Grand Universe Lucca review: a luxurious stay in historic Lucca
This impressive hotel is located right in the heart of the walled city
Think of the picturesque Italian region of Tuscany, and notions of wine, art and culture will likely spring to mind, from arguably the area’s most famous city, Florence, to Pisa’s iconic leaning tower.
But just a quick train ride from Pisa sits beautiful Lucca, a historic walled city that has delicately preserved architecture which dates back to mediaeval times. And right in the centre, at the edge of Piazza Napoleone and Piazza del Giglio, sits the impressive Grand Universe Lucca, without pretension, but with quiet, and justified confidence.
Why stay here?
This city is full of hidden nooks and crannies, so staying in the Grand Universe Lucca on one of the main piazzas feels refreshingly spacious. That feeling of creating space where there isn’t much is reflected in the design of the hotel – walking through the large front doors you immediately enter into a lobby in which sits a beautiful grand piano. Take a right and you’re welcomed with a refreshing juice before checking in and being guided to your room.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
The service is impeccable, with the reception team more than happy to advise on activities to do, book taxis and help in any way. With a limited number of rooms, it feels both exclusive and intimate, with the affable staff always ready with a smile and a “buongiorno”. This artfully designed hotel may not have a pool, but it does have lots of other facilities including a small gym with dumbbells and a couple of cardio machines, as well as two bars, one up on the terrace which has beautiful views over the mountains, and another bar downstairs which is ideal for a pre- or post-dinner drink.
Rooms and suites
Each of the hotel’s 55 rooms and suites are tastefully designed, with crisp white sheets on large inviting beds that are deliciously comfortable whether you’re staying in a double “Piccolo” room or the townhouse-like two floor “Maestro Suite”. The modernity of the hotel juxtaposes with the history of the building it sits in while still respecting the beauty of Lucca. There’s a sense of homeliness that has a foundation based on real luxury, which is a feeling that runs throughout with each detail feeling high quality and considered, but not aloof. After a day of wandering, eating and drinking, the large en-suite is a welcome sight with its indulgent bath and spacious shower.
Views from the rooms overlook the historic streets or the sometimes bustling piazzas below, and a lovely morning activity after making the most of the comprehensive breakfast selection is to curl up on one of the deep window sills that doubles as a reading seat with a book in hand.
Eating and drinking
Living up to its name as the wine region of Italy, the food and drink in Lucca is not only indulgent and flavourful, but very reasonably priced. Because everywhere is a short walk away, there’s no need to organise taxis to any of the osterias, trattorias and ristorantes for lunch or dinner. La Bottega di Anna e Leo, which is a stone’s throw from the university, is a particular favourite for pasta.
If a quiet night in at the hotel takes your fancy, then head to the Symphony Lounge downstairs. Its bar is fully stocked for any cocktail that comes to mind and the friendly, welcoming bartenders are more than happy to help before seating you for dinner in the small but artfully designed Legacy Restaurant next door. On the menu at Legacy, there are substantial and generously sized dishes including regional specialities like Tuscan ragu, grilled octopus and fresh pasta which can all be paired with local wines recommended by your waiter. Should you really want to push the boat out, head to the Sommità Martin Orsyn Champagne Rooftop where you can enjoy a glass of bubbly and views from the terrace.
What to do
The best place to start is to take the pleasant 2.7-mile walk around the Lucca city walls because this not only gives an overview of the area, but also passes some beautiful houses and landscapes. Stop in any café for an espresso or pause for a little lunch before finishing your gentle stroll among runners and dog walkers alike.
Venture out of the city via bus or taxi, which can be organised by the hotel, and head to a vineyard. Tenuta Adamo is only around 20 minutes from the centre and for €30 visitors can experience five wines plus some charcuterie and a tour of the vineyard. The staff are sociable and generous, even offering lifts back to the centre for a reduced rate.
If late night drinking and socialising is your thing, then simply wander up the main shopping street in Lucca until you hit Via Michele Rosi where you’ll find university students and young people spilling onto the streets with glasses of red wine in hand.
The verdict
Lucca is a must visit whether as part of a trip around Tuscany or as its own destination because of its historic winding streets, buzzing atmosphere and delicious, reasonably priced food and drink.
A luxury destination in a prime location, Gran Universe Lucca doesn’t feel stuffy or pretentious thanks to the sleek, modern décor and friendly staff that remember you by name. Its boutique nature means it’s never overwhelmed with guests so sits as the perfect base to explore the mediaeval area that surrounds it as well as a place to relax and look over the vibrant square beneath. For a homely but luxurious base after a day of exploring and experiencing, Gran Universe Lucca is the place to stay.
Olivia Perl was a guest of Grand Universe Lucca. Room rates start from £220 per night. Piazza Del Giglio, Lucca 55100, Italy; granduniverselucca.com
Sign up for The Week’s Travel newsletter for destination inspiration and the latest news and trends.
Create an account with the same email registered to your subscription to unlock access.
Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
-
'Will growth slow, or is the economy about to fall off a cliff?'
Instant Opinion Opinion, comment and editorials of the day
By Harold Maass, The Week US Published
-
Senate passes FAA bill with new consumer protections
Speed Read The legislation will require airlines to refund customers for flight delays
By Peter Weber, The Week US Published
-
Trump pledged pro-oil policy to CEOs, asked for $1B
Speed Read The former president promised to reverse Biden's environmental regulations if elected
By Peter Weber, The Week US Published
-
Lanzarote travel guide: a sea-swept volcanic paradise
The Week Recommends Even a short exploration quickly shows the out-of-this-world island is undeserving of its 'Brits abroad' reputation
By William Leigh Published
-
My Arbor: a unique treetop retreat in the Dolomite mountains
The Week Recommends Detox like a true European in the South Tyrol region of northernmost Italy
By Harriet Marsden, The Week UK Published
-
Palazzo Durazzo Suites in Genoa: a palatial gem in northern Italy
The Week Recommends Live your Italian dream in this astonishing and recently restored palace in the heart of the city
By Nick Hendry Published
-
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay: unwind at this picture-perfect resort
The Week Recommends The retreat that's ideal for recharging your batteries while experiencing life on an Indonesian island
By Yasemen Kaner-White Published
-
Loire Valley Lodges review: sleep, feast and revive in treetop luxury
The Week Recommends Forest hideaway offers chance to relax and reset in Michelin key-winning comfort
By Julia O'Driscoll, The Week UK Published
-
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan: unparalleled elegance and cultural immersion
The Week Recommends Serenity is redefined at this luxurious resort in the beating heart of Bali
By Yasemen Kaner-White Published
-
Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa, Mauritius: the perfect 'get-away-from-it-all' resort
The Week Recommends Mauritius, the star of the Indian Ocean, is the ultimate in relaxing destinations
By James Rampton Published
-
Four Seasons Megève: a 'secluded' mountain retreat with plenty to explore
The Week Recommends There is ample opportunity to hike, eat, play and relax at this Alpine resort
By Natasha Langan Published