This is northern Tuscany, where the scenery is mountainous & lush. Visitors have the added benefit of being close to the sparkling Tuscan coast. Their favourite activities are to cycle around the picturesque medieval village of Lucca, to hike the Garafagna mountains or to stroll through the baroque Garzoni gardens, one of the most beautiful garden in Italy. Eating fresh seafood in the upmarket coastal resort of Viareggio is also a must-do.
This area is rich in stately renaissance historical villas such as Villa Mansi, Villa Grabau & Villa Torrigiani, which are open to the public.
Lucca is a lively area with many summer events to attend. Music lovers enjoy seeing a Puccini operas in July & August & or going to the Jazz Donna, a jazz festival featuring only female artists.
See
Beautiful Renaissance Historical Villas open to the public
Garfagnana Mountains
Historic Garzoni Gardens
Experience
Walking or cycling the tops of the city walls in nearby Lucca
Visiting Museum Villa Puccini (La Boheme & Madame Butterfly) on the western shore of Lake Massaciuccoli
Following composers & film stars to the spa town of Montecatini
