As part of our Tauck Culturious tour in October, 2012 we spent 2 nights at this charming hotel right on the edge of town. What a great spot. You could grab one of their bicycles and ride around the delightful rampart and through Lucca as much as you liked. The rooms are clean. The bed was hard (as are Italian hotel beds).
The brekky was pretty good although nothing special. The downside was the "get your own" tea and coffee. You do not expect this in Italy! For goodness sake, have someone make you that Italian coffee and personally serve it to you and not get a young member of the staff "sour faced" and unwilling to assist you. It was a disappointment. The reception staff are very helpful. Loved the hotel, with the exception of the brekky and get your own coffee!

We stayed at Hotel Ilaria on the last night of a two-and-a-half week trip to Italy, and I can honestly say that one night was not long enough. The hotel is situated right inside one of the gate to the old city and is perfectly located for walking and biking through Lucca. We were upgraded to the Tower suite in the nearby Residence d'Alba, I believe because the hotel was full for a conference. The accommodations were wonderful, the service was great and breakfast quite delicious and varied. We especially liked being able to use the complimentary bicycles for riding along the walls.

This was easily the best hotel we stayed in during our trip to Italy. We were in the Tower Suite which is located just a 100m down the street from the main hotel. The room was fantastic, great bed, great furnishings, huge bathroom with jet tub. We really enjoyed the service, location and overall experience at the Hotel Ilaria & Residenza dell'Alba. Lucca is a gem and should be on your Itinerary if you vist the area. Was great that the hotel staff could recommend a fantastic restaurant and even a place to go for drinks.

The Ilaria is very well located and we couldn't have asked for better in terms of comfort, cleanliness and friendly service from the staff and front desk. Central in Lucca it's an easy walk to anywhere. Breakfasts were excellent, We had a very memorable time here and will be back.