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Become a local Lucchese for a day and join us for our favourite Italian evening custom – aperitivo time!
Your adventure begins outside Lucca’s pretty train station. From here, we will walk towards the city walls where we will enjoy stunning views of Lucca, as we introduce you to the city’s fascinating history and its infamous rivalry with neighbouring Pisa.
A walk through the city’s charming narrow street leads us to the magnificent Romanesque marble Cathedral, and by the time you arrive you will know why Lucca is known as the city of 100 churches.
Next we will wander through the sycamore trees at Piazza Napoleone, named after Napoleon’s sister Elisa, who was ruler of Lucca at the beginning of the 19th century.
Our first foodie stop will be opposite the exquisite San Michele church in Foro Square; it’s a friendly bakery, popular with locals where we’ll enjoy a drink and try cecina, a type of focaccia made with unexpected ingredients.
The shopping street of Via Fillungo is next up on our Lucca itinerary, here your guide will introduce you to some of the most historic artisan shops and delis in the city. Leather, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, perfume, fashion and local wine – this is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir from your Tuscan travels. At the end of the street, we’ll stop to admire the Romanesque San Frediano Church.
Another gentle stroll through the bustling streets, leads us to Lucca’s most atmospheric public space, Amphitheatre Square, built on top of a second century Roman amphitheatre. Beyond the Square your guide will lead you to the base of Lucca’s most famous landmark, the iconic Guinigi tower, which is known for the trees that adorn the top.
You can’t get more Italian than enjoying a glass of wine in a typical Vineria, a type of small wine bar that you will find all over Tuscany. Your guide will explain the art of the aperitivo as we sip a glass of our favourite vino at a glamourous local Vineria. As the sun sets, we will take a seat and enjoy crostini and the chef’s dish of the day.
This is where we say our arrivederci’s, but the night doesn’t have to end here. Lucca is blessed with an abundance of lovely restaurants and bars, don’t forget to ask your guide for recommendations. Saluti!
