Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Lucca is a charming city that beckons travelers with its well-preserved Renaissance walls and rich historical heritage. Known for its unique blend of ancient architecture, picturesque streets, and vibrant cultural scene, Lucca offers a delightful escape.
What are the best things to do in Lucca?
In this guide, Winalist’s local team have put together the top things to do in Lucca, that will we will help you uncover the best this enchanting city has to offer. From historical landmarks to the best Lucca wine tours for an unforgettable trip.
Wander at the Lucca Walls
Strolling or biking along the Lucca Walls (Le Mura di Lucca) offers a unique way to experience the city. These well-preserved Renaissance walls encircle the historic center and provide a serene, elevated path.
As you wander, you’ll enjoy scenic views of Lucca’s red-tiled rooftops, ancient churches, and lush gardens. The walls stretch for about 4 kilometers and feature shaded paths, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. A
long the way, you’ll find several bastions and gateways that highlight Lucca’s rich history. Don’t miss the chance to pause at one of the many benches to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and watch the locals go about their day.
Explore the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
Visit the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro to step into one of Lucca’s most iconic and unique spaces. This elliptical-shaped square is built on the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater, adding a layer of historical intrigue to your visit.
The piazza is surrounded by charming, colorful buildings that form a continuous ring, creating a cozy and picturesque atmosphere. It’s a lively spot filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing meal. The entrances to the square align with the original amphitheater gates, reminding visitors of its ancient origins.
Visit the Guinigi Tower
The Guinigi Tower (Torre Guinigi) is one of Lucca’s most distinctive landmarks and offers a unique experience for visitors. Climbing the 230 steps to the top of this medieval tower rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. But what makes this tower truly special is the small grove of oak trees that sits atop it, creating a rooftop garden that symbolizes renewal and rebirth. As you ascend, you’ll pass through a narrow, winding staircase that gives a glimpse into the architectural ingenuity of the time.
Once at the top, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Lucca’s red-tiled roofs, historic buildings, and surrounding Tuscan countryside.
Walk to the Cathedral of San Martino
The Cathedral of San Martino (Duomo di San Martino) is an architectural jewel that should not be missed when visiting Lucca. As you approach, the intricate facade adorned with sculptures and carvings immediately captures your attention. The cathedral, originally built in the 11th century and later remodeled in the Gothic style, houses a stunning array of art and relics. Inside, you’ll find the renowned Volto Santo, a wooden crucifix believed to date back to the 8th century, and the exquisite Tomb of Ilaria del Carretto, a masterpiece by sculptor Jacopo della Quercia.
The cathedral’s interior is equally impressive, with its soaring arches, beautiful frescoes, and intricate marble floors. Take your time to explore the various chapels and appreciate the spiritual and historical significance of each artifact.
Visit the Torre delle Ore
This medieval tower, the tallest in the city, offers a rewarding climb that ends with breathtaking views of Lucca’s historic center and the surrounding Tuscan landscape. As you ascend the narrow wooden stairs, you’ll pass the clock’s intricate mechanism, which has been keeping time for centuries. The view from the top is unparalleled, providing a 360-degree panorama that includes the city’s red-tiled roofs, church spires, and the distant hills. Take a moment to listen to the chimes and soak in the historical ambiance.
Enjoy a Wine Tasting at Valle del Sole
Enjoying a wine tasting at Valle del Sole Winery is a must-do for any wine enthusiast visiting Lucca.
Located just a short drive from the city center, this renowned winery offers a delightful escape into the Tuscan countryside. During your visit, you can partake in a guided tour that takes you through the vineyards, cellars, and production areas, providing insight into the winemaking process. The tasting sessions are a highlight, allowing you to sample a variety of their exceptional wines, including robust reds, crisp whites, and refreshing rosés.
Walk to the Basilica of San Frediano
Walking to the Basilica of San Frediano is a journey through Lucca’s medieval streets to one of its most striking churches. This 12th-century basilica is renowned for its stunning mosaic facade, which depicts the Ascension of Christ and glistens beautifully in the sunlight. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a richly decorated interior, featuring intricate frescoes, ornate altars, and beautiful stained glass windows. One of the highlights is the Chapel of the Cross, which houses the ancient Romanesque font used for baptisms. The basilica also contains the preserved body of Santa Zita, the city’s patron saint, in a glass reliquary.
