Franklin 33 il Bar

Tucked away in the heart of the historic center that adorns Lucca is a truly special spot — Franklin 33 Bar. This cozy venue, styled after classic American bars of the 1930s, invites guests to dive into the atmosphere of legendary speakeasies. Italy is renowned for its hospitality traditions, and this bar is a brilliant testament to that, offering impeccable service and a unique drink menu.

Franklin 33 Bar. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Franklin 33 specializes in premium cocktails where American classics meet the creative vision of expert mixologists. The interior, crafted in the spirit of the Prohibition era, creates an intimate and comfortable environment perfect for long conversations. During the day, it operates as a café serving traditional Italian breakfasts, transforming into one of the city’s best cocktail bars as evening falls.

Its popularity among locals and travelers alike stems not just from the excellent drinks, but from meticulous attention to detail: from the music selection to the presentation of every cocktail. Franklin 33 is widely considered a must-visit for anyone seeking a quality night out in an elegant and slightly mysterious atmosphere of years past.

For those planning an evening at Franklin 33, it is recommended to check for availability or book a table in advance, especially on weekends. Below are the main contact details for the venue.

Visiting Franklin 33 is, above all, a ritual of discovering the art of mixology. Guests are offered an extensive cocktail list, where every drink has its own story and unique flavor profile. Experienced bartenders are always ready to act as guides: they will help you choose a drink to suit your mood or prepare the perfect martini, tailored to your every preference.

An evening at the bar isn't complete without a traditional aperitivo. To accompany your drinks, they serve classic Tuscan snacks—exquisite platters of local ham, salami, and various cheeses that perfectly complement the cocktails and wines. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the region’s gastronomic traditions in a relaxed setting.

The venue's atmosphere is enhanced by a carefully curated musical backdrop. Throughout the evening, you’ll hear blues, swing, and jazz setting the right mood. Special attention should be paid to Thursday nights, when a DJ takes over, filling the space with rock and jazz rhythms. Thanks to the bar's compact size and lively vibe, it’s easy to feel like part of an exclusive "members-only" club.

Finding Franklin 33 Bar is easy, as it is located in the heart of the historic city center at Via San Giorgio, 43. Since this part of the city is primarily a pedestrian zone, the best way to reach it is a leisurely stroll through the picturesque cobbled streets.

If you are arriving by train, the railway station is within walking distance of the old city walls. From there, you can walk to the bar in about 10–15 minutes, enjoying views of the ancient architecture. For those taking a taxi, the driver can drop you off as close as possible to the pedestrian zone, leaving only a couple of hundred meters to walk.

Drivers should keep in mind that entry to the center is restricted (ZTL zone). It is recommended to leave your car in one of the public parking lots outside the city walls and enter the old town through the nearest gate. This will help you avoid fines and allow you to soak in the atmosphere of the ancient fortress before you even take your first sip of a cocktail.

The concept of Franklin 33 is inextricably linked to the history of the United States in the early 20th century. The name refers to 1933—a landmark year when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s "New Deal" policies repealed Prohibition. This event marked the end of a fourteen-year era when the production and sale of alcohol were strictly forbidden.

The bar’s interior masterfully recreates the aesthetic of legendary speakeasies—secret underground bars that flourished in America during the 1920s. Back then, entry was only granted by password, and patrons came from all walks of life: from ordinary citizens to influential politicians seeking privacy and high-quality drinks.

The creators of Franklin 33 sought to capture that same sense of intimacy and comfort characteristic of historical private clubs. Here, historical motifs blend harmoniously with a modern approach to mixology, turning a visit into a kind of time travel where every decorative element recalls the spirit of freedom that returned in 1933.

To fully appreciate the bartenders' craft and the cozy ambiance of Franklin 33, it’s worth setting aside 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy a couple of signature cocktails and light snacks in good company.

If you plan your visit for a Thursday evening when a DJ performs, you might find yourself staying much longer. The relaxed atmosphere, high-quality sound, and excellent drink selection make it an ideal place for long conversations and complete relaxation after a busy day of sightseeing.

Franklin 33 welcomes guests according to the following schedule: Monday is closed. From Tuesday to Sunday, the venue opens its doors in the evening and operates from 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM.

It’s worth noting that in the morning hours, the place functions as a cozy café, offering visitors classic Italian pastries and flatbreads for breakfast, making it a great spot to start your day in the historic center.

A walk around the neighborhood surrounding Franklin 33 will allow you to immerse yourself even deeper in the charm of old Italy. The bar is conveniently located near key architectural monuments and cozy squares that are definitely worth seeing before or after your visit.

Exploring the city's central streets will reveal many interesting locations, from ancient towers with panoramic views to themed exhibitions dedicated to holiday traditions. Below are the nearby attractions within walking distance.