Villa Reale di Marlia
A restored neoclassical villa and 16-hectare gardens, offering a serene Tuscan escape with historical charm and natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Villa Reale di Marlia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A restored neoclassical villa and 16-hectare gardens, offering a serene Tuscan escape with historical charm and natural beauty.
"It is a magical place. To finish things up, we went to the cafe in the garden and had a nice drink and some food whilst enjoying the view."
Skip-the-line tickets
Buy tickets online, especially for weekends, to save time.
Relaxing garden stroll
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the vast gardens and villa.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Gardens
The 16-hectare park
Wander through a vast English-style garden with winding paths and a more formal, historic section. A true oasis of tranquility.
+1
Neoclassical Villa
The main villa building
Explore the elegant rooms of this historic villa, once home to Elisa Bonaparte Baciocchi, sister of Napoleon.
+1
Teatro di Verzura
Within the gardens
Discover this charming 'green theater' nestled within the lush greenery, a unique architectural feature.
Palazzina dell'Orologio
Near the main villa
Admire the 'Clock House,' a distinctive building adding to the villa's architectural charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds: Your Peaceful Tuscan Retreat
Garden Lover's Paradise: Best Time to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Skip-the-line tickets
Buy tickets online, especially for weekends, to save time.
Relaxing garden stroll
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the vast gardens and villa.
Cafe with a view
Enjoy a drink or snack at the garden cafe while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Easy public transport
Accessible by bus from Lucca, making it convenient for day-trippers.
Tips
from all over the internet
Skip-the-line tickets
Buy tickets online, especially for weekends, to save time.
Relaxing garden stroll
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the vast gardens and villa.
Cafe with a view
Enjoy a drink or snack at the garden cafe while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Easy public transport
Accessible by bus from Lucca, making it convenient for day-trippers.
Check for events
Look out for special events like Halloween celebrations or Christmas light displays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Villa Reale di Marlia, calling it a 'magical place' and a 'hidden gem' for its stunning, expansive gardens and serene atmosphere, offering a perfect escape from tourist crowds. While some find the ticket price a bit steep for the villa's interior, the gardens are universally praised as a must-see.
"Hidden gem. We really enjoyed walking through the beautiful gardens and to see the villa. It is a magical place. To finish things up, we went to the cafe in the garden and had a nice drink and some food whilst enjoying the view. It is a great way to avoid the hustle and bustle of Tuscany. Can recommend anyone to visit the villa and gardens. It is worth it!"
Jochem Vreugdenhil
"Gorgeous place!
A lovely place to spend and relax for a couple of hours away from the city.
Relaxed/relaxing, friendly staff, a peaceful air about the place. A nice little cafe situated on site within the gardens. Toilets available.
Easy to get to by public transport, with only one bus needed from Lucca."
Yoël Knopf
"I’ve never been so enchanted by a place as I was by Villa Marlia. I strolled around the enormous and breathtaking garden for a couple of hours (!!) before entering the villa and when I didn’t think my jaw could drop any further it absolutely did. It is an experience without parallell, and the beauty of every detail in every room is so stunning you’ll never want to leave."
Batool Albeer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Villa Reale di Marlia is conveniently located about 5 km from Lucca's city walls. You can easily reach it by public transport; a bus from Lucca is a straightforward option. Renting a car also provides flexibility for exploring the wider Lucca area.
Yes, parking is generally available for visitors arriving by car. This makes it a convenient option for those exploring Tuscany with their own vehicle.
Absolutely! The villa is accessible via public bus from Lucca, making it a feasible destination for those relying on public transportation.
For a truly 'dolce vita' experience, consider a relaxed drive or a bus journey from Lucca. This allows you to enjoy the Tuscan scenery without the stress of city driving.
While not directly on-site, the Lucca area offers various agriturismos and hotels, providing options for longer stays to explore the region at a leisurely pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, especially for special events. For general park and museum access, expect prices around €15 for adults and €5 for children aged 3-9. It's advisable to check the official website for current pricing.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, particularly for weekend visits, to ensure skip-the-line access and guarantee entry.
