We are currently visiting Lucca and would like to see stage 4 of the Giro d'Italia. Would it be better to take the train or a bus to the racecourse which runs through the waterfront area? Also any ideas on a place to eat in that area? Thank you!
Posted by
Green Bay
20238 posts
Looks like by Regionale it will take at least one change of trains and a little under 2 hours, faster and a bit more money if an IC or Freccia train is the 2nd connection. The train would eliminate traffic concerns, but could be crowded. Bus may be more direct and cheaper and get you closer to the water front. The train station is about a mile from the waterfront. There are city buses if you don't want to walk.
The race is also passing through Manarola and Riomaggiore. I don't know if there is transport provided from the station areas up to the road where the racers will pass above the towns. Riomaggiore is only a 5 minute train ride from La Spezia Centrale.
The water front area on the Viale Italia looks kinda like Michigan Ave in Chicago (smaller buildings). Should be plenty of places to find grub.
Posted by
Boston
1709 posts
Why not see Stage 5 passing through Bagni di Lucca just a short trip away? The Giro is interesting for sure, but, for an ordinary observer, it's not worth an epic journey by itself. The build up with helicopters and police activity starts about 15 minutes ahead, and the pack of racers passing any given point on flat land lasts only about a minute, then the vans of support teams pass by. Italian fans often go to the mountain passes as the pack spreads out and slows down so you can shout encouragement to your favorite biker.