Lucca, Italy, is renowned for its intact Renaissance walls dating back to the 15th century. Once you’ve been to Lucca (in north-central Italy), you’ll know why touring these walls is often at the top of every visitor’s itinerary. For those who live in the city, the walls of Lucca offer an escape from the narrow city streets and alleys, where bicycles and Vespas weave between cars. The walls are a place where residents can relax and wander while they soak in fresh air and the beauty of nature.

After you access one of the entry points (either an old stone staircase or paved ramp) leading up to the walls, the scale of the wall construction becomes even more impressive. The wide greenway is lined with centuries-old, stately trees that seem to reach the sky; some stretch as high as 100 feet off the ground.