Lucca
Lucca
⭐ Ranked #32 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
|
Latest page update: 2 May 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The city of Lucca is the capital city of the Province of Lucca with a population of 88,824 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 19 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 185 km² and lies 70 kilometres west of Florence, the regional capital of Tuscany. One of the most historic cities in Italy, Lucca dates back to Etruscan times, is neatly packed inside Renaissance city walls and has an incredible piazza built on the site of a Roman amphitheatre. |
|
What People Ask About Lucca
What is Lucca known for?
Can you walk on the walls in Lucca?
Is Lucca worth visiting?
How do I get to Lucca from Florence?
What is Piazza dell’Anfiteatro?
Related links
Overview
Overview
It was the Etruscans that first made Lucca their home before it was colonised by the all-conquering Romans in 180 BC. During the early medieval period it became the Lombard Kingdom's capital of Tuscany and later developed into the self-ruling Republic of Lucca. The city has changed hands frequently in the intervening years, all of which have left a captivating legacy of sights from different eras.
Lucca's Amazing Renaissance City Wall
The people of Lucca (Lucchesi) are known for their good manners and overall refinement, something that's borne out by the good order of the city's layout. Everything is very neat and tidy here; the main feature of the city's perimeter is the Renaissance period wall that's still fully intact and edged by a ditch that used to be a moat filled with water. You can enter the city by passing through one of the many city gates that are built at measured intersections in the wall before walking to the main sights in the centre, unmolested by traffic as it's mainly pedestrianised.
Most of the walls surrounding modern Italian cities are either crumbling in places or missing large sections but Lucca's walls are still an integral part of modern life in the city. The walls stretch for four kilometres right the way around the city and best of all, you can walk the whole way for free. These are not the narrow walkways that you might imagine at the top of a castle but wide, tree-lined boulevards, a mixture of pathway and lawn with various places where you can stop for a picnic. The walls are an essential part of the city to see and greatly enjoyed by locals too who enjoy their passeggiata (evening walk) or go jogging here.
The people of Lucca (Lucchesi) are known for their good manners and overall refinement, something that's borne out by the good order of the city's layout. Everything is very neat and tidy here; the main feature of the city's perimeter is the Renaissance period wall that's still fully intact and edged by a ditch that used to be a moat filled with water. You can enter the city by passing through one of the many city gates that are built at measured intersections in the wall before walking to the main sights in the centre, unmolested by traffic as it's mainly pedestrianised.
Most of the walls surrounding modern Italian cities are either crumbling in places or missing large sections but Lucca's walls are still an integral part of modern life in the city. The walls stretch for four kilometres right the way around the city and best of all, you can walk the whole way for free. These are not the narrow walkways that you might imagine at the top of a castle but wide, tree-lined boulevards, a mixture of pathway and lawn with various places where you can stop for a picnic. The walls are an essential part of the city to see and greatly enjoyed by locals too who enjoy their passeggiata (evening walk) or go jogging here.
Things to Do
Things to Do
Riding a Bike around Lucca
Cycling is also very popular in Lucca; remember there are very few cars so you'll see lots of people ringing their bells as they do their shopping or simply enjoy the city's atmosphere on two wheels. It's possible to rent bicycles with various outlets offering their services and you can even ride the bikes around the city walls.
Cycling is also very popular in Lucca; remember there are very few cars so you'll see lots of people ringing their bells as they do their shopping or simply enjoy the city's atmosphere on two wheels. It's possible to rent bicycles with various outlets offering their services and you can even ride the bikes around the city walls.
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro: one of the most extraordinary squares in Italy
Two of the main sights in Lucca are rather unusual; the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro was built on the site of a Roman amphitheatre (hence the name), and actually kept largely the same shape and dimensions of the amphitheatre once it was destroyed. So we now have an oval-shaped piazza enclosed on all sides by buildings that look down on to it.
Many of those buildings have retained original features from the amphitheatre, particularly the dozens of archways. This is the best place to soak up the atmosphere with a drink or a bite to eat at one of the bars or restaurants in the middle of the square. To my mind, this is the most beautiful square in Italy; certainly not the biggest but there's a sense of warmth here provided by the buildings all facing each other.
