If Tuscany were a dinner party, Florence would be the showy host, Pisa would be the loud cousin with the famous Leaning selfies—and Lucca Italy? She’s the effortlessly cool guest who brings homemade wine, plays the cello, and knows all the medieval gossip.
Welcome to Lucca: a city of towers, tree-lined walls, and piazzas so perfect you’ll think someone staged them for a Netflix period drama. It’s small enough to stroll in sandals, rich enough in history to wow even the nerdiest history buff, and delicious enough to make you cancel your Florence dinner plans.
A Little Lucca History (Because This Town Has Layers Like Lasagna)
Let’s rewind the tapes: Lucca was founded by the Etruscans, but it hit its stride as a Roman colony in 180 BC. You can still see the ancient grid-like street pattern from Roman times—and yes, the town center was built around a Roman amphitheater that’s now a piazza where you can drink Aperol instead of watch gladiators. (Progress.)
In the Middle Ages, Lucca became one of the richest and most powerful cities in Tuscany, thanks to its silk trade. Unlike Pisa and Florence, it avoided a lot of conflict and political messiness. Translation: it preserved its walls, churches, and that sweet, sweet peace-and-quiet vibe.
And here’s the kicker: Lucca stayed independent for over 500 years. No Medici takeover. No Renaissance drama. Just chill city-state energy. You can almost feel it walking the streets—it’s like the introvert of Tuscany, and that’s a compliment.
Top 20 Things to Do in Lucca Italy (That Don’t Involve Crowds or Chaos)
Lucca is like Tuscany’s best-kept secret—quietly wowing you with every turn. Here’s what to do when you’re inside those magical Renaissance walls:
- Walk or bike the city walls
Yes, the whole city is ringed by giant tree-lined walls. Yes, you can ride a bike on top. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds. - Climb Torre Guinigi (the one with trees on top)
Because when you’re a medieval rich guy, you build a tower… and plant oaks on the roof. Epic views, better selfies. - Explore Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
Once a Roman amphitheater, now a beautiful oval piazza perfect for wine sipping and people-watching. - Visit Lucca Cathedral (San Martino)
Asymmetrical, beautiful, and filled with centuries-old art. Check out the Volto Santo (Holy Face) statue inside. - Stop by San Michele in Foro
Gorgeous church, great piazza, and angel statue that allegedly glows at night. Spooky or divine? You decide. - Climb Torre delle Ore
Another tower, but this one has a giant working clock. Time your climb at sunset for the golden hour glow. - Visit the Church of San Frediano
With its glittering gold mosaic on the front, this church is a quiet stunner tucked in the north of town. - Stroll Via Fillungo
Lucca’s main shopping street, lined with boutiques, gelaterias, and that one store selling handmade leather everything. - Rent a tandem bike with a friend
Because awkward teamwork builds character (and laughter). The walls make it a no-traffic adventure. - Catch an opera performance
Puccini was born here, and the locals take music seriously. Even if you’re not an opera person—you might become one. - Check out Palazzo Pfanner
A beautiful baroque villa with gardens that’ll make your inner Bridgerton swoon. - Tour the Puccini Museum
Visit the home where the composer was born, complete with original furniture and musical scores.
- Wander Giardino Botanico
Lucca’s botanical garden is small but serene, perfect for a shady bench break. - Grab a tagliere (cheese + meat board) and sit in a piazza
Because this is what lunch in Tuscany looks like. Pair with wine. Always. - Visit the Comics and Games Museum
Lucca hosts one of Europe’s biggest comic cons. The museum is quirky, cool, and fun for all ages. - Stop at the Museo della Cattedrale
See religious relics, art, and ancient manuscripts—quietly impressive and not too crowded. - Book a wine tasting nearby
Head just outside the walls for a vineyard tour and sip local wines under Tuscan skies. - Explore Lucca underground
Some towers have tunnels and crypts you can explore. History + a little Indiana Jones energy. - Take a cooking class
Learn how to make fresh pasta or Tuscan desserts from someone’s nonna. Enough said. - Stay for the sunset on the walls
Grab a gelato, sit on the grass, and watch the light turn Lucca golden. Pure magic.
Best Time to Visit Lucca Italy
Spring (April–June): Bellissimo
The weather is mild (60s–70s°F or 16–24°C), the flowers are blooming, and the town is waking up from its winter snooze. Perfect for long walks on the walls and alfresco dining.
I visited in early May and ended up joining an impromptu string quartet performance in Piazza San Michele. It was peak “main character energy.”
