Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Lucca, Italy

Lucca is a historical city situated in Tuscany on the western coast of Italy. This city is in close proximity to Pisa and is often referred to as the city of a hundred churches due to its numerous historical religious structures. Lucca is acclaimed throughout Italy for its magnificent medieval city walls that continue to encompass most of the historic old town.

Initially founded by the Etruscans, this city became a Roman colony around 180 BC. During the Roman era, Lucca emerged as a significant meeting place for Julius Caesar and Crassus. In subsequent years, the city operated as an independent republic for nearly 500 years amid feudal Italy. The 19th century saw Lucca conquered by Napoleon, ultimately becoming part of Unified Italy in 1860. Presently, Lucca is a well-frequented tourist destination with close connections to Pisa.

For aficionados of historical architecture and medieval constructions, Lucca is a veritable sanctuary. As previously noted, it is known as the city of a hundred churches, featuring remarkable buildings such as Lucca Cathedral and San Michele in Foro. Additionally, the extensive city walls illustrate how many medieval settlements would have been fortified. Apart from its architectural wonders, Lucca also offers an array of exceptional museums, charming public squares, and a fine selection of restaurants and bars.

Let us delve into the top attractions in Lucca:

1. Lucca Cathedral

Located in the historic old town in Piazza San Martino, the Duomo is a truly impressive edifice, renowned throughout Italy for its striking façade and design.

The front façade showcases a series of opulent archways and an intricate portico framing the entrance doors.

Construction began in the 11th century, with the church being redesigned into its current form during the Renaissance period of the 14th century.

Adjacent to the church stands the massive bell tower, which remains only partially finished – its lower level showcases exposed brick, contrasting sharply with the white walls above.

The interior of the cathedral contains a plethora of exquisite artwork, with one of the main highlights being the splendid shrine of the Sacred Face of Lucca.

2. Piazza dell Anfiteatro

This square, as its name suggests, was formerly a Roman amphitheater, and its elliptical shape remains discernible even though none of the original construction is preserved.

The buildings encircling the square have been constructed to follow the same elliptical form, exhibiting varied heights and colors – the effect is quite striking, with shades of yellow, cream, and white creating an inviting atmosphere.

Additionally, most homes are adorned with green shutters, contributing to a cohesive aesthetic.

The piazza hosts a variety of high-quality restaurants and cafes, all with outdoor seating – dining in this beautiful square promises to be an unforgettable experience.

3. Take a walk on the historic city walls

Encircling the old center of Lucca is an almost complete system of city walls, a defensive structure built during the Renaissance that still stands today.

This fortification is one of the most intact and well-preserved in Italy, allowing visitors to stroll around the entire city along a series of well-maintained promenades.

At regular intervals, 11 bastions can be found, including the bulwark of San Martino and the Porta San Pietro.

A continuous walkway connects each bastion – known as Via delle Mura Urbane; this path is shaded by trees and stretches for a total of approximately 4km.

Consider walking along this route to admire the historic city walls and descending to lower levels to appreciate the craftsmanship evident in the bastions.

4. San Michele in Foro

Another remarkable church in the center of Lucca, the Basilica di San Michele in Foro, features a façade distinct from any other in the city.

The origins of this church can be traced back to the 8th century, with its present form being established during the 13th century.

Above the primary arches of the façade are four rows of intricate arches and columns exhibiting various colors and patterns.

Moreover, above each row of arches, beautiful artwork depicting diverse wild animals can be found.

The attention to detail is astounding, from the carvings adorning the columns to the stonework surrounding the rose windows.

The interior of the church showcases significant artworks by Luca della Robbia and Filippino Lippi.

5. Orto Botanico Comunale di Lucca

In the southeastern corner of the historic old town, one can discover the splendid Communal Botanical Gardens of Lucca.

These extensive gardens encompass two bastions on the city walls, having been established in 1820 by the Duchess of Parma.

The gardens feature a variety of beautiful tree, plant, and flower species.

In addition, there are several greenhouses, an arboretum, a herbarium, as well as ponds and water features.

Each segment of the gardens is meticulously maintained, offering a delightful display of colors and species.

6. Torre delle Ore

The Torre delle Ore has served dual purposes as both a defensive structure and a clock tower throughout its 700-year history.

Originally constructed in the 14th century, the tower was part of a private building initially intended for protection.

However, as time progressed, the necessity for defense diminished, and the tower was repurposed as a horological clock tower.

Visitors can now ascend a series of stairs to reach the summit, offering unparalleled views of the city of Lucca.

From this vantage point, one can observe the multitude of towers within the city, including significant landmarks such as the Cathedral and Basilica of San Frediano.

7. Acquedotto del Nottolini

Situated south of Lucca lies an architectural marvel known as the Aqueduct of Nottolini.

This impressive structure was designed to transport water from the mountains into the city, boasting 400 arches constructed from stone and extending for 3km.