Discover the Palazzo Pfanner
Discovering the Palazzo Pfanner is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the opulence of 17th-century Lucca. This historic palace, located near the city walls, boasts an exquisite Baroque garden and beautifully preserved interiors. As you wander through the lush gardens, you’ll encounter statues of mythological figures, ornamental fountains, and meticulously manicured flowerbeds, all creating a serene and picturesque setting.
Inside the palace, the grand staircase leads to elegantly furnished rooms adorned with frescoes, antique furniture, and period decorations. The palace also houses an exhibition of medical instruments and artifacts, reflecting the history of the Pfanner family, who were prominent physicians.
Enjoy Gelato at La Bottega del Gelato
Indulging in gelato at La Bottega del Gelato is a sweet treat that adds a delicious highlight to your Lucca visit. Known for its artisanal approach, this gelateria offers a wide variety of flavors, each crafted with high-quality, natural ingredients. Whether you prefer classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla or more adventurous options like fig and ricotta, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The texture is creamy, the flavors are rich, and the portions are generous, making it a perfect stop for a refreshing break. Located conveniently in the heart of the city, La Bottega del Gelato is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy your gelato while taking in the charming surroundings.
Insider tip: try their seasonal flavors, which often feature local ingredients and unique combinations.
Explore the Museo Nazionale di Villa Guinigi
Exploring the Museo Nazionale di Villa Guinigi offers a deep dive into Lucca’s rich artistic and cultural history. Housed in a beautiful 15th-century villa, the museum boasts an extensive collection of art and artifacts that span from ancient times to the Renaissance. As you walk through its elegant halls, you’ll encounter a diverse array of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, each telling a part of Lucca’s story. Notable pieces include works by renowned artists such as Matteo Civitali and Fra Bartolomeo. The museum also features archaeological finds that provide insights into the region’s early history. The serene garden surrounding the villa is an ideal spot for a quiet moment of reflection after your visit.
Relax at Piazza Napoleone
Relaxing at Piazza Napoleone, the largest square in Lucca, is a delightful way to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. This expansive square is flanked by elegant buildings and shaded by towering trees, providing a picturesque setting for a leisurely break. Often referred to as “Piazza Grande,” it is a hub of activity with cafes, shops, and frequent events, including concerts and festivals. The square’s centerpiece is the impressive statue of Maria Luisa of Bourbon, a nod to its historical significance. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor cafes for a cappuccino or gelato and enjoy some people-watching as locals and visitors go about their day.
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Our Perfect 1-Day Itinerary from Florence to Lucca
If you’re visiting Florence, Italy, a day trip to Lucca is a must! Located just one hour and 15 minutes away by train, Lucca is a fortified city with Renaissance walls and one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany. Train tickets from Lucca to Florence start at just $9, you can book them here.
Our team at Winalist has created the perfect 1-day Florence-to-Lucca itinerary for you. Traveling from Florence to Lucca is completely doable in one day and many visitors choose to make this journey!
First, either take a morning train from Florence to Lucca , which takes approximately one hour and 20 minutes or go with renting a car .
Tenuta di Capezanna
Once on the road to Lucca from Florence, stop at Tenuta Di Capezzana for an amazing first wine experience. Capezzana is the story of a family that for generations has handed down from father to son the love and passion for the production of high quality wine and oil. The first to fall in love with this world were Vittoria and Alessandro Contini Bonacossi, who created one of the most important twentieth-century art collections: part of this can be visited today at the Uffizi museum in Florence.
La Badiola
Take a small detour to the North before reaching Lucca and stop at La Badiola, a Renaissance villa near Lucca immersed in an enchanting hilly landscape in the San Pancrazio area (Lucca, Tuscany). An elegant environment, of ancient beauty, capable of giving elegance and refinement to every event.
The villa is located in the center of a large park, dotted with numerous trees and centuries-old plants, especially cypresses and camellias, accompanied here and there by characteristic fountains.
Arrive in Lucca
Once you arrive in Lucca, start your day by renting a bike and experiencing the city’s beauty on two wheels.
- Your first stop in Lucca should be Piazza Anfiteatro, which is shaped like an ellipse and used to be a Roman amphitheater.
- Next, head to San Martino Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, and marvel at its unique combination of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
- Climb the Torre Guinigi, a medieval tower with hanging gardens on top, for a stunning panoramic view of Lucca.
- Stroll through Piazza Napoleone, the largest square in Lucca, named after Napoleon Bonaparte’s sister, Elisa.
