Our next stay has been in Lucca at the La Romea, a lovely B&B run by Gaia.   Our room is so, so spacious compared to our recent B&B stays.  We could actually turn around in the shower and have space other than to get in and out of bed.  And the calazione (breakfast) in the morning is the best by far.

Lucca is the birthplace of Puccini and his operas are being performed every night during our stay.  The most impressive sight here is the Torre Guinigi which was once the residence of a powerful 14th century family.  It’s distinguishing feature is the unique garden and trees on the roof.

We visited Pisa by train which is only a short 30 minute ride.  Our wonderful B&B hostess says that Lucca and Pisa are age old rivals, so visit Pisa if you must but always stay in Lucca.  We, of course, strolled to the Piazza of Miracles to see the Duomo and the famous leaning tower.

Our walk took us over the Arno River which is the same river running through the heart of Florence.  Along the way, we just happened to meet up with our old friend Pinocchio.

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