Lucca and its surroundings: elegance, historic walls, hills, and adventure
Friday, May 22, 2026,
Discover Lucca and its surroundings: from cycling the historic walls and uncovering hidden city mysteries to contemporary art, rafting in Garfagnana, and the glamorous beaches of Versilia.
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 stayCycle 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 longerIf 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 townThe 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 awaitsThere 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.
Lucca and its surroundings: elegance, historic walls, hills, and adventure: Read More
Three nearby destinations combining culture, countryside and seaside charm in the heart of Tuscany
Friday, May 15, 2026,
Looking for the perfect base for your next holiday in Tuscany? Discover Lucca, Pisa and Pistoia: three destinations just a short distance from one another, offering the perfect mix of culture, rolling green hills and beautiful beaches within easy reach. Here you’ll find inspiration for your next stay with Tuscanhouses.
Three iconic cities, three distinct personalities, and one great advantage: they are so close together that you don’t have to choose just one. While Lucca, Pisa and Pistoia once rivaled each other in medieval times, today they create the ideal combination for travelers seeking an authentic side of Tuscany, away from mass tourism, yet perfectly connected to everything.Choosing this area for your next holiday home means enjoying a different landscape every day: mornings wandering through historic city walls, afternoons among olive groves and vineyards in the hills, and evenings dining in a hidden countryside trattoria or along the Versilia coastline.
A Matter of Geography: Three Destinations Within Easy Reach
Forget long drives. Lucca and Pisa are only 20 kilometers apart, separated by the green silhouette of Monte Pisano, around 20 minutes by car or just 15 minutes by train. Pistoia, the perfect gateway to Florence, can be reached in about 30 minutes from Lucca and just a little longer from Pisa.Getting around is incredibly easy, whether by car or by the regional railway network connecting all three cities. Cycling enthusiasts will also appreciate the bike transport service available on Tuscany Line regional trains, making it simple to bring your bicycle and explore the area freely.
Choose Your Style: Historic Center or Hillside Retreat
One of the greatest strengths of Tuscanhouses properties in this area is their variety. Every location offers two completely different ways to experience Tuscany:
Experience the Historic Center
Perfect for travelers who love waking up to the aroma of coffee drifting from the piazza, exploring on foot or by bike through historic shops, elegant palaces and authentic local restaurants.
Experience the HillsIdeal for those seeking total relaxation, silence and a private swimming pool overlooking endless olive groves and vineyards — all while knowing that the city and its services are never more than ten minutes away.
The 3 Areas at a Glance
1. Lucca and Surroundings: Elegance, Historic Walls and the Versilia CoastLucca is love at first sight. Its historic center, enclosed by extraordinary Renaissance walls — entirely walkable and bike-friendly — feels like an elegant open-air living room, free from traffic and full of charm.In the surrounding hills, areas such as Capannori and Montecarlo are famous for excellent wines and olive oil mills producing delicate extra virgin olive oil. Further north, toward Pescaglia, countryside homes become refreshing retreats nestled at the foot of the Apuan Alps.Beach Bonus From here, the Versilia coast is just around the corner. Choose between the glamour of Forte dei Marmi, the Liberty-style charm of Viareggio, the artistic soul of Pietrasanta, or the perfect mix of village atmosphere and seaside life in Camaiore.[Read our agile guide to Lucca and its surroundings to plan your itinerary.]
2. Pisa and Surroundings: Beyond the Tower, Between River and CountrysideEveryone knows Piazza dei Miracoli, but the true soul of Pisa reveals itself along the Lungarni riverside streets. It is a vibrant university city, youthful and dynamic, filled with hidden alleys, lively markets and historic palaces reflected in the waters of the Arno River. Logistics here are unbeatable, thanks in part to the international airport.In the Hills Just beyond the urban routes, the Pisan countryside unfolds through gentle hills dotted with perfectly preserved medieval villages and ancient olive groves — ideal for anyone seeking a relaxing yet strategically located holiday.[Read our agile guide to Pisa and its surroundings to plan your itinerary.]3. Pistoia and Surroundings: Authenticity, Art and the Gateway to FlorencePistoia is Tuscany’s best-kept secret. Less crowded yet incredibly rich in art and history, it boasts one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval squares, Piazza del Duomo, and an intimate atmosphere where authentic Tuscan daily life still thrives among local markets and traditional trattorias.In the Hills The Pistoia area offers lush nature, hiking trails, vineyards and nearby thermal spas. It is also the most convenient base for planning day trips to Florence.[Read our agile guide to Pistoia and its surroundings to plan your itinerary.]
