Free walking tours in Lucca and what to see

Must-sees

Lucca is a Tuscan city ringed by Renaissance walls that survive intact. Along the top runs a tree-lined promenade that circles the centre and can be walked or cycled, with views over rooftops and bell towers. Inside, the old town keeps the layout of the Roman and medieval city, with narrow streets, towers and Romanesque churches.

The oval Piazza dell'Anfiteatro occupies the site of the old Roman amphitheatre and is now surrounded by houses and terraces. The cathedral of San Martino holds the Volto Santo and the tomb of Ilaria del Carretto, by Jacopo della Quercia, and the church of San Michele in Foro stands out for its façade of stacked arcades. Climb the Torre Guinigi, crowned by a garden of holm oaks, and remember that Lucca is Giacomo Puccini's birthplace, with a house museum devoted to the composer.

Free tours and guided visits

Lucca does not have a regular free walking tour. What you will find are guided tours of the historic centre, private tours, night tours and guided walks along the walls. Opera lovers have a tour devoted to music and Puccini. Outside the city, in the Lima river valley, rafting trips are organised for those looking for a bit of adventure.

How long to spend

A day is enough to walk the walls, see Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, the cathedral and San Michele and climb a tower. If you stay a night, you can stroll at leisure at dusk and add the villas in the surrounding area or an afternoon on the coast at Viareggio. Lucca combines well with Pisa, less than half an hour away by train.

Where to stay

The nicest option is to stay inside the walls, where there are small hotels and houses in historic buildings and everything is on foot. Bear in mind that traffic is restricted in the centre. Outside the walls, near the station, you will find options with parking, and in the surrounding hills there are quiet villas and agriturismi.