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How to Spend a Day in Lucca, Tuscany

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ONE PERFECT DAY IN LUCCA, TUSCANY

29th October 2019

Last Updated on 2nd March 2026 by Bejal

Lucca is a medieval city in Tuscany which lies on the Serchio River and is well-known for its incredibly well preserved Renaissance walls encapsulating the whole city centre and its quintessential cobble stone streets. It’s the perfect place to stroll or cycle the tree lined 16th and 17th century ramparts. Don’t miss Casa di Puccini, which is the birth place of the great opera composer and is now a museum.Located on the western coast of Italy, Lucca is primarily known as the city of a hundred churches. It’s famous for its historical medieval architecture and it is perfect place to spend a day in Lucca when escaping the crowds of Florence.This is a guide to how to best spend a day in Lucca and aims to highlight all the must see attractions as well as places to eat and drink together with some accommodation options if you are lucky enough to spend more than a day in the town.

In This Article

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  • Pin & Save
  • Where is Lucca Located?
  • When Is The Best Time To Visit Lucca?
  • How To Get To Lucca
    • Flights
    • Train
    • Car
  • How To Get Around Lucca
  • How To Spend A Day in Lucca
  • Climb The Torre Guigini – One Day In Lucca
    • Head Up To The Torre Dell’Ore (Clock Tower)
  • Walk Lucca’s Medieval Walls
  • Stroll Through Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
  • Discover The Gardens of Palazzo Pfanner
  • Learn About Music at The Puccini Museum
  • Admire The Chiesa Del Santiago Giovanni Reparata
  • Chiesa Di San Michele In Foro
  • Basilica Di San Frediano
  • Orto Botanico Comunale Di Lucca – One day in Lucca
  • Acquedotto Del Nottolini
  • Piazzale Napoleane & Giglio Theatre
  • Recommended Lucca Experiences If You’re Short Of Time
  • Is Lucca Romantic? Private & Extra Special Experiences
  • Day Trip Experiences From Lucca
  • Where To Eat & Drink In Lucca
  • Places to Eat In Lucca
    • Caffè Manon Lescaut
    • Pasticceria Fabbrica Buccellato Taddeucci
    • Other Places To Eat
  • Explore Foodie Experiences in Lucca
  • Places to Drink in Lucca
    • San Colombano
    • Other Places For Drinks
  • Explore Apertivo & Drinks Experiences in Lucca
  • Where To Stay In Lucca
  • Search For Your Ideal Lucca Stay
  • Lucca Itineraries
    • One Day in Lucca
    • Two Days in Lucca
    • Three Days in Lucca
  • Be-lavie Top Tips & Recommendations
  • One Day In Lucca FAQS
    • How many days do I need in Lucca?
    • How long is the train from Florence to Lucca?
    • Does Lucca feel touristy?
    • Is Lucca a good base?
    • Is visiting Lucca worth it?
  • One Day In Lucca Round-Up
  • Resources To Help With Planning Travel
  • Related Articles to One Day In Lucca
  • À bientôt
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Bejal sitting in front of medieval green door in Lucca
Bicycle against door in Lucca

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Where is Lucca Located?

This picture perfect medieval city is located in the west of Italy in Tuscany and is easily accessible from most parts of Italy with the wonderful transport links by rail, road and international airports. Lucca is the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend of leisure. Lucca has an inland position but is only 22 Km from the coast if you want to consider using Lucca as a base to visit other areas within the region.

Click graphic to head to sign up page for Be-lavie Collective, where you’ll get a password to download resources as well as a Google Map straight to your smart phone.

Lucca downloadable map  graphic

When Is The Best Time To Visit Lucca?

Lucca can be visited anytime of the year, however it may be best to try and avoid the peak summer season when accommodation costs are particularly high, along with the number of visitors.

Shoulder season is the perfect time to visit, April, May, September and October are perfect as the weather is still beautiful and warm, accommodation is priced a little more reasonably plus the crowds and visitors are much less with the children’s school holidays over.

How To Get To Lucca

Lucca is straight forward to visit from most of Italy and very accessible from Florence, where you can hop on one of Trenitalia’s train for €7.90 each way with a short train ride and pretty Tuscan views.

Related Article: Travel Guide To Visiting Florence For First-Time Visitors

Flights

The closest airport to Lucca is Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport and is located around 30 minutes, approximately 18 Km in distance and is the most convenient if you’re flying straight into Italy. From the airport, hop on the PisaMover Bus to Pisa Centrale which costs around €2.70 per person and comes every 5-10 minutes. Once at Pisa Centrale, buy a ticket for Lucca and join one of the regular scheduled trains.

