He created some of the world's best-loved operas - and we're giving you a chance to visit the birthplace of Italian composer Giacomo Puccini in stunning Lucca and hear expert talks by broadcaster and Mail on Sunday classical music critic David Mellor. Our unforgettable five-day break includes opera performances and Puccini-themed visits. On a trip to Torre del Lago, the composer's home for 30 years, you'll immerse yourself in his world as you breathe in the Italian lakeside air he loved so much.
Villa Puccini, where he lived, is today a museum. You'll be able to visit the chapel on the ground floor where he is buried. During your visit to Torre del Lago, the director of the Giacomo Puccini Foundation will give a private lecture and take you behind the scenes to hear all about the composer who created some of the world's best-loved operas, including Madama Butterfly, La Bohème and Tosca.
In the evenings, experience live performances of Turandot and Madama Butterfly in the locations that inspired Puccini, with David Mellor's introductory talks providing context and insight into the composer's life and the impact his operas had on the musical world.
"The chance to hear Puccini in what was his home and his inspiration is too good to miss. Unlike most great composers, he actually lived in that place for almost his entire adult life. I have always enjoyed my visits to Torre del Lago and I can't wait for the opportunity to help you discover its magic."- David Mellor
After working as the Conservative MP for Putney from 1979 to 1997, including a spell as Culture Secretary, David, has settled into a career in classical music. He spent seven years with Radio 3, and has been broadcasting with Classic FM for 15 years, hosting a popular Sunday show and other projects. He has also been The Mail on Sunday's classical music critic for 20 years.
* Please note, this price is based on two sharing and is subject to availability based on departure date and room availability. Single supplement £152. Tour is operated by TS Tours and Travel Editions, wholly independent companies. Travel insurance is not included. Price and itinerary may be subject to change.
Today you'll fly from Heathrow to Pisa with British Airways and transfer to your hotel in Lucca. Enjoy prosecco and nibbles before a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Today you'll visit Puccini's birthplace and museum, the Institute of Musical Studies, the church of Santi Paolino e Donato, and the Teatro del Giglio opera house. After lunch you'll enjoy a talk from the director of the Giacomo Puccini Foundation, plus a guided tour. Later, you'll attend a dinner and introductory talk from David Mellor before enjoying a performance of Puccini's opera Turandot.
Today you'll visit Puccini's family house in Celle dei Puccini and then the nearby museum, as well as his lakeside villa at Torre del Lago, where Puccini created great works such as La Bohème, Tosca and Madama Butterfly. Later you'll enjoy a dinner and introductory talk by David Mellor before a performance of Puccini's opera Madama Butterfly.
Today you'll explore the town of Lucca and then visit the Villa Puccini in Viareggio. Later on you'll enjoy a Michelin-rated dinner with David Mellor.
You'll have some spare time today to enjoy Lucca before catching a return flight from Pisa to London Heathrow.
Historic building with classic interiors
Hotel Palazzo Alexander is a historic building in the centre of Lucca, located just inside Lucca's historic walls, with easy access from Porta San Donato. Lucca Cathedral and Guinigi Tower are both just a 10-minute walk away. Antique wooden floors and marble bathrooms invite you to this classical setting, where staff are multilingual. Rooms feature Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Fresh local produce is served for breakfast, American buffet-style and there's a bar for evening drinks.
A four-star hotel situated in the historic centre of Lucca
San Luca Palace Hotel is a four-star hotel situated in a convenient, central location. Set in a historic building which dates back to 1540, the hotel offers modern comfort throughout its 26 luxurious and beautifully furnished rooms and suites, with air conditioning, satellite TV and internet connection. The hotel also offers stylish communal areas, including a small garden and a lounge bar - the perfect place to relax with a drink and after a busy day.
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* Please note, this price is based on two sharing and is subject to availability based on departure date and room availability. Single supplement £152. Tour is operated by TS Tours and Travel Editions, wholly independent companies. Travel insurance is not included. Price and itinerary may be subject to change.