The aqueduct remains fully intact, allowing visitors to follow its path from the temple cistern to its terminus at the Parco dell’Acquedotto.

The surrounding landscape enhances its beauty, making the aqueduct a captivating structure to behold.

8. Guinigi Tower

Among the various historical towers in Lucca, none is as unique as Torre Guinigi – the most significant and iconic tower in the city, celebrated for its rooftop garden.

Constructed in the 14th century, the tower exemplifies Romanesque/Gothic architecture, featuring an exposed brick design that incorporates a series of arched windows.

Standing at 45 meters tall, this tower dominates the skyline and is visible from numerous locations within the city center.

What makes it particularly noteworthy is its garden atop – this garden is home to several beautiful Holm Oak trees that symbolize rebirth and have become a defining feature of Lucca.

9. Piazza Napoleone

Located merely a short distance from Piazza dell Anfiteatro, the Square of Napoleon presents another exquisite open space within the historic town center of Lucca, featuring notable buildings.

To the left of the square resides the Ducale Palace, characterized by its impressive façade.

In front of the palace stands an ornate white statue of Maria Luisa, framed on three sides by lush trees.

Other significant structures surrounding the square include the Giglio Theatre, the Museo del Risorgimento, and the Prefettura di Lucca.

10. Museum of Villa Mansi

Situated approximately 25 minutes northeast of Lucca, one can explore the historical Villa Mansi.

This villa, built in the 16th century by the affluent Benedetti family, was later expanded to incorporate a magnificent landscaped garden.

The villa features an intriguing façade complete with an ornate staircase and an arched portico.

Additionally, the villa’s grounds are expansive, comprising a pond, several stunning floral arrangements, and a series of marble statues.

Visiting tours of the villa are available, providing an excellent opportunity to spend an afternoon basking in the lovely Italian sun.

11. Basilica of San Frediano

The Basilica of San Frediano is yet another extraordinary religious structure in the heart of Lucca.

This building is particularly renowned for its façade adorned with a stunning mosaic and its impressive bell tower.

The mosaic was added in the 14th century and remains in exceptional condition to this day.

It depicts the Ascension of Christ, prominently featuring the figure of Christ surrounded by angels and apostles – the detail and vibrant colors are truly captivating.

The interior decor continues to impress, with a notable feature being a finely detailed 12th-century font complemented by intricate stone carvings.

12. Enjoy a fine meal at Da Pasquale

For an evening featuring exquisite dining, exceptional service, and delightful drinks, Da Pasquale restaurant, located in the heart of Lucca, stands out as an inviting option.

Positioned on Via del Moro, this unassuming venue benefits from attentive hosts and high-quality cuisine.

While the restaurant specializes in seafood, it also offers a variety of exquisite Italian dishes including ravioli and other pastas.

For those who appreciate a glass of wine with their meal, the host will gladly assist in selecting an ideal pairing from an extensive list.

The combination of food quality, attentive staff, and inviting atmosphere ensures a wonderful dining experience.

13. Sample some fine wine at Vinni Liquori Vanni

For wine enthusiasts, Vinni Liquori Vanni is the must-visit establishment in Lucca.

Upon entering, you may perceive it as merely a restaurant, as they genuinely offer high-quality and delicious food.

The true highlight, however, lies in the expansive cellar beneath your feet.

This venue features a vast wine cellar filled with an impressive array of different vintages – if you inquire with the staff, they will gladly guide you below to browse the catalogue and, if fortunate, you may sample a few or even participate in a wine tasting.

Vinni Liquori Vanni is a remarkable place, with knowledgeable staff – an essential stop for any wine connoisseur!

14. Take a day trip to Pisa

A visit to Lucca would be incomplete without exploring the historic city of Pisa – these two cities are just 17 kilometers apart and are well connected by transport.

Pisa can be reached in under 30 minutes via regular train or bus services, or even by car.

Pisa boasts a wealth of beautiful structures and its scenic position along the River Arno offers excellent photographic opportunities.

The primary attraction is undoubtedly the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Piazza del Miracoli – this complex includes the famous leaning tower, an impressive cathedral, an unfinished baptistery, and a monumental cemetery.

In addition to this area, Pisa also features an array of intriguing museums and galleries.

15. Parco Alpi Apuane

The Apuane Alpine Park is a sprawling expanse of natural beauty that encompasses the Apuan Alps mountain range in northern Tuscany.

This region is located approximately an hour north of Lucca along the coast and is a fantastic area for exploration.

Prominent peaks include Monte Pisanino, Monte Tambura, Pania della Croce, and Monte Sagro.

This area is well-known for its exquisite marble, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant hiking and climbing opportunities.

Points of interest within the park include Mt. Forato, ancient marble quarries, the picturesque Lipu Oasis, and the Casola Museum.

Adventurous individuals will find this region an endless playground full of exploration opportunities.