Lucca on your trip to Italy? Excellent idea! Whether to include Lucca or not is a question many people ask when planning their trip to Tuscany. But there’s more to it, and we’ll answer to “Is Lucca worth visiting?” in this guide.
I lived in Tuscany for a few years and visited Lucca a few times, and I always had a great time, no matter if I came for shopping, for a relaxing day trip, or staying for a few days.
Lucca is a little-known town in Tuscany and many people leave it off their Italian bucket list, but you shouldn’t. Known for its unforgettable Renaissance walls, photogenic old town, and striking beauty, Lucca is one of my favorite towns in all of Tuscany.
Want to know more? Here are all the reasons to visit Lucca, Italy.
Is Lucca Worth Visiting? Yes! 10 Reasons to Visit
Yes, Lucca is worth visiting, and I’ll go through all the reasons to come for a day or more while visiting Tuscany here below. Whether you plan to come on a day trip from Florence or stay for a few nights, Lucca guarantees a great time!
Well-Preserved Renaissance Walls
When you visit the Tuscan city of Lucca, you should definitely visit these 16th-century fortifications, and you can’t really miss them!
Lucca has preserved and restored its walls so well, unlike many other cities that dismantled their old walls in order to develop or modernize the city.
Nowadays, they are a public park surrounding the city from the top, offering a unique way to see Lucca from above! They are a standing promenade in which you can walk or cycle, and enjoy a lot of lush greenery and playground for your kids.
I rented a rickshaw at this store and went with a friend (the rickshaws fit three people – great), near the northern gate of Porta Santa Maria, and paid 10 euros an hour, it was amazing!! They open at 9:00 AM, which is very convenient.
Charming Old Town
Pack your walking shoes because you’ll walk a lot in Lucca’s Old Town, one of the most unique and authentic places in Tuscany.
One of the spots considered a must-see is the Guinigi Tower. It is a tall, famous tower with oak trees growing on top – as in, actual trees are growing at the top of this tower!
The climb to the tower’s top is a bit tiring, but the rooftops of Lucca and the countryside’s ever-rolling vistas make it worth it. The panoramic view across the roofs of Lucca and the surrounding countryside is one you’ll remember forever.
Don’t forget that Piazza dell’Anfiteatro also has a splash of color to it. The oval shape square has been built over the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater. It is now an especially lively square filled with cafes, shops, and restaurants.
Pick up an ice cream in one of the local gelaterias and find a place to relax – I recommend Gelateria Veneta, and that’s one of the best gelato you’ve ever had!
Lucca’s Old Town also offers another fascinating sight – the Lucca Cathedral, also known as San Martino. The facade of the cathedral is made of incredible and detailed marble designs that are as unique as the Tuscan countryside, and you’ll love it.
So, wear shoes good for walking and sling your camera around your neck, as you’re about to take countless photos!
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is located in the heart of Lucca and was built on the site of an ancient Roman amphitheater. The layout of the square has retained the form of the old amphitheater, which is worth seeing and provides interesting scenery.
The square has a variety of amazing cafes, restaurants, and local shops, a perfect spot where you can enjoy a drink or more simply take in the lively setting. Swing by your favorite gelateria and snag something sweet, then just kick back and watch the crowds.
The piazza is always full of life with street artists displaying their talents or artisans selling their handmade crafts.
The entrance to the piazza is done by small archways, adding an extra charm, as if it were a hidden treasure, and that’s a great spot for taking photos!
Whether you’re stopping by for a meal at one of the terraces or simply strolling through the square, Piazza dell’Anfiteatro has an incredible feeling and that’s just as Italian as it gets!
Guinigi Tower
Another great reason to visit Lucca: the Guinigi Tower. Climbing the Guinigi Tower can’t be left out on your itinerary for Lucca, and it’s famous not only for its age but also for the oak trees growing on the roof — a bizarre but beautiful sight.
Rising to the height of 45 meters, it’s also another symbol of the city, just like its walls.
