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Lucca, Italy is a charming, Medieval town and a fabulous destination for travelers. The copious number of things to do in Lucca, Italy – from exploring the ancient walls to climbing the landmark towers to taking in the beautiful architecture – will leave you wanting just a bit more time in the city.
We could have easily spent days wandering the cobblestone lanes of Lucca, visiting the centuries-old churches and sampling the local cuisine. However, like many visitors, we were only spending a single day in Lucca.
To help fellow travelers plan their best trip to Lucca, Italy, we are highlighting the top attractions you won’t want to miss!
Things To Do in Lucca, Italy FAQs
Before we get to our list of what to do in Lucca, we want to answer a few of the frequently asked questions so that you can plan your best trip.
Where is Lucca, Italy?
If you are planning a trip to Lucca, Italy, you need to know where it is! The Tuscan town is situated in Central Italy. Lucca is located west of Florence and just north of Pisa.
Lucca is well-connected to other towns in Tuscany by train and bus. We share details about how to get to Lucca later in the article in our Lucca Travel Tips section. Plus, we share a map of Lucca attractions that will help get your oriented with the city.
Note: Lucca is not to be confused with Bagni di Lucca, which is an entirely different city in Italy.
What is the History of Lucca, Italy?
Lucca has a long history that stretches back to at least the 3rd century BC and was already a prominent Roman town by the 1st century BC. Its strategic location along the Via Francigena pilgrimage route made it one of the most important cities in Tuscany…and its silk trade made it one of the most prosperous.
For hundreds of years, Lucca was an independent commune, but fell to France in the early 1800s. By 1860, however, Lucca became part of the Kingdom of Italy. Some of the best things to do in Lucca, Italy pertain to the city’s grand past.
How to Pronounce Lucca?
When you visit Lucca, you will want to make sure you are pronouncing it correctly! The Italian city, Lucca, is pronounced LOO-cah.
Are there Free Things To Do in Lucca, Italy?
Sure, there are many Lucca things to do that are totally free – and we highlight them in our list! Additionally, while some Lucca attractions do require a ticket, they are generally inexpensive.
Are there Things To Do in Lucca with Kids?
Visitors with children will find that there are many things to see in Lucca that are kid friendly. Our list is not dedicated to family travel in Lucca, but we do share many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy.
What is Lucca, Italy Known For?
The town of Lucca, Italy is best known for its historic appeal. Within it’s Medieval walls, Lucca is awash with ancient architecture, dazzling squares and dozens of churches. In fact, Lucca is nicknamed The City of 100 Churches.
These historic elements are prominent Lucca sightseeing attractions – and we detail the top sights in our Things To Do Lucca list.
Historically, Lucca is known for being the hometown of several renowned Italian composers and painters. We highlight the most famous Lucca residents on our list, too.
Is Lucca Worth Visiting?
Many Tuscany travelers wonder, Is Lucca, Italy worth visiting? – and we absolutely think that it is! Fairly easy to get to (and get around) and full of impressive sights, Lucca is truly a gem!
How Long to Spend in Lucca?
Deciding how long to visit Lucca is an important first step in your trip planning. The city of Lucca is compact and easy to navigate – so it’s possible to see the highlights by spending just 1 day in Lucca.
That said, visitors could certainly spend 2 days in Lucca, Italy, especially if visiting the many museums. Travelers staying for 3 days in Lucca can partake in some of the unique Lucca activities and plan day trips to nearby destinations.
What To See in Lucca in One Day
For our visit, we opted to take a day trip from Florence to Lucca – and were tasked with choosing what to do in Lucca, Italy in one day. We had to pick what to see and what sights to skip. In the end, we selected the top things to do in Lucca, Italy in one day based on our personal interests.
Our list of top activities and attractions probably exceeds what can be seen enjoyably with just a day in Lucca. While compact, there are heaps of interesting things to see and do – plus, Lucca visitors should spend some time just soaking in the charm.
