Lucca is a Tuscan treasure that wraps centuries of history within its well-preserved Renaissance walls. And while many tourists don’t stay long, I recommend planning at least 1 day in Lucca.
I visited this cute little Tuscan town many times while living in Italy and always had a fabulous time – And I’m sure you will too!
This one day in Lucca itinerary is designed for you to make the most of your time in town, visiting the key spots, going for a shopping session, and tasting the best food.
Ready? Let’s get started, I can’t wait to tell you what to do in Lucca in one day!
1 Day in Lucca Itinerary – Overview
Before going through the itinerary for one day in Lucca, let’s go through the essentials that you should know before coming, such as getting there, the best time to visit, and more.
How to Get to Lucca?
Getting to Lucca is easy whether you’re driving or taking public transport. By car from Pisa, Florence, or anywhere in Tuscany, you can reach Lucca and find parking near the city walls.
For a stress-free option, take a direct train from Pisa or Florence. Trains to Lucca are frequent, reliable, and let you off right near Lucca’s historic center, making your journey as smooth as possible.
What to Do in Lucca in One Day?
In one day in Lucca, start by walking along the ancient city walls for panoramic views. Visit the iconic San Michele in Foro church, then explore the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a unique circular piazza.
Climb the Guinigi Tower to see oak trees growing atop a tower. Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria, then spend the afternoon visiting Lucca Cathedral and browsing local shops for souvenirs.
End your day with a relaxing stroll through the narrow streets, soaking in the atmosphere.
Is 1 Day in Lucca Enough?
One day allows you to see the main attractions and get a feel for the city’s charm. You can walk the walls, visit the most famous churches and towers, and enjoy a leisurely meal.
While a longer stay lets you explore more deeply, one day is enough to see the key tourist attractions and understand why Lucca is such a popular town in Tuscany.
Is Lucca Worth Visiting?
Lucca is definitely worth visiting and it makes the perfect day trip from Florence or Pisa. It strikes the perfect balance between offering a wealth of tourist attractions and maintaining a small-town Italian charm.
You can easily explore its beautiful streets, historic sites, and cozy cafes on foot. Lucca offers a snapshot of Italian culture and history without the overwhelming crowds of larger cities, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic experience.
Best Time to Visit Lucca
The best times to visit Lucca are during the shoulder seasons—spring and fall—when the weather is pleasant, and the city isn’t too crowded. Summers are also a great time to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and outdoor concerts.
Winters can be cold, but you’ll benefit from fewer crowds, allowing for a more intimate exploration of the city’s charms. Each season offers a unique perspective of Lucca, making it a year-round destination.
Ultimate Lucca 1-Day Itinerary
Now that you have a little more information about Lucca as a whole, let’s go through the itinerary I recommend you follow to see all the key tourist attractions and make the most of your time in town.
I recommend starting early and having breakfast in town not only to beat the crowds but also to make the most of it. Also, if possible, you’ll want to avoid spending a day in Lucca on a Monday, as many restaurants and bars will be closed.
If you still come on a Monday, then you’ll still be able to enjoy the popular attractions in town – I’ll tell you more here below!
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8:30 AM: Breakfast at Stella Polare
Start your day early heading straight for a delicious breakfast at Stella Polare, where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and Italian coffee – It’s not far from the train station, which is a bonus.
It’s a local favorite and the perfect spot to fuel up for your day of exploration. Don’t skip breakfast, as you’ll walk a lot in Lucca!
This cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, from classic Italian coffee and pastries to more substantial dishes to fuel your day of exploration.
It’s a favorite among locals for its friendly service and delicious food, and I went there a few times when coming to Lucca. Spend about 30 minutes here to enjoy your breakfast in a relaxed atmosphere before heading out to explore Lucca.
Unfortunately, Stella Polare is closed on Mondays, but you can go to Caffè del Teatro instead if that’s when you plan to come, as they offer delicious Neapolitan snacks and coffee!
9:30 AM: Walk or Bike Around the City Walls
Lucca’s Renaissance period city walls are now a public park and walking path, encircling the old town, and you just can’t skip a stroll or a biking session when coming into town.
