Romantic Italian Escape: Discovering Lucca's Charm

Pisa's Charms: A Day of Discovery

Today was a day of iconic sights and delightful flavors as Maximilian and I ventured from our charming Lucca to the famous city of Pisa. While the Leaning Tower is undoubtedly the star, we were eager to explore beyond, immersing ourselves in the city's rich history and culture. And, of course, no Italian adventure is complete without savoring the local cuisine.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Olio Su Tavola. I opted for a classic Italian breakfast of cappuccino and a pastry, while Maximilian, ever the traditionalist, enjoyed a strong espresso. The aroma of freshly baked goods and the lively chatter of locals filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our day of exploration. It's always a joy to start the day with a taste of local life.


Experience exquisite Italian cuisine amidst captivating art at Olio Su Tavola in Lucca - where every meal tells a story.

From there, we headed straight to the Piazza dei Miracoli, the heart of Pisa and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The sight of the Leaning Tower is truly something to behold. It's even more striking in person than in photos, and the surrounding green space adds to its grandeur. We took the obligatory tourist photos, playing with perspective to make it look like we were holding up the tower. It's a bit cliché, I know, but it's all part of the fun!


Experience the Leaning Tower of Pisa, an architectural marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in history and breathtaking views.

Sometimes, the most memorable moments are found not in grand gestures, but in the simple act of sharing a new experience with someone you love.

Next on our list was the Cattedrale di Pisa, also known as the Duomo. This magnificent 11th-century church is a stunning example of Pisan Romanesque architecture. The white marble facade, adorned with intricate sculptures and arched colonnades, is simply breathtaking. Inside, the cathedral is just as impressive, with its ornate altars, beautiful frescoes, and the famous pulpit sculpted by Giovanni Pisano. I was particularly captivated by the mosaic dome, which depicts Christ, the Virgin Mary, angels, and saints in stunning Byzantine style. The sheer scale and artistry of the cathedral left me in awe. Maximilian, with his keen interest in history, was fascinated by the cathedral's construction, which began in 1063, during Pisa's golden age as a maritime power. He spent a good amount of time reading the informational plaques, absorbing every detail of its rich history.


Discover the breathtaking Cattedrale di Pisa, a stunning Romanesque masterpiece located in the heart of the iconic Piazza del Duomo.

Afterward, we decided to climb the Leaning Tower. I had booked our tickets online in advance, which I highly recommend to avoid long queues. The climb to the top was an experience in itself. The spiral staircase is narrow and winding, and you can definitely feel the tilt as you ascend. It's a bit disorienting, but also incredibly fun. The views from the top were simply stunning, offering a panoramic vista of Pisa and the surrounding countryside. I could see the Arno River snaking its way through the city, the red-tiled roofs of the buildings below, and the distant mountains in the background. It was a truly unforgettable sight.

By this time, we were both feeling quite peckish, so we decided to find a local spot for lunch. Based on a recommendation from a local, we chose Sottosotto. This charming trattoria is tucked away on a quiet side street, away from the tourist crowds. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the aroma of traditional Italian dishes filled the air. I ordered the spaghetti alle vongole, while Maximilian opted for the osso buco. Both dishes were absolutely delicious, bursting with fresh flavors and cooked to perfection. We savored every bite, accompanied by a glass of local Tuscan wine. It was the perfect midday treat.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Sottosotto in Lucca, where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.

After lunch, we strolled through the city center, soaking up the atmosphere and doing a bit of window shopping. I couldn't resist popping into Iconica Shop, a lovely boutique that caught my eye with its display of colorful scarves and handcrafted jewelry. I ended up buying a beautiful silk scarf with a delicate floral print – a perfect souvenir to remind me of our trip to Pisa.


Explore Iconica Shop in Marlia for exquisite dresses and a unique shopping experience in the heart of Italy.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in another Italian tradition: gelato. We found a gelateria that offered a wide array of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more exotic options like pistachio and hazelnut. I chose a scoop of stracciatella and a scoop of raspberry, while Maximilian went for the classic pistachio. We sat on a bench in a nearby piazza, savoring our gelato and watching the world go by. It was a simple pleasure, but one that perfectly captured the essence of Italian life.

For dinner, we decided to try Antica Osteria, a restaurant known for its traditional Pisan cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with rustic décor and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. We started with a selection of local antipasti, including bruschetta, cured meats, and cheeses. For our main courses, I ordered the ribollita, a hearty Tuscan bread and vegetable soup, while Maximilian chose the cinghiale in umido, a wild boar stew. Both dishes were incredibly flavorful and satisfying, showcasing the best of Tuscan cuisine. We finished our meal with a delicious tiramisu, the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover the authentic taste of Tuscany at Antica Osteria in Lucca – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

As we walked back to the train station, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of Pisa. It's a city that truly has something for everyone, from its iconic landmarks to its delicious cuisine. And while the Leaning Tower is undoubtedly the main attraction, it's the city's hidden gems and local experiences that truly make it special.

Tomorrow, we’re off to explore more of Pisa as we visit Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina and Palazzo Blu. I'm particularly excited about visiting Palazzo Blu, as I've heard it hosts fascinating art exhibitions. Perhaps I'll find some inspiration for my own creative pursuits! And, of course, we'll be sure to sample more of the local cuisine. I've already made a reservation at Osteria Pane e Sale for dinner, as I've heard they serve some of the best seafood in town. But before that, we might check out Black Mirror Cocktail Bar for some drinks. I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this beautiful region of Italy.

Thinking about luggage, I realize I didn't bring an umbrella! I will have to buy one tomorrow, as the weather forecast predicts some rain in the coming days. I will definitely pay a visit to Valigeria Roncato to see if they have some nice options.