Travelers planning what to see in Lucca in 1 day may select from our list of things to do to create their preferred itinerary. We share additional advice about creating a Lucca Itinerary later in the article.
Planning a Trip to Lucca
While we are bringing you the best of Lucca, Italy – there is more to planning a Lucca trip than simply deciding what to see and do. Therefore, in addition to our tips for sightseeing, we also provide advice about where to eat, how to get there and what to pack.
Travelers including Lucca as part of a longer Italy trip can find useful information in our One Week Tuscany Itineraryas well as these articles:
- The Best of Florence in 3 Days
- Sightseeing in Pisa, Italy
- What To See in Siena
- Top Sights in San Gimignano
- What To Do in Rome
Additionally, travelers exploring southern Italy can use our guides to Lecce Sightseeing and Puglia Cuisine. Visitors from overseas should also read our tips for Planning a European Vacation.
Italy Trip Planning Organization
Whether planning to visit Lucca in one day or one week, you will need to be organized when making your travel plans. We think it is best to use a trip planner – and our Printable Travel Planner has everything you need to track the details of your Italian vacation!
24 BEST THINGS TO DO IN LUCCA, ITALY
Now that we have covered the basics, it’s time to answer the burning question, What is there to do in Lucca, Italy? Well, our list of fun things to do in Lucca covers all the best!
Save, Pin or Bookmark this Lucca Travel Guide to plan your trip to Italy!
#1 Take in the View from the Lucca Walls
Ranking as one of the best-preserved city walls in all of Europe, the mighty Mura di Lucca fortifications completely encircle the Old Town of Lucca. Standing on top of the walls and enjoying the view tops our list of the Best Things To Do Lucca, Tuscany.
Built over a 100-year period during the 16th and 17th centuries, the walls were designed to defend from intruders. However, they weren’t truly tested, as Lucca was never attacked. The walls did help fend off a major flood in 1812.
In the mid-1800s, the tops of the walls were redesigned into a public park for leisure activities and events. Today, the elevated 2.5 mile (4km) promenade is a popular place for walking, jogging and biking in Lucca, Italy.
#2 Go Bike Riding in Lucca, Italy
Cycling around Lucca is a popular mode of transport – for both visitors and locals. In fact, one of the unique things to do in Lucca is to rent a bike and pedal along the tops of the fortifications.
Visitors interested in cycling in Lucca, Italy can rent a bicycle from one of the many shops in town or reserve a bike in advance – like this one – that comes with a map and tourist information.
Alternatively, visitors can join the highly-rated Cycling Lucca Food Tour. The 3-hour tour is led by a professional guide and features the top sights, as well as tasty bites of local Tuscan cuisine.
Top Travel Tip: Renting bikes is a great way for visitors limited to just 1 day in Lucca to make the most of their time!
#3 Find the Lucca City Gates
As you already know, one of the most interesting things about visiting Lucca, Italy is the city walls…and that includes seeing the ornate gates that are part of the fortifications.
There are six gates in the Mura di Lucca walls – and they are some of the best places to visit in Lucca.
The south-facing Porta San Pietro is the most elaborate and oldest gate, dating to the year 1565. Other gates worth seeking out are Porta Santa Maria (built in 1592) and Porta San Donato (constructed in 1629).
Additionally, some gates remain from previous walls, when the town was much smaller. The best example is Porta di San Gervasio near Villa Bottini (which is another sight coming up on our list of Lucca Things To Do).
#4 Stroll through Piazza Napoleone
Marking the heart of Lucca, Piazza Napoleone – or Piazza Grande – is the main square in the town center. Strolling through the spacious, tree-shaded square is one of the Lucca, Italy Best Things To Do.
The massive Palazzo Ducale (which we detail next on our Lucca To Do list) marks the entire western side of the square. At the center is a statue of Maria Luisa di Borbone, Duchess of Lucca – who reigned from 1815 until 1824.
