We will be in Lucca for one night. Has anyone stayed at either one of the above hotels? La Boheme is inside the wall, and 15 euro more per night..... not a big deal. What I love is atmosphere, which hotel has more charm? Is it much better to be inside the wall?
Thanks,
Cynthia
Cynthia, I enjoyed staying two nights at the Hotel Rex, which was very, very close to the train station, but not impacted by any noise from the trains at all, in my experience. It is about a 3 minute walk to an entry through the wall, into the old town, but it suited my needs. I arrived by train, took a train to Pisa and back one day, and then left with an early morning train on to Milano and my flight home. The Rex was comfortable, with a good breakfast, reasonably priced, and even offered an RS discount, at least at that time, but I would not call it special. Many say that it is nicer to stay within the walls, especially if arriving in Lucca by bus, but it is also very easy to walk from the Rex through the walls and into the old town.
I have spent considerable time in Lucca and am familiar with the locations of both hotels. Do yourself a real favor and stay inside the walls. Trust me.
I have stayed in Lucca inside the walls but it was an Airbnb. I can recommend a great one to you if you like!
Cynthia,
As you'll only be there one night, I would definitely suggest staying at Hotel Rex. If you were going to spending a few days there, "charm" and "atmosphere" might be important, but you likely won't be spending much time in the hotel anyway. Staying at Hotel Rex will be easier from a transportation perspective, as it's right across the plaza from the station. The rooms are clean and comfortable, so I'd certainly recommend it.
I highly recommend BnB La Romea in Lucca. Beautiful with welcoming staff. Inside the wall, charming.
Prefer to be inside wall.,
Suki,
I tried La Romea, but they are full for the dates I need. Thanks so much!
Cynthia
Cynthia,
La Boheme is just what you are looking for and it is inside the wall. Very clean, tastefully decorated, great breakfast. We we asked what time we preferred to have breakfast and the innkeeper made a breakfast to order, including eggs. It was a perfect stay with a spacious room and comfortable beds. Well worth the money.
Lorieann
Lucca is best experienced from inside the walls. I have not stayed at La Boheme but I have stayed at Ostello San Frediano, a restored convent, that backs up to the back wall of Lucca.
If you would consider an AirBnB, we stayed here https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1339380
Historic apartment inside the walls, you have to see the pics! $45/night.
