Things To Do
in Lucca
Lucca, Italy is a charming medieval city located in Tuscany, known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls that encircle the historic center. The city is famous for its narrow cobbled streets, beautiful piazzas, and historic churches, including the impressive Lucca Cathedral. Visitors can wander through the city's picturesque squares, visit local shops and restaurants, and climb the Guinigi Tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Lucca is also famous for its annual Lucca Summer Festival, which attracts top musical acts from around the world.
- "Ciao" - Hello
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely walk along the ancient city walls. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and nearby Tuscan hills.
Visit the beautiful Lucca Cathedral, known for its stunning art and architecture. Take a stroll through the charming streets to explore local shops and cafés.
Dine at a traditional restaurant to savor local Tuscan cuisine. Finish the night with a gelato as you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Explore the Palazzo Pfanner and its delightful gardens, filled with statues and fountains. It's a perfect spot to appreciate Renaissance architecture.
Visit the Museo Nazionale di Villa Guinigi, showcasing art from the Middle Ages to the Baroque period. Spend some time in the museum's well-maintained grounds for a quiet moment.
Wander through the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, a unique oval-shaped square. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants that overlook the lively square.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, featuring well-preserved Renaissance walls and numerous historical sites.
- Charming medieval architecture and picturesque streets, ideal for leisurely exploration.
- Less touristy compared to other Italian cities, providing a more authentic experience.
- Pleasant climate, making it suitable for year-round visits.
- Delicious local cuisine and wine, including specialties like tortelli lucchese.
- Limited public transportation options, which may require reliance on a car or walking.
- Smaller size means fewer activities and attractions compared to larger cities like Florence or Rome.
- Can be relatively quiet, especially outside the tourist season, which might not appeal to everyone.
- Higher living costs compared to some other Italian towns, particularly for accommodation.
- Some parts of the city might be less accessible for those with mobility issues, given the cobblestone streets.
Best Activities in Lucca
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along Lucca's historic city walls, which offer beautiful views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Explore the stunning Apuan Alps with its picturesque trails, refreshing streams, and breathtaking views.
Relax and enjoy a picnic amidst the lush gardens and stunning architecture of Villa Torrigiani, a beautiful historic villa located just outside Lucca.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lucca with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lucca
Visit one of these nice places.
Tower with oak trees on the rooftop offering panoramic views of Lucca.
Walking or cycling along the ancient city walls for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Historic square surrounded by charming buildings, providing a picturesque setting for photography.
Food in Lucca
Lucca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional sweet bread, often flavored with anise and studded with raisins, that serves as a beloved local delicacy. Try it at Taddeucci, a renowned bakery on Piazza San Michele.
Must-Try!
A savory vegetable pie featuring seasonal produce such as zucchini, spinach, and artichokes. Visit La Tana del Boia, a cozy trattoria tucked away in Lucca's old town, for an authentic taste.
A hearty bread and tomato soup, representing a classic comfort dish in Lucca. For a true taste of tradition, head to Buca di Sant'Antonio, an esteemed restaurant that specializes in local fare.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lucca better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a vibrant selection of fresh produce, cured meats, and artisanal cheeses. It's also a hub for street food vendors offering delectable bites like porchetta sandwiches and fluffy fried dough known as 'tordelli.'
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lucca, it is common to greet people with a handshake, especially for business or formal occasions. Hugging and kissing on the cheek are also common forms of greeting among friends and family.
When dining in Lucca, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal. It is also customary to keep your hands visible on the table, and to say 'buon appetito' or 'bon appétit' before starting your meal.
When visiting cultural sites such as churches or historical landmarks in Lucca, it is important to dress modestly and speak in hushed tones as a sign of respect for the place and its history.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lucca with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lucca
Ensure a smooth experience
In Lucca, Italy, it is not customary to leave a tip at restaurants as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is polite to round up the total or leave a small amount if the service was exceptional.
Cash is widely used in Lucca, especially for small transactions and at local establishments. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in most places, but it's always good to have some cash on hand. It is also common to pay for purchases at smaller shops and markets with cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lucca.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Lucca, as the weather starts getting warmer, and the city is filled with blooming flowers and greenery. It's a perfect time for leisurely walks and outdoor activities.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Lucca, with warm weather and plenty of cultural events, outdoor concerts, and festivals. It's an ideal time to explore the city's historic sites and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a pleasant time to visit Lucca. The foliage turns into beautiful autumn colors, and it's a great time for wine tasting and enjoying the local cuisine.
Winter is the off-peak season in Lucca, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. While some attractions may have reduced hours, it's a peaceful time to experience the city's charm, visit museums, and enjoy the festive holiday decorations.
Lucca at Night
Hiking in Lucca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A national park offering various hiking trails through the scenic Apennine mountains, featuring forests, wildlife, and stunning panoramic views.
A prominent mountain near Lucca with trails that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Lucca and the Apuan Alps.
This historical bridge is part of a hiking route along the Serchio River, offering stunning views and a chance to explore the surrounding countryside.
Home to diverse flora and fauna, this park offers well-marked hiking trails suitable for various skill levels, with opportunities to see wildlife.
A scenic vineyard trail that combines hiking with wine tasting, offering a delightful experience among the beautiful Tuscan hills.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lucca through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lucca by plane.
Located approximately 25 km from Lucca, this is the main international airport serving Pisa and the surrounding area, offering a variety of national and international flights.
Situated about 80 km from Lucca, this airport serves the city of Florence and has connections to various destinations in Europe.
Approximately 130 km from Lucca, this is a major airport in northeastern Italy providing a wide range of flights within Europe and beyond.
Located roughly 150 km away, this airport serves the city of Genoa and offers various international flight options.
About 250 km from Lucca, this is one of the largest airports in Italy and serves as a major international hub for flights to various destinations around the world.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Lucca consists of native Italian residents, primarily of Tuscan descent.
A smaller but growing demographic includes foreign residents from various countries, particularly within the European Union, as well as people from the United States, Australia, and other regions.
Lucca has a significant elderly population, contributing to its charm and the preservation of local traditions.
This demographic includes students and young professionals, both locals and those who may come to Lucca for education or employment opportunities.
While not a permanent demographic, tourists from around the world frequently visit Lucca, especially during peak seasons.
The Soul of Lucca
Discover the essence of Lucca through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Lucca, with a rich history and local teams that engage the community throughout the seasons.
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth, with several local clubs and active community leagues.
Cycling is a favored activity due to the picturesque landscapes around Lucca, making it popular for both leisure and competitive events.
Volleyball has a strong following in Lucca, with many schools and clubs promoting the sport among all age groups.
Tennis is popular in Lucca, supported by several clubs and facilities that offer training and competition opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lucca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Lucca accommodates vegetarian and vegan dietary needs admirably, with numerous eateries offering plant-based alternatives. From savory chickpea fritters to flavorful eggplant parmesan, plant-centric dining options abound in the city.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities need not worry when in Lucca, as many restaurants and cafes provide gluten-free variations of classic Italian dishes. Enjoy pasta, pizza, and pastries made with gluten-free ingredients, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for gluten-intolerant visitors.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lucca with these cultural adventures.