During the summer months, visitors can ride the popular Lucca carousel (which is replaced with an ice-skating rink in the wintertime).
Travel Tip: The Summer Festival concerts in Lucca, Italy are held in the Grande Piazza; it’s one of the region’s major events!
#5 Attend an Exhibition at Palazzo Ducale di Lucca
The Palazzo Ducale – or the Ducale Palace – is one of the most notable buildings in Lucca and serves as the administrative center of the city.
Standing on the site of the former Fortezza Augusta (which covered one-fifth of the entire town at the time), Palazzo Ducale features a rather simple façade – which conceals that elegant interior and quaint courtyards adorned with statues.
Visiting the palazzo for an exhibition is one of the top Lucca, Italy things to do. Events at the palace take place throughout the year, so be sure to check what’s on during your visit to Lucca, Italy.
#6 Seek Out the St. Martin Cathedral Lucca
There are many, many churches in Lucca, Italy, but the Duomo di San Martino Lucca Cathedral is simply magnificent – and well worth seeking out! Tucked down a quiet lane, San Martino Cattedrale di Lucca is just a short walk from the main square and a must-see sight in Lucca.
Dating to the year 1063 (and enhanced and embellished numerous times throughout history), the cathedral and bell tower feature a mishmash of architectural styles and building materials – creating an extravagant and captivating façade.
The cathedral interior hosts a treasure trove of relics and artwork – most notably, the Holy Face of Lucca (a wooden crucifix carved by Nicodemus).
There is a small fee to enter the church – and a combination ticket allows access to the bell tower, museum and baptistry. Check the official website for additional information.
#7 Shop on Via Fillungo and Chiasso Barletti
The narrow, pedestrian-only Via Fillungo is one of the best walking streets in Lucca and the most popular shopping street, too. Lined with brand-name stores, boutique shops, cute cafes and take-away bakeries, the cobblestoned Via Fillungo pleasantly curves through the old town.
Breaking off from Fillungo is Chiasso Barletti alley, which is the place to find the best artisan stores and artist workshops in Lucca. These two shopping streets in Lucca are the top places to pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Travelers not looking to buy anything should still slow down and take a moment to window shop at the fabulous shops in Lucca, Italy along the route – just like the locals do!
Travel Tip: As you are planning what to do in Lucca, Tuscany, be sure to leave time for simply wandering down the atmospheric Medieval lanes. Via Fillungo and Chiasso Barletti are two of the best, but there are many interesting lanes in Old Town Lucca!
#8 Climb to the Torre delle Ore Clock Tower
Without a doubt, one of the top Lucca things to see is the Torre delle Ore Tower. Ranking as the tallest tower in Lucca, Torre delle Ore was built in 1390.
For a small fee, visitors can climb the 207 original wooden steps to the top of the tower for a fine view over the rooftops and well beyond. Additionally, guests can see the inner workings of the clock mechanism.
Travel Tip: You can purchase a single ticket to Torre delle Ore or a combination ticket that also includes entry to the Torre Guinigi Tower and Orto Botanico, which are two more Lucca sights that we feature later on our list of things to do!
#9 Gaze at the Façade of Chiesa di San Michele in Foro
Chiesa di San Michele in Foro is one of the best churches in Lucca, Italy. The impressive façade of arches, columns and statues gleams brightly under the Tuscan sun. The church is dedicated to the Archangel Michael (his 13-foot-tall statue stands atop the apex) and it was built over the ancient Roman Forum – thus the name, San Michele in Foro.
Although the interior of the church is not nearly as dazzling as the exterior, we recommend popping inside…if for nothing else than to see San Davino, who lies in rest under the altar.
There is no ticket required to enter the church; it’s one of the free Lucca places to visit!
#10 Learn about the Life of Opera Composer Puccini
Born in Lucca in 1858, Giacomo Puccini is one of the most famous Italian opera composers of all time. Therefore, one of the top things to do in Lucca is to learn about the famed musician at the Puccini Museum.
