My name is Neta Gimpel, and I have been working in the tourism industry for over 13 years. Today I manage partnerships with leading travel service providers – from car rentals and insurance to hotels, airlines, local guides, and top attractions worldwide. In addition, I am an active travel blogger and an expert who lives and breathes travel every day. If you are planning a trip and want to make it comfortable, well-planned, and truly unforgettable, I will be happy to help. Let’s turn your travel dream into reality!
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
Piazza Anfiteatro in the historic city of Lucca, Italy, is a wonderful blend of past and present. Built on the site of an ancient Roman amphitheater, the oval-shaped square has become a vibrant center for locals and tourists alike. Here is an expert’s guide to the highlights of this architectural gem, how to plan your visit, and what not to miss.
Highlights and Things to Do
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is the lively and bustling heart of Lucca. Surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and stores, it is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the local culture. Learn more about the highlights of Lucca.
Architectural Highlights
- Oval: One of the square’s most striking features is its unique oval shape, a direct homage to its Roman origins. As you walk through the square, take time to appreciate how the surrounding buildings elegantly follow the curves of the ancient amphitheater. This architectural design not only demonstrates the originality of Roman engineering but also provides a picturesque environment for visitors.
- Cross carved into the floor: At the intersection of the four entrances and exits, you will discover a cross carved into the floor of the square. This cross marks a historically significant point and recalls the original entrance to the amphitheater. It is a great spot for photography and highlights the depth of the place’s historical roots.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
- Chiesa di San Giovanni e Reparata: A short walk from the square, this church dates from the 6th century. It features a magnificent Romanesque bell tower and intricate frescoes reflecting its historical importance. The church often hosts art exhibitions and concerts, making it a place worth visiting for those interested in culture and history.
- Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Mansi (National Palace Museum): A few blocks away, this museum is housed in a beautiful 16th-century palace. It houses a rich collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, including works by prominent Italian artists. The museum is a treasure trove of Lucca’s history and provides an insight into the city’s artistic heritage.
Culinary Delights
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Here are some of the culinary highlights:
- Ristorante da Leo: Famous for its authentic Tuscan cuisine, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere in which to taste local specialties such as pici (handmade pasta) and torta co biccheri (traditional cake). You can taste the culinary traditions of Lucca.
- Caffè di Piazza: The perfect place for a coffee break. Enjoy a drink while soaking up the lively atmosphere of the piazza and people-watching.
- Gelateria della Passera: This gelateria offers a variety of artisanal gelato made with fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy a gelato while strolling through the piazza or relaxing on a bench.
Shopping and Local Artisans
The plaza is lined with quaint stores selling a variety of goods, from handmade crafts to local delicacies. Here are a few highlights:
- Artisan Shops: Browse through stores selling ceramics, jewelry, textiles, and other handicrafts. Many of these items are made by local artisans and make for unique souvenirs.
- Local Markets: If you are visiting on a weekend, you may find markets selling fresh produce, cheeses, and other local products. This is a great opportunity to sample local delicacies and mingle with local vendors.
Since 2015, our website has specialized in individual planning of unique routes, taking into account personal preferences and desires. Each of you will receive a unique PDF file from us, which contains everything you need: travel routes, car rentals, hotels, the best tourist attractions, attractions for kids and everything you need for a perfect vacation. During the trip, we are available for you by phone via WhatsApp. Our personal service provides information from A to Z, taking into account many small details that can become a decisive factor on the way from a wasted trip to an unforgettable vacation. Our service will make your trip comfortable, save a lot of time on planning and preparation, and most importantly – will allow you to become freer and fully enjoy the pleasure of the trip.
Events and Live Entertainment
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from festivals to live music.
- San Zita Festival: If you visit Lucca during the San Zita Festival, you will witness the square transformed into a lively flower market. Locals and tourists alike mingle with the stalls, creating a lively and enthusiastic atmosphere.
- Evening performances: Many cafes and restaurants offer live music. Enjoy food and drinks while listening to talented local musicians, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the square.
Visiting Tips
- Best time to visit: Visit during the golden hour before sunset when the soft light warmly illuminates the square for a magical experience. It is also the best time to take pictures.
- Take it easy: Allow plenty of time to wander, eat, and soak up the local atmosphere. The piazza is a place to relax, so don’t feel rushed.
- Stay connected: Consider staying in nearby accommodations that are easily accessible to the piazza. Many charming hotels and guesthouses are within walking distance for sightseeing in Lucca.
Getting to Piazza Anfiteatro
Getting to Piazza Anfiteatro is very easy, whether from nearby towns or from within Lucca.
- By train: If you are coming from Florence or Pisa, take the train to Lucca. The Lucca train station is about a 20-minute walk from the square. Head towards the center of the city, and you will find signs directing you to the square.
- By bus: Buses run between Lucca and various cities in Tuscany. The bus terminal is also located near the train station, from where it is a short walk to Piazza Anfiteatro.
- By foot: The square within Lucca’s medieval walls is easily accessible on foot. A meander through the charming streets will lead you to this wonderful square, where you can soak up the atmosphere of the city.
The square is open all year round, so you can enjoy it any time of the year.
Admission: There is no admission fee to Piazza Anfiteatro.
What we propose Emma Heidi Take all the stress out of planning your trip! With our experts, you can create the perfect itinerary for you – complete, comfortable, and tailored to all your dreams, wishes, and needs. We take care of every little detail, so you can simply focus on enjoying your journey. We’ve been designing personalized itineraries since 2015, and over the years we’ve created thousands of custom itineraries for happy clients. Save time, avoid confusion – we do the work for you. Our service saves you weeks of searching, reading, comparing, and complicated planning. Instead of wasting endless hours – you receive a ready-to-use, accurate and clear itinerary. A tailor-made itinerary – built just for you. Your itinerary is personally designed based on our experts’ real field experience and genuine feedback from hundreds of travelers – including hidden discoveries and insider tips that don’t appear in any travel guide. Smart accommodation selection – often saves you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. We help you choose verified and recommended places to stay, checking availability for your exact travel dates. Sometimes we suggest hotels not “in the center,” but in safe, convenient, and highly strategic locations – which can significantly reduce travel costs and save you even thousands of dollars. We’re by your side even during the trip. We stay with you throughout your vacation – providing professional help whenever needed. If the weather changes, there’s a strike, a local event, heavy crowds, or any unexpected situation – we are here to update, guide, and adjust your itinerary in real time. Easy-to-use itinerary – with direct navigation links. Your itinerary includes direct Waze / Google Maps links – no need to search for parking addresses, no stress, no mistakes. Just tap – and go. Want to know if it’s really worth it? Take a look at the experiences of travelers who built their personal itinerary with us. Click here and let’s start building the itinerary that will save you time, money, and stress – and turn your vacation into perfection. Of course, your first inquiry is completely free – with no commitment whatsoever. How it works
Customer Experience Manager
Service cost: from only $420. (Special price for short itineraries up to 5 days). Clients tell us the itinerary saves them costly mistakes, fines, wrong choices – plus exclusive discounts on car rentals, better-priced accommodations, and money-saving local tips.
Latest articles
Kaprun Dam (Hochgebirgsstauseen)
Kaprun Dam (Kaprun Hochgebirgsstauseen) is a high-altitude reservoir complex set […]
