Photo of Lucca

About Lucca

Tuscany has a number of towns with World Heritage listed centres, but there's something about Lucca which charms beyond its handsome piazzas, and for that reason our Gurus recommend that instead of just passing through, you book into one of the best places to stay in Lucca. Lucca’s accommodation options include beautifully converted historic palazzo, elegant townhouses-turned-boutique-hotels, country villas on the outskirts of town surrounded by vineyards, and small B&Bs created from apartments within historic mansions.

Lucca is only 20 minutes from Pisa, and about 45 minutes from Florence, so you might opt to reverse the day trip trend and book into one of the best places to stay in Lucca, and then take day trips to the other centres — or spend a few nights in each. To enjoy Lucca at its best get out and explore on foot; stroll the cobbled streets and Renaissance-era walls, stopping every now and then at an historic bar or cafe to watch the world waft gently by!

Lucca’s surrounds are worth exploring too. Nestled into the hills behind the city are beautiful villas, some of them now also converted into hotels and on our Gurus’ list of the best places to stay in Lucca, and the belle époque era spa so loved by local boy, Puccini. He is, unsurprisingly, performed a lot here, especially during the summer, and there are a number of regular festivals to look out for.

The Best Places to Stay in Lucca

For Central Lucca

  • The Palazzo Dipinto is a small, luxurious townhouse conversion in the heart of historic Lucca with a superb restaurant. The bones of this lovely building are still on-show — the beamed ceilings, beautiful terracotta brick and huge windows — but the contemporary conversion has been pretty thorough, allowing for new wood floors and indulgent bathrooms. A central spot that works for couples or families, with 19 rooms and suites.
  • A Palazzo Busdraghi is a charming 16th century palazzo, turned seven room hotel. Guests should expect modest-sized rooms with plenty of original features, homely decor, and a quiet, central location within the beautiful lanes of Lucca. There’s a pretty breakfast room, but no restaurant.

For Couples

  • The Palazzo Tucci is a marvellous palace of a villa in central Lucca, with decor fancy, and traditional, enough for a Medici. Expect terracotta files on the floor, cast painted ceilings, antiques with elegantly turned legs, and plenty of brocade and velvet. There are just six rooms, all of them vast, some suitable for families. Breakfast is served in a huge ballroom.

For Families

  • The Fattoria Mansi Bernardini has been converted from a charming country villa and outbuildings, just 10 kms north of Lucca, and surrounded by vineyards. With traditional, and somewhat romantic-feeling decor — think exposed beams, terracotta-tiled floors and country style fabrics — this makes a great getaway for couples. But the fact that its outbuildings have been converted into villas and apartments make this a great pick for families too. Especially with the outdoor pool and tennis court, and authentic Tuscan cuisine.
  • Le Dimore del Borgo is a collection of simple, crisp and spacious apartments and suites in the centre of town. With wood floors and primarily white details, these rooms are bright, and the larger apartments, with their self-catering facilities, living and dining areas, and multiple bedrooms, are perfect for families. There is a ‘hotel hub’ where there’s a bar and staff who can help you find what you need in Lucca.

For a Rural Retreat

  • Tenuta San Pietro is a small villa in a beautiful spot just outside Lucca, surrounded by an olive farm and grape vines. Within are ten rooms and suites, cleverly designed and simply decorated to make the most of the original features. But what we love this villa for its its gourmet restaurant, serving regional cuisine, which you can learn more about in their cooking classes. They run art classes as well, and there’s an outdoor pool with a wonderful view.
  • The Albergo Villa Marta is a 19th century hunting lodge turned country house hotel, surrounded by citrus gardens and olive groves. Inside are 15 rooms and suites, decorated in pastels, with classical style that highlights the original terracotta floors, beamed ceilings and whitewashed walls. The smartest rooms and the common spaces have decoratively painted walls and graceful proportions. Guests can arrange cooking, or art classes, and use the complimentary hotel bikes to explore the region. Or just hang out by the charming pool.

Best B&Bs

  • The B&B La Romea occupies an impressively proportioned 14th century apartment, offering five rooms and suites, plus a friendly communal lounge and breakfast room. Each of the rooms is unique, but all are large ad light, with mahogany furniture and bi bathtubs. Our Guru’s favourite rooms are those with ceiling frescoes. And the B&B La Romera is just a few minutes walk from some of the highlights of Lucca.
  • L'Orto Degli Angeli is a cheerfully charming B&B in a converted villa within Lucca’s walls. There are 21 rooms, decorated in pretty pastels, with handprinted murals, well chosen antiques and plenty more to remember. Some of the rooms work for families, and the charming communal spaces are cosy and welcoming. A true spread is offered at breakfast and there are plenty of places to eat and drink within a short stroll.
  • The Palazzo Alexander is a very beautiful palazzo (with origins dating back to the 12th century!), turned elegant B&B in central Lucca. It has just six rooms, all with grand gilt and chintz decor and parquet floors. Our Gurus favour the rooms with private balconies overlooking the city, and they’re especially attached the the rooms with ceiling murals.

