Hotel Ilaria e Residenza dell Alba

I’ve travelled extensively across Italy over the past two years, and this was by far the best hotel I’ve stayed in. From check-in to check-out, everything was absolutely perfect. The staff were incredibly helpful and went above and beyond to make our stay as enjoyable as possible. Nothing ever felt like too much trouble, which really made a difference. The facilities were outstanding, and the breakfast selection was excellent. There was a wide variety to choose from, including continental options as well as hot dishes like scrambled eggs and bacon. Everything was fresh and high quality — from the bread and fruit to the yogurt, Danish pastries, croissants, and freshly ground coffee. A lovely surprise upon arrival was being invited to help ourselves to drinks and hors d’oeuvres, all included in the price. Even better, this was available every day from 12 noon to 7pm, which added an extra touch of luxury to the experience. The location was perfect — right in the centre — and the hotel offered free bike hire, which we made great use of by cycling around the perimeter wall. This was a fantastic way to explore the area and added something really special to our stay.

Hotel was a ten minute walk from the train station. Arrived at 10:45 AM but unable to check in until 2:30pm. Wasn't a problem as hotel kept our bags and we went off to explore for a few hours . Reception staff were friendly and efficient. Free coffee and cakes from 12pm so had a cup of coffee before we set off. Hotel is in an excellent location . Also offer free bikes to use. Came back and checked in later. We were in room 103 overlooking the road. Room was very clean and met our needs. Nice amenities in bathroom and lovely big towels . Complementary bottle of water provided. One of the biggest pluses was free prosecco, beers, cokes and snacks between 5 and 7pm. Had a beer before heading out for evening meal. Arrived back and were in bed by 10pm as shattered and had early start next morning. What we then endured was the worst nights sleep I or my wife have ever had the misfortune to have. Soundproofing is absolutely non existent. Heard someone taking a wee, then snoring etc etc. heard every single person walking past outside the room. Noise from absolutely everywhere which appeared to be amplified. We then had the rest of the night to listen to all of this. Hotel really should address this. Provide earplugs if you have to!! I don't like to be critical because our stay was lovely in nearly every other way but this had to be stated. Breakfast was between 7 and 10:30 the next morning. It was very good and there was plenty of variety including scrambled eggs, fresh fruits, coffee to order etc etc. Very tasty. This was heading towards a 5 star review......and then the night came.....

I cannot fault this hotel at all. Smooth check in, clean, comfortable, ideal location, great breakfast, friendly staff, coffee served in actual mugs. And the bonus from 12pm-7pm a complimentary snack bar that has pastries, nuts, crisps, drinks, from 5pm beers and prosecco. I would 100 percent recommend this hotel and would definitely stay here again if ever in Lucca

Lovely hotel. Excellent location, but then anywhere inside the City walls provides easy access to anywhere, as long as you are ok to walk. The staff were very pleasant - special mention to Greta on reception and the ladies at breakfast. Breakfast was very good, but it could be a bit repetitive if you stay for longer than a few days. Our room (A in the annex) was lovely on the whole, but I should mention a couple of minor issues. It is right by the main door, so you could get disturbed by other guests coming and going. The door into the bathroom has a squeak, so you might disturb your other half in the night. The bright blue light from the air con unit had to be covered over. These were the only bad things about our stay, and they are very minor indeed. The best thing about the hotel is the free access to hot and cold drinks plus snacks, cake and fruit by the reception in the afternoons after 2 pm. Much appreciated by all the guests, especially us. Would definitely stay here again

We are from Scotland and stayed here a week from 8th November. Excellent hotel. Lovely facilities and fantastic quality. Lovely room ( although we would have preferred to be in the main building than the tower), extremely comfortable bed and all facilities first class. The hotel is excellently positioned for exploring Lucca and reaching the train station to wider explore Tuscany.Staff were all exceptional - breakfast ladies deserve a special mention, they were all lovely and very efficient -as do all the reception staff who likewise were very helpful and always willing and available to assist. We were very impressed. A special mention to Greta on reception. Not only was she first class in dealing with any requirements we had- such as booking a private transfer to the airport- but she was always smiling and cheery and nothing was ever a problem. Compliments to everyone. We hope to be back and will highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Lucca. Well done and thank you Brian and Joyce