Things To Do
in Lucca

Lucca, Italy is a charming medieval city located in Tuscany, renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance walls that encircle the historic center. This picturesque city offers a blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural experiences. Visitors can explore cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and ancient churches.

Lucca is also famous for its beautiful parks and proximity to the stunning Tuscan countryside.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Guinigian Tower for panoramic views of Lucca. Afterward, stroll through the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, a unique oval-shaped square built on the ruins of a Roman amphitheater.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria, followed by a visit to the stunning Lucca Cathedral, known for its intricate facade and beautiful interior. Take time to explore the quaint shops and artisan boutiques.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner in the charming streets of Lucca, followed by a leisurely walk along the city walls, where you can enjoy the sunset views.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Puccini Museum, dedicated to the famous composer Giacomo Puccini, who was born in Lucca. Explore the museum's exhibits and enjoy a coffee in nearby cafes.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Parco Giuni, a beautiful park perfect for picnics and relaxing. You can also rent a bike to cycle along the walls or through the town.

evening
:

For your final evening, dine at a restaurant featuring local specialties, then explore the vibrant nightlife in the town’s squares, where you can enjoy live music and mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$10
Coffee$2
🥖Panini$5
🍷Glass of Wine$4
🏨Hotel Night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful architecture and charming streets.
  • Delicious local cuisine and wine.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be infrequent outside the city.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Il conto, per favore." - The bill, please.

Places to Visit in Lucca

Visit one of these nice places.

Guinigian Tower

Climb this tower for breathtaking views of Lucca and its surrounding countryside, ideal for sunset photography.

Piazza dell'Anfiteatro

Capture the unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere of this historic square from various angles.

The City Walls

Photograph the ancient walls that encircle Lucca, especially during golden hour when the light is perfect.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lucca

Lucca offers a delightful culinary experience with a strong emphasis on local ingredients and traditional recipes.

Lucca Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tordelli Lucchese

A traditional pasta dish filled with seasoned meat, typically served with a rich tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Buccellato

A sweet bread flavored with anise, typically enjoyed during festivities.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Lucca

A vibrant market held every Wednesday and Saturday, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and meats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lucca enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters are usually mild, averaging around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is common in spring and autumn, while summers are generally dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening) when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Manners

It is polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat and to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows).

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or religious sites; it’s respectful to cover shoulders and knees.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lucca is considered a safe destination for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and travelers should familiarize themselves with local regulations.

Tipping in Lucca

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros is common practice.

Payment Methods

Most restaurants and shops accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, and flowers bloom, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's parks.

Summer

Hot and lively, summer is ideal for enjoying outdoor dining and festivals, but visitors should prepare for higher tourist crowds.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage create a picturesque setting, perfect for walking and enjoying seasonal foods.

Winter

Milder winters mean fewer tourists, and the Christmas season brings festive markets and decorations, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Lucca at Night

Lucca's nightlife is charming and relaxed, with a variety of bars and cafes offering live music and local wines. The main squares come alive in the evenings, hosting outdoor events and performances. Popular spots include local wine bars and pizzerias where you can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere mixed with regional flavors. While it lacks a bustling club scene, the nightlife is perfect for socializing in a more intimate setting.

Hiking in Lucca

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monte Pisano

A scenic hike offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, suitable for various skill levels.

Parco Regionale delle Alpi Apuane

This park features numerous trails through rugged mountains and picturesque scenery, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Lucca by plane.

Pisa International Airport (PSA)

Located approximately 25 kilometers from Lucca, this airport is the main gateway for international travelers, offering a range of domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lucca is extremely walkable, with its compact historic center featuring pedestrian-only streets. The city’s layout allows for easy navigation, and most attractions are within walking distance. The well-preserved walls also offer a scenic route for walkers and cyclists alike.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists mainly of Italians who take pride in their cultural heritage and are known for their hospitality.

Tourists

Visitors from around the world come to experience Lucca's rich history, architecture, and cuisine, with many returning year after year.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is immensely popular, with local teams competing in regional leagues and passionate fans supporting them.

Cycling

The region's scenic landscapes attract cycling enthusiasts, with numerous trails and events held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Lucca is generally light, especially in the historic center where vehicles are restricted. Public transportation options include buses, which connect Lucca with nearby towns and cities. Bicycles are a popular mode of transport, and walking is encouraged due to the city's compact size.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lucca.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and local markets have a variety of fresh vegetables.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free pasta and pizza, but it is advisable to check before ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Lucca is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available for emergencies. The public healthcare system provides services to residents and visitors, but EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card for coverage. Private health insurance is recommended for non-EU travelers.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide