Escape To Tuscany: Inside Lucca, Italy's Walled City And Beyond

By Dawn Wilson

Lucca, Italy, is one of Tuscany’s most enchanting destinations. Best known for its perfectly preserved Renaissance walls that encircle the historic center, the city combines Old World charm with vibrant modern energy. Don’t mistake “charming” for sleepy—Lucca hums with life, attracting discerning travelers who come for its upscale boutiques, specialty shops, inviting wine bars, and artisanal gelaterias.

What sets Lucca apart is its abundance of green spaces. Tree-lined promenades crown the walls, while secret gardens, rolling hills, and nearby vineyards provide a picturesque backdrop that feels quintessentially Tuscan. Within the city, two standout properties capture this sense of beauty and refinement: Grand Universe Lucca and Grand Universe La Residenza.

I stayed at Grand Universe La Residenza, an intimate 10-suite boutique property where no two suites are alike. Ranging from 415 to 1,188 square feet, they offer one- and two-bedroom layouts, complete with fully equipped kitchens and spacious lounges for entertaining. Silk curtains, antique accents, and curated decorative touches nod to Tuscan tradition, while minimalist design and contemporary comforts create a sophisticated balance between past and present. Guests also enjoy access to the amenities of the nearby Grand Universe Lucca, including its restaurant, bar, rooftop terrace, and fitness area, while La Residenza adds the luxury of personal butler service.

Each morning, I walked to Grand Universe Lucca for breakfast, where the warm welcome of the staff made me feel part of a private club. Overlooking the bustling Piazza Napoleone and Piazza del Giglio, the 55-room property radiates elegance with interiors inspired by Italian composers—Puccini and Maestro among them. For solo travelers, their “Bikes & Bites” package, including a bike rental and a picnic stocked with Tuscan treats and wine, is a delightful way to explore the walled city.

An Authentic Taste of Tuscany

No trip to Tuscany is complete without wine, and the hotel arranged a visit I’ll never forget: Podere Concori, the region’s highest vineyard. Family-run and steeped in tradition, the estate offers tastings paired with sweeping mountain views. After a tour of the vineyards, cellar, and farm, I enjoyed a homemade lunch prepared by the owner with ingredients grown on-site. Authentic, soulful, and intimate, Podere Concori is a must for travelers seeking true Tuscan heritage.

Journey to Carrara

Just beyond Lucca, I ventured to the Carrara Marble Quarries, where the world’s most celebrated marble has been extracted for centuries. The rugged jeep ride through the Apuan Alps revealed dazzling white cliffs towering above—an awe-inspiring sight. Used in Renaissance masterpieces and architectural landmarks, Carrara marble’s prestige is undeniable, its veining and luminosity unmatched. Seeing it at its source deepened my appreciation for this iconic material.

A Countryside Retreat

To round out my Tuscan escape, I traveled to Barga, a fairytale town surrounded by medieval villages, castles, and rolling vineyards. Here, the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa crowns a hilltop overlooking the Serchio Valley. With 180 rooms and suites, the resort combines the intimacy of a boutique retreat with the amenities of a full resort—sparkling pools, two restaurants, and a renowned spa. A blissful 90-minute massage became the highlight of my stay, the perfect counterbalance to days spent exploring.

From Lucca’s walled charm and vibrant piazzas to the vineyards of Podere Concori, the marble peaks of Carrara, and the tranquil hills of Barga, Tuscany reveals itself as both timeless and endlessly surprising. Whether you’re seeking history, heritage, or pure relaxation, this corner of Italy promises a journey you’ll never want to end.