The museum, which occupies the birth home of the composer, details Puccini’s life with various memorabilia and furnishings. Highlights include his piano, sheet music, photographs, letters, personal garments and opera costumes.
There is a small fee to enter the museum and tours are available.
#11 Admire the Renaissance Architecture of Chiesa di San Paolino Lucca
While many of the towns in Tuscany are awash with Renaissance architecture, the Basilica of San Paolino is the only Lucca church purposely designed in the Renaissance style. Built in 1513 by Baccio da Montelupo, the church features clean lines, clear symmetry and classic harmony.
Another reason that the church is one of the best places to see in Lucca is that much of the interior still features original artwork – including paintings, frescos and sculptures.
The church is dedicated to the patron saint of Lucca, San Paolino, who is celebrated on July 12.
#12 Enjoy the Art at the Museum of Villa Mansi
Hosting some of the finest tapestries and works of art in Lucca, the elegant Museum of Villa Mansi (or the Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Mansi) is one of the best places to visit.
The 15th century Baroque palace was the stylish residence of the silk merchant family, Mansi. The home’s art gallery was opened to the public for the first time in the 1950s and then was transformed into a national museum in the 1960s.
Many of the Mansi family’s furnishings still decorate the lavish palace. Bedrooms, attire and a carriage are also on display.
#13 See the Beautifully Baroque Chiesa di Santa Maria Corteorlandini
The easy-to-miss Chiesa di Santa Maria Corteorlandini lacks exterior decoration, but it’s the interior that makes it one of the top things to see in Lucca, Tuscany.
Dating to the 9th century, the once-simple church was renovated in the Baroque style in the 17th and 18th centuries – and it is utterly extravagant. The elaborate motifs and gilded accents are striking.
It is free to enter the church, but hours vary.
#14 Relax in the Gardens at Palazzo Pfanner
There are several gardens in Lucca, Italy – but none quite so lovely as the Palazzo Pfanner Garden. Travelers looking for a respite can take a moment to relax in the gorgeous, Baroque garden, which is highlighted by colorful flowers, spraying fountains and grand statues that line the walkways.
The 17th century Pfanner Palace, itself, is one of the places to visit in Lucca, Italy. The palace hosts a small museum that includes artwork and furnishings in a few of the rooms – as well as a somewhat odd collection of surgical instruments and medical texts.
There is a small fee to enter the Pfanner Gardens and Palace.
#15 Glimpse the Golden Mosaic at Basilica di San Frediano
The Romanesque San Frediano Basilica, which is one of the oldest in the city (dating to the 12th century), is yet another must-see Lucca church. The reason it ranks as one of the top things to see in Lucca, Italy is the glittering mosaic featured on the façade.
Designed in the 13th century by Lucca artist, Berlinghiero, the Byzantine-style mosaic depicts The Ascension of Christ the Savior and the 12 apostles.
The interior of the church features a collection of outstanding works of art – the 12th century carved baptismal font being the most impressive. A small fee is required to enter the church and guests can also climb the bell tower.
#16 Delve into the Dark Medieval Past at the Museum of Torture
Visitors who want to learn more about the dark side of history can spend time at the Torture Museum in Lucca. The Museum of Torture displays a collection of instruments used to torment and punish subjects during Medieval Times. Each item is accompanied by a detailed description of how the tool was used.
While not necessarily a Lucca must see sight, it might be interesting for the curious and fans of macabre entertainment. There is a fee to enter the museum and plan to spend about a half hour looking at the exhibits.
#17 Roam through the Oval Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
One of the best things to see and do in Lucca, Italy is to visit the enclosed Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. The unique oval-shaped piazza was built on the site of a 2nd century Roman Amphitheater – giving it an elongated shape. There are four gates that allow entry into the square, which roughly align to the original amphitheater entrances.
