Romantic Italian Escape: Discovering Lucca's Charm

Lucca, Until We Meet Again

As our Lucca adventure draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions. There's a tinge of sadness that our time here is ending, but it's overwhelmingly overshadowed by gratitude for the incredible experiences we've shared. Today, we set out to soak in the last drops of Lucca's charm, revisiting favorite spots and discovering a few hidden gems along the way. It's amazing how a place can feel like home in such a short time, and Lucca has certainly captured a piece of my heart.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at Osteria Tosca. Maximilian and I enjoyed the cozy atmosphere and the delicious coffee, which was the perfect start to our day. The osteria is located near the statue of Giacomo Puccini, adding to the charm of the place. It felt like a true Italian experience, sitting there, planning our last day in this beautiful city. We savored every bite, knowing it was one of our last authentic Italian meals on this trip. After breakfast, we decided to take a leisurely stroll down Via Fillungo.

Via Fillungo, Lucca's main shopping street, was as bustling as ever. The street is known for its sinuous layout and the tall buildings that frame it. It’s a pedestrian paradise, offering everything from quirky, one-off shops to traditional stores with Art Deco shopfronts. Maximilian and I enjoyed window shopping, admiring the displays of clothing, jewelry, and local crafts. I couldn't resist popping into a few boutiques, searching for a last-minute souvenir to remind me of our time here. The mix of high-end boutiques and historic shops gives Via Fillungo a unique and inviting atmosphere.

Explore the charm of Lucca on Via Fillungo, a vibrant street filled with shops, cafes, and rich history in Tuscany, Italy.

As we walked, we admired the architecture and soaked in the lively ambiance. The street was alive with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the beautiful summer day. We paused at a café for a quick espresso, watching the world go by. Via Fillungo is more than just a shopping street; it’s a place where the history and culture of Lucca come alive. The architectural layout ensures that the shops blend seamlessly into the historic feel of the street.

Next on our itinerary was the Puccini Museum. As a lover of opera, I was particularly excited about this visit. The museum is located in the house where Giacomo Puccini was born and spent his early years. It offers an intimate look into the life and work of the renowned composer. The museum isn't very big, but it is well-curated, providing a fascinating glimpse into Puccini's personal and musical journey.

Explore the Puccini Museum in Lucca, a tribute to the legendary composer Giacomo Puccini, and discover the heart of Italian opera.

One must always seek the essence of beauty, and once found, cleave to it with all one's strength.

Inside, we explored the rooms, which have been restored to their original appearance, complete with historic furniture. We saw original letters, manuscripts, photographs, and period furniture, all of which offered a rich insight into Puccini's life and his family. One of the highlights was the Steinway & Sons piano that Puccini used to compose the opera Turandot. There was also a costume for Turandot on display, which was worn by Maria Jeritza for the premier of the opera at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York in 1926.

Maximilian, with his tech-savvy mind, was intrigued by the displays of Puccini's original scores and librettos. He appreciated the artistry and the history behind each piece. I was particularly moved by the personal effects on display, which included anecdotes about Puccini's life, such as his hunting activities and his personal affairs. The museum truly brought Puccini to life, showcasing his genius and his passion.

After immersing ourselves in the world of Puccini, we were ready for lunch. We chose Osteria Baralla, a restaurant that had been recommended to us for its authentic Tuscan cuisine. The osteria has a long history, dating back to 1860, and is known for its traditional dishes made with local produce. The inside is beautifully decorated, and they also have very nice outdoor seating.

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria Baralla in Lucca - where tradition meets taste in a historic setting.

We started with the antipasti, which included mixed Tuscan meats and cheeses. For our main courses, Maximilian ordered the wild boar stew, while I opted for the homemade ravioli with yellow pumpkin and Garfagnana pecorino cheese fondue. Both dishes were incredible, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The service was attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home. The osteria is located near the ancient amphitheater, adding to its charm. It was the perfect spot to savor our last lunch in Lucca, reflecting on all the amazing meals we’ve had throughout our trip.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to indulge in one last Italian tradition: aperitivo. We headed to Screwdriver, a cocktail bar known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative mixology. The bar is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a wide variety of unique cocktails. The lively decor and cozy seating area made it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Discover Screwdriver, a vibrant cocktail bar in Lucca, where creative mixology and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.

Maximilian and I ordered a couple of their signature drinks and enjoyed the complimentary table snacks. The bartender was skilled and friendly, crafting innovative concoctions that incorporated local ingredients. The ambiance was filled with laughter and chatter, making it an ideal spot for an evening out. We sat on the terrace, sipping our cocktails and watching the people pass by. It was a perfect way to soak in the last moments of our Lucca adventure.

For our final dinner, we chose Ristorante All'Olivo, a charming venue known for its intimate setting and delicious Tuscan dishes. The restaurant is located in the heart of Lucca, offering a calming atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle. The elegant outdoor seating area was perfect for enjoying the cool summer evening. The reviews we had read praised the cozy atmosphere, attentive service, and the fresh, high-quality food.

Discover Ristorante All'Olivo in Lucca - where seafood and vegetarian delights meet exceptional Italian hospitality.

We started with a seafood salad, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. For our main courses, Maximilian chose a hearty roast, while I opted for the seafood pasta. Both dishes were exceptional, showcasing the best of Tuscan cuisine. The service was impeccable, with the staff being both kind and accommodating. The chef even came out to personally highlight some of the regional dishes. To finish off our meal, we shared a tiramisu, which was absolutely divine. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day, and a fitting farewell to Lucca.

As we walked back to Albergo San Martino, hand in hand, we reminisced about our time in Lucca. We talked about our favorite moments, from exploring the ramparts to indulging in gelato. We laughed about the funny encounters we had and the challenges we overcame. We felt grateful for the opportunity to experience this beautiful city together.

Experience the heart of Lucca at Albergo San Martino, where comfort meets convenience in a vibrant city center setting ideal for all travelers.

Tomorrow, we leave Lucca, carrying with us a treasure trove of memories. While our Italian escape is coming to an end, the experiences and connections we've made here will stay with us forever. Lucca, with its charming streets, rich culture, and warm people, has truly captured our hearts. Until we meet again…