A little while ago I was able to spend the day in the town of Lucca here in Tuscany. It is one of the few cities left that is still completely surrounded by Renaissance walls but don't let that come across as uninviting. In fact, I think the walls have kept in one of Italy's best kept secrets.
While most people who come to Tuscany go to Florence or Pisa first (and rightfully so, there is a reason they are so popular: because they are incredible), Lucca is a great choice for a day trip for someone staying in Tuscany but wants to see something different than the chaos that is Florence's Piazza Duomo in August.
The city walls that still encircle the city have been repurposed from their original defensive intention and is instead one of the most unique city parks you will ever see. Called Passeggiatta della Mura in Italian, the Walkway on the Wall is a must see if visiting Lucca. Bike rentals are in abundance all around the city and the streets are very navigable. Rent one at a cheap hourly rate and take a few laps around the walls. Don't forget to stop for gelato along the way!
Here's a little video I made of my day in Lucca! Enjoy!
Ciao for now,