Stretching over 4 kilometers, these historic walls are perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a relaxing walk early in the day. You can rent a bike from one of the many shops near the walls.
Riding or walking along this historic rampart, you’ll pass by lush gardens, playgrounds, and several panoramic spots ideal for photos. This activity not only immerses you in Lucca’s rich history but also offers a green escape with stunning views of the city.
Plan at least an hour to fully enjoy this experience before heading back to the city center.
I rented a rickshaw at this store (we were with a friend and the rickshaws can hold up to 3 people), near the northern gate of Porta Santa Maria, and paid only 10 euros per hour, and it was amazing! They open at 9:00 AM, and that is very convenient.
10:30 AM: Explore Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
The Piazza dell’Anfiteatro in Lucca started out in medieval times and was originally called “parlascio,” which was a way of saying “amphitheater” in Latin. People thought the name meant a place where citizens met up to chat because it sounded like the Italian word for “talk.”
Over time, buildings filled up the space, turning it into things like salt storage, a gunpowder store, and even a jail.
In the 1800s, a local architect named Lorenzo Nottolini decided it was time to fix up the ancient Roman amphitheater area. He cleared out the small buildings cluttering the arena and created “via dell’anfiteatro” around its elliptical shape.
This new area became the city’s main market spot until the market moved in the early 1900s.
Today, the square is about 3 meters higher than the original Roman arena and has lots of shops around it – This is where you’ll hang out during the day, have a drink or ice cream, and come back in the night for dinner or aperitivo!
Other than souvenir stores and restaurants/bars, I didn’t find a lot to do during the weekdays, but there are street performers on the weekends, which makes a day in Lucca city center even better!
11:00 PM: Climb Torre Guinigi
💶 Entrance Fee: 5 euros per person
🕗 Opening Hours: Mon to Thu from 10AM to 6PM, Friday 10AM to 5PM, weekends from 10AM to 6PM
Torre Guinigi is one of Lucca’s most famous landmarks, standing tall with a garden on top, and you’ll have great fun climbing to the top.
Standing at 45 meters tall, it’s become one of the symbols of the city, just like the famous city walls.
Back in the day, around the 14th century, the powerful Guinigi family decided they wanted a tower that could be seen from everywhere and they thought adding trees on top would be a nice touch, and it still is nowadays, making it one of the best things to do in Lucca in a day.
To get to the top, you’ll have to climb up 230 steps across 25 flights of stairs. It’s a bit of a climb, but it won’t take long and once you’re up there, the views are incredible.
You can see all of Lucca, the narrow streets, the Torre Delle Ore, the San Martino Cathedral, the hills around the city, and even the Tuscan mountains in the distance. It’s totally worth the effort, and it’s the perfect stop before having lunch!
12:30 AM: Visit San Michele in Foro Church
💶 Entrance Fee: Free
🕗 Opening Hours: Daily from 9AM to 6PM
San Michele in Foro is a must-see church right in the center of Lucca and has been documented since the 8th century, specifically since the year 795, and it was rebuilt in 1070 following the orders of Pope Alexander II.
What makes it stand out is its stunning facade, adorned with intricate carvings, statues, and a strikingly large archangel Michael at its summit. The facade was made in the 13th century, and it’s impressive to see it so well-maintained and just as beautiful as the old days.
Right at the top, there’s a huge 4-meter-tall statue of St. Michael the Archangel, with other angels next to him. Also, on the bottom right of the front, there’s a statue from 1480 of the Madonna, made by Matteo Civitali, to celebrate the end of a bad plague in 1476.
Inside, the church houses a wealth of art, including beautiful frescoes and sculptures. You’ll be captivated by the peaceful ambiance and the light filtering through the ornate windows.
You’ll want to spend anywhere between 15 and 30 minutes inside to appreciate the detailed artistry of the facade and the interior, making it a highlight of your visit to Lucca.
