Lucca is known for the well-preserved Renaissance walls encircling its historic city center and its cobblestone streets. Broad, tree-lined pathways along the tops of these massive 16th- and 17th-century ramparts are popular for strolling and cycling.

The oval Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is built on the site of a former Roman amphitheater. Lucca’s Duomo di San Martino is an ornate cathedral with a Pisan-Romanesque exterior and a soaring bell tower. The church of San Frediano has a golden 13th-century mosaic on its facade. Palazzo Pfanner is known for its elaborate baroque gardens. Lucca’s few remaining towers (once there were more than 100) include the 14th-century Torre Guinigi, topped with oak trees, and clock-faced Torre delle Ore, with panoramic city views.

Lucca is also known for the Lucca Summer Festival, where many international music stars perform concerts and for Lucca Comics and Games that gathers thousands of cosplayers and comic fans every year.