For a Private apartment or villa

  • If you think a self-catering option would best suit your needs then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Pisa Airport is the most convenient for Lucca, it’s just 20 minutes away by rail, but requiring a changeover in Pisa Central Station. Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci airport may also be a useful option, it’s about an hour away from Lucca by bus, three quarters of an hour’s drive, or two hours on the train.
  • If you plan to hire a car, which we would advise if you want to get out and explore further afield, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
  • The weather's at its best in the summer months, with the average daily highs climbing to 30°C in July and August. However, this is peak tourist season and so if you want to avoid the crowds (and pay less for accommodation) then maybe September's a better bet. The weather's still around 24°C, perfect for sightseeing.

Still not sure where to stay?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Lucca

Best Hotels in Lucca

  • Le Dimore del Borgo Lucca 9 rooms from $99

    Families  -  With self-catering apartments to rent, the hotel is well-suited to families wishing for private accomodation
    City Style  -  Centrally located, this hotel is well placed to explore the many sites the town of Lucca has to offer
    Sights nearby  -  Lucca possesses impressive Roman ruins such as the amphitheatre and forum
    Full of character
    Air conditioningPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    Le Dimore del Borgo offers apartments and suites centrally located in the historical town of Lucca. The rooms are spacious and bright, featuring parquet flooring and modern white furnishings. With chefs, interpreters, baby sitters and personal shoppers all on call, nothing has been missed. See More

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  • Albergo Villa Marta Lucca 15 rooms from $133

    Value chic
    Sights nearby  -  10 mins from the centre of Lucca, 20 mins from Pisa
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Cooking classes  -  Check for timings.
    Air conditioningTennisSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Tablet, Sawdays

    A former 19th century hunting lodge turned charming country hotel, with lovely views just outside Lucca. Elegant rooms in creams and pastels, lovely pool and surroundings, cookery classes and art classes. Wonderfully tranquil, understated and calm. See More

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  • A Palazzo Busdraghi Lucca 7 rooms from $133

    Local exploring  -  Enjoy the quiet location of this pretty hotel to walk the lanes of Lucca, trying Italian treats or stopping for coffee
    Great walks  -  The beach is only 30 minutes away
    Sights nearby  -  Piazza Anfiteatro
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Air conditioning
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Charming hotel in 16th-century palazzo. Elegant rooms have draped curtains, antique furniture and courtyard views. Massages available in-room. Pretty dining room for breakfast, and public spaces have Luccan artworks. Quiet location, yet central, ideal to explore this lovely city. See More

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  • B&B La Romea Lucca 5 rooms from $141

    Romantic Break  -  Stay in a 14th Century apartment with large bathtubs and frescoes before meandernig through Lucca's cobbled streets
    Sights nearby  -  Guinigi Tower and Basilica of San Frediano close by
    Local markets  -  The monthly antiques market is very popular
    Full of character
    Air conditioningPet friendly

    This 14th Century apartment hosts five bedrooms, offering a friendly and intimate stay. Large and light bedrooms have mahogany furniture and big bathtubs. Delicious, fresh and plentiful breakfasts in the lounge. Minutes walk from Lucca's sights. Fantastic value. See More

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  • Palazzo Tucci Lucca (Toscana) 6 rooms from $150

    Local exploring  -  Located in the heart of Lucca within walking distance of many of the cities' sights.
    Sights nearby  -  Once known as the "city of 100 churches" there's an abundance of beautiful edifices within walking distance.
    Opulent
    Full of character
    Air conditioningParkingNo pets

    Set within a striking palace in central Lucca. Individually styled rooms and suites are undeniably generous in proportion. Traditional design throughout with sumptuous wallpapers, baroque furniture and frescoed walls. Indulgent breakfasts are served. A regal base for city exploration. See More

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  • Fattoria Mansi Bernardini Lucca 15 rooms from $174

    Families  -  Villas with kitchens and dining areas, use of outdoor pool, idllyic for an Italian family break.
    Great walks  -  Through the hotel's olive grove of 20 hectares
    Sights nearby  -  Historic sights of Lucca are 10km
    Cooking classes  -  Arranged by hotel for your group
    TennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendly
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Lovely country house hotel and villas. Interiors are romantic with exposed beamed ceilings, pretty fabrics and vineyard views. Outdoor pool and tennis court. Delicious Tuscan food in the restaurant. Charming, relaxing and peaceful. Apartments or villas are bookable on a weekly basis. See More

