It was hailed as the country’s lesser-known fairytale city by Conde Nast Traveller, and it’s certainly not hard to see why.
If the UK’s autumn chill is already getting you down, planning a sunny getaway can be just the thing to lift your spirits.
We’re fortunate enough to be only a short flight away from several European hotspots that stay warm well into the autumn and even winter months, providing plenty of opportunity for some sun-soaked relaxation without straying too far from home.
And if you’re keen to avoid the tourist throngs while still enjoying a leisurely few days of sightseeing, wine tasting, and cultural immersion, then one ‘hidden gem’ in Italy could be just the spot.
Hailed as Italy’s lesser-known fairytale city by Conde Nast Traveller, Lucca, nestled in the Tuscan region, certainly lives up to its reputation.
Just looking at photos of this great city transports you to an entirely different world, with a wealth of attractions to captivate visitors of all ages, reports the Express.
While it may not attract the same attention as Rome or Lake Como, this quaint central Italian city’s lack of congestion makes it an ideal location for a tranquil break steeped in culture.
Its fairy tale-like charm is further enhanced by the Renaissance-era walls encircling the city.
Once a bustling centre for silk production during medieval times, Lucca has managed to preserve its historical allure while incorporating a contemporary twist.
Despite the city’s growth and modernisation, the walls that once encased the old town have been preserved.
Lucca is home to an impressive collection of stunning Pisan-Romanesque churches, adorned in marbled hues, which never fail to captivate tourists.
Even in October, the weather remains pleasant, reaching up to 21C – not too hot, perfect for sightseeing, shopping and dining.
One of the best ways to explore the city is by bike, as many of the lanes are too narrow for cars. Numerous companies offer bike hire, including Cici Rai near Porta San Gervasio, the San Gervasio Gate.
For architecture fans, Lucca is a dream come true. Spend time admiring the striking façade of the Cattedrale di San Martino and its large Crucifixion scene inside.
The best views of Lucca are from above, so it’s worth climbing the Torre Guinigi – the city’s last remaining tower-house – for the most breathtaking panoramic views.
From the top of this 45-metre-high tower, you can admire the rural vistas and spot the outline of Lucca’s Roman amphitheatre, perfectly framed by medieval townhouses.
And naturally, the cuisine in Lucca is to die for. According to To Tuscany, local delicacies include a unique sweet tart of spinach and chard with pine nuts and chestnut flour ravioli, inspired by neighbouring Garfagnana.
Sweet lovers will be eager to try some buccellato, a sweet bread made with raisins and aniseed that dates back to Roman times.
And for those who enjoy a drink, Lucchesi wines range from the robust red Montecarlo di Lucca to the subtle white Colline Lucchesi.