Italy

Lucca in One Day | A Big Guide 2025

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Lucca is a charming town renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance walls, picturesque streets, and stunning architecture. While a day isn’t enough to experience all that Lucca has to offer, you can certainly capture its essence with a well-planned itinerary. Below is a detailed guide of how to make the most out of your one-day visit to this delightful Italian town in 2025.

Morning Exploration: Historic Walls and Piazzas

Start Your Day at the Walls

Begin your day with a leisurely walk or bicycle ride atop Lucca’s Renaissance walls, one of the town’s most distinctive features. These walls are not only a historical marvel but also serve as a public park. The walk or ride is approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) long and offers spectacular views of the city and beyond.

  • Tip: Bicycle rentals are widely available around the center, with prices starting at around €5 ($6) per hour.

Head to Piazza dell’Anfiteatro

Once you’ve circled the town on the walls, make your way to Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, an elliptical public square that’s one of Lucca’s most iconic landmarks. Its distinctive shape comes from its origins as a Roman amphitheater. Enjoy a coffee or a gelato at one of the many cafes encircling the piazza.

  • Cost: A coffee or gelato can cost between €2–€5 ($2.50 – $6).

Cultural Immersion: Churches and Towers

Visit the Duomo di San Martino

Next, head to Lucca Cathedral (Duomo di San Martino), a treasure trove of art and history. The cathedral houses the famous relic of the Holy Face of Lucca (Volto Santo) and exceptional artworks by revered Italian artists.

  • Entrance Fee: Around €3 ($3.60).

Climb Torre Guinigi

For one of the best views in Lucca, climb the Torre Guinigi, a unique medieval tower with an ancient oak tree planted on its top. The view from the top is a panoramic spectacle, offering superb vistas of Lucca and the surrounding Tuscan hills.

  • Entrance Fee: Around €5 ($6).

Lunch Break: Savor Tuscan Cuisine

Relish Local Tuscan Flavors

Head to a local trattoria for lunch and enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine. Look for dishes such as ribollita or farro soup, typical of the region, and pair them with a local wine like Chianti.

  • Cost: Expect to spend around €15–€25 ($18 – $30) per person for a delicious meal.

Afternoon Activities: Gardens and Shopping

Stroll through Palazzo Pfanner Gardens

Visit the Palazzo Pfanner Gardens for a relaxing afternoon stroll. The beautifully manicured gardens and the opulent rooms of the Palazzo offer a glimpse into the aristocratic life of centuries past.

  • Entrance Fee: Approximately €6 ($7).

Explore Local Boutiques and Shops

After enjoying the gardens, wander through the Via Fillungo, Lucca’s main shopping street. Explore a mix of upscale boutiques, artisan shops, and quaint souvenir stores. Don’t forget to visit Antica Bottega Lione, famous for its exquisite leather goods.

Evening Delights: Dining and Music

Dinner at a Local Osteria

As the day winds down, consider dining at a cozy osteria to savor more Tuscan flavors. Try a bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak) if you’re a fan of grilled meats.

  • Cost: Dinner might range from €20–€40 ($24 – $48) per person.

Enjoy a Puccini Concert

End your day by enjoying an evening of music at one of the Puccini e la sua Lucca concerts. These events, held in churches around the city, celebrate the works of the famous composer Giacomo Puccini, who was born in Lucca.

  • Ticket Price: Ranges from €20–€30 ($24 – $36).

Practical Information

  • Travel Tips: Lucca is easily reachable by train from nearby cities like Florence and Pisa. Consider arriving early to maximize your time in the city.
  • Currency: Italy uses the Euro (€). It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, although credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Best Time to Visit: While Lucca is charming year-round, consider visiting in April through June or September and October for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

By following this itinerary, you’ll leave Lucca with a heart full of memories and a camera full of stunning photographs. Enjoy your journey through this Tuscan gem!