For many years, the square was used as the site of the local market (which has now been relocated to the Carmine Market, one block south of the square). Today, the grand Anfiteatro Romano Lucca Piazza hosts cafes, restaurants and shops – and it’s a great place to stop for a refreshing drink or alfresco meal!
#18 Go to the Top of Guinigi Tower Lucca
An iconic Lucca landmark, the Guinigi Tower is famous for its rooftop garden – and climbing to the top of it is a Lucca must-do!
Standing nearly 150-feet-tall, the brick tower was built in 1384 by a wealthy silk merchant family. The tower was meant to boast the family’s fortune – as well as serve as a home and lookout. The rooftop garden and Holm Oak trees were established sometime before the 1600s and remain a unique feature.
The top of the Giunigi Tower of Lucca is accessed by paying a small fee and trekking up 233 steps.
#19 Tell Time in Chiesa di Santa Maria Foris Portam
The marble and brick Church of Santa Maria Foris Portam dates to the 12th century. It was built on the site of a former church that was located outside the original Roman walls, thus the name Foris Portam or Outside the Gate.
The white marble façade was designed in the Pisan style, using the Cathedral of Pisa as a model.
Inside the church, visitors can see a special sundial. When the beam of light aligns with the hour mark on the floor, the sun has reached the exact point of midday.
#20 Listen to the Babbling Brook on Via del Fosso
One of the lesser-known and unusual things to do in Lucca, Tuscany is to take a stroll along Via del Fosso while listening to the stream that babbles along the middle of the lane.
The canal on Via del Fosso – which translates to Ditch Street – carries river water through the walled city. Sometimes fish can even be spotted swimming in the current!
#21 Stare Up at the Statue of Madonna dello Stellario
Sculpted by Giovanni Lanzoni in 1687, the marble Madonna dello Stellario statue stands atop a Corinthian column in the center of a small, innocuous Piazza San Francesco.
The square marks a quiet corner of Lucca, where locals likely outnumber the tourists. It’s a nice place to stop and relax for a drink or even a meal and observe local life in Lucca.
#22 Sit in Tranquility at Chiesa di San Francesco
The San Francesco Church is not one of the major Lucca tourist attractions, but it is a fabulous place to visit for travelers who like to get off the beaten path.
Chiesa di San Francesco dates to the year 1430 and features a façade of white and gray limestone bands. The interior consists of a single nave with a high, wooden trussed ceiling. Paintings and frescoes decorate the church – and an organ sits behind the altar.
For a true moment of tranquility, step inside the adjoining cloisters. The space is one of the most serene places in the city of Lucca, Italy.
#23 Wander the Gardens at Villa Bottini
One of the beautiful attractions in Lucca, Italy, Villa Bottini is a fine estate with a gorgeous garden.
The villa dates to the 16th century, but it was left abandoned for some years before it was purchased by Elisa Bonaparte (Napoleon’s sister) in the early 1800s. In the subsequent years, the villa and grounds were renovated and enhanced – and the property passed through the hands of many wealthy families until the city of Lucca obtained it.
The gardens were established in the 19th century. The green space features planned flower gardens, paths and a fountain.
Today, Villa Bottini is a cultural center and the site of many Lucca events and functions – like the summertime open-air cinema. During the day, the gardens are typically open to the public for free.
#24 Experience an Oasis at the Lucca Botanical Garden
Established in 1820, the Orto Botanical Garden is one of the Lucca top attractions. Although small, the garden boasts a pond (complete with turtles, lily pads and a legend), an arboretum and a greenhouse.
There is a fee to enter the Lucca Botanic Garden, but a combo ticket is available including entry to the towers.
More Things To Do in Lucca, Italy
We have outlined our top picks for the best things to do in Lucca, Tuscany – but there are a few more attractions worth mentioning.
