6 must-do things to do in Lucca
Tucked away in the heart of Tuscany, Lucca is a small Italian town that captivates visitors with its well-preserved authenticity and exceptional heritage. Less touristy than Florence or Pisa, this medieval city surrounded by intact ramparts offers a unique experience to visitors in search of charm and history. From emblematic towers to majestic squares and cobbled streets, discover the 6 must-do things in Lucca to make the most of this Tuscan gem.
See also the Florence guide:
- Visit Florence in 1 day: 25 things to do and see on foot
- The most beautiful villages in the Chianti Valley around Siena
- Florence’s 8 historic squares to discover
- Top 5 things to do in Siena
- Top 7 things to do in Florence
- Top 10 culinary specialities in Florence
- Visit the Boboli Gardens in Florence
1. Stroll along the walls of Lucca
It’s impossible to visit Florence and the Tuscan region without enjoying the unique experience of a walk along the walls of Lucca. This sixteenth-century fortified wall, perfectly preserved over more than 4 kilometres, is one of the most beautiful Renaissance walls in Europe. Transformed into a shady promenade lined with majestic plane trees, it offers an exceptional view of the city and its surroundings.
On foot or by bike, you can complete the tour in around an hour, while enjoying breathtaking views of the red-tiled roofs, bell towers and historic squares. The ramparts also contain bastions and underground tunnels that bear witness to the military engineering of the time. In spring, the magnolias in bloom add a spectacular splash of colour to this not-to-be-missed walk. It’s the ideal place to learn about Lucca’s town planning and its history stretching back thousands of years.
2. Climb the Guinigi Tower and its hanging gardens
The Guinigi Tower is one of Lucca’s most emblematic symbols. This 14th-century medieval tower boasts a unique feature: a hanging garden planted with holm oaks at its 45-metre-high summit. Built by the powerful Guinigi family, it bears witness to the wealth and power of the great merchant families of the time.
Climbing the 230 steps is an effort that is rewarded with breathtaking views over the whole city and the surrounding Tuscan hills. The presence of century-old trees at the top creates a magical, refreshing atmosphere, particularly appreciated in summer. From this privileged position, you can admire Lucca’s rooftops, spot the other medieval towers and appreciate the architectural harmony of the city. Don’t hesitate to combine this visit with one to the Torre delle Ore, Lucca’s other accessible tower, which rises to 50 metres and houses a clock mechanism that is still wound by hand.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Florence on foot and on your own
To extend your discovery of Tuscany, take a guided tour of Florence with the Navaway audio tour. Explore the treasures of the Tuscan capital on your own, with fascinating explanations of the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery. An immersive experience that will enrich your stay in this exceptional region.
3. Discover the Piazza Anfiteatro and its unique architecture
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is one of Italy’s most photogenic squares. Built on the foundations of an ancient Roman amphitheatre dating back to the first century, it has retained its original elliptical shape, making it a truly unique place. The colourful facades of the surrounding medieval buildings follow the curve of the ancient Roman edifice perfectly, creating a striking visual effect.
This enclosed square is accessed via four vaulted passageways that correspond to the former entrances to the amphitheatre. The absence of car traffic and the presence of numerous cafés and restaurants make it a great place to relax and observe local life. Stroll between the craft shops, sit on a terrace to enjoy an Italian coffee or simply admire the architectural harmony of this place steeped in history. The square comes alive particularly in the evening when the facades are illuminated, creating an unforgettably romantic atmosphere.
4. Visit San Martino cathedral
San Martino Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, is Lucca’s main religious building. This masterpiece of Tuscan Romanesque architecture, built between the 11th and 13th centuries, first impresses with its asymmetrical façade in white and green Carrara marble. The finely sculpted columns and bas-reliefs adorning the portals bear witness to the exceptional skill of the craftsmen of the time.
Inside, you’ll discover a remarkably rich artistic heritage. The Volto Santo, a 13th-century wooden crucifix venerated by pilgrims, occupies a central place in the transept. The funerary monument of Ilaria del Carretto, sculpted by Jacopo della Quercia in the early 15th century, is considered a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture. The polychrome marble floors, frescoes and paintings complete this not-to-be-missed visit. The cathedral also houses a richly decorated sacristy and a museum displaying precious reliquaries, manuscripts and liturgical ornaments.