Why Is This the Perfect Choice for Your Holiday?Whether you are looking for beaches, culture, food and wine experiences or shopping, everything is within easy reach. Boredom simply doesn’t exist here, and every day can be planned with complete freedom.But the real added value, at the end of the day, is returning to one of our Tuscanhouses properties: carefully selected homes with attention to every detail, countryside villas surrounded by greenery with private gardens, and beautiful residences featuring exclusive swimming pools. The perfect retreat to make your Tuscan holiday truly unforgettable.Tuscanhouses properties in Lucca and SurroundingsTuscanhouses properties in Versilia and SeasideTuscanhouses properties in Pisa and SurroundingsTuscanhouses properties in Pistoia and Surroundings
A Matter of Geography: Three Destinations Within Easy Reach
Forget long drives. Lucca and Pisa are only 20 kilometers apart, separated by the green silhouette of Monte Pisano, around 20 minutes by car or just 15 minutes by train. Pistoia, the perfect gateway to Florence, can be reached in about 30 minutes from Lucca and just a little longer from Pisa.Getting around is incredibly easy, whether by car or by the regional railway network connecting all three cities. Cycling enthusiasts will also appreciate the bike transport service available on Tuscany Line regional trains, making it simple to bring your bicycle and explore the area freely.
Choose Your Style: Historic Center or Hillside Retreat
One of the greatest strengths of Tuscanhouses properties in this area is their variety. Every location offers two completely different ways to experience Tuscany:
Experience the Historic Center
Perfect for travelers who love waking up to the aroma of coffee drifting from the piazza, exploring on foot or by bike through historic shops, elegant palaces and authentic local restaurants.
Experience the HillsIdeal for those seeking total relaxation, silence and a private swimming pool overlooking endless olive groves and vineyards — all while knowing that the city and its services are never more than ten minutes away.
The 3 Areas at a Glance
1. Lucca and Surroundings: Elegance, Historic Walls and the Versilia CoastLucca is love at first sight. Its historic center, enclosed by extraordinary Renaissance walls — entirely walkable and bike-friendly — feels like an elegant open-air living room, free from traffic and full of charm.In the surrounding hills, areas such as Capannori and Montecarlo are famous for excellent wines and olive oil mills producing delicate extra virgin olive oil. Further north, toward Pescaglia, countryside homes become refreshing retreats nestled at the foot of the Apuan Alps.Beach Bonus From here, the Versilia coast is just around the corner. Choose between the glamour of Forte dei Marmi, the Liberty-style charm of Viareggio, the artistic soul of Pietrasanta, or the perfect mix of village atmosphere and seaside life in Camaiore.[Read our agile guide to Lucca and its surroundings to plan your itinerary.]
2. Pisa and Surroundings: Beyond the Tower, Between River and CountrysideEveryone knows Piazza dei Miracoli, but the true soul of Pisa reveals itself along the Lungarni riverside streets. It is a vibrant university city, youthful and dynamic, filled with hidden alleys, lively markets and historic palaces reflected in the waters of the Arno River. Logistics here are unbeatable, thanks in part to the international airport.In the Hills Just beyond the urban routes, the Pisan countryside unfolds through gentle hills dotted with perfectly preserved medieval villages and ancient olive groves — ideal for anyone seeking a relaxing yet strategically located holiday.[Read our agile guide to Pisa and its surroundings to plan your itinerary.]3. Pistoia and Surroundings: Authenticity, Art and the Gateway to FlorencePistoia is Tuscany’s best-kept secret. Less crowded yet incredibly rich in art and history, it boasts one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval squares, Piazza del Duomo, and an intimate atmosphere where authentic Tuscan daily life still thrives among local markets and traditional trattorias.In the Hills The Pistoia area offers lush nature, hiking trails, vineyards and nearby thermal spas. It is also the most convenient base for planning day trips to Florence.[Read our agile guide to Pistoia and its surroundings to plan your itinerary.]