  • Search & book the best flights for your Lucca trip with Skyscanner

Related Article: How to spend one day in Pisa

Train

Lucca train station is located five minutes outside the city walls where you’ll be entering via the Porta San Pietro. It’s pretty easy to walk from the station into Lucca however note that if you’re staying in a hotel in the centre of Lucca, there are a lot of cobblestone streets with uphill walks so leave yourself plenty of time, maybe 30 minutes or so to complete this part of the journey.

City Gate of Lucca
City Gate of Lucca

Be-lavie Tip: When leaving, allow yourself at least 30 minutesto get to Lucca Station so you’re not late for your onward connections.

Lucca can be accessed from a number of popular cities in Italy. Lucca is only…

  • 30 minutes away from Pisa
  • 70 minutes from Cinque Terre
  • 90 mInutes from Florence
  • 3.5 hours from Arezzo

Tickets can be purchased at the time of travel but also in advance via Italia Rail, National Rail (Trenitalia).

  • Search & book the best train route Lucca trip with Trainline

Related Article: Exploring Tuscany’s Medieval Towns From Florence

Car

If visiting Lucca forms the basis of a longer trip to Italy, the most flexible way to travel is by hiring a car.

It’s good to note that the centre of Lucca is ZTL, zones of restricted circulation, therefore you will not be able to drive freely, however you will be able to find reasonable priced car parks just outside of the city walls in a few locations.

  • Search & Book hire cars with Europcar
  • Parking in Lucca is more expensive within the walls, it’s sensible to opt for a car park outside

Be-lavie Tip: Parking is a little more expensive within the walls of Lucca, so do check out a few car parks outside such as Parcheggio Carducci

How To Get Around Lucca

The historical centre of Lucca is pretty compact and very easily walkable. Be weary of the cobbled stone streets and uneven points. You could of course hire a bicycle if you wish to ride along the city walls but it’s not a necessity.

Street in Lucca with Bejal walking down
How to Spend a Day in Lucca, Tuscany

How To Spend A Day in Lucca

Here are the best things to see and do in Lucca with a few extras that you can combine if you’re lucky enough to have more time in the city.

Be-lavie Tip: If you’re in Lucca just for the day, it’s best to head for the views first. So climb the towers and viewpoints as early in the. day as possible as there will be less people climbing and also it’s cooler earlier in the day.

Climb The Torre Guigini – One Day In Lucca

Climbing the tallest tower or even structure in Lucca is a must, the Guigini Tower is around 44.25 metres in height and has trees sprouting from the top. Yes you heard that right, there is a little tree filled garden at the top.

The tower was constructed to represent the Guigini family’s wealth and standing in the 1300s. If you’ve travelled Italy, you may have noticed that wealthy Italian families often built towers to compete with each in the cities they were from.

Lucca once had in the region of 250 towers, however now there only remains nine. The Guigini Tower was said to be intentionally built to have a kind of a rooftop garden look with Holm oak trees, to distinguish it from the other towers -It most certainly stands out.

The tower is worth, the approximately 230 step, climb from the magnificent city views from under the tree branches. Not only does it have all the right co-ordinated hues of terracotta but its noticeable that Lucca not only has a great defence in the form of its wall but in addition the Tuscan hills surround it and virtually hide it from possible attack.

Be-lavie Tip: In the warmer months visit as early as possible (as close to opening as you can) so there’s not too many people at the top and not as crowded on the steps. Alternatively, sunset is a really pretty time to go and see the rooftops covered in an extra golden hue.

The Details
  • Location: (Old Town Centre) 45 Via Sant’ Andrea (entrance) I Tel.  +39 0583 48090
  • Locate on Maps
  • Tickets: €5 adult / €4 reduced, or €12 combined ticket (includes Torre del Ore and Botanical Gardens). Guided visits are available and last 45 minutes.
  • Hours: 10:00 am with closing times depending upon season.  In summer (June-September), it closes at 8pm (last entry at 19:15 pm), 1830 pm (April-May), 17:30 pm (March & October), and 16:30 pm (November-February).
  • Pro Tip: The stairs inside the Guigini Tower are modern steel and therefore a lot wider and much easier to access for most. Please note, there is no lift.
Views from  Guigini Tower
 Guigini Tower with sproying trees
Views from  Guigini Tower

Head Up To The Torre Dell’Ore (Clock Tower)

If there is just one more tower you have the energy to climb then pick the Torre dell’ore. The climb is steep but not too long at 207 steps.