- Visit Piazza San Michele, home to the beautiful San Michele in Foro church, also known as the “Church of the Market.”
- Walk on Lucca’s City Walls, which date back to the 16th century and offer great views of the city’s historic center.
Before leaving Lucca, make sure to indulge in some delicious Italian cuisine. We recommend trying the local specialty, Buccellato, a sweet bread made with anise & raisins.
In just one day, you can experience the best of Lucca’s history, culture, and beauty. So why wait? Book your Florence to Lucca day trip today and enjoy a magical Italian getaway!
What to do around Lucca?
Travel to Siena
A trip to Siena offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, making it an unmissable part of your Tuscan adventure. Just a 1h45 drive or short train ride (book your ticket here) away, Siena offers a unique experience steeped in medieval charm and rich cultural heritage.
Famous for its stunning Piazza del Campo, where the historic Palio horse race takes place twice a year, Siena’s narrow streets and picturesque squares transport you back in time. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Siena Cathedral, with its intricate façade and beautiful interior featuring stunning artworks and mosaics.
After exploring the city’s landmarks, relax in one of the local trattorias and savor traditional Sienese dishes like pici pasta and panforte. Insider tip: Plan your visit to coincide with the quieter hours of the day to fully appreciate the city’s charm without the crowds.
Discover our perfect Florence to Siena itinerary through the Tuscan vineyards and our guide to the Best things to do in Siena to explore the best Siena wine tours.
Explore Chianti wine region
Located about 1.5 hours by car from Lucca, is one of Italy’s most celebrated wine regions Known for its picturesque vineyards and rolling hills, Chianti is famous for producing some of Italy’s finest wines, particularly Chianti Classico.
Insider tip: Rent a car to fully explore the region at your own pace. Visiting Chianti allows you to indulge in exceptional wines while enjoying the tranquil beauty of the Tuscan countryside.
Discover our selection of the best Chianti wine tours, carefully selected and curated by Winalist’s team.
Bolgheri
Situated about 1.5 hours by car from Lucca, is a wine lover’s paradise known for its prestigious Super Tuscan wines and picturesque cypress-lined roads. This charming village is nestled in the heart of the Tuscan coast and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and world-class wine production. As you explore Bolgheri, you’ll be captivated by its medieval architecture, quaint streets, and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. Key highlights include visiting renowned bolgheri wineries which produces some of Italy’s finest wines. Many of these estates offer guided tours and tastings, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich flavors and history of the region.
Take a day trip to Pisa
When in Lucca, a day trip to Pisa is worth the visit. Pisa and Lucca are both charming Tuscan towns, each offering its own set of attractions. In Pisa, you can visit the iconic Leaning Tower and explore the botanical garden near the tower. To get to Lucca from Pisa, you can take a day tour with a travel guide or simply hop on a train for a quick journey. Don’t miss our guide on the best things to do in Pisa as well as our selection of the best Pisa wineries to visit.
Discover San Gimignano
Located at only 1.5h from Lucca, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the medieval town of San Gimignano. Famous for its stunning skyline of medieval towers. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique glimpse into Tuscany’s feudal past. As you wander through its cobblestone streets and visit landmarks like the Collegiata and Piazza della Cisterna, you’ll be transported back in time. Beyond its historical allure, San Gimignano is also a haven for wine enthusiasts. The town is renowned for its Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a crisp white wine that has been produced in the area for centuries. On Winalist you will find the best the San Gimignano wineries to complete your visit.
Where is Lucca, Italy Located?
Lucca is a city and comune located in Tuscany, Central Italy, on the Serchio River, in a fertile plain near the Ligurian Sea
This beautiful, fully walled Tuscan city is situated in close proximity to Pisa and is known as the city of a hundred churches. Lucca’s array of wonderfully intact historical sites makes it a must-see stop on any Tuscan itinerary.
If you’re planning a trip to Italy – especially Florence – make sure to include Lucca in your list of best places to visit. It’s definitely one of the most stunning cities in Tuscany!
How far is Lucca, Italy from Florence, Italy?
Lucca, Italy is approximately 63 kilometers (39 miles) away from Florence, Italy. If you’re planning to travel from Florence to Lucca, there are different modes of transportation that you could consider :
– By bus, it would take about 2 hours to get from Florence to Lucca.
– By train, it could be faster, taking only around 30-40 minutes.