Why Is This the Perfect Choice for Your Holiday?Whether you are looking for beaches, culture, food and wine experiences or shopping, everything is within easy reach. Boredom simply doesn’t exist here, and every day can be planned with complete freedom.But the real added value, at the end of the day, is returning to one of our Tuscanhouses properties: carefully selected homes with attention to every detail, countryside villas surrounded by greenery with private gardens, and beautiful residences featuring exclusive swimming pools. The perfect retreat to make your Tuscan holiday truly unforgettable.Tuscanhouses properties in Lucca and SurroundingsTuscanhouses properties in Versilia and SeasideTuscanhouses properties in Pisa and SurroundingsTuscanhouses properties in Pistoia and Surroundings
Short-term rentals and home care in the heart of Tuscany
Friday, May 8, 2026,
Renting Out a Home in Lucca: What Truly Happens Behind a Flawless Guest Experience
Lucca and its surrounding hills are not a postcard. They are a place made of balance — between culture and everyday life, between beauty and discretion. To me, they feel like a painting brought to life, the birthplace of Giacomo Puccini’s music, the quiet retreats once chosen by the Bonaparte family. A land that does not need to raise its voice to be loved.From here, everything feels within reach. The beaches of Versilia are just minutes away. In a little over an hour, the landscape changes again, opening up to the mountains of Garfagnana and Abetone — where, as locals like to say, if you learn to ski there, you can ski anywhere.
This is where it all begins. With a beauty that feels authentic and never staged.
Over the years, I’ve met many homeowners who wanted to open their homes to this territory but didn’t know where to start. Some were enthusiastic, others cautious, others simply overwhelmed by everything involved: pricing, cleaning, guests, regulations, maintenance, communication, unexpected situations. I understood them all.
Because short-term rentals in Lucca can be a wonderful opportunity — but they also require constant dedication, structure, and a truly professional approach.
At the same time, this work has naturally led me to look after homes that are not necessarily rented out. Properties lived in only part of the year, second homes owned by families who live elsewhere, houses that simply need continuity and care. I’ve learned that taking care of a home is not only about welcoming guests. It is also about being present when the house is quiet, when it is closed, when small things need attention long before they turn into problems.
The “Behind the Scenes” of a Flawless Property
Beyond the poetry of the landscape, managing a property in Lucca requires a rigorous and consistent approach. In my experience, there are a few invisible elements that truly make the difference between a house that simply exists online and a property that genuinely performs well.
Proactive Maintenance
A house in the Tuscan hills breathes and changes with the seasons. We do not wait for a leak, a boiler failure, or an electrical issue to appear. We work proactively, implementing seasonal inspections and regular check-ups to ensure everything is functioning perfectly before the first guest — or the owner — arrives.
The Administrative Side Nobody Sees
From Questura registrations to tourist tax declarations, compliance has become an essential part of property management in Italy. Managing a holiday rental in Lucca today means keeping up with regulations, reporting systems, guest documentation, and operational deadlines that cannot be overlooked. Most owners discover only later how much time and precision this side of the work actually requires.A Home Is Alive
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that a property should never feel static. The light changes, the garden changes, the atmosphere changes with every season. Even the way a house is presented should evolve naturally throughout the year.
A home is not simply photographed once and forgotten. It has a rhythm, a personality, and a story that should continue to feel alive over time. Anyone who visits Lucca feels it immediately: it is a place people fall in love with. Not because it overwhelms, but because it feels liveable, human, and deeply rooted in its own rhythm. Demand for rentals exists throughout the year, from the historic centre to the hills and vineyards surrounding Montecarlo.
