A complete guide to where to stay in Lucca, Italy (+ the best places to stay in the historical center of Lucca, the area inside the walls).
Luca is strategically located in the heart of northern Tuscany. It’s a great base to explore the region, especially if you’re travelling by car. Florence is about an hour away, while Pisa is even less!
However, if you’re travelling by train, I’d recommend staying in Pisa instead of Lucca. Featuring an international airport and a major train station, Pisa is one of the main transportation hubs in Tuscany. It will be much more convenient to stay there if you’re relying solely on public transport. For more details take a look at my guide to the best places to stay in Pisa.
Yet, if you set your mind on Lucca, I’d recommend you staying inside the city walls. Continue reading to find out why and to discover the best hotels to stay in Lucca historical center.
I had only a day in Lucca, so I wanted to be in the heart of the medieval town, close to all major attractions. In addition, I preferred the accommodation to be within a walking distance to the main train station.
The historical center of Lucca suited my needs perfectly. It’s the best area to stay for tourists.
Most popular hotel in Lucca
In a hurry? Looking for a nice hotel inside the city walls? Then check out Hotel Ilaria – it’s the most popular hotel.
Situated within the city walls, Hotel Ilaria is the best place to stay in Lucca. The location is perfect for exploring the city, you can reach everything within a 15min walk. Rooms are spacious, quiet and feature a unique atmosphere.
Why book – 200m from Guinigi Tower, private parking on site, spacious rooms, complimentary soft drinks
Historical Center – the best area to stay in Lucca
The best area to stay in Lucca is the historical center. Here, you’ll find all the tourist sites, including the Lucca Cathedral, Guinigi Tower and Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. This is the perfect place to stay for first-time visitors, as well as for those planning to explore Tuscany.
Lucca is a small city that can be easily explored on foot. If you look at a map, you’ll see that city is encircled by a yellow ring. This is the medieval city walls, which are still intact. The historical center lies within.
South from the old city walls, you’ll find the train station. It’s just a short walk from Old Town. This makes the area perfect not only for sightseeing, but also to explore Tuscany by train.
If you’re travelling by car, I’d recommend booking a hotel within the city walls but leaving your car outside the walls. The main reason is that most part of the historical center is a Limited Traffic Zone. Plus, car parks are cheaper and it’s even possible to find free parking. This is, of course, if you don’t find a suitable hotel with parking available on-site.
Why stay in the Historical Center
- this is the best area to stay in Lucca for tourists
- you can walk everywhere (including Lucca Cathedral, Guinigi Tower, Piazza dell’Anfiteatro)
- the main train station is less than a 10min walk (perfect to explore Tuscany by train)
Hotels in the Historical Center (Best for couples)
Situated within the city walls, Hotel Ilaria is the best place to stay in Lucca. The location is perfect for exploring the city, you can reach everything within a 15min walk. Rooms are spacious, quiet and feature a unique atmosphere.
Why book – 200m from Guinigi Tower, private parking on site, spacious rooms, complimentary soft drinks
Palazzo Alexander is one of the most unique places to stay in Lucca, Italy. The hotel occupies a 12th-century building. The rooms feature antique wood floors and marble bathrooms. It’s like staying at a real Italian palace in the heart of the city.
Why book – next to Mansi Palace, public parking, fantastic breakfast with gluten-free options
Hotels in Lucca Old Town (Best for families)
Located on a small charming square, Palazzo Dipinto is one the most comfortable hotels in Lucca Old Town. The hotel features modern designed rooms in a historical house from the 13th century. The location is very strategic, just a short distance from the main landmarks.
Why book – next to Mansi Palace, air-conditioning, spacious comfy rooms, private parking
Set in a historic building from 1540, San Luca Palace combines traditional hospitality with Italian architecture. The spacious rooms are quiet and tastefully decorated. Plus, you’ll find plenty of local restaurants nearby.
Why book – next to Mansi Palace, free bike rental, parking on-site, supermarket nearby, helpful staff
Best apartments in the Old Town
Spacious apartments in an excellent location, close to the main sights and the train station. The kitchen is fully equipped, including a kettle, toaster, washing machine, dishwasher, etc.
Why book – next to Lucca Cathedral, air-conditioning, close to supermarkets and bakeries
Centrally located, spacious apartments within the city walls of Lucca. You’ll be at walking distance to almost everywhere. The accommodation is nicely renovated with high ceilings and great amenities!
Why book – next to Mansi Palace, air-conditioning, fully equipped kitchen, bakery nearby
 | Milena Yordanova |
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| I’m a full-time travel blogger based in Sofia, Bulgaria. I love to travel and to discover new places, cultures and food. I’m an expert in travel planning and I am here to help you plan your dream vacation. |
Hello Milena Yordanova,
It’s such a great time to visit on your official blog first time & found a good post too. I do hear about Lucca Old Town so many time but hadn’t much info but your post give such a deep info to stay stay in Lucca Old Town.
We cancelled our original hotel and booked Alla Corte degli Angeli at the last minute. We were so happy with our choice as the location of the hotel was amazing!