The villa and gardens are typically open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM with continuous hours. However, hours can change for special events, so always check the official website before your visit.
Yes, there are often discounted rates for children, with specific pricing for younger age groups. Family tickets may also be available.
A standard ticket usually grants access to the gardens and the villa's interior. Some special exhibitions or areas might require separate tickets or be part of specific event packages.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Absolutely! The villa's architecture, the vast gardens with diverse flora, and the charming 'Teatro di Verzura' offer countless picturesque opportunities. Golden hour is particularly stunning.
Take your time! Wander through the different sections, enjoy the tranquility, and appreciate the variety of plants and landscapes. It's a place to relax and soak in the beauty.
While not always explicitly advertised, inquire upon arrival or check the website for potential guided tours that can offer deeper insights into the history and design of the villa and gardens.
Expect a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere. It's a wonderful place to escape the usual tourist crowds and enjoy a serene, beautiful environment.
Yes, Villa Reale di Marlia hosts various events throughout the year, including Halloween celebrations and festive Christmas light displays, adding a unique dimension to a visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a pleasant cafe located within the gardens, offering drinks and food. It's a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the views after exploring.
While specific picnic policies can vary, it's generally best to check with the venue. However, the on-site cafe provides a convenient option for refreshments.
The surrounding Lucca area offers numerous trattorias and restaurants serving traditional Tuscan cuisine. Exploring local eateries in nearby towns can be a delightful experience.
The cafe typically offers light snacks, pastries, coffee, and other beverages, perfect for a relaxing break amidst the beautiful surroundings.
For specific inquiries about private events, weddings, or catering, it's best to contact the Villa Reale di Marlia administration directly through their official channels.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The ticket price often includes access for children, with specific discounts for younger age groups, making it a more affordable outing. While the villa's interiors offer historical insights, the real magic for kids often lies in the outdoor spaces. Pack some snacks or plan a stop at the on-site cafe for a treat.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples Seeking Peace
The on-site cafe offers a pleasant spot to relax with a book or enjoy a quiet conversation, all while surrounded by picturesque views.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
+1 Capture the vibrant blooms of camellias in spring, the dramatic light during golden hour, or the intricate details of the garden's sculptures and hedges. The 'Teatro di Verzura' and the 'Palazzina dell'Orologio' provide unique architectural elements to photograph.
The relatively uncrowded nature of the site, especially on weekdays, allows for unhurried shooting and the opportunity to capture stunning, unobstructed shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Gardens of Villa Reale di Marlia
+1 Visitors often describe the gardens as an 'oasis of tranquility' and a 'magical place,' perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of more crowded Tuscan attractions. One of the most striking aspects of the gardens is the sheer variety of flora. It's noted for its 40 varieties of camellias, which bloom spectacularly in spring, adding bursts of color to the landscape.
Beyond camellias, you'll find a rich collection of trees, shrubs, and seasonal flowers, meticulously maintained to create a breathtaking visual experience throughout the year. The 'Teatro di Verzura' (green theater) is another unique feature, a testament to the garden's historical design and artistic flair. Many visitors recommend dedicating a significant portion of their visit to exploring these gardens. The sheer scale and beauty mean you can easily spend two to three hours strolling at a relaxed pace, discovering hidden corners, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
A Glimpse into the Villa's History and Architecture
+1 She commissioned extensive renovations and landscaping, transforming it into the elegant residence it is today. The villa's architecture reflects this period, characterized by refined lines and a sense of grandeur.Inside, the villa offers a fascinating journey through time, showcasing the evolution of architecture and the lives of its former inhabitants. Visitors are often struck by the beauty of every detail in every room, describing the experience as 'without parallel' and 'stunning.'
While some visitors note that the villa's interior might not offer the extensive museum-like expositions found in larger cities, its historical significance and aesthetic appeal are undeniable. The combination of the grand villa and its sprawling gardens creates a cohesive and immersive experience, making Villa Reale di Marlia a significant cultural heritage site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit