We'll be staying one night in Lucca before heading to Cinque Terra. Where would you recommend my boyfriend and I stay? We would prefer something quaint with character, perhaps a b&b or farmhouse, around $120/night, and within walking distance to the sites.

Are you driving? If so, look at the Villa Romantica. If not, look at Piccolo Puccini.

Second the recommendation for Piccolo Puccini; it's location ( in town) could not be better, it's quaint and reasonable. No A/C, but ceiling fans.

We looked into staying in Lucca on our last trip to italy and found a place on line that looked great....palazzo alexander. I don't recall the cost though. It may be worth checking out. good luck.

We stayed at Palazzo Alexander last year and really liked it--charming, well located, friendly staff.

Don't remember the rates, but certainly not outrageous.

Byrd

We loved Palazzo Alexander as well. Charming, free bikes, good A/C, well located, great breakfast, free internet access.

We returned a few weeks ago from Italy with a two night stay in Lucca. We also did a day trip to the CT. We stayed at Villa Romantica and would highly recommend it. It is just a few minutes outside of the city walls and it has free parking and a pool. We had a suite because we had our two girls with us. The breakfast was quite good and the family (Flavio, I think) was very helpful with suggestions and directions. We were able to walk in and out of the city without problem. Enjoy!