During its 700 year history the Torre del Ore has served as a defensive fortification as well as a clock tower. Erected in the 14th century and as the need to defend lessened, the tower was turned into a horological clock.

There has always been a clock tower Via Fillungo since 1390, however the clock workings have been through a few renovations in the following centuries.

The climb is pretty quick and short with 207 wooden steps to the top. This is by far the highest tower in Lucca and you can see the Torre Guinigi from here and it’s rooftop garden. Look out for the narrow wooden staircase and the ringing bells as you arrive at the top.

Views from Torre Dell'Ore
Bejal looking out at views from Torre Dell'Ore
Views from Torre Dell'Ore
Alternate views from Torre Dell'Ore
The Details
  • Location: Via Fillungo, 55100 Lucca I Tel. +39 0583 48090
  • Locate on Maps
  • Tickets: €5 adult or €4 reduced entry. If you intend to climb both Lucca towers, consider opting for the €12/ €9 combined ticket. It includes entry to Torre Guinigi, Torre dell’Ore, plus the Botanical Gardens.
  • Hours: 09.30 and closing times are dependent upon season. Summer (1st June-20th September), it closes at 19:30. From 21st March-31st May and 21st-31st September it closes at 18:30 and between 1st October and 4th November it closes at 16:00. The Torre dell’ore is closed from 5th November through to 20th March.
  • Pro Tip: Purchase your tickets in advance just incase they decide to restrict numbers on the day. Purchase tickets via the Official Lucca Website otherwise all tickets including the combined will need to be bought at the Torre Guigini as the Torre dell/ore does not sell it’s own entry tickets.

Walk Lucca’s Medieval Walls

The purpose of the ramparts is clearly for defence and their construction started in 1545, which was much later than other fortifications of this kind that generally date back to the medieval period. By the 19th Century, the walls became redundant on order. of Napoleon’s sister and were therefore converted into the beautiful nature filled green space you see today. This was deemed quite the feat for the time.

Walking down City Walls in Lucca
Bejal sitting on bench along city walls, Lucca

Walking along the walls is one of the most romantic activities you can enjoy in Lucca. When you’re strolling along the wall walkways you’ll see the bellow of laughter as the older gentlemen congregate for their daily conflab, starry eyed lovers gliding along hand in hand, children playing, riding their bicycles, joggers, dog-walkers and then tourists watching the everyday scenes of Lucca unfolding.

Be-lavie Tip: If you’re in Lucca for a day, why not head to one of the deli’s in the old squares and grab some picnic items. There are plenty of spots along the walls to people watch and eat some local food.

Another excellent way to admire the walls is by renting bicycles and peddling a couple of circuits of the wall. Alternatively, take a pre or post aperitivo passeggiata to get your bearings. There are. a few aperitivo cafes along the route if you’re feeling the thirst!

Green spaces along city walls
Green spaces along city walls

Views from the walls are stunning. You’ll see rooftops, churches, the botanical gardens, houses all with the rolling Tuscan hills as the distant backdrop.

The Details

If you’re hanging around the walls in the early evening or around aperitivo time, leave near the Veneto. The area is filled with some great cafes which specialise in spritz and cold cuts with cheese.

Note the ‘porta’ within the walls at Sant’Anna, Santa Maria, San Pietro, San Donato and Elisa. These can be described as points of entry or even thoroughfare points where you can visualise how things were done in Lucca prior to transport.

Stroll Through Piazza dell’Anfiteatro

This is Lucca’s busiest square and encased in its almost arcade like walls are an array of restaurants. Do bear in mind that this is the main square, that this means there will be a lot of tourists and it’s noticeable in some of the restaurants and cafes. You can still enjoy a drink or some lunch in the square and people watch. The day sees the square filled with artisan producers and the evenings are mostly filled with social dinners as well as concerts during the summer months.

The square was fortified five centuries after being appointed in 1 AD with the erection of houses and shops within the walls and carcass of the arena in the middles ages which meant that Lucca’s amphitheatre had gone.

Lorenzo Nottolini, who has contributed to the many architectural structures in Lucca during the 19th century with some of the buildings in the space being knocked down or built to fit in with the arena and once again Lucca had its centre piece of a piazza.

Some recommended restaurants on the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, which remain quite authentic are Trattoria Da Ubaldo (for its aesthetics), Osteria Baralla (for its traditional Tuscan dishes) and maybe even Uashmama.

