Italy - Tuscany - Lucca and Forte dei Marmi

Among the numerous buildings of historic interest are the Pisan-style, 15th-century cathedral (Duomo); the splendid crenellated Campanile, the San Michele in Foro church with its incredible façade in the Piazza san Michele; the famous 14th-century Palazzo Guinigi with its tree-topped tower; the Roman arena, now the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro; the Palazzo Pfanner gardens and many museums.

Curiously and perhaps fortunately, Lucca does not attract the number of tourists that head for Siena or Florence: however, it is a delightful city to visit with fine eateries, elegant cafés – the historic Caffe di Simon is considered the best of all – and many boutiques including, due to its silk trading past, several devoted the art of ladies' lingerie.