Your Lucca & Pisa address book
ACCOMMODATION
Grand Hotel Duomo, Pisa
Not the most beautiful hotel in Pisa, but there are superb views of the Piazza dei Miracoli from its roof terrace, and its proximity makes it perfect for a daybreak stroll around the cathedral and leaning tower. www.grand-hotel- duomo. pisa-hotels.com
Hotel Ilaria, Lucca
A modern hotel within the old city walls of Lucca, with parking and free-pour Prosecco offered at breakfast as well as cocktail hour. B&B only, but free bicycle hire. www.hotelilaria.com
Villa Baldaccini, Lucca
In the foothills above Lucca, this historic villa has been converted into a luxury self- catering holiday home that sleeps 12. Extensive grounds include a swimming pool. +39 0583 40 64 65
Villa Saletta, Pisa
There are three historic villas with swimming pools on this wooded estate, which is also a working vineyard. Pisa airport is just 35km to the north. www.villasaletta.com
RESTAURANTS
Chalet del Lago, Torre del Lago Puccini
Puccini had a long-term relationship with the young woman who ran this – now beautifully extended – lakeside restaurant opposite his home in Torre del Lago. www.chaletdellago.it
Gli Orti, Lucca
Just outside Lucca’s medieval city gates sits an understated restaurant run by Sergio, one of the city’s best sommeliers. Do not be put off by the lack of streetside tables – Gli Orti is for gourmets, not tourists. www. ristorantegliorti.it
Ristorante da Mario, Pisa
This low-key but remarkably foodie-friendly restaurant is situated just northeast of Pisa’s must-visit Piazza del Duomo. www.ristorantedamario.it
Ristorante Puccini, Celle dei Puccini
North of Lucca, high up in Celle dei Puccini, where the composer’s family kept their original mountain home, there is a cosy B&B with a welcoming restaurant downstairs. www.bb-puccini-ristorante.it
SHOPS
Al Enoteca Vanni, Lucca
Not far from Puccini’s birthplace in Lucca, this is a traditional store selling a wide range of Italian wines and excellent local olive oil. Don’t miss the dusty medieval cellar. www.enotecavanni.com
La Bottega del Tartufo, Pisa
You’ll find one of the best truffle shops in Tuscany on Corso Italia, just south of the Arno river in Pisa. www.labottegadeltartufo.it