Lucca , Italy

Private Historic Walking Tour to Lucca

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About this experience

Step back in time with a walking tour through Lucca’s rich history. Begin at San Colombano Bastion and climb to the city’s impressive Renaissance walls for sweeping views of rooftops and towers. Continue to the 17th-century Napoleon Square and admire the stately Palazzo Ducale. Marvel at the graceful Gothic lines of Lucca Cathedral and trace medieval defenses at Porta San Gervasio. Pass by the mysterious Clock Tower and stroll Via Fillungo, the city’s main medieval street lined with historic shopfronts and lively charm. Conclude your journey at Amphitheater Square, once a Roman arena, now a vibrant hub of markets and cafés—where the past and present of Lucca unfold in every step.

Available options

Private Historic Walking Tour to Lucca

What's included

Official Tour Guide

Private Guided Tour

Detailed itinerary

Begin your journey through Lucca’s layered history at the weathered San Colombano Bastion, one of eleven mighty ramparts that form the city’s iconic walls. Step into its mysterious tunnels and learn about the bastion’s strategic importance in safeguarding the nearby Saint Peter Gate—a key entry point to the city since the 17th century.

Stop 2

Then, climb the staircase hidden within the bastion to reach Lucca’s legendary city walls, among the best preserved and second-largest Renaissance fortifications in Europe. Strolling along the elevated promenade, enjoy sweeping views of terracotta rooftops, hidden gardens, and centuries-old towers, all while reflecting on the battles that once raged outside these very walls.

Your walk continues to the expansive 17th-century Napoleon Square. Dominated by the stately Palazzo Ducale, this square served as the political nucleus of 19th-century Lucca and still radiates noble grandeur today.

Next, admire the quiet majesty of Lucca Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, the town’s patron saint. With its graceful arcades and soft Gothic style, it offers a unique architectural contrast to the more austere cathedrals of Florence, embodying Lucca’s distinctive character.

Continue your route to San Gervasio Gate, one of the four surviving gates from the 13th century. The twin towers still preserve medieval features like battlements and the remains of the original moat, offering a glimpse into medieval military engineering.

Stop 6

As you pass the towering 14th-century Clock Tower—the tallest in Lucca—pause to appreciate its striking timepiece and the folklore attached to it. Legends whisper of a young woman who tried to stop time itself and paid the ultimate price, adding a touch of mystery to this city landmark.

Stop 7

After that, stroll along Via Fillungo, Lucca’s medieval main street, winding through the heart of the old town. Once named after a powerful noble family from Garfagnana, today it bustles with traditional shopfronts, artisan boutiques, and charming façades, a perfect way to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Lucca’s historic center.

Wrap up your journey at the captivating Amphitheater Square, where echoes of the Roman past remain embedded in its elliptical shape. Built atop the ruins of a Roman amphitheater, the lively square is now a haven of open-air markets, cafés, and restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to rest your feet and watch Lucca’s living history unfold before your eyes.

What's not included

Gratuities and Refreshments

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At the Sculpture Obelisco located in Piazzale Giuseppe Verdi, your tour guide shall be waiting with a Signboard.

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