Fall (September–October): Gold-Tinted Perfection
Crisp air, fewer crowds, and a golden filter over every cobblestone. Bonus: Lucca Comics & Games (late October/early November), one of Europe’s biggest comic cons, brings in colorful cosplay and a totally different vibe for a few wild days.
Summer (July–August): Warm but Manageable
Lucca’s medieval walls and tree-lined streets help keep the heat at bay. Plus, it’s less swamped than nearby Florence or Siena. Expect highs in the 80s°F (27–30°C) and the occasional festival.
Pro tip: Book accommodation with AC. You’ll thank me.
Winter (November–February): Quiet & Cozy
Lucca slows down in winter, but it never fully hibernates. If you’re into soft scarves, hot chocolate, and moody Tuscan fog, it’s a vibe. The Christmas lights in the old town add fairy-tale magic.
You may also like: 20 Unexpectedly Cool Things to Do in Pisa, Italy
How to Get to Lucca Italy
From Pisa: It’s a breeze—just 25 minutes by train. Tickets are cheap, and trains run frequently.
From Florence: About 1 hour and 20 minutes by regional train.
From Rome: Around 3.5 hours, with one transfer. Grab a window seat and enjoy the rolling Tuscan hills.
Once you arrive at Lucca Centrale, the old town is a 5-minute walk away. No taxi needed—unless your suitcase is roughly the size of a Fiat.
Where to Stay in Lucca Italy
Luxury: Grand Universe Lucca, Autograph Collection
Elegant, historic, and located right next to Piazza Napoleone. Piano in the lobby, chandeliers overhead, and a rooftop bar that will ruin all future rooftop bars for you.
Mid-Range: Hotel Ilaria
Built into the old city walls! Bikes included, breakfast terrace, and a hot tub under the stars. Cozy meets castle.
Budget: La Gemma di Elena
Charming guesthouse with rustic vibes and walking distance to everything. Super welcoming hosts and a breakfast spread that’ll get you out of bed at 7am.
You may also like: Sorrento Travel Guide: Top Things to Do in Italy’s Coastal Gem
What to Eat in Lucca Italy
Lucca’s cuisine is rustic, hearty, and full of local pride. Here’s what to stuff your face with:
- Tordelli Lucchese – meat-stuffed pasta in a rich ragù sauce
- Farro soup – an ancient grain soup that hits especially hard on chilly days
- Buccellato – sweet bread with raisins and aniseed. Get it from Taddeucci, the OG bakery
- Farinata – chickpea pancake, best eaten hot with pepper and a side of wine
- Local wine – try reds from Montecarlo or white Vermentino. Affordable and dangerously good.
Restaurants to Try:
- Osteria Baralla – warm vibes, traditional dishes
- Buca di Sant’Antonio – one of Lucca’s oldest, with pasta you’ll dream about
- Pizzeria da Felice – for casual, crispy, glorious pizza slices
You may also enjoy: 25 Unforgettable Things to Do in Lake Garda, Italy’s Hidden Gem
Tips, Tricks & Local Wisdom
- Stay inside the walls: It’s where the magic lives.
- Skip the car: Lucca is best explored on foot or bike. Driving inside the walls? Stressful and unnecessary.
- Bring a bottle: Fill up at public fountains. Lucca has amazing drinking water.
- Early birds win: Popular towers and churches get crowded fast—aim for morning visits.
- Lucca Comics & Games: If you’re here during the event, book your stay WAY in advance.
Quick FAQ: Lucca Italy Travel Guide
Q: Is Lucca Italy worth visiting?
A: Absolutely. It’s like Florence without the crowds, Pisa without the tourists, and Siena without the stress. Pure Tuscan gold.
Q: How long should I stay in Lucca?
A: Two days is ideal, but many travelers fall in love and stay longer. It’s also a perfect base for day trips.
Q: What are the best things to do in Lucca Italy?
A: Walk the walls, climb Torre Guinigi, explore churches, eat your way through local cuisine, and soak up the slow, sweet life.
Q: What’s the weather like in Lucca Italy?
A: Classic Tuscan climate—warm springs and summers, mild falls, cozy winters. Best months: May–June and September–October.
Final Thoughts: Lucca Italy, You Magical Walled Queen
Lucca Italy is the kind of place that doesn’t try to impress you—and ends up impressing you the most. It’s slow in the best way. Romantic without being cheesy. Historic without feeling like a museum.
So come walk the walls, toast to tiny victories, and fall in love with a town that’s been doing its own thing for 2,000 years.
Love discovering hidden gems like Lucca? Don’t keep it to yourself—share this secret with your friends, or check out more of our travel insights for more undiscovered treasures!
