Palazzo Pfanner and Garden
A 17th-century palazzo in Lucca featuring a serene Baroque garden and a museum with historical artifacts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the midday sun
Palazzo Pfanner and Garden
Best Time
Escape the midday sun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century palazzo in Lucca featuring a serene Baroque garden and a museum with historical artifacts.
"The gardens are a tranquil place to relax for a while. Immensely pretty and interestingly designed. "
Garden First, Then Museum
Many visitors recommend enjoying the garden's tranquility before exploring the museum's exhibits.
QR Codes for Flora
Scan QR codes in the garden for detailed info on the plants. Great for plant lovers!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Garden
Palazzo Pfanner
A tranquil escape with a fishpond, lemon trees, pergola, and statues.
+1
17th-Century Palazzo
Palazzo Pfanner
Explore the historic residence, once a film location and home to a pioneering brewery.
Medical Instrument Exhibition
Palazzo Pfanner Museum
Discover unique artifacts from Pietro Pfanner, a surgeon and former mayor of Lucca.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Garden Oasis in the City
A Glimpse into History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Garden First, Then Museum
Many visitors recommend enjoying the garden's tranquility before exploring the museum's exhibits.
QR Codes for Flora
Scan QR codes in the garden for detailed info on the plants. Great for plant lovers!
Relaxation Spot
Perfect place to rest after walking the city walls. Bring a book!
Combine with City Walls
Visit after a walk on Lucca's famous walls for a refreshing change of scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
Garden First, Then Museum
Many visitors recommend enjoying the garden's tranquility before exploring the museum's exhibits.
QR Codes for Flora
Scan QR codes in the garden for detailed info on the plants. Great for plant lovers!
Relaxation Spot
Perfect place to rest after walking the city walls. Bring a book!
Combine with City Walls
Visit after a walk on Lucca's famous walls for a refreshing change of scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Palazzo Pfanner a worthwhile stop in Lucca, praising its beautiful and tranquil garden as a perfect escape from the city bustle. While the museum is noted as being somewhat limited, the overall experience, including the historical architecture and unique garden features, is highly recommended for a peaceful hour or so of exploration.
"The gardens are small as is the museum, however it is definitely worth a visit.
The gardens are a tranquil place to relax for a while. Immensely pretty and interestingly designed. We actually used this to rest for a long period during the afternoon (away from the bustle of the crowds) while waiting for a gig that evening.
The museum consists of only a few rooms but there is sufficient information to occupy yourself.
Definitely worth an hour of your time."
Lorenzo
"Beautiful garden and surprising elements inside the Palazzo. We strongly recommend a visit when you're in Lucca."
Mark Hrbrs
"Palazzo Pfanner is well worth a visit. The garden is beautiful and well-maintained, and the architecture of the building is impressive. The museum section, however, is somewhat limited (as of April 2025—additional areas may open later).
Entrance to the garden costs €7, with an additional €2 for the museum. Restrooms are located in the garden area. A thoughtful touch is the presence of QR codes providing information about many of the flowers, which adds value for those interested in botanical details.
I spent around 45 minutes for the garden, 10 more for the museum."
Albert Kircher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palazzo Pfanner is conveniently located in the heart of Lucca, making it easily accessible on foot. If you're arriving by car, look for parking outside the city walls and walk in.
Yes, Palazzo Pfanner is situated within the historic center of Lucca, and its gardens offer a lovely contrast to the views from the city walls.
Lucca is a very bike-friendly city, and you can easily cycle to Palazzo Pfanner. Many visitors enjoy cycling around the city walls before or after their visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As of recent information, the entrance fee for the garden is €7, with an additional €2 for access to the museum.
Advance booking is generally not required for Palazzo Pfanner, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any special events or changes in hours.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Palazzo Pfanner website or their social media for the most up-to-date information.
The current pricing structure separates the garden and museum entry, with a combined experience available.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's worth inquiring directly with the Palazzo if you qualify for any special rates (e.g., student, senior).
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the garden and common areas of the Palazzo. However, always be mindful of any posted signs or staff instructions regarding photography, especially in exhibition spaces.
The Baroque garden, with its statues, pond, and lemon trees, offers numerous picturesque opportunities. The exterior architecture of the Palazzo is also quite photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical sites and private properties. It's highly unlikely to be permitted without special authorization. Check local regulations and the Palazzo's policy.
The garden's charming pergolas, the ornamental pond, and the statues of Greek gods provide beautiful backdrops for memorable photos.
The 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon – often provide the most flattering light for photography in the garden.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a museum with a few rooms showcasing historical medical instruments and information about the Pfanner family, including Pietro Pfanner.
Most visitors spend about an hour to an hour and a half, with around 45 minutes dedicated to the garden and the rest to the museum.
Yes, restrooms are available within the garden area of Palazzo Pfanner.
Absolutely! It's a perfect stop for a few hours, especially if you're looking for a peaceful escape from the city's bustle.
The garden features lemon trees, roses, bamboo, and a variety of other plants, with QR codes providing detailed botanical information.
🍽️ 🥂 Food & Dining
Palazzo Pfanner itself does not appear to have a restaurant. However, Lucca has many excellent trattorias and cafes nearby where you can enjoy local cuisine.
While not explicitly stated, picnicking is generally discouraged in formal gardens of historical sites. It's best to enjoy the local eateries.
The streets surrounding Palazzo Pfanner are filled with options, from casual pizza al taglio to more formal trattorias offering Tuscan specialties.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The QR codes identifying plants can also be a fun way to engage younger visitors in a bit of nature education. While the museum's collection of medical instruments might be more suited for older children or teens, the overall experience of visiting a historic palazzo and its gardens can be a memorable part of a family trip to Lucca. Consider it a relaxing interlude after a more active exploration of the city walls.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
You can easily spend an hour or so here, enjoying the garden's tranquility and a quick look at the museum's exhibits. It's a perfect spot to recharge after walking the city walls or before heading off to your next destination. The garden provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and a moment of calm.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The interplay of light and shadow through the pergolas and foliage creates dynamic compositions. Capture the architectural details of the 17th-century palazzo itself, or focus on the delicate blooms and textures within the garden. The early morning or late afternoon light is particularly recommended for capturing the soft, warm tones of Tuscany.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Gardens of Palazzo Pfanner
+1 Visitors often describe it as an 'oasis' and a perfect spot for a peaceful rest after exploring the city walls. Beyond the visual beauty, the garden is enhanced by statues of Greek gods that add a touch of classical grandeur.
For those with a keen interest in botany, QR codes are strategically placed throughout the garden, providing detailed information about the diverse flora. While some reviews mention the garden is not vast, its meticulous design and serene atmosphere make it a memorable part of any visit to Lucca. It's a place where you can truly unwind and appreciate the artistry of Italian garden design.
A Glimpse into Palazzo Pfanner's History
+1 This entrepreneurial spirit is a fascinating aspect of the Palazzo's past, showcasing its evolution from a noble residence to a commercial enterprise.The Palazzo has also served as a film location, adding to its cultural significance.
Today, it houses a museum that offers a glimpse into the life and times of the Pfanner family, particularly Pietro Pfanner, a notable surgeon, philanthropist, and former mayor of Lucca. The exhibition includes a collection of medical instruments that provide a unique historical perspective. While the museum itself is described as compact, it offers enough substance to be engaging for an hour or so.
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