1:00 PM: Lunch at Osteria Baralla
📍 Address: Via dell’Anfiteatro, 9, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
🕗 Opening Hours: Mon to Sat from 12:30PM to 2:20PM and 7:15PM to 10:30PM
When it’s time for lunch, head to Osteria Baralla. This place isn’t just about good food; it’s like stepping into a piece of Lucca’s history. They’re known for serving up delicious dishes for a good price.
Their Tuscan dishes, like the pappardelle with venison sauce, wild boar with polenta, and artichoke with melted cheese are just a few dishes that’ll make you want to come back.
It’s all delicious and gives you a real taste of what Lucca’s all about, without spending a fortune. Just like other restaurants in Lucca, Osteria Baralla fills up pretty quickly and I recommend booking ahead of time to secure a table.
2:00 PM: Visit Lucca Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Martino)
💶 Entrance Fee: 3 euros or 10 euros for the Cathedral, the Bell Tower, and the Museum
🕗 Opening Hours: Mon to Sat from 9:30 to 6PM and Sunday from 12:00PM to 6:00PM
Lucca Cathedral, or San Martino, is a key spot in Lucca that people have been coming to for centuries, especially those traveling the Via Francigena.
The front of the church is uneven because they had to work around an old bell tower when building it. Inside, the place is gorgeous and has a mix of dark, gothic vibes and brighter, Romanesque touches.
It’s filled with interesting art, such as Ilaria del Carretto’s tomb and paintings by famous artists, which will make your Lucca itinerary even more unique.
The biggest art piece, however, is the Volto Santo, an ancient wooden crucifix that’s said to have been made by angels. You can expect to spend 30 to 45 minutes inside, including the climb to the bell tower, which I highly recommend!
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2:30 PM: Pass By San Frediano Church
San Frediano Church is one of the city’s oldest places to pray. It’s said that Saint Fridianus, who was the bishop from 560 to 588, started it all. The church was first documented in 685, and it’s still well-maintained and you’ll love passing by.
The massive mosaic on the front is just impressive, and it was made way back in the 13th century, which is rare to see on churches in this Romanesque style here in Tuscany; the only other church rocking a mosaic front like this is San Miniato al Monte in Florence.
The mosaic shows Jesus going up to heaven, helped by two angels. Originally, there was also the Virgin Mary with the Apostles, but her part got taken out when they put in a new window.
Inside, the church is split into three parts with huge columns and arches that are all twins of each other.
There are different chapels, but the ones that really stand out are the Sant’Agostino Chapel with 16th-century frescoes by Amico Aspertini, and the Tenta family’s chapel with works by Jacopo della Quercia.
3:00 PM: Relax at Botanical Garden
💶 Entrance Fee: 6 euros
🕗 Opening Hours: Mon to Fri from 10:30 to 6:30PM and Sunday from 10:30 to 7:30PM
Take a well-earned break at the Botanical Garden of Lucca, a tranquil green space founded in 1820 as part of a scientific educational initiative by Elisa Bonaparte Baciocchi, Napoleon’s sister.
This garden preserves historical layouts and structures from the 19th century and is divided into several sections, including a large Arboretum with ancient trees and the Montagnola area dedicated to local mountain flora.
Stroll by the pond, reflecting on its peaceful surface, and admire the rich collection of camellias and rhododendrons. The northern side hosts a Botanical School and ancient greenhouses alongside the “Cesare Bicchi” Museum, which safeguards local agricultural seeds at risk of extinction.
There’s even a sensory path designed for the visually impaired, navigable with audio guides. Spend about an hour here; amidst the historic collections and medicinal plants under the Ginkgo trees, you can relax and connect with nature’s quiet beauty in the heart of Lucca.
4:30 PM: Gelato at Gelateria Veneta
No Italian itinerary is complete without gelato, and Gelateria Veneta is where you’ll find the best ice cream in Lucca. This place stands out because not only is the gelato to die for, but you can actually sit down to enjoy it, which isn’t the case for most ice cream stores in town.
They have different flavors, from cherry to tiramisu to vanilla and chocolate, all delicious, and the prices are pretty good too. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon treat, especially after you’ve been on your feet all day.
