In the heart of Tuscany, surrounded by green hills and picturesque villages, stands Lucca, a city that enchants visitors with its thousand-year history, elegant architecture and unique atmosphere.
Known as the city of a hundred churches, Lucca is an ideal destination for those seeking art, culture, and good living.
The Renaissance Walls: the symbol of Lucca
Lucca's undisputed symbol is its Renaissance walls, an imposing ring of over 4 km, perfectly preserved. Today, no longer serving a defensive purpose, the walls feature a charming tree-lined avenue where you can stroll, run, or cycle, enjoying a privileged view of the historic center and the surrounding hills.
Walking through the medieval streets you come across squares that tell the story of city life: Amphitheater Square, built on the remains of the ancient Roman amphitheatre, is one of the most fascinating urban spaces in Italy, with its elliptical shape and the pastel-coloured buildings that surround it. Piazza San Michele, dominated by the splendid church of San Michele in Foro, is an extraordinary example of Romanesque architecture. Napoleon Square, instead, is the civic heart of the city, often the scene of events and concerts.
Lucca preserves a religious heritage of great value. The Cathedral of San Martino preserves works of art such as the famous Holy Face, a venerated relic that has drawn pilgrims for centuries. The Basilica of San Frediano, with its golden mosaics, and the many other churches scattered throughout the historic center testify to the city's profound spirituality. Towers and views: Two medieval towers dominate the Lucca skyline: the Guinigi Tower, famous for the holm oaks that grow on its summit, and the Torre delle Ore, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
The most anticipated events
Lucca is not just art and architecture, but also culture. Every year it hosts internationally renowned events, such as Lucca Comics & Games, a festival dedicated to comics and pop culture, and the Lucca Summer Festival, which brings together renowned artists from around the world.
Tourism on the rise
Tourism is growing. In the first half of 2025, Lucca recorded 171.018 arrivals and 456.214 attendance, with an average stay of approximately 2,7 nights. Compared to the same period in 2024, arrivals increased by 1,6% and occupancy by 6,5%.
Il foreign tourism It is a driving force: over that period, there were approximately 108.000 international arrivals and 338.000 foreign tourist presences, almost three times the volume generated by Italian visitors. In the first three months of 2025, the figures were already growing: +6% in arrivals and +7,5% in presences, compared to 2024.
Visiting Lucca means immersing yourself in a place where history, art, and nature coexist harmoniously. A human-scale city, welcoming and refined, that leaves every visitor longing to return.
Main photo: viverelatoscana.it
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