful buildings and charming cafés.
Info: https://www.turismo.lucca.it/en/piazza-anfiteatro
3. Lucca Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Martino)
Known for its stunning Romanesque architecture and the Volto Santo, a wooden crucifix said to be carved by Nicodemus.
Official website: https://www.museocattedralelucca.it/en/
4. Le Mura di Lucca (The Walls of Lucca)
Renaissance walls encircling the old town, perfect for a scenic walk or bike ride.
Info: https://www.visittuscany.com/en/attractions/historic-walls-in-lucca/
5. Puccini Museum
Birthplace of the famous composer Giacomo Puccini, showcasing his life and works.
Official website: Puccini Museum
These are the must-see places in Lucca, offering a perfect mix of history, art, and breathtaking views!
SHOPPING (LUXURY AND THRIFT SHOP)
Lucca is a delightful destination for shopping, featuring a mix of luxury boutiques, artisan workshops, and charming thrift stores. Here are some must-visit locations:
1. Via Fillungo
Description: The main shopping street in Lucca, offering a mix of luxury brands, local boutiques, and artisan shops.
Brands available: Gucci, Max Mara, and local Tuscan artisans.
2. Cecchi De Rossi
Address: Via Fillungo, Lucca.
Products: Luxurious leather goods crafted using natural dyes and traditional methods.
Website: Cecchi De Rossi
3. Outlet Barberino Designer
Address: Via Meucci, Barberino Tavarnelle, about an hour from Lucca.
Products: Discounted high-end brands like Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and Versace.
Website: Barberino Outlet
Lucca is also known for its unique thrift stores, offering a mix of vintage and sustainable fashion. Here are the best thrift stores in Lucca to explore:
1. Humana Vintage
Description: Offers a curated selection of vintage clothing with proceeds supporting humanitarian projects.
Address: Via Santa Croce, Lucca.
Website: Humana Vintage
2. Vintage Market Lucca
Description: A popular market with a wide range of vintage clothing, accessories, and antiques.
Address: Piazza San Giusto, Lucca.
Info: Check local listings for dates.
3. Sophie’s Choice Vintage
Description: Known for its elegant vintage clothing and accessories from the 1920s to the 1980s.
Address: Via San Paolino, Lucca.
Website: Sophie’s Choice
These stores offer an exclusive shopping experience, blending high-quality retro fashion with Lucca’s historical charm.
EVENTS IN LUCCA
Lucca hosts several highly anticipated annual events that attract both locals and tourists. Here are the top five:
1. Lucca Summer Festival
Date: June – July
Description: A major music festival featuring international rock and pop artists, held in Piazza Napoleone. Major artists like Kiss, Elton John, Justin Bieber, Bob Dylan and many others performed previously.
https://www.luccasummerfestival.it/
2. Lucca Comics & Games
Date: End of October – Early November
Description: One of Europe’s largest comic and gaming conventions, attracting fans of manga, cosplay, and video games from around the world.
https://www.luccacomicsandgames.com/it/
3. Puccini Festival
Date: July – August
Description: An open-air opera festival dedicated to Giacomo Puccini, held at Torre del Lago, near Lucca.
4. Settembre Lucchese
Date: September
Description: A traditional fair with food stalls, parades, and the Luminara di Santa Croce, a candlelit procession through the city streets.
https://www.turismo.lucca.it/settembre-lucchese-24-tradizioni
5. Festa della Esaltazione della Santa Croce
Date: September 13th
Description: Celebrates the Holy Cross with a solemn procession and a stunning display of lights along the city walls.
https://www.vaticannews.va/it/festivita-liturgiche/esaltazione-della-croce.html
These events bring Lucca to life, offering a unique mix of tradition, music, art, and culture throughout the year!