Grab a cone or a cup, find a seat, and just relax for a bit. It’s a sweet way to cool down and get ready for the rest of your Lucca itinerary!
5:30 PM: Browse Local Shops in Via Filungo
Via Filungo is Lucca’s main shopping street, stretching from San Michele in Foro to Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. This street is lined with all kinds of stores – from big brand names to unique local boutiques selling clothes, souvenirs, and handmade crafts.
It’s the heartbeat of Lucca’s shopping scene, always bustling with locals and tourists. Walking down Via Filungo is a great way to soak in the city’s vibe, window shop, or pick up some unique finds to take home.
Give yourself some time here to explore and enjoy the variety of shops; it’s a fun way to wrap up your afternoon in Lucca.
7:00 PM: Dinner at Trattoria Da Giulio
After a shopping session in Via Filungo, make your way to Trattoria Da Giulio for an authentic Tuscan dinner. This humble yet delicious spot has a menu brimming with homemade pasta and meat dishes, along with a selection of daily specials.
The wild boar pasta is a standout, while the other pasta options are consistently a hit, and I’m confident you’ll love the food. Service at Trattoria San Giulio is excellent too, and they have thousands of positive reviews!
I always recommend booking restaurants on The Fork to get good discounts, but Trattoria Da Giulio wasn’t available on the app when I visited, but it’s still worth a meal no matter what!
Oh, and the prices are reasonable too!
Evening: Have a Drink at Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
End your day with a laid-back drink at Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. This beautiful, circular piazza is full of life at night, with people hanging out at the cafes and bars that line the old Roman amphitheater.
It’s a lively, friendly place where locals and tourists just passing through all come together. Grab a seat outside, order a local wine—maybe a glass of something from the nearby vineyards—and just take it all in.
It’s just a relaxed place to sit back, enjoy your drink, and watch the night roll in after a day of exploring Lucca!
Travel Tips for a Day in Lucca Italy
Now that you now how to prepare for the perfect Lucca trip, let’s answer some questions that first-timers in town often have, especially when coming to Italy for the first time.
Is Lucca Expensive?
Lucca offers a more moderate cost compared to other towns in Tuscany like Florence or Pisa. Dining out is fairly affordable; a pasta dish will typically cost you between 12 to 15 euros, while a good pizza might be around 10 euros.
For a sweet treat, an ice cream will set you back about 4 to 5 euros. As for accommodation, a hotel stay per night ranges from 70 to 100 euros, making it a reasonable option when planning the budget for your trip to Italy.
Where to Park in Lucca?
Finding parking in Lucca is straightforward: just head to the area around the city walls. This convenient location offers several parking lots that encircle the historic center, making it easy to park your car and go explore.
I recommend parking at this location near the Porta San Donato city wall or at this location near Porta Elisa, which are both conveniently located.
Where to Eat in Lucca?
While I went through the best restaurants I ate at, here are some other places that I’m confident will get you a great meal.
- Trattoria San Giulio – Cozy eatery offering traditional Tuscan dishes with plenty of tables.
- Osteria Baralla – Historic trattoria known for classic regional fare and lively ambiance.
- Ciacco – Charming spot serving inventive Italian cuisine in a quaint setting.
- Ristorante Lucca in Tavola – Traditional dining with a focus on local, seasonal Tuscan specialties.
Where to Stay in Lucca?
Lucca has dozens of accommodation options to choose from, and these are the best you should consider when staying in town for the night:
Luxury: Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli
Mid-Range: Il Vicolo
Budget: La Gemma Di Elena
Conclusion: One Day in Lucca Itinerary
Thanks for reading until the end and I hope you have a better idea of what to do in Lucca in one day!
I visited Lucca many times while living and traveling around Tuscany, and I always have a great time – It’s safe, relatively inexpensive, food is great, and it simply makes a great day trip from Pisa or Florence.
Whether you’re watching the sunset from the ancient walls or toasting the day with a glass of local wine, the memories you’ll make here will remain forever!