Meat eaters will be spoilt for choice at Cicc which serves up hearty Tuscany dishes and is also great value for money.

Be-lavie Tip: Eateries in Piazza dell’Anfiteatro will natural.ly cost a little bit more due to it’s prime location. If you’re on. a budget and watching the pennies, grab a drink and food at Piazza San Frediana.

The Details
  • Location: 55100 Lucca
  • Locate on Maps

Discover The Gardens of Palazzo Pfanner

Built in the late 1600s, this elegant palace was home to a few local families until the Duke of Lucca decided he wanted a German Brewer in town! The brewer, names Felix Pfanner, ran a shop in the garden and cellars. His beers were such a hit he bought the whole palace!

The manicured gardens are interspersed with stone statues complementing the Baroque style courtyard and are a beautiful haven of peace and tranquility.

Fun Fact: ‘Portraits of a Lady’ with Nicole Kidman had some scenes filmed here.

Be-lavie Tip: A big part of the palace is still owned by the Pfanner family and is private to the public, which makes the entry price seem rather expensive. We would recommend paying the price (€4.50) for the gardens and admiring the palace from afar if budget is tight.

The Details
  • Location: Via degli Asili, 33, 55100 Lucca
  • Locate on Maps
  • Tickets: €6.50 (gardens + palazzo) and €4.50 for either gardens or palazzo
  • Hours: Gardens open April-November. 10:00-18:00 Mon-Sun

Learn About Music at The Puccini Museum

Classical music fans, must visit the small but perfectly formed Puccini House Museum. The composer was born in this house in 1858, Puccini is known as Lucca’s favourite son.

The house has been lovingly restored, too reflect his talent for writing music and is a bit like a homage to his life and musical career. The museum itself will give you a great appreciation for his music and may even convert non-fans!

Puccini Museum exterior
Puccini Statue outside musuem

If you’re a fan of Puccini and would like to experience some of his music live, check out these recitals and operas in Lucca, held in the city’s churches and open spaces.

The Details
  • Location: Corte S. Lorenzo, 9, 55100 Lucca
  • Locate on Maps
  • Tickets: €9 for adults
  • Hours: Mon-Sun 10:00-19:00

Be-lavie Tip: The summer aptly sees many Puccini concerts in Lucca to include recitals which can be enjoyed at the old church of San Giovanni every Thursday through to Sunday.

Admire The Chiesa Del Santiago Giovanni Reparata

Also known. as Lucca cathedral, this historic church is located in the old town in the Piazza San Martino and is known throughout Italy for its stunning façade featuring a series of archways and ornate portico frame around the front doors. It was constructed in the 11th century and redesigned to its current form in the Renaissance period.

Adjacent to the church lies the unfinished bell tower, where the lower half has exposed brick but the cathedral inside hosts a large array of beautiful art as well as the shrine of the Sacred face of Lucca.

Chiesa Del Santiago Giovanni Reparata stained glass window
Chiesa Del Santiago Giovanni Reparata exterior
Chiesa Del Santiago Giovanni Reparata lansscape exterior
The Details
  • Location: Piazza S. Giovanni, 55100 Lucca
  • Locate on Maps
  • Tickets: €10 best value is the combined ticket (Cathedral + Belltower + Museum + Church of Saints Giovanni and Reparata with Baptistery and archaeological area)
  • Hours: 10:00-18:00 Mon-Sun

Chiesa Di San Michele In Foro

The Basilica di San Michele features a very unique exterior in the city and is located right in the centre of Lucca. The current design dates back to the 13th century. Above the main arches of the façade are four additional rows of ornate arches and columns that feature a number of different colours and designs including various wild animals. There is beautiful stonework around the rose windows, inside there are artworks by Luca della Robbia and Filippno Lippi.

San Michele in Foro front facade
San Michele in Foro in Lucca exterior
Piazza San Michele with cafes and tower of Chiesa di San Michele in Foro
Chiesa di San Michele in Foro front view

Piazza San Michele is one of the best places to people watch and has a much less touristy vibe to the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, which is located just a few minutes away.

The square is perfect for breakfast cappuccino’s, freshly baked warm pastries, sipping on glasses of wine and popping into the delis and independent shops to grab food on the go. There’s even some street entertainment, in the form of street musicians playing. the scores of the great Puccini.

Be-lavie Tip: According to local legend, the diamond set in the angel’s statue can only be seen shining from a certain perspective in the piazza, when it turns dark. See if you can spot this perspective!