Two of the main sights in Lucca are rather unusual; the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro was built on the site of a Roman amphitheatre (hence the name), and actually kept largely the same shape and dimensions of the amphitheatre once it was destroyed. So we now have an oval-shaped piazza enclosed on all sides by buildings that look down on to it.
Many of those buildings have retained original features from the amphitheatre, particularly the dozens of archways. This is the best place to soak up the atmosphere with a drink or a bite to eat at one of the bars or restaurants in the middle of the square. To my mind, this is the most beautiful square in Italy; certainly not the biggest but there's a sense of warmth here provided by the buildings all facing each other.
Torre Guinigi
The second unusual sight is that of the Torre Guinigi, a medieval tower attached to the Palazzo Guinigi. There's nothing unusual about its 44 metre height which marks it way down the list of medieval towers in Italy alone, but there are very few such towers that have trees growing out of the top of them. Climb the tower and not only will you get one of the best views of Lucca, you'll also be able to enjoy the shade provided by the trees.
The second unusual sight is that of the Torre Guinigi, a medieval tower attached to the Palazzo Guinigi. There's nothing unusual about its 44 metre height which marks it way down the list of medieval towers in Italy alone, but there are very few such towers that have trees growing out of the top of them. Climb the tower and not only will you get one of the best views of Lucca, you'll also be able to enjoy the shade provided by the trees.
Pisan Romanesque Churches
Apart from its odd-shaped piazzas and physics-defying plant-life, Lucca is known for its collection of Pisan-Romanesque churches. The most important of these is Lucca Cathedral, otherwise known as the Duomo di San Martino, originally built in the 11th century.
Further inside the city walls, to the north of the Cathedral is the Chiesa di San Michele in Foro which dates back to the 8th century although most of the current structure was built 300 years later. Completing a trio of the most important churches in the city is the 12th century Basilica di San Frediano.
Apart from its odd-shaped piazzas and physics-defying plant-life, Lucca is known for its collection of Pisan-Romanesque churches. The most important of these is Lucca Cathedral, otherwise known as the Duomo di San Martino, originally built in the 11th century.
Further inside the city walls, to the north of the Cathedral is the Chiesa di San Michele in Foro which dates back to the 8th century although most of the current structure was built 300 years later. Completing a trio of the most important churches in the city is the 12th century Basilica di San Frediano.
Giacomo Puccini: former resident of Lucca
Fans of the opera and music in general gravitate towards Lucca as it was once the home of famous Italian composer Giacomo Puccini (1858 - 1924). Aside from being able to visit Puccini's birthplace in the city centre, there's also an annual music festival in his honour, Puccini e la sua Lucca (Puccini and his Lucca), which takes place at a number of venues around the city.
Fans of the opera and music in general gravitate towards Lucca as it was once the home of famous Italian composer Giacomo Puccini (1858 - 1924). Aside from being able to visit Puccini's birthplace in the city centre, there's also an annual music festival in his honour, Puccini e la sua Lucca (Puccini and his Lucca), which takes place at a number of venues around the city.
Tours & Activities
Comune di Lucca
|
Province: Lucca
Region: Tuscany Population: 89,136 (in 2024 - source) Size: 185 km² Elevation: 19 metres Top sights: Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, Torre Guinigi, Lucca Cathedral Close by: Viareggio, Pisa, Barga, Livorno, Castiglione di Garfagnana |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay
- Hotel Ilaria Located near the historic centre of Lucca, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a wellness centre, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, excellent service, and proximity to Lucca’s main attractions, including the Lucca Cathedral and the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Antica Corte dei Helvetia Set just outside the town centre, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms with rustic touches, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the personal touch of the hosts, the peaceful setting, and the easy access to Lucca’s historical sites and nearby attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli Situated near the heart of Lucca, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with scenic views of the city, a wellness centre, and a restaurant serving local dishes. Guests enjoy the friendly service, relaxing atmosphere, and the short walk to Lucca’s cultural sites, including the Torre Guinigi and the Palazzo Pfanner. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo La Torretta Located a short drive from Lucca, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with scenic views of the Tuscan countryside, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests appreciate the rural setting, the authentic Tuscan experience, and the short drive to both Lucca’s attractions and nearby vineyards. €€ (mid-range)
