Guinigi Tower — Attraction in Lucca

Be sure not to miss the entrance as it’s not well signposted and the only thing that gives you any indication is the queue on the street outside! Once inside, the receptionist tightly controlled numbers accessing the tower - sensible given the volume of students and tour groups wanting to climb. I’d like to hope that in peak times they might allocate time slots so people could book their time slots ahead and avoid further adding to the Qs but that was not the case during our visit.! The tower itself is a relatively easy climb as the stairs are well laid out with resting spots along the way. It narrows quite a bit for about a dozen steps at the very top so be aware as this might prove difficult for some people. Once on top of the towers it’s wonderful to sit under the trees - yes, there are trees growing on top- and just look around and appreciate the views from each side. I was a little disappointed at the lack of decent information about the Tower, its history etc. one information board opposite the reception desk which meant you had to purchase your ticket before you could read any information which was a bit of a waste of time. Had the information board been placed nearer the door or in bigger print it would have been better all round . Was it worth the climb & the €8 entry fee? The views were great but the entrance fee is a bit steep! ( no pun...

A must see in Lucca. The town has many towers that were all built in the medival times. Many of them were built as a show of wealth and power in the community. This family decided to take it to the next level and put a private garden on top of their tower. It is super impressive! Fun fact, none of the towers in Lucca are leaning. Some locals make fun of Pisa's prized tower for not standing up straight.

TIP: you can buy tickets in advance but it is a major pain. You have to go through a complicated registration process. I recommend showing up in advance and buying tickets for the slot you want, just know that your preferred slot might be booked (but doubtful if it is an hour or more in advance because others will be faced with the same registration process). Entry is 5 Euros and you can stay for 30 mins. There are roughly 230 stairs. They are not steep but there is...

Pretty amazing structure and outstanding views. We made a point of stopping by just before we left when it opened at 9:30, and enjoyed the walk up peaking out if the windows on our way up. It was windy on top and not a lot of room with the trees but it was great to look down on the old city and see the greenery of the old walls from the vantage point. It would be tough for toddlers if they aren't in a backpack unless you have a lot of time as there are many many stairs. Just before the top there is a narrow stairway thst turns that would be difficult for someone who is especially large or trying to carry a backpack. There are railings all the way up so even folks with a fear of heights will have something to hold on to. For those who don't want to go up there is a nice little gift shop at the bottom. A highlight of our...