Lucca City Highlights Private Guided Tour

Lucca , Italy

Lucca City Highlights Private Guided Tour

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About this experience

Discover the treasures of Lucca on a 3-hour private tour of the city led by an expert local guide.
We will take a leisurely walk through the historical center and encounter remarkable highlights, such as Napoleon Square and Via Fillungo, the narrow main street that still maintains its medieval layout. The guide will provide insights, legends and commentaries about the Clock Tower and the Guinigi Tower, two unique buildings and symbols of Lucca. Finally, we will step into two incredible churches: the Basilica of San Frediano with its special Romanesque mosaic, and the Cathedral of St. Martin, home to the beautiful tomb of Ilaria del Carretto.
Wear a pair of comfortable shoes and prepare to jump back in history: we will make the past of Lucca come to life in front of your eyes!

Available options

Lucca City Highlights Private Guided Tour

What's included

Tickets to the Basilica of San Frediano

Private Tour

Tickets to the Cathedral of St. Martin

Expert Local Guide

Detailed itinerary

Piazza Antelminelli is the starting point of our tour. This important square is characterized by a large fountain and it's framed by the imposing St. Martin's Cathedral.

This Romanesque-Gothic cathedral is the main church of Lucca and boasts a long history, as it dates back to the 11th century. We will enter and discover its treasures, such as the stunning tomb of Ilaria del Carretto made by Renaissance sculptor Jacopo della Quercia.

Follow your expert guide through Piazza Napoleone. This 19th century square was built by Elisa Bonaparte, Napoleon's sister.

View the important buildings surrounding St. Michael's Square, such as the Church of San Michele al Foro and the Palazzo Pretorio. Our guide will tell you all about the nickname of this place, "Square of the Chains".

Stop 5

We will take a leisurely stroll along Via Filungo, the main street, and breathe its peculiar medieval atmosphere.

Stop 6 Pass by

Along Via Fillungo we will spot the Clock Tower of the city. Did you know that for a long time the city maintained the ancient, more complex Roman time measurement method?

Stop 7 Pass by

The 44-meter high Guinigi Tower is one of the iconic symbols of Lucca. It was built in the 14th century and owes its name to a powerful family of merchants. Its unique characteristic is the charming garden on the top.

Stop 8

We will pass by Amphitheater Square. This elliptical square owes its shape to the the previous structure, the 1st century amphitheater where gladiator shows were held.

The Basilica of San Frediano is one of the oldest churches in Lucca and it's dedicated to a 6th century bishop. It's famous for the beautiful 13th century mosaic on the facade, one of the only two example of Romanesque ornamentations in Tuscany. We will enter into the church and see the 16th century frescoes by Amico Aspertini.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Next to the fountain in the center of the square

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