Trains from Zurich to Luccafrom $ 10.39

Zurich, the beautiful capital city of Switzerland, is a paradise for anyone looking to explore a stunning mix of historical and architectural sites. From its sparkling lakes and its scenic hills to its cobbled streets and old bridges, Zurich offers a wide range of attractions for tourists of all tastes and budgets. Here are seven of the most popular must-visit sites in Zurich. 

The Old Town (Altstadt): Dating back to the 12th century, this medieval old city offers a wealth of colorful old houses, winding lanes, bustling squares, and picturesque gothic churches. Take an afternoon to explore this area and marvel in its beauty. Its narrow streets are full of shops, galleries, and restaurants, providing the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Grossmünster: Located in the heart of Zurich, Grossmünster is an iconic Romanesque-style church dating back to the 11th century. With its impressive twin towers, it is considered the symbol of the city. Entrance is free, and it is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm.

Uetliberg: With its striking summit of 871m, Uetliberg offers one of the most breathtaking views of Zurich. The mountain can be accessed by train or cable car, and it is a popular spot for picnicking and enjoying the views of the city. There are several trails of different difficulty levels, making Uetliberg the perfect place for an outdoor adventure.

Fraumünster: Located next to the Grossmünster, Fraumünster is a beautiful gothic church dating from the 14th century. Visitors can admire its intricate stained glass windows, designed by renowned painter, Augusto Giacometti. Its entrance is free, and it is open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Zurich Zoo: The Zurich Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city. It is home to over 400 species of animals, from exotic birds to playful monkeys. It is open daily from 9am to 6pm, and admission fees start at CHF13 for adults and CHF7 for children.

Lindenhof: Located within the Old Town, the Lindenhof offers some of the best views of the city and its stunning lake. It is a great spot for admiring the sunset, and it is also a popular place for jogging and relaxing. Entrance is free, and it is open daily from 8am to 8pm.

Rathaus (Town Hall): Built in 1694, the Rathaus is an impressive baroque building located in the main square of the city. It is a great place to learn about the city’s history and architecture. Entrance is free, and it is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

When visiting Zurich, don’t forget to try some of its delicious local specialties such as Rosti, fondue, or apple-pie. With its beautiful scenery and rich cultural and historical attractions, Zurich is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.

With its cobbled streets, leafy piazzas and Romanesque churches, Italy's Lucca is an alluring and beguiling city. It’s no wonder that so many travellers flock here every year to explore its rich heritage, culture and cuisine. Whether you’re looking for some of the world’s most breathtaking churches and buildings or just want to savour a delicious Tuscan lunch, Lucca is an ideal destination. Here’s a quick guide to the seven must-visit historical and architectural sites in Lucca. 

The Duomo of San Martino: The Duomo in Lucca is the city’s most iconic architectural landmark. Built in the 12th century, it is an impressive Romanesque church with breathtaking frescoes and rare marble decorations. Location: Via San Martino, 55100 Lucca, Italy. Hours: 9am-7pm daily. Entrance Fee: free. Insider Tip: Don’t forget to visit the crypt and the cloister.

Piazza dell'Anfiteatro: This charming square is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It was built on the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre, and is now surrounded by cafes and restaurants. Location: Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, 55100 Lucca, Italy. Hours: Open 24 hours. Entrance Fee: Free. Insider Tip: Grab a table in one of the cafes with a view of the square.

Palazzo Pfanner: Built in the 17th century, Palazzo Pfanner is an iconic Venetian-style palace. It’s the home of the Pfanner beer brewery and is open to the public for guided tours. Location: Via degli Asili, 55100 Lucca, Italy. Hours: 10am-7pm daily. Entrance Fee: €9. Insider Tip: Don’t miss the beautiful gardens and the beer tasting.

Torre Guinigi: This is one of the most distinctive landmarks in Lucca. It’s a medieval tower dating back to the 14th century with a crown of cypress trees at the top. Location: Piazza d’Arnolfo, 55100 Lucca, Italy. Hours: 9am-7pm daily. Entrance Fee: €5. Insider Tip: Climb the tower for one of the best views of the city.

Walls of Lucca: The 16th-century city walls are a unique piece of military engineering - 4km in length with 11 bastions and conservation towers. Visitors can walk along and climb the walls for stunning views. Location: Corso Garibaldi, 55100 Lucca, Italy. Hours: Open 24 hours. Entrance Fee: Free. Insider Tip: Take a bicycle tour of the walls for a unique perspective.

Church of San Michele in Foro: Built in the 13th century, this Gothic-style church is a must-see for visitors. It features a stunning interior filled with arches, stained glass windows and intricate carvings. Location: Piazza San Michele, 55100 Lucca, Italy. Hours: 9am-7pm daily. Entrance Fee: Free. Insider Tip: Look out for the famous anatomical crucifix in the chapel.

Eating in Lucca: No trip to Lucca is complete without tasting the city’s delicious cuisine. Head to one of the many Tuscan trattorias for a scrumptious meal and a glass of Chianti. Insider Tip: Try the city’s famous biscotti di prato for dessert.

From its incredible architecture to its delicious cuisine, Lucca is an unforgettable city. Whether you’re exploring its cobbled streets or trying the local food, you’re sure to find something that you love. Make sure to add these seven must-visit historical and architectural sites to your list for an unforgettable Italian experience.