Watch a Performance at Teatro del Giglio
The Neoclassical-style Teatro del Giglio is Lucca’s historic theater; it was built in 1818 on the site of the city’s Public Theater (which had stood since 1675). A statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi – the famous general attributed with helping to unite the country under the Kingdom of Italy – proudly stands in front of the entrance.
The theater hosts an array of cultural events and performances – from dance programs to lyrical poetry.
Peruse the Goods at the Lucca Antique Market
If you’re fortunate enough to be visiting Lucca the third weekend of the month, spend some time perusing the goods at the Weekend Lucca Antique Market. More than 200 vendors set up stalls in the town squares to sell antiques and bric-a-brac.
Travel Reminder: If your visit does not coincide with the antique market, find you way to Via Fillungo for the best shopping in Lucca, Italy.
Examine the Exhibits at the National Museum of Villa Guingi
The ancient artifacts at the National Museum of Villa Guingi cover 2000 years of history – from the first Etruscan settlers to the Renaissance. The collection also consists of rare paintings, sculptures and sacred relics – and it is housed is one of the oldest villas in Lucca. There is a small fee to enter the museum.
Stretch your Legs along the Aqueduct of Nottolini
The Neoclassical Nottolini Aqueduct is one of the lesser-known tourist attractions in Lucca, Italy. The impressive arched aqueduct is reminiscent of ancient Roman aqueducts, but it only dates to the mid-1800s. The structure was used to carry clean drinking water from springs on Monte di Vorno into the city.
A trail now follows the aqueduct, providing active travelers (and locals) with a scenic place to stretch their legs.
Join One of the Cooking Classes in Lucca, Italy
Joining an Italian cooking class is definitely one of the top things to do in Lucca, Italy for travelers who are staying in the city for a couple of days.
Of the different cooking classes in Lucca, Tuscany, the most popular feature visiting a local market, preparing a 4-course lunch and feasting on the fruits of your labor. Plus, local wine is included! Get the details!
Take the Best Day Trips from Lucca
We have highlighted what to do in Lucca, Italy – but there are many things to do near Lucca as well. Visitors who decide to use the city as a base have many options for day tours from Lucca – and we are showcasing a few of the best!
Pisa from Lucca
Pisa and its famous Leaning Tower are just 20km (12 miles) from Lucca – and the two cities are well connected with trains and buses…and a bike path, too!
Top Tip: Use this guide of Things To Do in Pisa for all our sightseeing advice!
Lucca to Florence, Italy
Florence is a top destination in Tuscany – and visitors can plan their own day trip to see the renowned Renaissance city. You’ll need a good plan to visit Florence in 1 Day, and we share all the need-to-know details in our Guide to Florence, Italy.
Cinque Terre Day Trip from Lucca
Traveling west toward the Cinque Terra coastline is one of the best things to do around Lucca, Italy. The Cinque Terre – Lucca route can be completed by train or with a combination of bus and train. Explorers can plan their own day trip or join a tour and let a local guide lead the way.
Best Restaurants in Lucca, Italy
There is no shortage of Lucca restaurants where travelers can get a taste of the local Tuscan cuisine. We are highlighting a few of the top establishments that are known for serving the best food in Lucca, Italy.
Forno a Vapore Amedeo Giusti Bakery
Forno a Vapore Amedeo Giusti is one of the best places to eat in Lucca! The bakery uses long-standing recipes to create excellent baked goods. It’s a great option for simple-yet-fabulous focaccia take-away sandwiches or a sweet treat.
Pizzeria da Felice
In business for more than 100 years, Pizzeria da Felice is known for making the best pizza in Lucca. The wood-fired pizza is ordered by the slice (and paid for by weight).
Pro Tip: Travelers eating in Lucca, Italy who want to try a local dish at Pizzeria da Felice should order the Cecina Farinata di Ceci Pizza, which is traditional Tuscan-style dough made with chickpea flour.
Gigi Trattoria
Possibly the best restaurant in Lucca, Italy, Gigi is a family-run establishment that focuses on traditional Tuscan cuisine. Their homemade pasta earns the restaurant high praise as serving the best pasta in Lucca.