– By car, it would take around 1 hour and 10 minutes.
No matter what mode of transportation you choose, the journey from Florence to Lucca will take you through scenic routes, passing by beautiful landscapes of Tuscany, providing you with a glimpse of what this stunning region has to offer.
Why visit Lucca?
Lucca is a charming town, where visitors can explore the narrow cobbled streets, shops, and restaurants inside the city walls. It is also home to several stunning landmarks such as Piazza del Anfiteatro, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Guinigi Tower, a tower with holm oaks growing on its roof.
What is Lucca, Italy famous for?
Lucca, Italy is known for its impressive ancient city walls that still stand today, making it a popular tourist destination in Italy.
The city is situated on the Serchio River and boasts a fertile plain that stretches towards the Ligurian Sea. With a population of around 90,000, Lucca is the capital of its province and one of the most beloved cities in all of Tuscany.
Visitors can explore the city’s rich history and discover its many intact historical sites, such as San Michele in Foro, the Roman Amphitheatre, and Piazza Anfiteatro.
The city’s welcoming atmosphere, laid-back vibe, and proximity to Pisa make it a must-visit destination for travelers to Tuscany. So, come and discover Lucca, Italy, and all the secrets that lie behind its walls.
How to get around Lucca?
Getting around Lucca is easy and enjoyable, thanks to its compact size and well-preserved medieval layout. The best way to explore the city is on foot; most attractions are within walking distance, allowing you to fully appreciate the charming streets and historical sites. Biking is another popular option, especially along the Lucca Walls, where you can rent bikes and enjoy a scenic ride around the city’s perimeter. For those who prefer public transportation, Lucca offers a reliable bus network that connects different parts of the city and surrounding areas. Taxis are also available, though they are less common in the historic center. If you plan to venture outside Lucca, renting a car can be convenient, especially for visiting nearby wine regions and countryside attractions. Whether you choose to walk, bike, or use public transport, navigating Lucca is straightforward and adds to the charm of your visit.
What are some must-try dishes in Lucca?
Lucca’s culinary scene offers a delightful array of traditional Tuscan dishes that are a must-try for any visitor. Start with tordelli lucchesi, a type of meat-filled pasta served with a rich ragù sauce, showcasing the region’s love for hearty, flavorful meals. Another local favorite is farro soup, made with spelt grain, vegetables, and sometimes pancetta, providing a comforting and nutritious option. Don’t miss baccalà alla lucchese, a salted cod dish prepared with tomatoes, olives, and capers, offering a unique taste of the local seafood tradition. For a sweet treat, try buccellato, a traditional Lucchese sweet bread flavored with anise and raisins, often enjoyed with coffee or as a dessert. Pair your meals with local wines like Montecarlo Bianco or Colline Lucchesi Rosso to complete your culinary experience. These dishes reflect the rich flavors and traditions of Lucca, making your visit even more memorable.
What are the best traditional restaurants in Lucca?
When it comes to traditional cuisine in Lucca, there are several options that offer an authentic taste of Tuscan cooking. Here are some of the best restaurants to try:
– Osteria San Giorgio: A must-visit, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious dishes like homemade pasta and rich meat sauces.
– Trattoria Da Leo: Another local favorite, it offers hearty traditional dishes in a rustic setting. Here, you can savor classics like ribollita and Florentine steak.
– Ristorante Giglio: For a more refined experience, Ristorante Giglio provides an elegant atmosphere with a menu that highlights seasonal and local ingredients.
Each of these restaurants emphasizes the use of fresh, high-quality products, ensuring a memorable culinary experience. Whether you’re seeking a casual meal or fine dining, these traditional restaurants in Lucca offer something for every palate, making your visit to this charming city even more enjoyable.
What are the best hotels to stay in Lucca?
When planning your trip to Lucca, choosing the right accommodation can enhance your experience. Here are some top recommendations:
– Hotel Villa Casanova: A5-star retreat offering elegant rooms, a tranquil setting, and top-notch amenities for a luxurious stay.
– Palazzo Dipinto: A4-star hotel in the heart of the city, featuring stylish decor and personalized service for a boutique experience.
– Hotel Ilaria: A4-star boutique hotel that combines modern comforts with historical charm, located close to Lucca’s main attractions.
Each of these hotels provides a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and authenticity, ensuring a memorable stay. Book early to secure the best deals and enjoy a fantastic stay in this charming Tuscan city.