- Relais San Lorenzo Set in a tranquil location near Lucca’s town centre, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms with panoramic views of the surrounding hills, a wellness centre, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving high-quality Tuscan cuisine. Guests enjoy the luxurious amenities, exceptional service, and the short drive to Lucca’s cultural landmarks. €€€ (high-end)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat
- Osteria Da Pasquale: Located near the historic centre of Lucca, Osteria Da Pasquale offers a traditional dining experience with a focus on Tuscan cuisine. Known for its fresh pasta dishes such as pappardelle with wild boar, as well as its hearty meat dishes and local cheeses, it provides an authentic taste of the region. The welcoming atmosphere and excellent service make it a great spot for a relaxed meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante All’ Olivo: Situated in a charming location near Lucca’s city walls, Ristorante All’ Olivo combines traditional Tuscan ingredients with contemporary flair. The menu features dishes such as risotto with truffle, ravioli with ricotta and spinach, and slow-cooked meats. The refined interior and friendly service add to the overall experience, making it ideal for both casual and special occasions. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria da Leo: A local favourite, Trattoria da Leo is known for its hearty and traditional Tuscan dishes. Located in the heart of Lucca, the menu includes specialties like tortelli lucchesi (local stuffed pasta), bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak), and seasonal vegetable dishes. The restaurant’s homey atmosphere and consistent quality make it a popular choice for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the region. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Il Giglio: Il Giglio is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a refined, modern take on traditional Tuscan cuisine. Located in a historical building, the menu features exquisite dishes like foie gras with Tuscan fruit and fresh seafood options. The elegant setting and impeccable service make it a perfect choice for a memorable and sophisticated dining experience. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end)
- La Bottega del 30: For those looking for a casual yet refined dining experience, La Bottega del 30 offers a creative twist on traditional Italian and Tuscan dishes. Located just off the main square, the menu offers a range of fresh pasta, seasonal ingredients, and local wines. The contemporary design and intimate atmosphere, combined with the focus on quality ingredients, make it a great choice for a more modern dining experience. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Photo Gallery
Nearby Places
Nearby Places
There is a wealth of places to visit close to Lucca; the first and most obvious is Pisa which is just a short drive away while the seaside resorts of the Versilia Coast are just as close and a big temptation, the main town of Pietrasanta is a personal favourite, more so than its coastal resort Marina di Pietrasanta. To the north of Lucca lies a hillside region known as the Garfagnana; here you'll find beautiful countryside and fascinating towns such as Barga, Castiglione di Garfagnana and Castelnuovo di Garfagnana to name just a few.
Tuscany Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Tuscany
1. Florence
2. Siena
3. Val d'Orcia
4. Pisa
5. Lucca
6. San Gimignano
7. Giglio
8. Volterra
9. Pienza
10. Elba
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Tuscany
1. Florence
2. Siena
3. Val d'Orcia
4. Pisa
5. Lucca
6. San Gimignano
7. Giglio
8. Volterra
9. Pienza
10. Elba
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Tuscany
Getting There
Getting There
As with everything else in Lucca, the train station is neatly-positioned, to the south of the city just outside the walls. From there to Piazza San Michele in the city centre is a very pleasant walk of ten minutes or so (1 km).
Trains run east from Lucca to Florence (Santa Maria Novella) with a journey time of an hour and 19 minutes, stopping along the way at Pistoia (41 minutes), among other stations. Heading in the opposite direction, it's just a short hop to the seaside town of Viareggio which takes 23 minutes and you can also head south to Pisa in 29 minutes.
The most convenient airport for Lucca is Pisa Airport which is just a half an hour drive away (36 km), while the best alternative is Florence Airport which is 55 minutes by car (80 km).
Trains run east from Lucca to Florence (Santa Maria Novella) with a journey time of an hour and 19 minutes, stopping along the way at Pistoia (41 minutes), among other stations. Heading in the opposite direction, it's just a short hop to the seaside town of Viareggio which takes 23 minutes and you can also head south to Pisa in 29 minutes.
The most convenient airport for Lucca is Pisa Airport which is just a half an hour drive away (36 km), while the best alternative is Florence Airport which is 55 minutes by car (80 km).
|
Public transport: Central train station, local buses
By car: Pisa - 27 mins (19 km), Pistoia - 36 mins (45 km) |
Fly to: Pisa Airport - 30 minutes by car (36 km)
By train: Viareggio - 23 mins, Pisa - 29 mins, Pistoia - 41 mins |