I Gelati di Piero
Crowned the ‘King of Gelato’ in 2019, I Gelati di Piero is a family-owned shop that makes the best gelato in Lucca, Italy. Using local ingredients and creating innovative flavor combinations, every scoop is divine, but pistachio is the most popular (try the Leopard!).
La Tana del Boia
Definitely one of the best bars in Lucca, La Tana del Boia offers a nice selection of craft beers, local wines and cocktails (plus, they serve a gratis meat and cheese aperitivo). The small bar has a few indoor seats, but the tables outside that face Piazza San Michele are coveted and fantastic for people watching!
Things To Do Lucca, Italy Map
Use this link to Google Maps for an online version of our Lucca sightseeing map. The map is marked with the best places to visit in Lucca, Italy so that you can easily plan your sightseeing route.
Lucca, Italy Itinerary: What To Do in Lucca for a Day
Travelers with just one day in Lucca might feel overwhelmed with all the choices of things to do. We understand, that was us! So, we are sharing a sample itinerary that outlines what to do in Lucca in one day.
1 Day Lucca Itinerary
Start your exploration of Lucca on top of the town walls. Walk or ride a bike around the entire circumference to view it from all angles (it will help you get a lay of the land). Then, continue your discovery on foot in Piazza Napoleone.
From Napoleone Square, visit the sights on our list of Things To Do in Lucca, Italy. The attractions are in order to create an easy Self-Guided Lucca Walking Tour.
Choose two or three museums and sights to enter during your Lucca walk. Our top picks are climbing Torre delle Ore, visiting the Puccini Museum and seeing Villa Mansi. Active travelers might consider purchasing the combination tower ticket to enter both towers and the botanic garden at a discounted price. Additionally, step inside any churches that are open and free along the route.
For lunch, grab a slice of pizza from Felice or something from the Forno a Vapore Amedeo Giusti Bakery – both Lucca restaurants are near Torre delle Ore Clock Tower. After completing your Lucca sightseeing circuit, relax with a I Gelati di Piero gelato or refreshing drink at La Tana del Boia. End your One Day Lucca Itinerary with fabulous dinner at Gigi Trattoria!
Lucca, Italy Travel Tips
Now that you know what to see and do in Lucca, Italy, we have some advice to assist with your travel planning.
Getting To Lucca, Italy
Lucca can be reached by train, bus or car. There is no airport in Lucca; therefore, travelers looking for flights to Lucca, Italy should search nearby airports – like Pisa or Florence.
How To Get to Lucca from Florence
Getting to Lucca from Florence is fairly straightforward, as the two cities are well connected.
- How Far is Florence from Lucca? The distance between Lucca and Florence is 50 miles (85km).
- What is the Best Way of Getting from Florence to Lucca? Trains are the best option, but buses are available, too.
To make the journey from Florence to Lucca, we recommend taking the REG Train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella main train station to the Lucca Train Station. The ride takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes and costs less than 10 euros.
To get from the Florence Airport to Lucca, travelers can take a direct bus (once every 2 hours) or hop on the tram to Santa Maria Novella Station – then switch to a train to Lucca.
How To Get from Pisa to Lucca, Italy
Pisa and Lucca are very well connected with transport options, which makes getting to Lucca from Pisa quite easy.
- What is the Distance from Pisa to Lucca? It’s just 12.5 miles (20km) between Lucca and Pisa.
- What is the Best Way to Travel from Pisa to Lucca? We preferred taking the direct train from Pisa to Lucca, but travelers can also take a bus or even ride a bike!
The train from Pisa to Lucca takes less than 30 minutes – and is very inexpensive. Both the Pisa Centrale Station and Lucca Main Train Station are located close to the city centers.
That said, travelers can also take the bus from Pisa to Lucca. The E3 bus to Lucca is run by Autolinee Toscane and terminates near Porta Sant’Anna.
