Private tour: The Gothic Line in Borgo a Mozzano (Lucca)

Lucca , Italy

Private tour: The Gothic Line in Borgo a Mozzano (Lucca)

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

During this private 3-hour guided tour of the Gothic Line you will visit the Museum of the Liberation, enjoy a walking tour exploring two of the area's World War 2-era bunkers. Climb, with your guide, aboard your vehicle and visit a third bunker, and walk across the famous Devil's Bridge from where you may enjoy panorama of the river and surrounding hills.

Available options

Private tour: The Gothic Line in Borgo a Mozzano (Lucca)

Option 1: In 3 hours private guided tour you will visit some of the bunkers, the Museum of the Liberation and make a walk across the Devil's Bridge

What's included

Multiple stops for photography

Local, professional guide

Private small-group tour

Detailed itinerary

Meet your personal specialized guide is in front of the train station in Piazza Marconi (Borgo a Mozzano) in the morning, or afternoon. The first stop is just a few steps away at the small, but evocative museum, Museo della Memoria, which features many World War II documents in relation to Lucca and the construction of the Gothic Line. The museum also contains uniforms and arms of both the Allied and German Armies, a series of objects issued to the troops, an exhaustive number of communiques released by the fascist prefect in regard to curfews, circulation restrictions, black market sales restrictions, photos, and documents of the local Resistance fighters.

Note: Should you not have a car, you may reach Borgo a Mozzano by train.

Next, take a 10-minute walk to the two low-lying bunkers built to defend the antitank wall of the Gothic Line at Borgo a Mozzano. To defend the front, the Germans constructed two large, deep bunkers excavating them in the rock. The soldiers used them as observation posts, ready to defend the antitank wall of the Gothic Line with cannons and machine guns.

To visit a third incredible bunker, you must take your car and drive to the nearby medieval hamlet of Anchiano. The bunker extends for many meters into the hill below the church of the village. To defend the left side of the river and the Gothic Line, the Todt Organization had this extraordinary fortification constructed for cannons, machine guns, and observation posts.

Stop 3

Hop into your car again, and proceed to the legendary Ponte della Maddalena (Bridge of Mary Magdalene), better known as the 'Devil’s Bridge'. It was constructed during the Middle Ages so pilgrims traveling from northern Italy and Europe could cross the river on their way to Rome. This was the only bridge across the Serchio River that the Germans did not destroy during the Second World War, and proved to be a huge strategic error on their part. It is a humpback bridge with asymmetric arches and can be crossed on foot. At its highest point, there is a splendid panorama of the river and surrounding hills.

What's not included

Museum entrance fee+ 2 bunkers € 10 per adult or Museum entrance fee + 3 bunkers € 15 per adult

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Transportation to/from attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A maximum of 20 people per booking

Please wear comfortable shoes

You must provide your own transportation for this excursion using your own vehicle or a rental. You can reach Borgo a Mozzano also by train from Lucca, Pisa, Florence.

Turislucca’s tours are in compliance with government health and safety protocols for Covid-19.

Meeting point

The guide will meet you in front of the train station in Piazza Marconi 4, Borgo a Mozzano (Lucca)
Dates: Daily

Important notes

• A small amount of walking is involved
• Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
• Please wear comfortable shoes

About Lucca

Lucca is a charming medieval city in Tuscany, renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance walls, stunning architecture, and rich history. Its narrow streets, historic churches, and vibrant culture make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Lucca Walls

The Renaissance walls of Lucca are a unique and iconic feature of the city. Built in the 16th and 17th centuries, these walls encircle the historic center and offer a scenic walking path with stunning views.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Lucca Cathedral (San Martino)

This stunning cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. It houses the famous Volto Santo, a wooden crucifix brought to Lucca in the 12th century.

Religious/Historical 1 hour Free (Bell Tower: €5)

Piazza dell'Anfiteatro

This unique oval-shaped piazza is built on the site of an ancient Roman amphitheater. Surrounded by charming buildings, it's a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Historical/Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Torre Guinigi

This medieval tower is famous for the oak trees growing on its roof. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of Lucca and its surroundings.

Historical/Architecture 30 minutes €5

Lucca Comics & Games

One of the largest comic and gaming conventions in Europe, held annually in October. It attracts thousands of visitors and features exhibitions, cosplay, and meet-and-greets with famous artists and writers.

Entertainment/Cultural 3-4 days Varies by event and ticket type

Must-Try Local Dishes

Buccellato

A sweet bread with raisins and anise seeds, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.

Breakfast/Snack Vegetarian

Tordelli Lucchesi

A traditional pasta dish filled with meat and herbs, served with a rich sauce.

Main Course Contains meat

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A thick-cut T-bone steak, grilled and seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Main Course Contains meat

Castagnaccio

A rustic chestnut flour cake, often served with a drizzle of honey or olive oil.

Dessert Vegetarian, Gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Rock climbing Wine tasting Spa treatments Leisurely walks along the walls Visiting museums and galleries Attending festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time of year, with warm weather and numerous festivals. It's ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and vibrant city life.

22°C to 32°C 72°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lucca is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Pisa International Airport • 20 km (12 miles)
Florence Airport • 80 km (50 miles)

By train

Lucca Station

By bus

Lucca Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The VaiBus system is efficient and covers most of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico San Marco San Paolo

Day trips

Pisa

20 km (12 miles) • Half day

Pisa is famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, but it also offers a rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant student culture.

Florence

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Florence is the capital of Tuscany and a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its art, architecture, and history.

Vinci

30 km (18 miles) • Half day

The birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, Vinci offers a museum dedicated to the famous artist and inventor, as well as beautiful countryside and local wineries.

Festivals

Lucca Summer Festival • July Lucca Comics & Games • October Lucca in Festa • December

Pro tips

Visit the Torre Guinigi for a unique perspective of the city and its famous oak trees on the roof
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the underground tunnels and secret passages, on a guided tour
Attend a local festival or event for an authentic and immersive experience, such as the Lucca Summer Festival or Lucca Comics & Games
Try local specialties, such as Buccellato and Tordelli Lucchesi, at traditional osterias and trattorias
Rent a bike to explore the city's walls and surrounding countryside, and enjoy the scenic views and fresh air