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  • Alla Corte degli Angeli Lucca (Tuscany) 21 rooms from $170

    Cooking classes  -  Following a trip to the local market head to the kitchen and learn some traditional Tuscan recipes.
    Sights nearby  -  Located within Lucca's city walls, close to all sights
    Full of character
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Air conditioningPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Michelin Travel

    Charming B&B located within the town walls. Sophisticated, pretty bedrooms in pastel shades include hand painted murals and plenty of charm. A true breakfast spread is served and restaurants dotted around the historical town. A brilliant Tuscan gem that welcomes couples and families with open arms. See More

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  • Tenuta San Pietro Lucca 10 rooms from $172

    Foodies
    Sights nearby  -  Not far from Lucca. The hotel provides a free shuttle service to and from the town
    Cooking classes  -  One day classes or cooking holidays available
    Restaurant  -  Serving regional and Mediterranean cuisine
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Tablet

    A small gourmet hotel with rustic rooms, sweeping valley views, an olive farm and surrounding vineyard. Bedrooms with stone walls, wooden beams, and private terraces. Fabulous food, cookery lessons, and art classes. An excellent choice for an active gourmet holiday. See More

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  • Palazzo Alexander Lucca, Tuscany 6 rooms from $195

    Families
    Whirlpool Bathtub  -  Junior suites come with bathrooms with whirlpool tubs
    Sights nearby  -  Located in the centre of Lucca
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Air conditioning
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    An elegant B&B in central Lucca. Gold and chintz bedrooms and suites, some with whirlpool tubs and balconies. A great choice for families or couples. See More

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  • Villa La Preziosa Lucca 13 rooms from $220

    Historic  -  The property dates back to the 1700s. Interiors with original features and period furniture feel grand and authentic
    Hideaway  -  A striking Tuscan villa set in spacious grounds, a tranquil space to return to after a day's exploring
    Beach nearby  -  Unwind on one of the many beaches that run along the coast from Viareggio to Forte dei Marmi
    Families  -  Suite Della Rose sleeps between 4 - 8 people making it a comfortable choice for families
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenParking

    A pretty blue shuttered Tuscan villa set in mature gardens in a quiet neighbourhood of Lucca. Elegant interiors have been carefully restored yet the period design remains with antiques, chandeliers, and Persian rugs. With a large outdoor pool, this is a lovely base to explore from. See More

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  • Grand Universe Lucca Lucca 55 rooms from $275

    Local exploring  -  Well sitiuated within Lucca’s Renaissance city walls, surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and historical monuments
    Boutique  -  Mixing original Neo-Classical style with chic modern design, this is a luxurious boutique stay
    Views  -  Overlooking two squares: the grand, tree-lined Piazza Napoleone and Piazza del Giglio,
    Other Activities  -  Pisa, Florence, and Torre del Lago are all easily accessible for fun day trips
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    A historic hotel, set within Lucca's renaissance walls, that's undergone a complete refurb. Interiors mix the building's Neoclassical style with sleek modern touches. The restaurant serves dishes that are a contemporary twist on regional fare and there's a chic bar too. A stylish & grown-up base. See More

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  • Albergo Villa Casanova Lucca 14 rooms from $347

    Country Escape  -  A historic Tuscan villa set on 360 acres of picturesque woodland with fabulous views — an idyllic country retreat
    Foodies  -  Expect superb seasonal and regional dishes with home produced truffles and olive oil adding a very local touch
    Weddings  -  The scenic backdrop, expansive grounds, and superb food makes this ideal for a wedding venue
    Views  -  Jaw-dropping views mean that you can see all the way to the coast on a clear day
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    An 18th-century villa set in 360 acres of woodlands with views stretching to the sea. Vast rooms have been beautifully renovated. The feel is chic yet traditional. Outdoors is a large pool and there are bikes to explore on. The regional restaurant completes the picture on this classic Tuscan stay. See More

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  • Palazzo Dipinto Lucca 19 rooms from $360

    Local exploring  -  Ideally located to explore the exceptionally pretty city of Lucca.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit nearby Piazza San Michele with its magnificant Romanesque church.
    Great walks  -  Take a walk on the historic city walls.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A small luxury hotel with superb restaurant in the heart of historic Lucca. Impeccably renovated throughout, the building has a light contemporary feel. Rooms are uniformly white-washed with indulgent bathrooms, exposed beams and polished wooden floors. A smart city base. See More

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