Albergo San Martino is a practical, well-placed base for exploring Lucca on foot, and one of the most central moderately priced hotels in the old town. It stands at Via della Dogana 9, in the quiet western part of the historic centre, just a couple of minutes from the walls and from Piazza Napoleone, the big tree-lined square beside the opera house. The cathedral of San Martino, which gives the hotel its name, is about three minutes away, the Guinigi Tower around six and Piazza dell’Anfiteatro about eight. Because everything in Lucca is close, that puts you within a short stroll of almost every sight, and it means you can walk back to your room at midday for a rest. The hotel is a three-star property with a relaxed feel, a bar and a terrace where you can sit with a drink after a day of sightseeing, and a concierge who can help with tickets and tours.
Location and getting around
The walls are the big draw, and with a ramp up to the ramparts only two minutes away, you can be on the tree-lined path with a hired bike very quickly. Lucca station is around a seven-minute walk, so the hotel works well for day trips to Pisa by regional train, which takes about half an hour. Pisa airport is the nearest big gateway and is reached by train or taxi, while Florence airport is a longer drive.
The rooms
There is a variety to choose from, including double or twin rooms that can sleep a third person, rooms in an annex building, a superior double with a jetted tub, triple rooms and a family room for four. Rooms are simple and comfortable, with air conditioning, a television and free Wi-Fi. The hotel has no lift, so guests with heavy luggage or limited mobility should ask for a ground-floor room or consider another property.
Who it suits
Couples and solo travellers who want a central base without paying luxury prices, families who can use the family and triple rooms, and anyone who plans to spend most of the day out on foot or by bike. It is also a good fit for travellers who like to step out of the door straight into the old town.
Good to know
Breakfast is a buffet served in the morning and is charged separately, so decide whether you would rather eat at the hotel or at one of the cafes nearby. There is uncovered on-site parking, which is rare inside Lucca’s walls, but spaces are limited and there are height restrictions, so reserve in advance if you are arriving by car. The old town is a limited traffic zone, so tell the hotel your plate number before you drive in.
Why stay here
- ✓Bar
- ✓Terrace
- ✓Buffet breakfast
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Air conditioning
- ✓Concierge and ticket assistance
- ✓Family and triple rooms
- ✓On-site parking (limited)
Good questions
Does Albergo San Martino have parking?+
There is limited uncovered parking on site, with height restrictions, so reserve in advance. The old town is a limited traffic zone, so share your plate details with the hotel before arriving.
Is there a lift at Albergo San Martino?+
No, the property has no elevator, so ask for a ground-floor room if stairs or heavy luggage are a concern.
How far is Albergo San Martino from the walls and the station?+
The walls are about two minutes away on foot and Lucca station is around seven minutes, so both are easy to reach.
