Summary of Day Trips from Lucca
The walled city of Lucca serves as a fantastic base for day trips in northern Tuscany, whether by train or car. Below are some highly recommended destinations that can be easily accessed within an hour from Lucca.
Villas and Gardens Near Lucca
Numerous villas were constructed in the scenic countryside surrounding Lucca during the 15th to 17th centuries as summer residences for affluent families. A number of these villas, along with their expansive gardens, welcome visitors and offer opportunities for exploration by bicycle (bike rentals are available at several shops near the city walls).
Bagni di Lucca
Bagni di Lucca is a historic spa center composed of several towns and villages. It is approximately a half-hour train ride to Bagni di Lucca station in Fornoli. From there, travelers can catch a bus toward Lucca Villa to reach Ponte a Serraglio (the spa town) or La Villa (the largest town) alongside the river. Visitors with a car can explore additional villages that comprise Bagni di Lucca.
Pisa
Pisa, famous for the Leaning Tower and other impressive Romanesque architecture in the Piazza dei Miracoli, stands as one of Tuscany’s most frequented towns. After exploring the iconic square, take a leisurely stroll through the rest of the city to evade the usual tourist crowds. The train from Lucca to Pisa typically lasts about half an hour.
Montecatini Terme and Montecatini Alto
Located about half an hour by train, Montecatini Terme is known as a historic spa town. It boasts picturesque tree-lined streets perfect for leisurely walks, along with numerous shops and thermal centers. Be sure to visit Terme Tettuccio (open from May to September). For stunning views, take the funicular railway up to the medieval village of Montecatini Alto.
Torre del Lago Puccini
Torre del Lago is a quaint town located between Lake Massaciuccoli and the coastline. It is renowned for its summer Puccini festival held at the outdoor theater on the lake. Puccini’s house in Torre del Lago has been transformed into a museum. The area features a couple of restaurants by the lake, and during the summer, excursion boats offer scenic trips on the water. Public transportation to Torre del Lago is best reached via bus from Viareggio; however, some trains also stop in town, followed by a one-kilometer walk to the lake. It’s less than a 30-minute drive from Lucca.
Viareggio
Viareggio is a charming coastal town celebrated for its Art Deco architecture and abundance of beach resorts. If you’re planning to spend a day at the beach during the summer, this destination would be perfect. The journey by train to Viareggio consumes less than half an hour. Just a bit farther north along the Versilia coast, visitors can also explore the artistic town of Pietrasanta and the esteemed seaside resort of Forte dei Marmi, both accessible by either train or car.
Barga and the Garfagnana
Barga is a beautiful hill town nestled in the lesser-traveled Garfagnana region, located to the north of Lucca. This town has ties to Scotland, and you may notice a surprising amount of English spoken here compared to other secluded destinations. It’s around a 45-minute drive through stunning countryside. Along the route, be sure to visit the dramatic Devil’s Bridge in Borgo a Mozzano, and if you wish to continue further, don’t miss the medieval town of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, which is the principal town of the region. It’s also accessible by train from Lucca.
Corchia Underground Cave and Apuan Alps Park
Address
Via Nord 27, 55040 Levigliani LU, Italy
Phone: +39 0584 778405
Monte Corchia, within the Apuan Alps Park, houses one of Europe’s most extensive systems of caverns. The guided tours last two hours, covering approximately 2 kilometers (including over 1000 steps), with daily availability during the summer and weekend access in spring and fall. The ticket office is positioned in the quaint town of Levigliani. Many hiking trails are also available in the Apuan Alps Park.
Pistoia
Pistoia, often referred to as the Little Florence, features a compact historical center packed with art and architecture. Visitors can explore 7 museums near the cathedral, which is also worth a visit. Despite being close to Florence, Pistoia remains less frequented by tourists. Travel from Lucca via train typically takes between 40 minutes and an hour.
Collodi
Address
SP35, 51012 Pescia PT, Italy
Phone: +39 331 209 8223
Travelers with children may find enjoyment at Pinocchio Park while in Collodi. Additionally, Garzoni Gardens, recognized as one of Tuscany’s finest Baroque gardens, can be explored. The nearby medieval hill town offers picturesque views and should not be missed.
Florence
Florence is also achievable as a day trip from Lucca, although the travel duration exceeds an hour (but remains under two hours) via train. Upon arrival at the Florence train station, you can conveniently walk to the prominent attractions in the historical center. If you plan to see the Uffizi Gallery, it is advisable to obtain tickets ahead of time for a smoother experience.