The best mode of transit for visitors traveling from Pisa Airport to Lucca is by rail. From the Pisa Airport, take the PisaMover automated tram to Pisa Centrale Station – then switch to a train for Lucca.
Driving in Lucca
Travelers visiting Lucca from nearby might consider getting to Lucca by car. While the Lucca city center is car-free, there are parking lots outside the walls. Just be sure to check out our Tips for Renting a Car before making your reservation!
Travel Tip: Ambitious travelers can plan a full day trip from Florence to Pisa and Lucca in a single day using public transit. Get an early start and take the train from Florence to Pisa. Spend about 3-4 hours in Pisa and then take the train from Pisa to Lucca. Spend the rest of the afternoon sightseeing in Lucca (or even stay for dinner) before returning on the direct train to Florence from Lucca.
Best Places to Stay in Lucca, Italy
There is ample choice of accommodation in Lucca, Italy for those who decide to stay overnight. Options range from luxury stays in boutique hotels to affordable B&Bs. (We could not locate any hostels in Lucca, Italy.) We are featuring a few of the top-rated options – but read our Tips for Booking the Best Cheap Hotels before confirming your stay!
Palazzo Alexander Hotel in Lucca, Italy
Rated as one of the best hotels in Lucca, Italy, Palazzo Alexander is located right in the heart of Lucca Old Town. The hotel is beautifully decorated and gets rave reviews for the attentive staff and delicious breakfast. Check rates and availability for your stay!
B&B Anfiteatro
Located right on Anfiteatro Square, the charming B&B Anfiteatro offers a great value for budget travelers. It gets top ratings for the prime location, large rooms and a good breakfast. Check rates for your stay!
Airbnb Lucca
We often use Airbnb during our travels – but we don’t necessarily recommend it unless staying for 3 nights or longer. Between the fees and the rules, we feel it isn’t worth booking an apartment for a short stay. We share more of our top tricks and Airbnb advice in this article.
What To Pack for your Trip to Lucca, Italy
Our final travel tips for Lucca are all about what to pack in your suitcase or backpack! Whether you are taking a day trip to Lucca or are staying for a few days, there are definitely a few things you will want to bring along. You can find all of our packing hacks on our Travel Packing Tips page. Need a packing checklist? Grab your FREE checklist here!
Comfortable Shoes
The Old Town in Lucca, Italy is pedestrian only – which means you’ll be walking (or pedaling) to see the sights! It is imperative to wear a pair of comfortable shoes as you cross the cobblestone lanes. I wear my comfort sneakers and Kris likes these trail shoes for sightseeing. We share more tips and reviews in our Guide to the Best Travel Shoes.
Travel Camera
Lucca is a gorgeous – and we highly recommend upgrading to a real camera to capture the beauty of it!
We use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens for all our travels. Not only does it take high quality photos, but it is easy to use and affordable – making it one of the best cameras for budget travelers.
Zippered Day Bag
Pickpocketing thieves are prevalent in every popular tourist destination – so it’s best to keep your valuables secure on your trip to Lucca. We carry small backpacks that have multiple zippered pockets (and wear them on front in extremely crowded spaces).
Find out more in our Tips for the Best Travel Day Bags article.
Sun Protection
The sun in Italy is strong – especially during the summer months. Be sure to bring sunscreen on your sightseeing adventures so that you can reapply throughout the day. A wide-brimmed hat and your favorite sunglasses are also highly recommended.
Italy Travel Insurance
Things don’t always go as planned when traveling (lost bags, cancelled flights, illness, etc.) – and sometimes trip insurance can help recoup costs lost along the way. Learn more about coverage and check rates at World Nomads.
Travel Documents for Italy
When it’s time for you to take your Lucca trip, be sure that you have all the necessary travel documents – from tickets to identification…and bring your Travel Planner, too!
Start planning your trip to Italy! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page!
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