We are very bad tourists. First we lied to our tour guide curtailing our Duomo tour (saying Olivia was sick) so we could go get more gelato. And now today, we completely ditched our Uffizi and Accademia tour to go for a bike ride in the country at a little place called Lucca.
Let me tell you, Lucca beats the pants off of Florence. It’s absolutely gorgeous! You get all the charm and beauty of “Firenze” without the heat or crowds. Plus you can rent a bike and see the entire city pedaling through charming thoroughfares and quirky alleys. Ladies, get a tandem if you can. That way you can sit back, enjoy the scenery and take pictures, while your husband pedals madly, and tries to navigate through the crazy streets.
Lucca has everything. Vino, opera singers, churches, art galleries, restaurants, shopping, and even a torture museum. Plus, it’s beautifully laid out with a lovely tree lined bike path around the entire city. So romantic and fun!
And you know it’s great when someone like me who hates exercise, and is allergic to the outdoors thinks this is the highlight of the vacation.
To get to Lucca you have to drive through heavily congested roads…
And many a bustling metropolis….
To find this hidden gem of a city – lovely Lucca.
First order of business-rent a bike! Tandem highly recommended, and a husband with strong quads.
We had not gone 50 feet when we came upon a very lovely sight….
….an afternoon Wine Tasting right in the middle of the square.
Of course we had to stop for a glass or maybe four glasses.
Slightly inebriated we made our way around town.
There are plenty of churches, art galleries, and museums to visit.
Lucca even has its very own Torture Museum. Try and beat that Florence!
Everywhere you look, there are artisans of every kind showcasing their talent.
Opera singers…this guy was really good.
And this statue is actually a person. Ok, I admit there are some artists with questionable abilities.
A bike ride around the entire city is a must. It’s only 4 kilometers, and is lovely with gorgeous views.
And this cute guy came out to wave to us as we pedaled by. So sweet! Ciao Lucca – we 
💖 you!