Lucca

A rainy morning begins on the city walls, where mist hangs over the towers of Lucca. The wide paths are easily navigable with an umbrella. At midday, we seek shelter in the impressive churches and Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, whose yellow facades glow even under grey skies. The afternoon is dedicated to the art treasures in the Duomo, while rain drums against the ancient stained-glass windows. The evening winds down in a cozy enoteca near the Botanical Garden, where the damp air enhances the scent of the flora.

A clear winter morning on the Mura offers expansive views of the snow-capped Apuan Alps. The air is crisp and invigorating. At midday, we warm up in the churches and enjoy Piazza dell'Anfiteatro without the summer crowds. The early sunset around 17:00 bathes the Guinigi Tower in golden light before the city lights flicker on. The evening at the Botanical Garden is short but atmospheric, followed by hot chocolate in a historic cafe.

Explore Lucca on two wheels! Start with a full loop on the 4 km long city walls for a grand overview. Then, cycle to Palazzo Pfanner and explore its famous gardens. In the afternoon, head through the alleys to the Clock Tower and the luxurious Palazzo Mansi, ending your tour at the edge of the Botanical Garden.

A wet bike ride on the Mura requires caution but offers an empty path all to yourself. At midday, we park the bikes in a dry spot by Palazzo Pfanner and explore the magnificent interiors. In the afternoon, we cycle through the glistening streets to Palazzo Mansi, where art provides cover from the rain. The day ends with a quick ride to the Botanical Garden before seeking shelter indoors.

The morning loop on the walls is cold, but the mountain views are unsurpassed. At midday, Palazzo Pfanner offers a grand journey through time while the gardens hibernate. In the afternoon, we use the bike to move quickly between the city's warm museums. Before dark, we visit the Botanical Garden and return the bike in good time.

With a car, you can explore both Lucca and its surroundings. After parking on the edge of the old town, visit the Amphitheatre Square. At midday, drive to the impressive Villa Reale di Marlia, before returning to Lucca for the views from the Guinigi Tower.

We park conveniently at the Carducci lot and dash into the old town under an umbrella. At midday, we enjoy the atmosphere of Piazza dell'Anfiteatro from a window seat in a restaurant. In the afternoon, we drive to Villa Reale, where the extensive buildings offer shelter. The day ends with a short walk back to the car, shielded from the heaviest rain.

A crisp winter morning begins with stress-free parking at the Carducci lot. At midday, we explore Piazza dell'Anfiteatro and enjoy the winter tranquility of the city. The drive to Villa Reale offers beautiful views of the bare but majestic gardens. At sunset, we return to the Guinigi Tower before turning up the heat in the car.