Have a stroll on the city walls
500-year-old city walls where you can walk and bike? That’s correct! While most Renaissance-era city walls are brittle tourist attractions, in Lucca, they’re made for sport, leisure, and getting around town.
Lucca’s city walls, or le mura di Lucca, act as a raised promenade encircling the historical city center. They are wide, shaded by trees, and stand several feet above the ground. Walking or biking on these paths will help you get your bearings with a bird’s eye view of Lucca’s medieval city center. Rent a bike or walk the 3.1 mile (5 km) perimeter as soon as you arrive!
Refresh with a coffee on Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
After walking or biking the perimeter, stop for a coffee at one of the cafes in this oval-shaped plaza. Amphitheater Plaza sits on the ruins of an old Roman amphitheater and still retains the classic shape of amphitheaters of the time.
The plaza was designed in 1830 and the buildings encircling the plaza are all touching, paying homage to the walls of the ancient amphitheater that have been lost to time. It can only be reached by entering one of its four gateways in the north, south, east, and west. As you sit in the center of modern cultural life in Lucca, take a moment to imagine its Roman past.
Get even higher at Torre Guinigi
If the views from the raised city walls weren’t enough, head to the top of Torre Guinigi. At 148 feet (45 meters), you can see every nook and cranny for miles around. Torre Guinigi is a relic from the 14th century when wealthy families in the region built towers to display their wealth and gain a visible advantage over approaching enemies.
Similar to the city walls of Lucca, the tower has trees growing out of the top. These trees are a unique addition to the tower and provide shade for Tuscany’s long summer days. The entrance fee is $6 and requires walking up many stairs, so leave the flip-flops at home!