Romantic Italian Escape: Discovering Lucca's Charm

First Impressions of Lucca: Walls and Wonders

After months of anticipation, Maximilian and I finally arrived in Lucca, ready to explore this charming Tuscan city. Our first day was packed with historical sites, delicious food, and captivating views. It was the perfect introduction to what promises to be an unforgettable Italian escape.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Gli Orti di Via Elisa. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air as we settled into a cozy corner of the restaurant. I ordered a classic cappuccino and a slice of their homemade apple pie, while Maximilian opted for the savory crostini. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, setting the perfect tone for our first day of exploration.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Gli Orti di Via Elisa in Lucca - home to delicious pizzas and traditional dishes.
Fueled and ready, we set out to conquer the Mura di Lucca. These Renaissance-era city walls are not just a historical landmark; they're a vibrant part of Lucca's daily life. Locals and tourists alike use them as a park, strolling, jogging, and cycling along the tree-lined path. Maximilian, ever the tech enthusiast, was fascinated by the engineering of the walls, while I was captivated by the panoramic views of the city. We decided to rent bikes and cycle the entire perimeter, a leisurely ride that gave us a unique perspective of Lucca's beauty.


Discover the Mura di Lucca, a historic fortress wall offering stunning views and a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of this charming Italian city.
The late summer sun cast a golden glow over the terracotta rooftops and lush gardens below. We stopped frequently to take photos, capturing the essence of this picturesque city. The walls are surprisingly wide, accommodating both pedestrians and cyclists comfortably. Along the way, we passed through ancient gates, each with its own story to tell. I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like centuries ago, when these walls served as the city's primary defense.

After our invigorating bike ride, we were ready for lunch. We chose Trattoria da Leo, a traditional Tuscan restaurant known for its authentic cuisine and family-friendly atmosphere. The trattoria was bustling with locals, a sure sign of its quality. We shared a mixed antipasto platter, sampling local cheeses, cured meats, and olives. For our main courses, I ordered the Zuppa di Farro, a hearty spelt soup, while Maximilian went for the spare ribs with roast potatoes. The food was simple, honest, and bursting with flavor.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria da Leo in Lucca - where every dish tells a story of tradition and passion.

“The beauty of Lucca lies not just in its monuments, but in the way it seamlessly blends history with everyday life.”

With our appetites satisfied, we made our way to the Guinigi Tower. This iconic tower is famous for the oak trees growing on its roof, a quirky feature that sets it apart from other historical landmarks. As we climbed the 230 steps to the top, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The staircase was narrow and winding, but the thought of the view awaiting us kept us going.


Discover the stunning Guinigi Tower, a historical landmark in Lucca with breathtaking views, unique rooftop gardens, and rich architectural beauty.
Finally, we emerged onto the rooftop, and the sight that greeted us was breathtaking. The ancient holm oaks provided a shady canopy, while the panoramic views of Lucca stretched out in every direction. We could see the Mura di Lucca snaking around the city, the Duomo di San Martino standing proudly in the distance, and the rolling Tuscan hills framing the horizon. It was a truly magical moment, one that I'll cherish forever. Maximilian, of course, was busy capturing the scene with his camera, determined to get the perfect shot.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to treat ourselves to a pre-dinner cocktail at Franklin'33, a Prohibition-inspired bar known for its handcrafted drinks. The bar had a cool, speakeasy vibe, with vintage decor and a dimly lit interior. I ordered a classic Negroni, while Maximilian, ever the adventurous one, tried the Negroni del Presidente. Both cocktails were expertly crafted and delicious. The friendly bartender even gave us a complimentary platter of meats and cheeses to nibble on. It was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Franklin'33, a must-visit bar in the heart of Lucca, Italy.
For dinner, we had reservations at Buca di Sant'Antonio, one of Lucca's oldest and most renowned restaurants. The restaurant has been serving traditional Tuscan cuisine since 1782, and its reputation precedes it. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. Copper pots and pans hung from the ceiling, adding to the rustic charm.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Buca di Sant'Antonio in Lucca – where tradition meets exquisite taste.
We started with the pumpkin soup, a seasonal specialty, and the chicken liver pâté. For our main courses, I chose the homemade ravioli with meat sauce, while Maximilian opted for the pasta with truffles. Each dish was a masterpiece, showcasing the freshest local ingredients and the chef's culinary expertise. The service was impeccable, and the sommelier recommended a fantastic regional wine to complement our meal. It was an unforgettable dining experience.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the city, soaking in the ambiance of Lucca at night. The streets were quiet and peaceful, illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights. We stopped for a gelato at a small shop, savoring the sweet treat as we walked hand in hand. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

As I sit here in our cozy room at Albergo San Martino, reflecting on our first day in Lucca, I can't help but feel grateful for this experience. This city has already captured my heart with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to explore Piazza San Michele, the Chiesa di San Michele in Foro, and the Fontana della Pupporona. Tomorrow, we also plan to do some shopping at Di Lucca Tipico. I’m also very glad I remembered to pack my comfortable walking shoes, even though I forgot my umbrella at home. I look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you soon.


Experience the heart of Lucca at Albergo San Martino, where comfort meets convenience in a vibrant city center setting ideal for all travelers.
Tomorrow promises more exploration, with plans to visit Piazza San Michele, the Chiesa di San Michele in Foro, and the Fontana della Pupporona. We also intend to indulge in some local shopping at Di Lucca Tipico. I can't wait to share those experiences with you, too.

“Traveling allows you to reset your perspective and appreciate the simple things in life.”