Things to do in Castelvecchio Pascoli

Passeggiata di Viareggio gives visitors a real Italian experience. Be prepared to use hand gestures to converse, because not many locals speak English. This authenticity also gives you the opportunity to take part in some of Italy’s finest traditions. It is common in Italy to take a “passeggiata” (evening stroll) down the promenade. Dress somewhat formally to blend in with the locals and take part in this social tradition.

With rock concerts, cafés, interesting architecture and a wide open space, the sprawling tree-lined Piazza Napoleone has a broad appeal that attracts thousands of visitors every day.

Pull up a seat at a pavement café, sip a strong espresso and people-watch in one of Lucca’s most beautiful squares. Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is enclosed by brightly colored buildings of uneven heights. It was built on the ruins of a second-century Roman amphitheater where chariots raced. More maudlin, gladiators once fought to the death in front of crowds of up to 10,000 spectators within the piazza’s walls.

Walking along a timber plank stretching hundreds of yards through the marsh into Massaciuccoli Lake is a bit like emerging upon paradise. As gulls fly overhead and a gentle breeze brushes the water reeds against your feet, you can reach for your camera or spend a moment simply enjoying it all. Do both and turn around so that you can also appreciate the mountainous skyline and panoramic views of grasslands.

The first thing that attracts your attention is the gold Byzantine-style mosaic at the top of the wide facade. The decorative piece represents the Ascension of Christ, below which are depictions of the 12 apostles. Inside the Basilica di San Frediano the views are just as arresting, with several notable works of art and the mummified body of a saint.