The Details
  • Location: Piazza San Michele, 55100 Lucca
  • Locate on Maps
  • Tickets: Free admission
  • Hours: 09:00-1800 Mon-Sun
  • Attire: Please dress appropriately at all places. of worship.

Basilica Di San Frediano

The basilica is deemed one of the holiest and oldest places to worship in Lucca, dating back to the 6th century. It’s most recognised by the monumental gold mosaic and ornate bell tower on the exterior and is definitely worth a visit in my opinion. Frediano was an Irish bishop in Lucca in the first half of the 6th century and had the church built to his specifications.

Depicted in the mosaic is the ascension of Christ – you can clearly see the central figure of Christ surrounded by angels and his apostles, the detail and colours are simply fantastic.

Basilica Di San Frediano, Lucca
Photo credit: Frank Fischbach / shutterstock
The Details
  • Location: Piazza S. Frediano, 55100 Lucca
  • Locate on Maps
  • Tickets: €3.00
  • Hours: 09:00-18:00 Mon-Sun

Orto Botanico Comunale Di Lucca – One day in Lucca

Lucca Botanical gardens cover two of the bastions on the city wall and were established in 1802 by the Duchess of Parma and houses numerous greenhouses, varieties of cacti as well as floral and herb collections. The gardens are beautifully manicured and well preserved.

One day in Lucca Orto Botanico Comunale Di Lucca gardens
Orto Botanico Comunale Di Lucca wall tunnels
The Details
  • Location: Rampa San Regolo, 55100 Lucca
  • Locate on Maps
  • Tickets: Buy. combined ticket for the Guinigi Tower and Torre Dell’ore which also includes the Orto Botanico Comunale Di Lucca.
  • Hours: Mon-Sun 10:30-18:00

Acquedotto Del Nottolini

This structure was once used to carry water from the mountains into the city and contained 400 arches made from stone stretching for three km.

One day in Lucca Acquedotto Del Nottolini
Photo credit: Frank Fischbach / shutterstock

The Details

  • Location: Via Tempietto, 388, 55100 Lucca
  • Locate on Maps

Piazzale Napoleane & Giglio Theatre

Two pretty squares in Lucca, may be notable to visit with some beautiful surrounding architecture and large open spaces. They are both only a short walk from the Amfiteatro and you should pass by then on route to the train station.

One day in Lucca Giglio Theatre
Giglio Theatre
  • Location: Piazza del Giglio, 13/15, 55100 Lucca.
  • Locate on Map
One day in Lucca, Piazzale Napoleane
Photo credit: Frank Fischbach / shutterstock (Piazalle Napoleone)
  • Location: P.za Napoleone, 55100 Lucca
  • Locate on Maps

Recommended Lucca Experiences If You’re Short Of Time

Is Lucca Romantic? Private & Extra Special Experiences

Lucca is one. of the most romantic locations in the whole of Tuscany. It’s small size and dreamy architecture, city walls, boutique palazzo hotels, delicious low lit vaulted restaurants and open spaces make it perfect for couples wanting to spend time discovering a more intimate location.

If you’re in Lucca for a honeymoon or special occasion, book some private tours to create extra special memories. and if budget allows, why not opt to make the trip a once in a lifetime affair…

Day Trip Experiences From Lucca

If you have a day or two free in Lucca or are using it as a base to discover the surrounding but prefer to go on small group tours, have a look at these suggestions, curated by us. You can take the train to any of these locations and join a organsied tour or wander solo if you wish.

Where To Eat & Drink In Lucca

As with most Italian cities and towns, Lucca is no exception when it comes to fantastic food and drinks spots. Here are some great suggestions to have breakfast, lunch, dinner, grab an aperitivo or simply just to grab. a coffee and people watch!

Places to Eat In Lucca

Caffè Manon Lescaut

Perfect for: Breakfast or Coffee

Located in the same piazza as the Puccini Museum, Caffè Manon Lescaut is a great place to grab a pew outside and take in the acoustics of chatter all around you, bouncing off the beige-hued buildings. They do a great cappuccino and a selection of pastries and light bites. It’s perfect for breakfast or lunch.

Be-lavie Tip: Tie in this cafe spot with a visit to the Puccini Museum

Caffè Manon Lescaut, cappuccino and croissant
Piazza Citadella
The Details
  • Location: Piazza Cittadella, 16, 55100 Lucca 
  • Locate on Maps
  • Hours: Mon-Sun 09:00-21:00. Closed Thurs
  • Price Range: £

 

Pasticceria Fabbrica Buccellato Taddeucci

Perfect For: Picnic-style delicatessen foods

One of the things you have to do when in Lucca is head to one of the delis such as Pasticceria Fabbrica Buccellato Taddeucci and buy a medley of items for a picnic along the city walls. It’s quite a memorable thing to do, especially when the weather is fine, surrounded by rolling hills and mountains in the backdrop.

