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There are an array of things to do in Italy, with Lucca sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled within the Tuscan landscape like a precious gem, the charming town of Lucca offers a rich tapestry of culture, history and leisure.
Unravel the mysteries of medieval architecture, indulge in mouth-watering Italian cuisine, or simply bask in the gentle sun-kissed ambiance of Lucca’s quaint alleys and cobbled streets.
Whatever your heart desires, Lucca is waiting to enchant you with its timeless allure.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Lucca:
1. Guinigi Tower
Guinigi Tower is a medieval tower located in the charming city of Lucca, Tuscany, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the tower (231 steps!), which offers amazing panoramic views of Lucca and the surrounding countryside.
The tower is also famous for its unique feature of having a garden with oak trees growing on the top terrace, providing a surreal setting to visitors.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take breathtaking photos of the views from the top, especially during sunset.
Insider travel tips: – The number of visitors allowed to climb the tower is limited, so it is recommended to buy tickets in advance.
2. Lucca’s Walls
Lucca’s Walls are a well-preserved Renaissance-era defensive fortress that surrounds the city of Lucca in Tuscany, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk, jog, or bike along the top of the walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
The walls are also a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.
Don’t miss: The two-lane bicycle path that circles the entire wall is a must-do activity for visitors, offering a unique and picturesque way to see the city and its surroundings.
Insider travel tips: For the best views, climb up one of the tower-like bastions that dot the wall’s perimeter. It’s also recommended to stroll along the wall at sunset or early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
3. Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
A charming oval square located in the heart of Lucca, Italy.
What to see or do: Visit the Roman amphitheater that the square was built upon, check out the surrounding shops and restaurants, and enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride around the perimeter of the square.
Don’t miss: The spectacular views of the surrounding buildings and the Torre Guinigi, a medieval tower with trees growing on top of it.
Insider travel tips: Take a walk in the early morning or in the evening when the square is less crowded. Stop by one of the cafes for a cappuccino or aperitivo and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
And don’t forget to take a photo from one of the many photo spots on the square.
4. San Michele in Foro
San Michele in Foro is a Romanesque-Gothic church located in the heart of Lucca’s historic center. The church was built on the site of an ancient Roman forum, which is where it gets its name.
What to see or do: The church’s façade is a stunning example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture, featuring intricate details and sculptures. Inside, visitors can admire beautiful frescoes, impressive marble columns, and a magnificent altarpiece by Jacopo della Quercia.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the church’s bell tower, which offers panoramic views of Lucca’s rooftops and surrounding hills.
The tower is also home to a small museum that showcases ancient Roman artifacts that were discovered during the church’s construction.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should note that the church is closed on Sundays and Mondays, and has limited hours on Saturdays. It is also recommended to dress conservatively and to avoid bringing large bags or backpacks into the church.
5. Cathedral of San Martino
Cathedral of San Martino in Lucca is a stunning example of medieval architecture and art that dates back to the 11th century.
What to see or do: Marvel at the intricate façade adorned with sculptures from the 13th century and 16th century clocks. Look up to see the soaring bell tower and explore the impressive interior featuring a collection of art and mosaics.
Don’t forget to check out the tomb of St. Rainerius, the patron saint of Lucca.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Volto Santo, or Holy Face, a wooden crucifix that stands behind the main altar.
The crucifix is believed to have miraculous healing powers and is carefully guarded in a special chapel behind the main altar.
Insider travel tips: Buy a combined ticket that also includes entry to the adjacent Museo della Cattedrale, displaying religious art from the Middle Ages to the 18th Century.
Additionally, visitors can get a bird’s-eye view of the city from the top of the bell tower. However, keep in mind that the climb is steep and narrow.
6. Basilica di San Frediano
The Basilica di San Frediano is a historic church located in the city of Lucca in Tuscany, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning Romanesque architecture and beautiful mosaics that cover the facade of the church.
Inside, marvel at the intricate frescoes painted by local artists and the ornate altars that date back to the 16th century.
Don’t miss: The impressive baptismal font, which is said to date back to the 12th century and is considered one of the finest examples of medieval sculpture in Italy.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, plan to visit the basilica in the morning when it first opens.
And be sure to visit the nearby Piazza San Frediano, which is home to lively cafes and restaurants as well as a weekly antiques market.
7. Botanical Gardens of Lucca
The Botanical Gardens of Lucca is a charming attraction set in the heart of the city’s historical center and is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe.
