Hotel Palazzo Alexander

Hotel Palazzo Alexander is owned and operated by a charismatic Italian father and son team. The first structure that was originally built can be traced back to 5080, but was refurbished into a hotel in 2003. Guests can still see ceilings from the 14th century and a wall in the breakfast area that dates way back to Roman times. More modern, but still classical, antiques and art adorn almost every square inch of the thoughtfully decorated hotel. The breakfast area includes wood beam ceilings, dramatic glass chandeliers, and upholstered striped armchairs. Gold framed mirrors hang on the wall and the occasional Roman statue adds interest. After breakfast, most guests (usually international couples on vacation, and a few families) head out for the day. Some guests like to have a tipple in the evening, in the small lounge, but otherwise the hotel is quiet and peaceful. 

Hotel Palazzo Alexander's location is both a blessing and a curse. It is possible to drive to the hotel, but you'll have to call ahead so the hotel owners can register your car with the local police. Driving is limited and only open to Lucca residents or registered hotel guests. If you attempt to drive through the walls without registering, you'll definitely get a fine in the mail. Navigating inside the walls can be tricky, as the roads are narrow and many are one-way or just for pedestrians. On arrival to the hotel, you'll have to allow staff to drive you to the parking lot behind a locked gate (you'll never find it by yourself). We suggest you avoid all of this, and just arrange for transportation with the hotel itself. Lucca is a charming place, and it's fun to wander through the city, checking out ancient fountains, canals, souvenir shops, and restaurants. The tops of the walls are a popular biking route, and there are loads of places that rent bikes. Farther afield, it's about 30 minutes to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and a 40-minute drive to Pisa International Airport. Cinque Terre is about an hour's drive. Florence is about an hour and 15 minutes away by car. 

There are 13 rooms at Hotel Palazzo Alexander and each is individually decorated in a classic Italian style, and has the same creature comforts. Each of the rooms is named after an opera. The overall look includes antique furnishings like carved wooden beds and architectural details such as laminate floors, crown moldings, and ornate chandeliers. Thick floral drapery and tassels on overstuffed armchairs look elegant. Modern creature comforts in all rooms include flat-screen TVs, free fiber optic Wi-Fi, refrigerated minibars, irons, ironing boards, safes, and memory foam mattresses. Fresh apples are a nice welcome touch. Suites can sleep up to four, while Junior Suites allow for three people. All rooms can either offer a king-size bed or two double beds, upon request. Marble accented bathrooms have showers, slippers, eco-friendly toiletries, and towel heaters. One of the Junior Suites has a balcony that overlooks Lucca's picturesque rooftops. 

Features are relatively simple, since this historical space is small and the neighborhood is filled with conveniences and attractions. All rates include a wonderful homemade breakfast spread with delicious cakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, freshly pressed juice, and cappuccinos. There's a selection of bar items for guests who want a wine, beer, or Italian aperitif or digestif. Technically, there isn't a bartender, but 24-hour reception staff is on hand to handle liquor requests, arrange airport transportation, or suggest a restaurant or bike rental shop. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Parking costs extra, in a private and hidden lot around the corner from the hotel.