Tuscany 101: Where to Stay, What to do and Where to Eat when in Tuscany, Italy PART 1 (Pisa, Lucca & Viareggio)

Day 2: The Charming Town of Lucca

From Pisa, travel for 40 minutes to an hour to reach one of Tuscany’s most loved cities – Lucca: a small town that’s rich in history, music and art tradition. The city is located on a plain at the foot of the Apuan Alps and can be toured within a day.

Places to see:

Visit the House of famous composer Giacomo Puccini:

House of Puccini

Born in Lucca, Italy, on December 22, 1858, Puccini spent his childhood in Lucca and is revered by the city as a favorite native son. Puccini’s house, has been restored in the style of the mid-nineteenth century and made into a small museum that is open to the public daily (except Tuesdays).

replica of the bed where Puccini was born

Fans of Puccini and opera should find the house of great interest. On display in the museum are manuscripts and music scores from his operas, photos and paintings, costumes from his operas, and other memorabilia. Visit www.puccinimuseum.org for more info.

Climb up the Guinigi Tower

Guinigi Tower

The Guinigi Tower was built in the second half of the fourteenth century by the Guinigis, a rich merchant family. It rises above via Sant’Andrea, crowned by holm oaks to symbolise rebirth. These oak trees were added sometime in the late 1300s, with the aim of giving a distinct refined look.

This place, I must say is my most favorite part in our tour of Lucca. Being there are the top of the tower felt so magical, that I remember secretly wiping off my tears a couple of times, for I couldn’t contain my emotions. Our hosts also surprised us with snacks, as well as a live violin performance which made the moment even more fascinating.

Shop for pasta, truffle oil and leather goods

Lucca is also an ideal place to shop, so be sure to bring extra cash with you if you plan to visit here. I swear, the leather bags and shoes are just impossible to resist! Don’t forget to also buy loads of pasta and extra bottles of white truffle oil, as these tend to be super expensive here in Manila.

Where to Eat:

When in Lucca, never miss the chance to experience the town’s signature Buccellato bread at Fabrica de Buccellato Taddeucci. If my memory serves me well, this place is also the town’s oldest coffee house.

Also, every visit to Lucca won’t be complete without experiencing the divine dishes at Buca di San Antonio Restaurant. This place has been in business for over a century, and has a Michelin star for its Tuscan food. Another MUST VISIT!