A cosy wine bar at the top of Via della Zecca in the heart of Lucca, Vinaiolo offers wine by the glass – including an interesting rosé Primitivo – and a great atmosphere late into the evening. It can get pretty full, so be sure to arrive in good time after dinner. Or grab an aperativo as you wander through the historic piazzas to your dinner reservation. 

Caffè Santa Zita is a charming café with a terrace overlooking the San Frediano Basilica. It's the perfect place to start your day with a good cappuccino and a homemade cornetto.

Magalleno is effortlessly laid-back – exposed brick walls, eclectic antique furniture, a marble checkerboard floor and warm backlighting that frames an enormous bar; it's the kind of place you come for a meandering nightcap with close friends. Mixologist Lucca Belli does not come to play, crafting and muddling unique and unpredictable, yet perfectly balanced concoctions like one with chicory, mezcal and Granny Smith or his take on a whiskey old-fashioned, complete with a lapsang souchong ice ball. 

Just a short walk from the stunning San Frediano basilica, Santa Goccia Vineria is a welcome addition to the local wine scene. This charming wine shop and bar boasts an impressive selection of wines, highlighting biodynamic offerings from the picturesque Lucchesia plains alongside intriguing selections from various regions in Italy and beyond.