The Guinigi family was one of the most powerful in the city back in the 14th century, and they wanted a tower that would be seen from wherever so they planted trees on top which gave the tower a unique look.
Getting to the top typically involves twenty-five flights of stairs comprising 233 steps. It won’t take you long, and once there, the views are magnificent!
You can literally see all of Lucca right there in front of you: the narrow winding streets, the Torre Delle Ore, the San Martino Cathedral, the age-worn hills, and the peaks of the Apuan Alps far off in the distance!
But I guarantee you, you won’t regret it. Plus, since the tower is centrally located, it’s the perfect spot for your stop before lunch!
The Churches in Lucca
The churches in Lucca represent the city’s rich heritage and its fantastic architecture, and there are over 100 churches in Lucca!
One can say that each church tells a different story and when you go exploring it the feeling is as special as that while you walk in the past.
Lucca Cathedral (San Martino) is one that you simply can’t skip. It’s a beautiful cathedral with a stunning marble façade and intricate carvings that will take your heart away.
Inside, they have Volto Santo a wooden crucifix believed to have powers, which people come here to witness. It’s quiet; a perfect place to be lost in thought.
Other gems include San Michele in Foro, which is in another bustling piazza. It has a compound facade with tiers of arches and embellishments, making it even more captivating to watch.
The church is located on the site of the ancient Roman forum, which makes it even more appealing.
Lastly, the San Frediano Basilica is unmissable, thanks to its exemplary mosaic work on the façade. Inside it, the rest is a spectacular feast for the eyes – stirring frescoes, captivating monuments, and a precious font used for baptisms. It’s a little off the tourist track but has a more peaceful atmosphere.
The churches of Lucca let you take a unique look at what this charming town has lived through its long history, more than recommended on your visit.
Authentic Cultural Scene
The culture in Lucca is as rich as its history, and there are plenty of events to enjoy all year long.
Whether it’s the Lucca Summer Festival that lights up A-list artists every summer, the uncrowded jazz venues, or an infinite number of more intimate shows paying homage to such local opera greats as Puccini, there’s something that will make your trip unique.
Most notable is Lucca’s annual Comics & Games festival. Every autumn, it completely changes the historic city and transforms it into a vibrant meeting place for gamers, cosplayers, and fans of comics.
A more conventional event, however, is the Festivities of Santa Croce. An annual religious, the highlight of this is the candlelit night-time procession that winds its way through the streets of Lucca as it follows the Holy Cross.
Quiet towns often host quiet things, and every September, Lucca’s nobles throw a carnival known as the Santa Croce Carnival that blows both your taste buds and your mind.
The mix of music, religious festivals, local markets, and history as well as nature, makes for an authentic cultural scene happening around Lucca, and it’s definitely worth visiting!
Tuscan Food
Lucca is famous for its Tuscan cuisine and countless restaurants with fresh ingredients turned into dishes that you’ll remember for a long time – That’s how good the food here is.
The cuisine in Lucca is varied and rich in fresh, unprocessed ingredients, prepared according to traditional recipes that have been handed down through families over several generations.
Tordelli Lucchesi are a kind of ravioli, filled with meat and herbs. Another favorite is Pappardelle alla Lepre, wide pasta with a rich hare ragu. They’re designed to be part of that hearty, bold Tuscan cuisine that you will love.
Lucca is also known for Ribollita. Ribollita is a veggie-rich soup, thickened with bread and cooked with beans. Then there is farro soup—farro is an ancient grain with which soup is made in Tuscany.
For a sweet ending, try Buccellato, a traditional sweet bread with raisins and aniseed. It’s often enjoyed with a glass of Vin Santo, a local dessert wine.
Lastly, Lucca’s local markets are the best places to experience Tuscan food culture. Visit the weekly markets to see fresh produce, homemade pasta, and artisan goods. The atmosphere and delicious smells will make your mouth water.
Boutique Shopping
Shopping in Lucca often involves going to several boutiques on Via Filungo, which gives boutique retailing another dimension. This historical street represents the heart and soul of shopping in Lucca.