Bejal having picnic lunch in Lucca
Delicatessen in Lucca
Delicatessen counter in lucca
Picnic lunch at city walls parks
The Details
  • Location: Piazza San Michele, 34, 55100 Lucca
  • Locate on Maps
  • Hours: Mon-Sun 08:30-21:00
  • Prive Range: €/€€

Other Places To Eat

Here are some local gems that were recommended to try by those who live in Lucca as well as readers of Be-lavie.

Be-lavie Tip: If there is a particular restaurant you like the look of or has been recommended, ensure you make a reservation. many of the restaurants are small and therefore fill up. Save yourself the disappointment and be prepared.

  • Forno a Vapore Amedeo Giusti – If you love Focaccio, this place is a popular haunt for the locals and they serve sweet as well as savoury versions. It’s pretty reasonably priced too. I Locate on Maps
  • Antica Bottega di Prospero – A great deli style shop selling local wine, cheese, meat cuts, honey, oil, jars of sauces and lots more. I Locate on Maps
  • Pizzeria da Felice – This is Lucca’s oldest family run pizzeria. Pizzas are served by the slice and its a real unfussy affair here. No need to book, just turn up, select a slice, sit at the high stools and demolish! They also sell Castagnaccio (pancakes made from chestnut flour and filled with sweet ricotta). I Locate on Maps
  • Antica Drogheria – Renowned for its simple yet delicious Truffle Pasta. This is a very local restaurant and feels super authentic.I Locate on Maps
  • Bottega del Gelato – You have to have Gelato when in Italy, let alone Lucca, and this place serves it by the cup or cone. Locate on Maps
How to Spend a Day in Lucca, Tuscany
How to Spend a Day in Lucca, Tuscany

Explore Foodie Experiences in Lucca

Places to Drink in Lucca

San Colombano

Perfect for: Cockail & wine bar (Tusan food is also served).

This is a great place to stop off as you’re walking the green spaces of the city walls and work up a thirst. You can grab some great Tuscan dishes here for diner as well as light lunches. It’s a wonderful place for a drink too at maybe aperitivo hour. They also do some mean spritzes!

Bar entrance on city walls walk
Aperol Spritz withTower View
The Details
  • Location: Viale delle, Via delle Mura Urbane, 10, 55100 Lucca
  • Locate on Map
  • Hours: 08:00-00:00 Mon-Sun
  • Price Range: €€

Other Places For Drinks

  • Caffeteia Turandot I Locate on Map I Great for Vermentino wine, €5 per glass.
  • ReWine Bar I Locate on Maps I Good for cocktails and wines.
  • Lebowskis. I Locate on Maps I More for cocktail lovers we’d say

Explore Apertivo & Drinks Experiences in Lucca

Where To Stay In Lucca

If you’re staying in Lucca for more than a day, to get the full authentic experience, we’d recommend staying within the walls in the old part of the city.

Lucca is also a wonderful base to explore the surrounding medieval towns of Tuscany, as well as close by Pisa and also the famous heritage site of Cinque Terre are within easy reach.

Lucca has accommodation options to suit everyone, from luxury to mid-range hotels and B&B guesthouses and also a few good value rooms if budget is a priority.

Here are some accommodation options recommended to us by our readers and local friends.

Be-lavie Tip: Staying within the walls of lucca means that super budget friendly accommodation can be quite difficult. For the purposes of this guide, we’ve located accommodation below €100 as in the more budget friendly/ good value category. For accommodation which is between the €50-80 price mark per night, look further a field such as 2-4 miles from Lucca, especially if you have access to a car

  • Hotel Palazzo Alexander I Classic Luxury – Think Baroque Palazzo, grand pieces of furniture, top notch service, central location, attentive staff and incredible cuisine I Locate on Map
  • Palazzo Dipinto I Newer-style Luxury – The same level of luxury as Hotel Palazzo Alexander but with a more modern yet sleek. I Locate on Maps
  • Corte Toro I Mid-Range – This is a cute family run guest house/B&B with very comfortable rooms and a delicious Italian breakfast. They also have a terrace where you can sit out and enjoy an aperitivo or two. Locate on Maps.
  • Villa Agnese Suites I Good-value – Located opposite the historic walls of Lucca, this property has beautifully finished rooms which are almost suite like. The gardens are stunning and the villa itself is traditional with all the old world feels. Breakfast is typically Italian with a range of delicious sweet treats and coffees.