What to see or do: The garden boasts a vast collection of trees, flowers, and shrubs from all over the world, an 18th-century greenhouse, and a lovely pond with water lilies and aquatic plants.
Visitors can stroll along the winding paths and discover beautiful flowers, rare plants, and exotic trees.
Don’t miss: The Botanical Museum, located inside the garden, which displays an impressive collection of plant specimens.
Also, don’t miss the statue of Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, which stands in the center of the park.
Insider travel tips: The garden is free to enter and offers a pleasant escape from the city’s bustling streets.
8. Palazzo Ducale
A stunning historical palace located in the heart of Lucca, Italy.
What to see or do: Marvel at the beautiful architecture and artwork found throughout the palace. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about its history and the various rulers who once lived there.
The palace also hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The impressive frescoes created by famous Italian artist, Tintoretto, located in the Sala del Maggior Consiglio (Hall of the Grand Council).
The panoramic views of Lucca from the top of the palace’s Torre Guinigi (Guinigi Tower) are also a must-see.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines and ensure availability, especially if traveling during peak tourist season. Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the palace requires a lot of walking and stairs.
9. Museo Nazionale Guinigi
Museo Nazionale Guinigi is an art museum housed in the Palazzo Guinigi, a 14th-century Gothic palace located in the city of Lucca in Tuscany, Italy.
What to see or do: Visit the museum to see its impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli, Donatello and Tintoretto. Admire the architecture of the Palazzo Guinigi, which features a unique rooftop garden with views over Lucca.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the beautiful frescoes in the museum’s Sala del Consiglio, which depict scenes from the life of St.
Peter. Also, don’t miss the collection of Flemish tapestries in the Salone delle Maschere.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid the crowds, plan to visit the museum in the morning or early afternoon.
10. Church of San Giovanni
A Romanesque church in the heart of Lucca, Italy, built in the 12th century.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful exterior façade with its ornate arches, columns, and sculptures. Step inside and marvel at the richly decorated interior with intricate frescoes and marble floors.
Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful and serene atmosphere of this historic place of worship.
Don’t miss: The ornate pulpit with its delicate metalwork and vividly colored mosaics. Also, the crucifixion scene painted on the ceiling is a must-see.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive for a more intimate experience. Additionally, dress modestly as it is a place of worship.
Finally, consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide to fully appreciate the history and significance of the church.
11. Palazzo Mansi
Palazzo Mansi is a beautiful 16th-century Renaissance palace located in the heart of Lucca, Tuscany.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the elegant and luxurious interiors, ornate frescoes, and intricate stucco work, while learning about the history of the Mansi family and the city of Lucca.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the collection of tapestries, rare books and manuscripts, and the stunning views from the rooftop terrace.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds and get the most out of your visit, book a guided tour in advance.
Also, keep in mind that some parts of the palace may be closed for restoration or events, so it’s best to check the schedule before you go.
12. Orto Botanico Comunale di Lucca
Orto Botanico Comunale di Lucca is a municipal botanical garden located in Lucca, Italy.
It covers an area of about 2 hectares and is home to a wide variety of native and exotic plant species.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll down the garden’s various paths to explore its diverse plant collections that include fruit trees, ornamental plants, aromatic herbs, and more.
The garden also features a greenhouse where tropical plants are cultivated.
Don’t miss: Make sure not to miss the garden’s majestic Magnolia grandiflora, the monumental palm trees, and the ancient cedar of Lebanon.
Insider travel tips: Visiting during spring or early summer is the best time to see the garden in full splendor.
13. Roman Amphitheater
Roman Amphitheater is an ancient amphitheater located in the heart of Lucca, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the amphitheater and see the ancient ruins of the structure. The amphitheater is a popular attraction for tourists and history enthusiasts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to appreciate the stunning views of the city from the top of the amphitheater. The amphitheater also hosts cultural events and concerts during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as there are steep steps to climb while exploring the amphitheater. It’s also recommended to go early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history of the amphitheater.
14. Church of Santa Maria Forisportam
The Church of Santa Maria Forisportam is a historic church located in Lucca, Italy.
What to see or do: The church facade boasts a stunning mosaic as well as intricately decorated arches, columns, and sculptures.
Inside, visitors can marvel at the beautiful ceiling frescoes and admire the numerous works of art, including sculptures by Matteo Civitali and paintings by Tintoretto and Andrea del Sarto.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the church is the tomb of Ilaria del Carretto, a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture by Jacopo della Quercia.
Insider travel tips: – The church is located just outside the city walls and can be easily reached on foot.