Lucca's signature dog walk is the 4.2 km loop on top of its Renaissance walls — flat, grassy, traffic-free, with shade from chestnut trees. The Botanical Garden, Parco Fluviale and surrounding hills add variety.
Around the old town · Le Mura, 55100 Lucca
The most intact Renaissance ramparts in Italy (1545-1650) — 4.2 km loop on top of the walls, 12 m wide, paved with grass shoulders and lined with chestnut, plane and lime trees. Italy's flagship Renaissance walking promenade.
💡 Best in the morning (08:00-10:00) when locals jog and walk dogs. Cyclists share the path — keep dogs on a short lead. The Baluardo San Donato has a small café with terrace.
South-east corner of walls · Via del Giardino Botanico 14, 55100 Lucca
Compact 2 ha botanical garden founded in 1820 by Maria Luisa di Borbone, Duchess of Lucca. Mature exotic trees, a small pond, a pavilion. Leashed dogs welcome — rare for an Italian botanical garden.
💡 Entry 4 EUR; the cedar of Lebanon planted in 1822 is the showpiece. Cool refuge in July afternoon heat.
1 km north of walls · Via di Mugnano, 55100 Lucca
Riverside park along the Serchio, 1 km north of the walls. 8 km of flat path, gravel beaches, and a small signposted dog-bathing zone where dogs can swim in summer.
💡 Best access from the Ponte San Quirico bridge. Avoid weekends in July-August when local families come too.
Our top-rated pet-friendly hotels, handpicked and verified.
Palazzo Dipinto
★★★★★ · 9.4/10
€280/night
Hotel Ilaria & Residenza dell'Alba
★★★★ · 9/10
€175/night
Locanda Vigna Ilaria
★★★ · 9/10
€95/night