But behind every well-functioning home there is far more than visibility or demand. I often hear people say: “I thought I’d just list it online and the bookings would roll in.” Reality is very different.Behind each stay there are constant conversations, spotless cleaning, quality control, maintenance coordination, guest support, and unexpected situations that need to be handled calmly and professionally. My approach has always been simple: I treat every home as if it were my own. When I walk into a house for the first time, I listen to its story. I look at how the light moves through the rooms, at the spaces, at the details that give it character. Whether the property is a full-time holiday rental or simply a private home that needs care throughout the year, the goal remains the same: to protect it, preserve it, and allow it to breathe naturally over time.If you are thinking about renting out your home in Lucca, or if you simply need someone reliable to care for it while you are away, let’s talk. We can look at the house together, understand its strengths and its limits, and see whether we are the right fit to look after it together. Send us an email at: info@tuscanhouses.com
This is where it all begins. With a beauty that feels authentic and never staged.
Over the years, I’ve met many homeowners who wanted to open their homes to this territory but didn’t know where to start. Some were enthusiastic, others cautious, others simply overwhelmed by everything involved: pricing, cleaning, guests, regulations, maintenance, communication, unexpected situations. I understood them all.
Because short-term rentals in Lucca can be a wonderful opportunity — but they also require constant dedication, structure, and a truly professional approach.
At the same time, this work has naturally led me to look after homes that are not necessarily rented out. Properties lived in only part of the year, second homes owned by families who live elsewhere, houses that simply need continuity and care. I’ve learned that taking care of a home is not only about welcoming guests. It is also about being present when the house is quiet, when it is closed, when small things need attention long before they turn into problems.
The “Behind the Scenes” of a Flawless Property
Beyond the poetry of the landscape, managing a property in Lucca requires a rigorous and consistent approach. In my experience, there are a few invisible elements that truly make the difference between a house that simply exists online and a property that genuinely performs well.
Proactive Maintenance
A house in the Tuscan hills breathes and changes with the seasons. We do not wait for a leak, a boiler failure, or an electrical issue to appear. We work proactively, implementing seasonal inspections and regular check-ups to ensure everything is functioning perfectly before the first guest — or the owner — arrives.
The Administrative Side Nobody Sees
From Questura registrations to tourist tax declarations, compliance has become an essential part of property management in Italy. Managing a holiday rental in Lucca today means keeping up with regulations, reporting systems, guest documentation, and operational deadlines that cannot be overlooked. Most owners discover only later how much time and precision this side of the work actually requires.A Home Is Alive
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that a property should never feel static. The light changes, the garden changes, the atmosphere changes with every season. Even the way a house is presented should evolve naturally throughout the year.
A home is not simply photographed once and forgotten. It has a rhythm, a personality, and a story that should continue to feel alive over time. Anyone who visits Lucca feels it immediately: it is a place people fall in love with. Not because it overwhelms, but because it feels liveable, human, and deeply rooted in its own rhythm. Demand for rentals exists throughout the year, from the historic centre to the hills and vineyards surrounding Montecarlo.
But behind every well-functioning home there is far more than visibility or demand. I often hear people say: “I thought I’d just list it online and the bookings would roll in.” Reality is very different.Behind each stay there are constant conversations, spotless cleaning, quality control, maintenance coordination, guest support, and unexpected situations that need to be handled calmly and professionally. My approach has always been simple: I treat every home as if it were my own. When I walk into a house for the first time, I listen to its story. I look at how the light moves through the rooms, at the spaces, at the details that give it character. Whether the property is a full-time holiday rental or simply a private home that needs care throughout the year, the goal remains the same: to protect it, preserve it, and allow it to breathe naturally over time.If you are thinking about renting out your home in Lucca, or if you simply need someone reliable to care for it while you are away, let’s talk. We can look at the house together, understand its strengths and its limits, and see whether we are the right fit to look after it together. Send us an email at: info@tuscanhouses.com
Short-term rentals and home care in the heart of Tuscany: Read More