7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Lucca

Lucca, a charming city nestled in Tuscany, Italy, is a haven for digital nomads seeking a blend of culture, history, and modern amenities. While the city itself offers plenty to explore, its location also makes it an ideal base for weekend getaways. From the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside to the sparkling Mediterranean coast, there's a plethora of destinations within easy reach. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems off the beaten track, here are seven fantastic weekend escapes to consider when you need a break from your remote work routine.

Florence

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a must-visit for anyone living in Lucca. Just a short train ride away, this city is brimming with art, culture, and history. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, and marvel at the grandeur of the Duomo. Florence is also a shopper's paradise, with markets and boutiques offering everything from high fashion to artisanal crafts.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Florence is by train, with frequent services running from Lucca and taking about 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to see the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, which offers a breathtaking view of the entire city.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel David for its excellent service and complimentary happy hour, or the Palazzo Castri 1874, which boasts a lovely garden and spa.

Where to Eat: Trattoria Mario is a historic spot famous for its Florentine steak and bustling atmosphere. For a sweet treat, visit Gelateria La Carraia for some of the best gelato in town.

Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre is a string of five picturesque villages perched along the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. Hiking between the villages offers stunning views of the sea and the terraced vineyards. Each village has its own unique charm, from the colorful houses of Manarola to the secluded beaches of Corniglia. It's the perfect spot for a weekend of exploration, relaxation, and indulging in delicious Ligurian cuisine.

How to Get There: The journey to Cinque Terre can take about 2 to 3 hours by train from Lucca, with a change in La Spezia.

Travel Tip: Take the boat tour to see the villages from the water, providing a different perspective and fantastic photo opportunities.

Where to Stay: La Torretta Lodge in Manarola offers chic accommodations with sea views, while the Hotel Porto Roca in Monterosso has a cliffside pool overlooking the Mediterranean.

Where to Eat: Ristorante Belforte in Vernazza offers seafood dishes with a view, and Cantina di Miky in Monterosso is known for its pesto pasta and anchovies.

Pisa

Pisa, home to the iconic Leaning Tower, is more than just its famous architectural mishap. Spend a day exploring the Piazza dei Miracoli, visiting the Cathedral and Baptistery, and perhaps climbing the tower itself. The city also has a vibrant street life, with lively markets and a plethora of cafes and bars where you can enjoy an aperitivo.

How to Get There: Pisa is easily accessible from Lucca by train, with the journey taking about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit the University of Pisa's botanical garden, Orto Botanico, the oldest university botanical garden in Europe.

Where to Stay: The Grand Hotel Duomo offers a rooftop terrace with a view of the tower, and the Hotel Pisa Tower is located just steps from the main attractions.

Where to Eat: Osteria dei Cavalieri serves traditional Tuscan dishes in a cozy setting, while La Pergoletta is the go-to spot for delicious pizza.

Barga

Barga is a hidden gem located in the Serchio Valley, known for its medieval architecture and artistic heritage. This hilltop town offers panoramic views of the Apuan Alps and is a quieter alternative to the more frequented Tuscan destinations. Wander through the narrow streets, visit the Duomo di San Cristoforo, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this off-the-beaten-path locale.

How to Get There: To reach Barga, you can take a train to Barga-Gallicano station, followed by a short bus ride to the town center. The total journey from Lucca is around 1 hour.

Travel Tip: Check out the local music scene; Barga is known for its jazz festival and often hosts live music events throughout the year.

Where to Stay: Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa offers luxury accommodations with stunning views, while Casa Cordati provides a more intimate bed and breakfast experience.

Where to Eat: Trattoria da Riccardo is a favorite among locals for its authentic Tuscan cuisine, and L'Altana offers a romantic dining experience with a terrace overlooking the valley.

Volterra

Volterra, a walled mountaintop town, is steeped in history, dating back to Etruscan times. Explore the Etruscan Museum, the Roman Theatre, and the Alabaster Museum, which showcases the town's traditional craft. Volterra's dramatic landscapes and ancient ruins make it an evocative and less crowded alternative to more popular Tuscan towns.

How to Get There: The trip to Volterra involves a combination of train and bus, with the closest train station being in Pontedera. The journey from Lucca takes approximately 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to see an alabaster carving demonstration, a craft that has been associated with Volterra for centuries.

Where to Stay: Hotel San Lino offers a central location with a pool, while Villa Rioddi provides a countryside retreat with beautiful views.

Where to Eat: La Vecchia Lira is known for its truffle dishes, and Osteria dei Poeti is a cozy spot for a hearty meal after a day of sightseeing.

Isola Santa

Isola Santa is a quaint, partially abandoned medieval village nestled in the Apuan Alps. This picturesque spot is surrounded by a small lake and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. It's an ideal place for hiking, enjoying nature, and taking a step back in time as you wander through the stone streets and restored houses.

How to Get There: Reaching Isola Santa requires a car, as public transportation options are limited. The drive from Lucca takes about 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Bring your camera to capture the enchanting views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, especially during the golden hour.

Where to Stay: There are a few charming guesthouses in Isola Santa, such as Antico Borgo Isola Santa, which offers a rustic experience with modern comforts.

Where to Eat: The local restaurant, Osteria dell'Isola Santa, serves traditional dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, often featuring wild game and mushrooms.

Portovenere

Portovenere is a stunning coastal town on the Ligurian Sea, often overshadowed by its famous neighbors in the Cinque Terre. Its colorful houses, medieval castle, and the beautiful Church of St. Peter perched on a rocky promontory make it a picturesque and tranquil destination. Enjoy the seaside promenade, explore the hidden coves, and take a boat trip to the nearby Palmaria Island.

How to Get There: The journey to Portovenere from Lucca typically involves a train to La Spezia and then a bus or ferry to the town, taking around 2.5 hours in total.

Travel Tip: Visit the Grotta di Byron, a sea cave named after the poet Lord Byron, who was said to swim there. It's a popular spot for cliff diving and swimming.

Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Portovenere offers luxury accommodations with sea views, while Hotel Belvedere provides a more budget-friendly option with a great location.

Where to Eat: Ristorante Le Bocche is renowned for its seafood specialties and offers a terrace with stunning views of the harbor. For a casual bite, try Il Timone for delicious focaccia and pizza.