Search For Your Ideal Lucca Stay

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Lucca Itineraries

Many people head to Lucca for the day but if you have the luxury of time, take things at a slower pace and consider some of the extras you. can do using Lucca as a base.

One Day in Lucca

This may be quite a tight itineray but omit what doesn’t interest you enjoy your time slowly absorbing Lucca.

  • As soon as you arrive by train walk straight through the main gates and plan to tackle the views first.
  • Pass through the Piazzale Napoleane & Giglio Theatre Square.
  • Climb the Guinigi Tower
  • Next head for the Torre Dell’Ore.
  • Have a coffee and pastry in the square outside the Puccini Museum.
  • Head to the Puccini Museum if you love Opera.
  • Discover Palazzo Pfanner/Gardens and stroll through to the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.
  • Admire The Chiesa Del Santiago Giovanni Reparata and go inside if time allows.
  • Visit the Chiesa San Michele in Foro.
  • Purchase some picnic items from the delis in Piazza San Michele or have lunch in a cafe.
  • Head to the city walls and find a picnic spot.
  • Cycle or walk the walls and take in the views, stop off for a drink at a one of the many cafes.
  • Whilst in the area, stop by the Orto Botanico Comunale Di Lucca.
  • Final stop, drop by the Acquedotto Del Nottolini.
  • Grab a aperitivo in one of the many wine bars or squares before heading back to the train station.

Two Days in Lucca

  • Same as One Day itinerary but do things at a slower pace.
  • Head on a day trip on the second day to Pisa or Florence.
  • Sample more of the foodie spots in Lucca.

Three Days in Lucca

  • Same as One Day itinerary but in a slower fashion.
  • Take a day trip as above or visit Cinque Terre for a long day.
  • Spend the day relaxing at your accommodation with more of a slower day, hanging out a cafes.
Archway into main square in lucca
Medieval shop front in Lucca
Green door facade in Lucca
Bicycle against windows in Luvva

Be-lavie Top Tips & Recommendations

#1 Arrive early around 9 am before the crowds and tour groups start arriving. This will give you a chance to grab a coffee, sit and observe the awaking and the morning commotion scenes. If you’re not a morning person, you can always sleep on the train as it takes about an hours and twenty minutes. from Florence for example. Additionally it’s a lot quieter at the view points and towers.

 #2 for €9 you can buy a combined ticket, valid for two days, which gives you access to visit Guinigi Tower, Torre del Ore and Orto Botanico Comunale di Lucca. It’s great value and Lucca is quite small so you’ll easily get to all three in a day.

#3 Lucca has a very laid back chilled vibe about it so I definitely recommend doing something a little different like hiring a bike to get around the city or having a picnic as we did along the viewpoints on the city walls. Weather permitting of course.

#4 Definitely have a plan in mind and if you have a particular restaurant in mind, then ensue you book ahead as it can get very busy around meal times.

#5 Accommodation outside of the walls will of course be more budget friendly however, bare in mind it’s all quite modern and not as pretty as it is within the walls. If you are just in Lucca for a day or two, spend it inside of the walls and travel slow taking in the beauty of this medieval settlement.

#6 Lucca is a great place to use as a base if you have the time so factor in heading to places like Pisa, Florence, Cinqu Terre or you can even take a 20 minute train journey to Viareggio. It’s a great place in summer as it has a beach which is very popular with the locals.

#7 If you like riding bicycles and want to discover more of the surrounding area of Tuscany, then here is a suggestion on bike hire companies, we were recommended.

Amici Bici I €15 to hire for. a full day or (€4 per hour) I Location: Via Cittadella 55100 Lucca I Locate on Maps I Hours: Mon-Sat 09:00-19:00 (summer) Mon -Sat February 12:00 – 17:00 (Nov-Feb)

Bejal walking down street in Lucca

One Day In Lucca FAQS

How many days do I need in Lucca?

It is more than possible to see all the sites in Lucca in one day, especially if you plan out a good itinerary, making the most of the day to include a breakfast, lunch, aperitivo and dinner stop. If you want to take things in a more leisurely fashion and het more of a feel for Lucca then we’d say 2 full days is perfect.

How long is the train from Florence to Lucca?

If you are based n Florence then you can easily get the train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station with a travel time of 1 hour 20 minutes, depending upon what time you travel. It’s really convenient and the service is pretty regular both ways.

