Lucca is a medieval Tuscan town northwest of Florence. Its footprint has spread from the original walls, but the layers of architecture added over the years by the different controlling families and governments that called Lucca home only add to the interest and beauty of the city. The city walls were continually being built, modified and fortified from the 2nd century BC to the 16th century AD. Construction on the renaissance walls that are standing today began 
in 1545 and finished in 1650. Taking in the city by walking or cycling atop the wall is one of the essential elements of any visit to Lucca. It is approximately a 2.5 mile loop around the entire city on a beautiful tree lined path about 20 feet wide. Bike rentals are available both in and out of the city gates.
Within the walls you will find a bustling town with locals and tourists alike, working their way through the street grids to the various city piazzas, churches, and towers. Some of the important areas of Lucca to visit are the Piazza dell’ Anfiteatro, the home of legendary Italian opera composer Giacomo Puccini, and Guinigi Tower. Notable cathedrals include Santi Giovanni and Reparata, the Church of San Michelle, Lucca Cathedral and the Basilica of San Frediano.
Two of my favorite sites were the Piazza dell’ Anfiteatro and the Guinigi Tower. The Anfiteatro was originally built as the center of entertainment outside of the Roman city, but now serves as the center of Lucca. Over the years its purpose changed from amphitheater for great gladiator battles, to fortified 
protection from outside attacks, to today’s purpose of housing restaurants and shops, while the outer walls hold terraced homes. The original construction and materials can be seen in places, as well as the roughly thrown together materials later used to reinforce the walls. Piazza dell’ Anfiteatro sits just off of one of the main thoroughfares through town, Via Fillungo.
The Guinigi Tower was built in the late 1300s by the wealthy Guinigi family. The tower is crowned by 4 holm oak trees and is an iconic and easily recognizedsymbol of the city. Entry to the tower is €4.00 per person which allows you to climb the 45 meter staircase to view the city from the top. It is worth the climb and the entry fee.
Bagni di Lucca
If you want to get away from the city, a short bus or train ride will take you to Pisa or if you venture in the other direction, you will follow the Serchio river to Bagni di Lucca, a collection of quaint villages with beautiful 
scenery, walking paths, and hot springs. The Devil’s Bridge is a famous piece of architecture to view along the route. Note that busses will take you more directly into the individual villages, while the train will drop you in Fornoli where you will need to walk (15-20 minutes) or wait for a bus to Ponte a Serraglio or La Villa, the other 2 river villages, which have much more to see.
