Should I stay in Lucca?


Should I stay in Lucca? Lucca is brilliantly located as a base, with local trains darting Florence and Pisa every hour. Generally, I recommend staying in the historical center or the surrounding countryside. Although Lucca stretches past its medieval walls, the modern city does not hold the same charm as the old.


What is the best base for walking in Tuscany?

Garfagnana, close to the much-loved trio of Lucca, Pisa and Florence, is one of the best-kept secrets in Italy and the perfect base for guided walking holidays in Tuscany.


Where is the best base to stay in Tuscany?

Where to base yourself in Tuscany
  • Florence. Florence is by far Tuscany most popular destination, regarded as the birthplace of Renaissance. ...
  • Siena. ...
  • Lucca. ...
  • Arezzo. ...
  • San Gimignano. ...
  • Pitigliano. ...
  • Pienza. ...
  • Chianti Wine Region.


Is Lucca too touristy?

While it's still nowhere near the popular destination that Florence and Pisa are, Lucca is no longer a hidden gem. It's definitely on the radar of travelers these days. It's an especially popular day trip destination and summer days can feel crowded as you walk around the Old Town.


Why is Lucca famous?

Lucca is noted for its well-preserved ramparts (1561–1650) and has many fine 16th-century palaces, notably the Palazzo Pretorio and the Palazzo della Prefettura, the former grand ducal palace, now housing the National Art Gallery. There are several other art collections, libraries, and archives.


Is it better to stay in Lucca or Florence?

Both Lucca and Siena were a little more intimate and relaxed than Florence, especially at night, although Florence was fantastic. Either way try to visit all of these places as each is worth the effort.


Should I go to Lucca or Siena?

Lucca is quieter, smaller easier to get around and has a more small town feel. It does have some great medieval art, as Ruskin noted. Siena is also more central and a good base for visiting the sights of central Tuscany, like Chianti or San Gim. You pays your money and you takes your choice.


Is Lucca a good base for Tuscany?

Train links make Lucca a good base for trips to other parts of Tuscany. Journey time to Florence is 1hr 20min direct, with trains roughly hourly (€8.10/£7.15). Prato and Pistoia enroute both have fine historic centres worth exploring.