Does Lucca feel touristy?

Over the years, Lucca has gained popularity but it is not as touristy of busy as say the larger cities like Florence, Rome, Milan, Siena or even Pisa. The off peak season is still relatively quiet and really accessible.

Is Lucca a good base?

if you have a hire car and plan on seeing the other Tuscan villages by road trip, Lucca is the perfect base. The accommodation options are more value for money too. It also has a lovely village feel.

Is visiting Lucca worth it?

Absolutely yes. From this article you will have seen that there is a fair amount to do but it feels more quaint and authentic and definitely worth adding to your Tuscany travel itinerary.

One Day In Lucca Round-Up

Lucca really is one of the best medieval cities you can visit in Tuscany. It has a whole host of the things to do, see and do. It’s location means that you can also enjoy some of the other parts of Italy which are easily accessible for day trips via the train. Lucca is a place that can be enjoyed as part of a longer trip or as a destination on its own for a more slower holiday experience. The town has the cutest and old world feel hotels housed in some impressive palaces. Additionally the dining seen in Lucca is out of this world. There is simply everything for everyone in this small walled city in the Tuscan hills.

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Related Articles to One Day In Lucca

  • Florence For First-Time Visitors
  • Exploring Tuscany’s Medieval Towns
  • How to Spend a day in Arezzo
  • How to Best Spend One Day in Pisa
  • The 5 Beautiful Villages of Cinque Terre

À bientôt

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Bejal

I’m Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and content creator. I have visited 75 plus countries, including an around the world trip, which makes me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries! My travel style places an emphasis on sustainable and responsible adventures that supports the planet, local businesses and communities at its core. Read my guides and itineraries which aim to inspire you to create your own travel and vegetarian foodie jaunts to less visited spots of popular destinations as well as more unique locales. I have a soft spot for boutique eco-hotels here too! Be-lavie is all about mindful travel with a sprinkling of luxury.

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  • Neha
    30th October 2019

    Have never been to LucCa but it looks amazing. I love the picnic idea and the views look beautiful here. Definitely a nice day our away from the hustle and bustle

    Reply
    • Bejal
      Neha
      31st October 2019

      Yes definitely is a gorgeous place and you should add it to your Tuscany list.Definitely a lot quieter and more chilled. Perfect for a Sunday jaunt.

      Reply
  • Kerry LifeandLoves
    1st November 2019

    What a beautiful place this looks Bejal. Right up my street. I love the look of the buildings. Looks like a great place to add to my Tuscany list! Beautiful photos x

    Reply
    • Bejal
      Kerry LifeandLoves
      1st November 2019

      Yes definitely your kind of place Kerry. Thanks so much for reading and hope you can go and explore it for yourself one day soon. x

      Reply
  • the Curious Pixie
    1st November 2019

    Another one on the list. Can never have too many Italian cities on the list to visit, right. Love the idea of a picnic lunch and drinking in all the beautiful surroundings as well as all the wine.

    Reply
    • Bejal
      the Curious Pixie
      1st November 2019

      Oh you will love it for sure! Great weather means a picnic can make a lovely change to traditional eateries, plus you feel just like a local!

      Reply
  • Cristina - Memories of the Pacific
    3rd November 2019

    Another wonderful guide, Be! It’s the first time I hear of Lucca and I’ve fallen in love with the place.
    I love the idea of having a picnic while traveling. It’s a way to save money and to experience the place. Much better than a restaurant!

    Reply
    • Bejal
      Cristina – Memories of the Pacific
      4th November 2019

      Thanks so much Cristina and glad you enjoyed it. Lucca is stunning and you mist consider it if you’re ever in Tuscany. A lovely slower pace of life. The picnic was one of my most favourite things to do. Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  • thetravelsofmrsb
    4th November 2019

    Looks like you managed to see so much in a day!

    Reply
    • Bejal
      thetravelsofmrsb
      4th November 2019

      Its’ quite a small place and with less crowds it’s great to just walk about and stumble upon things as have some pre booked.

      Reply

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I’m Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and content creator. I have visited 75 plus countries, including an around the world trip, which makes me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries! I places an emphasis on sustainable and responsible adventures that supports the planet, local businesses and communities at its core. Read my guides and itineraries which aim to inspire you to create your own travel and vegetarian foodie jaunts to less visited spots of popular destinations as well as more unique locales. I have a soft spot for boutique eco-hotels here too! Be-lavie is all about mindful travel with a sprinkling of luxury.

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