Lucca Private Day Trip to Pietrasanta and the Cararra Marble Quarries
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A personalised private tour from Lucca exploring the Carrara marble quarries, the sculpture town of Pietrasanta for the discerning traveller seeking an authentic Italian experience on a small group tour with only the very best of English speaking driver guides. You will tour in comfort and style in a top of the range Mercedes minivan or sedan discovering Italy 'close up' as you travel into the heart of this incredible artistic area. Explore the open-air museum of Pietrasanta, follow in the footsteps of great artists such as Michelangelo, and delve into a sumptuous quarryman's lunch in the little village of Colonnata!
Available options
Lucca Private Day Trip to Pietrasanta and the Cararra Marble Quarries
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Lucca pickup and drop-off directly from your accommodation
Driver/guide
Transport by private vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Take the 45 minute drive to Pietrasanta; an old town of Roman origins rich in sculpting traditions and filled with workshops frequented by artists from all over the world. Visit the Bozzetti Sculpture Museum and get an insight into how artists make the marble come to life in a busy working artists studio (some studios may request a small entry fee). Relax with an Italian coffee in the Piazza del Duomo taking in local life alongside open air art and sculpture before travelling on up into the Carrara marble quarries
2
Stop 2
An immense cultural and historical patrimony, these mountains were first exploited by Julius Caesar and have supplied artists from Michelangelo to Henry Moore. Choose from 2 tours. Visit the inside of a working quarry (10euro per person) where you are taken into the heart of the Apuan Alps to discover a marble cathedral carved deep inside the mountain. This is still an active quarry with working machinery and once inside you will see first-hand how marble is cut Or you may wish to join a 4x4 guided tour (10euro per person) travelling through a network of 30 open-air active quarries arriving at an altitude of almost 1000m above sea level. Here, the scenery is almost lunar with spectacular views across the sea. Your tour guide will tell you about methods and stages of excavation, from cutting to loading huge marble blocks on top of the trucks right in front of your eyes. It was here where the James Bond chase scene was filmed in Quantum of Solace.
3
The perfect stop to enjoy lunch is in quarryman's village of Colonnata, renowned for its lard cured in huge marble vats.
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Some art studios may charge a small entry fee
4x4 Jeep Quarry Tour or Marble Cave Tour
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
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2★
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1★
0
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
