Romantic Italian Escape: Discovering Lucca's Charm

A Day of Tuscan Exploration

Today was a beautiful blend of art, history, and gastronomy, a true immersion into the heart of Tuscany. Leaving our cozy Albergo San Martino in Lucca, Maximilian and I embarked on a short train journey to Pisa, eager to explore its renowned architectural marvels and hidden gems. Little did we know that the day would be filled with so many enriching experiences.


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

Our morning began with a visit to the exquisite Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina in Pisa. This small, yet striking church, nestled along the Arno River, is a testament to Pisan Gothic architecture. Built in 1230, it was initially known as Santa Maria di Pontenovo. The name 'della Spina' comes from the presence of a thorn believed to be part of the crown of thorns placed on Christ during the Crucifixion.


Discover the stunning Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina, a Gothic masterpiece along the Arno River in Pisa, rich in history and artistic beauty.

The exterior of the church is adorned with intricate details, including cusps, tympani, and tabernacles, crafted from polychrome marble. Statues by renowned Pisan artists like Giovanni Pisano and Andrea Pisano add to its grandeur. It's fascinating to learn that the church was dismantled and rebuilt on higher ground in the 19th century to protect it from the Arno's waters. This relocation, however, wasn't without controversy, as the famous art critic John Ruskin expressed his outrage at the alterations made during the restoration.

The beauty of the world lies in the details, and Tuscany is a masterpiece painted with history, art, and flavor.

Stepping inside, the interior was surprisingly simple compared to the ornate exterior. A wooden ceiling, added during the 19th-century reconstruction, provides a serene backdrop to the artistic treasures within. The Madonna of the Rose, a masterpiece by Andrea and Nino Pisano, stood out with its delicate beauty. Although the sacred thorn is now housed in the Chiesa di Santa Chiara, the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina remains an architectural gem worth visiting.

Next on our itinerary was Palazzo Blu, a former aristocratic palace turned cultural center. Its name comes from the unique blue color discovered during a recent restoration, a hue favored by the Russian owners in the 18th century. The palace now hosts temporary exhibitions and houses a permanent collection of Pisan art from the 14th century to the present day.


Discover the captivating world of art at Palazzo Blu, Pisa's premier art museum and gallery along the Arno River, celebrating Italian culture and creativity.

We explored the three sections of the museum: the Fondazione Pisa collection, the stately apartments, and the Simoneschi Collection of numismatics and antiquities. Works by artists like Francesco da Volterra, Artemisia Gentileschi, and Umberto Vittorini offered a glimpse into the region's rich artistic heritage. The Palazzo also hosts various cultural activities, including conferences and workshops, making it a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts.

After immersing ourselves in art and history, it was time to return to Lucca for an afternoon filled with gastronomic delights. Our first stop was Ristorante Lombardo for a delightful breakfast. The Italian cuisine was exceptional. Maximilian enjoyed spaghetti while I savored a delicious pastry, accompanied by a cappuccino. The cozy atmosphere and courteous staff made it a perfect start to our culinary journey in Lucca.


Experience the essence of Italian gastronomy at Ristorante Lombardo in Lucca – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

For lunch, we ventured to Il Grammofono, a unique restaurant offering a fusion of Italian, Asian, and French flavors. Tucked away from the main tourist areas, this hidden gem boasts a relaxed and cozy ambiance. The menu, curated by chef Clara Ferretti, featured innovative dishes like black spaghetti, tuna tataki, and homemade bread. I decided on the black spaghetti, while Maximilian chose the tuna tataki. The presentation was impeccable, and the flavors were a delightful surprise. It was an unforgettable culinary experience, showcasing the chef's delicate touch and creative use of regional ingredients.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Grammofono in Lucca – where tradition meets creativity in every dish.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Osteria Pane e Sale for dinner. This charming osteria offers a blend of African and Turkish cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. We started with an antipasto of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by their renowned spaghetti and fish dishes. The owners were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home. The fair prices and pleasant atmosphere added to the overall enjoyment of our dining experience.


Discover Osteria Pane e Sale: A Tuscan culinary experience where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.

To cap off the evening, we decided to explore Lucca's cocktail scene. Initially, we planned to visit Black Mirror Cocktail Bar, but unfortunately, it was permanently closed. Instead, we stumbled upon a cozy little spot that offered a wide selection of local wines and craft beers. We shared a bottle of Tuscan red wine, reminiscing about the day's adventures and planning our itinerary for tomorrow.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lucca at Black Mirror Cocktail Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a chic ambiance for a memorable evening.

Tomorrow, we are excited to explore more of Pisa! We plan to visit Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Reale and Piazza dei Cavalieri. We'll have breakfast at Locanda del Linchetto - Lucca, lunch at Miranda, and dinner at Ristorante Schiaffino. Maximilian is also keen on visiting Bottega S. Croce [Bottega S. Croce], a local shop known for its unique artisanal products. I am sure we will find some souvenirs to bring back home to Elena.

Tonight, as I reflect on our experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore such beautiful and culturally rich destinations with my beloved Maximilian. Each day brings new discoveries, new flavors, and new memories to cherish. It's moments like these that make our romantic Italian escape truly unforgettable.

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I am reminded of the importance of embracing the unexpected and savoring every moment. After all, it is in these spontaneous adventures that we often find the greatest treasures. Goodnight from Lucca!