Lucca and its surroundings: elegance, historic walls, hills, and adventure

If you are planning a holiday in Tuscany and wish to discover the secrets of one of the region's most fascinating areas, Lucca is the perfect cornerstone for an extraordinary itinerary, ideal to combine with the nearby wonders of Pisa and Pistoia (find out how to plan the perfect trip in our guide to Three nearby destinations combining culture, countryside and seaside charm in the heart of Tuscany).

Lucca is an open-air parlor that wins you over at first sight. This area offers a flawless balance between the sophistication of the city and the vibrancy of its surroundings, which stretch from the hills of wine and contemporary art all the way to the foothills of the Garfagnana and the beaches of Versilia.

Here is our agile guide to making sure you don't miss the best of Lucca and its surroundings, whether you are staying for a weekend or have a week at your disposal. To delve deeper into the most authentic soul of this territory, we also recommend reading our comprehensive guide dedicated to Lucca and surroundings: the perfect slow Tuscany escape.

What to do in the city… for a short stay

• Cycle along the Renaissance Walls: This is the best way to start. Four kilometers of a fully pedestrian and cycle-friendly tree-lined avenue surrounding the historic center, offering a unique view over the rooftops and inner gardens.
• Get lost in Piazza dell'Anfiteatro: Built on the ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheater, its iconic elliptical shape makes it one of the most photographed and evocative squares in Italy.
• Climb the medieval Guinigi Tower: Prepare to be amazed once you reach the top by the presence of incredible, centuries-old holm oaks. The climb up its 230 steps rewards you with a breathtaking panorama.
• Admire the facade of San Michele in Foro: Enjoy a good coffee in one of the square's cafés while observing the details of this facade, so rich in sculptures that it resembles marble lace.

Hidden gems… for those staying a week or longer

If you have more time, dedicate it to hunting down the most mysterious and unusual details of the historic center:

• The Devil’s scratches at Palazzo Cenami: Strolling along Via Filungo, stop in front of the main door of Palazzo Cenami. Sharpening your gaze on the stone columns at the entrance, you will notice small, elongated holes. Legend has it that these are the marks left by the claws of the Devil himself, scratched in his desperate attempt to enter the palace. A small hidden mystery that only the keenest observer will manage to spot!
• The labyrinth of San Martino Cathedral: On the facade of the Cathedral, specifically on the right pillar of the portico, sits an ancient and mysterious bas-relief depicting a circular labyrinth. It is accompanied by a Latin inscription referring to the myth of Theseus and Ariadne: an esoteric symbol linked to the pilgrims of the Via Francigena.
• The "wrong" stone of Piazza San Michele: Looking closely at the facade of the splendid church of San Michele in Foro, among hundreds of small arches and carved columns, there is one completely different from the rest that depicts a grotesque face. Tradition has it that this was the "burst of pride" of a medieval stonemason who wanted to leave his unique signature.
• The roof garden of Palazzo Pfanner: If the Guinigi Tower has trees on its peak, Palazzo Pfanner responds with a monumental Baroque garden that looks straight out of a fairy tale (and was, in fact, the set for iconic movies such as Il marchese del Grillo). A green pearl hidden within the walls.

Nature, art, and adventure: heading out of town

The magic of the "Parole d’oro" and the Guamo Temple: On the slopes of Monte Pisano, on the Lucca side, lies a magical place steeped in history and nature. Walking alongside the nineteenth-century aqueduct, you reach this small hydraulic marvel. It is the ideal destination for outdoor lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone walking the splendid Via degli Acquedotti trek (also perfect to explore in the saddle of an E-bike!).

Embrace the "Witches' Oak" in Capannori: Located in the park of Villa Carrara in San Martino in Colle, this monumental oak tree is over 500 years old. Its unique feature? Its branches do not grow upwards; instead, they develop horizontally, parallel to the ground, creating an incredibly wide canopy. Legend has it that witches used to gather right here for their sabbaths. A pop culture fun fact: it inspired Carlo Collodi for the famous "Large Oak" where the assassins hang Pinocchio.

Immerse yourself in art at Tenuta dello Scompiglio (Vorno, Capannori): Still in the Capannori area, at the foot of Monte Pisano, the hamlet of Vorno hosts a unique project. Tenuta dello Scompiglio blends organic farming, zero-kilometer cuisine, and a cutting-edge cultural and performing arts space, all surrounded by woods, vineyards, and monumental gardens. It is absolutely worth stopping by to try the dishes at Cucina Dello Scompiglio, where many of the ingredients come straight from the estate's organic vegetable garden.

Wine tasting on the hills of Montecarlo: A little further east, the Lucca hills offer a renowned wine and olive oil route, ideal for a relaxing and rejuvenating tour among historic cellars and olive mills.

Adrenaline and Rafting in Garfagnana: For adventure seekers, simply head up the Serchio Valley towards Garfagnana. Here, amidst narrow gorges and wild nature, you can enjoy rafting, kayaking, or river excursions suitable for everyone, surrounded by the majesty of the Apennines and the Apuan Alps.

Cross the Devil's Bridge in Borgo a Mozzano: On the road leading towards Garfagnana, this medieval bridge (Ponte della Maddalena) defies the laws of gravity with its asymmetrical arches and its steep donkey-back shape. It is said that the builder, unable to finish it on time, made a pact with the Devil in exchange for the first soul that crossed it (but he tricked him by sending a dog across first).

A dip in glamorous Versilia: If you prefer the sea to the river, the coast is just a stone's throw away. You can choose the luxury of Forte dei Marmi, the Art Nouveau (Liberty style) charm of Viareggio, the artistic soul of Pietrasanta, or the relaxation of Camaiore. Find all the right tips in our insider guide for a beach holiday in Versilia.

Your Tuscan refuge awaits

There is nothing better than wrapping up a day rich in art and adventure by sipping a glass of local wine in the garden of your private villa. Let yourself be inspired by our selection of exclusive properties nestled among the hills and Versilia, and start planning your next Tuscan escape.

Our exclusive proposals in the Lucca area.