Why go
The intact walls make Lucca's historic footprint easy to grasp before you enter its lanes. Inside, Piazza dell'Anfiteatro follows a Roman arena, San Michele recalls the forum, and the Guinigi Tower puts living oak trees above the rooftops. It is especially rewarding for travelers who like to understand a city on foot through surviving layers.
What to look for
- The broad wall-top promenade circles the old town.
- Piazza dell'Anfiteatro keeps the curved outline of a Roman arena.
- Oak trees crown the Guinigi Tower above the medieval roofs.
Useful to know
- Walk a section of the walls first to orient yourself, then explore the lanes inside.
- Pair Piazza dell'Anfiteatro with nearby San Frediano; leave time for the cathedral and San Michele farther south.