Charming European city with no crowds that looks ‘straight out of a fairytale’ and stays 21°C in October

If the cool autumn weather in the UK is starting to wear you down, planning a trip somewhere warmer could be the perfect pick-me-up.

Luckily, several European destinations stay sunny well into autumn and even winter, giving travellers plenty of chances to enjoy the sunshine without needing to travel far.

If you’re hoping to escape the crowds while still enjoying beautiful sights, delicious food and a bit of culture, there’s one hidden gem in Italy that should be top of your list.

Lucca, a charming city in Tuscany, has been described by Condé Nast Traveller as Italy’s lesser-known fairytale city, and it’s easy to see why.

Just a glance at its photos shows a magical place full of history, character and stunning scenery for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

This small city in central Italy may not be as famous as Rome or Florence, but that’s what makes it so appealing. With fewer tourists, Lucca offers a calm and authentic Italian experience.

The entire old town is surrounded by impressive Renaissance walls, giving it a storybook feel that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

In the Middle Ages, Lucca was a thriving centre for silk production. Today, it has kept much of its historic beauty while blending in modern shops, cafés and restaurants that bring the city to life.

Even as the city has grown, the original stone walls around the old town have been carefully maintained, creating a unique and peaceful atmosphere that visitors love.

Lucca is also known for its beautiful Pisan-Romanesque churches, which fascinate tourists with their graceful architecture and sense of calm. The city’s laid-back pace makes it a perfect place to slow down and simply enjoy the surroundings.

In October, temperatures reach around 21°C, making it ideal for sightseeing, shopping and dining outdoors. The pleasant weather gives visitors the best of both worlds: warm days without the summer crowds.

One of the best ways to see Lucca is by bike, as many of its narrow streets are car-free. There are plenty of places to rent a bicycle, including Cici Rai near the San Gervasio Gate, where you can easily start your ride around the city walls.

For those who love architecture, Lucca is full of treasures. The Cattedrale di San Martino is especially impressive, with its grand façade and detailed artwork, including a large Crucifixion scene that draws visitors from around the world.

Discover more hidden gems with our interactive map!

Did you know we have a Hidden Gem Finder on our website? This handy little map shows over 12,000 hidden gems across the entire world with their exact co-ordinates available to view on Google Maps as well as an image/description for each one!

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