Destination introduction
Lucca is an enchanting Tuscan town, a tiny gem encircled by massive walls. These walls fronted by lawns with trees, enclose a centre of atmospheric medieval streets and towers, well-preserved Romanesque churches and palazzi. Irresistible food shops, often with Liberty signs, wood pannelling and beautiful tiles offer delicious seasonal fare. Strolling through the historic centre, pausing at old-fashioned boutiques, cafes, pastry shops and visiting churches and museums is a real pleasure. Lucca's classic dishes reflect the city's wealth, torta di erbe is a Renaissance vegetable pie studded with pine nuts and raisins, fragrant with spices that only the rich could afford.
A visit to Tuscany would not be complete without visiting Pisa's famous Leaning Tower. Exploring the centre by bicycle is fun and easy but a a stroll through Pisa's streets will give you a true flavour of this Tuscan town.
A little known region of Tuscany which borders onto Liguria is the Lunigiana, known for the beauty of its mountains and an old-fashioned pace of life. Extending from the Apennines to the mouth of the Magra river, the Lunigiana is rich in mediaeval history: castles, Romanesque churches and ancient villages of extraordinary beauty dot the landscape. The coast and the pretty villages of the Cinque Terre with their superb walking trails are also within easy reach for interesting day trips.