Lined with both high-end brands and quirky artisanal stores, it’s exactly the place to wander and stumble upon hidden gems.
Whether you are interested in luxurious Italian fashion, artisan jewelry, or gourmet food, Via Filungo will provide a boutique experience set in a cozy, adorable environment.
The street itself, with its old buildings and cobblestones, makes more sense. Shopping isn’t just shopping anymore: it’s a whole experience of getting to know the local flavor and history of Lucca.
That’s simply the place to be when spending one day in Lucca.
Proximity to Other Tuscan Gems
With Lucca as your base, you can conveniently explore the region and the towns around Tuscany. The opportunity to be able to drive to Florence, Pisa, and the Cinque Terre, makes Lucca one of the best places to use as a base for your trip around Tuscany.
A short journey from Lucca will take you to the Chianti region formations where you will find olive groves, vineyards, and medieval towns that have become synonymous with vines and oil production.
The rolling Chianti hills a short distance away are studded with world-famous vineyards and olive groves, while Siena and San Gimignano, two medieval towns, give an entirely different perspective on what Tuscany was like in the old days.
Lucca’s strategic location has made it not just an end point, but a gateway to endless Tuscany experiences.
This strategic position makes Lucca not just a destination but a gateway to endless Tuscany experiences.has to offer.
Quiet, Relaxing Atmosphere
Lucca is a peaceful escape, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Start with a walk or bike ride on top of the city walls that are shaded by trees and boast great viewing points.
Explore the narrow, cobblestone streets of the medieval town lined with charming boutiques and pleasant cafes. Chill in the slow and peaceful traffic-free atmosphere of Lucca.
Sit and have an espresso or gelato on Piazza Napoleone or Piazza San Michele while watching the world go by. Visit botanical gardens, such as Orto Botanico di Lucca, to relax among ancient trees and blossoms.
Lucca is the perfect place to soak in history, tradition, and beauty, offering peace and quiet, which is perfect for relaxing into the slower pace of life.
Reasons to Visit Lucca – FAQ
Now that you know the answer to “Is Lucca worth visiting?,” let’s go through some frequents questions that first-timers often have, and that I’m confident will be beneficial to you too.
Is Lucca Expensive?
Lucca is a good value compared to other Tuscan cities, like Florence or Pisa. Going out is also very cheap. You can normally expect to pay around 12 to 15 euros for a pasta dish or 10 euros for a good pizza.
You can have an ice cream as a treat in between starting at 4 euro and going up to 5 euro.
Prices for a hotel stay start at 70 euros per night and go up to about 100 euros, which is affordable when planning the budget for Italy. Plus, if you get to Lucca from Florence or Pisa train station, train tickets are pretty affordable too.
Where to Park in Lucca?
Lucca is a small and beautiful city and there are parking spaces to leave your rental car. 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 in this part of Central Italy.
- Trattoria San Giulio – Cozy little place for traditional Tuscan dishes, with plenty of tables.
- Osteria Baralla – An old trattoria serving up great regional plates in a real lively place.
- Ciacco – Whimsical, Italian restaurant and pizzeria.
- Ristorante Lucca in Tavola – Traditional dinner served with an emphasis on seasonal Tuscan delicacies.
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 the historic old town for the night:
Luxury: Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli
Mid-Range: Il Vicolo
Budget: La Gemma Di Elena
Conclusion – Is Lucca Worth Visiting? Yes!
And there you have it, a sneak peek into the quiet allure of Lucca, one of the best day trips from Florence. It’s a city that proves the beauty of Italy doesn’t just lie in the biggest cities but also in its quieter, less trodden paths.
Lucca invites you to slow down, enjoy the moment, and appreciate the smaller details — from a leisurely walk on ancient walls to the simple pleasure of a Tuscan meal.
Thanks for reading until the end and I hope this guide helped you plan your trip – I’m sure you’ll love Lucca!