5. Explore the churches of San Michele in Foro and San Frediano
Lucca has over a hundred churches, but two in particular are well worth a visit. The church of San Michele in Foro sits majestically in the piazza of the same name, the city’s former Roman forum. Its spectacular façade, adorned with sculpted columns and surmounted by a monumental statue of Saint Michael the Archangel, is a perfect example of the Pisan-Luccan style. The polychrome marble inlays create fascinating geometric patterns that are sure to catch the eye. Inside, several remarkable works of art await you, including a Madonna and Child by Della Robbia.
The Basilica of San Frediano boasts a facade adorned with an immense 13th-century golden mosaic depicting the Ascension of Christ. This twelfth-century Romanesque church has an exceptional sculpted baptismal font and several richly decorated chapels. The Trenta chapel contains an altarpiece by Jacopo della Quercia. The contemplative atmosphere of San Frediano contrasts with the liveliness of San Michele, offering two complementary spiritual and artistic experiences. Both buildings bear witness to the architectural and religious wealth that characterises Lucca.
6. Stroll along Via Fillungo and admire the Renaissance palaces
Via Fillungo is Lucca’s main shopping street and the centre of the city’s bustle. This winding medieval street crosses the historic centre from north to south, lined with elegant boutiques, historic cafés and aristocratic palaces. It’s the ideal place to go shopping, enjoy an artisanal ice cream or simply admire the remarkable architecture of the facades.
Don’t miss Palazzo Pfanner (Via degli Asili 33, 55100 Lucca, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of over 2,000 reviews), a magnificent 17th-century palace with an exceptional Italian garden. Open to the public, you can admire its richly decorated rooms, monumental staircase and, above all, its Baroque garden adorned with statues and clipped hedges overlooking the city walls. The Palazzo Mansi, converted into a picture gallery, displays collections of paintings, tapestries and precious fabrics in a preserved Baroque setting. The Palazzo Ducale, in Piazza Napoleone, impresses with its imposing dimensions and now houses temporary exhibitions. These Renaissance palaces bear witness to Lucca’s past prosperity, and make enriching cultural stops on your visit to the city.
As you wander through Lucca’s cobbled streets and discover its architectural treasures, you’ll understand why this Tuscan town is well worth at least a full-day visit. The peaceful atmosphere here, far removed from the tourist hustle and bustle of Italy’s big cities, offers an authentic immersion in the Tuscan art of living. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast or simply in search of beauty, Lucca will charm you with its discreet elegance and exceptional heritage. You can also take advantage of your stay to sample local culinary specialities such as buccellati (sweet bread with raisins) or tordelli lucchese (stuffed pasta), and to let yourself be guided in your discovery of Florence, the Tuscan capital located nearby.
FAQ : Everything you need to know to visit Lucca
How long does it take to visit Lucca?
One full day is enough to discover Lucca’s main sights. However, if you want to take full advantage of the city’s atmosphere, visit the museums and explore the surrounding area, allow two days. This will also allow you to savour the local gastronomy without rushing.
Can I hire bicycles in Lucca?
Yes, Lucca is an ideal city for cycling. Numerous rental companies offer traditional or electric bicycles near the city walls and in the historic centre. It’s the perfect way to tour the city walls and explore the narrow streets of the old town.
When should you visit Lucca?
The best times to visit Lucca are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the climate is pleasant and tourist numbers are moderate. Summer can be very hot, but there is plenty of cultural activity, including the Lucca Summer Festival in July, which attracts international artists.
How do I get to Lucca from Florence or Pisa?
Lucca is easily reached by train from Florence (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes) or Pisa (30 minutes). The train station is just a few minutes’ walk from the historic centre. By car, allow around 1 hour from Florence via the A11 motorway. Pay car parks are available outside the city walls, as the historic centre is closed to traffic.
What culinary specialities can you try in Lucca?
Be sure to try buccellato, a sweet bread with raisins and aniseed typical of Lucca, tordelli lucchese (ravioli stuffed with meat), zuppa di farro (spelt soup) and necci (chestnut flour pancakes). Accompany your meal with a local Colline Lucchesi wine.
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