Florence to Lucca day trip: the complete guide

So you’re planning your dream Tuscan vacation and are staying in Florence. Why not save some time for a Florence to Lucca day trip?

During our month spent in Tuscany, we found ourselves returning to this magical walled town. We loved it so much that we chose it as our home and moved here in 2025.

What’s there not to love about Lucca? You get an authentic Tuscan city without the crowds of Florence or Siena. Moreover, the city gets busy during the peak season, but not so much that you cannot walk around.

On the other hand, the town’s history stretches back to the Etruscans, but it really came into its own during Roman times. You can still see the ancient street grid and bits of the old amphitheater tucked into the city’s layout.

In the Middle Ages, Lucca became a powerful and wealthy city-state, thanks to its thriving silk trade and prime spot along the pilgrimage route to Rome.

Unlike many neighboring cities, it managed to stay independent for centuries, and its massive Renaissance walls – still perfectly intact – are a proud reminder of that legacy.

These are only a few reasons you should consider spending at least one day in Lucca.

This post contains affiliate links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you. Read more about this on our disclosure page here.

Table of Contents

Florence to Lucca day trip: the complete guide

How to get from Florence to Lucca

Florence to Lucca by train

This is the easiest and most comfortable way of getting from Florence to Lucca.

Of course, you must consider the various strikes that are always going on in Italy. And the fact that most of the time (but not always) trains run late.

During the week, there is a train from Florence to Lucca almost every hour. Since this is a regional train, you don’t need to book your ticket in advance. Just check the timetables on Trenitalia.it

The only thing you should remember to do is stamp the ticket before getting on board. The above machines are at the train station.

Florence to Lucca by car

Because we were traveling with a small toddler, we visited Tuscany by car. Getting from Florence to Lucca by car is easy on the A11 highway. It takes around 1 hour, depending on the traffic and your departure point in Florence.

However, as we discussed here, driving around Florence is challenging. But if you still want to rent a car, we always recommend Discover Cars. That’s an aggregator that allowed us to find great prices for rentals in the past.

Additionally, if you drive here, these are our parking recommendations:

Parcheggio Palatucci – it is outside of the walls but only a few minutes away from the city center. Prices are decent and you can pay by EasyPark.

Area di parcheggio Gratuita – free parking a few steps away from the above option and the city walls.

Parcheggio Via dei Bacchettoni – between the city walls, this parking offers easy access to the city center. You must pay but can do so via EasyPark.

What to do and see on a Florence to Lucca day trip

Ok, you’re here! Now what?

Lucca is a very walkable city, and its old town is not very big. Thus, it is easy to visit its main attractions in a day.

However, because Lucca is close to many stunning places (including the sea), I will include all the places we love going to around Lucca. That’s just in case you decide to stay longer.

So, let’s start our Lucca itinerary.

Museo Nazionale di Villa Guinigi

If you parked in Via dei Bacchettoni, walk to the Museo Nazionale di Villa Guinigi.

If you’re into art or history or just love stepping into a space that feels like a quiet treasure chest, this museum in Lucca is absolutely worth a stop.

Housed in a 15th-century villa built by Paolo Guinigi (Lucca’s once-powerful ruler), the museum is packed with centuries of Tuscan art – from ancient Roman pieces to medieval religious works to Renaissance masterpieces.

It’s not overwhelming or packed like bigger city museums, so you actually get to take your time, breathe, and soak it all in.

Plus, the building itself is a vibe – arched windows, terracotta details, and that old-world charm you just can’t fake.

Chiesa di San Francesco

Across the street from the museum, you’ll find the Chiesa di San Francesco.

The church is a captivating blend of history, architecture, and art that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s rich past.

Established by Franciscan friars around 1228, the church was completed in the early 15th century, shortly after Saint Francis’s canonization.

Its simple yet elegant single-nave design reflects the humble principles of the Franciscan order.

Inside, visitors can admire medieval frescoes and notable tombs, including those of renowned composer Luigi Boccherini and esteemed historian Giovanni Sercambi.

The church’s deconsecrated status allows it to host concerts and cultural events, making it a vibrant part of Lucca’s contemporary scene.

And we love strolling inside its beautiful gardens.

Villa Bottini

A 16th-century architectural gem that has significantly influenced the design of many subsequent villas in the region.

Initially constructed by the prominent Buonvisi family, its elegant rectangular layout and harmonious proportions exemplify Renaissance aesthetics.

In the early 19th century, the villa was acquired by Elisa Bonaparte, Napoleon’s sister, who enriched its interiors with neoclassical decorations, adding to its historical allure.

Today, Villa Bottini is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting exhibitions, concerts, and events within its picturesque gardens.

Coffee with a cake at Caffè Santa Zita – Biscotteria In Lucca

I’m sure you will want to stop for a coffee in the Amphitheater Piazza. But trust me when I say you will find the best cakes in town at the Caffè Santa Zita – Biscotteria In Lucca.

Basilica di San Frediano

Across the street from the cafe, the church is a must-visit for its rich history, remarkable architecture, and unique artistic features. Founded in the 6th century by Saint Fridianus, an Irish bishop of Lucca, the church is one of the city’s oldest places of worship.

Its stunning 13th-century mosaic on the façade, depicting Christ the Redeemer ascending to heaven, is an extremely rare ornamentation in Romanesque architecture.

Inside, you can admire the monumental Romanesque baptismal font adorned with intricate carvings and the mummified body of Santa Zita, Lucca’s beloved patron saint of domestic workers, displayed in a glass reliquary.

Piazza dell’Anfiteatro

A captivating public square, it seamlessly blends ancient history with vibrant modern life.

Constructed atop the remains of a 2nd-century Roman amphitheater, the square’s elliptical shape mirrors the original arena’s design.

Over the centuries, the surrounding medieval buildings have been thoughtfully integrated into the piazza’s structure, preserving its unique form.

Today, this lively space is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it an ideal spot to relax, dine, and people-watch.

It is also one of the most tourist places in the city.

Palazzo Pfanner

A 17th-century palace renowned for its stunning Baroque garden and rich history. Originally commissioned by the Moriconi family, silk merchants who faced financial ruin, the palace was sold to the Controni family in 1680.

They expanded the building, adding a monumental staircase, and transformed the garden, possibly with the involvement of architect Filippo Juvarra.

In the 19th century, the Pfanner family acquired the palace, introducing a brewery that became a popular gathering spot until its closure in 1929.

Today, you can explore the beautifully preserved garden, which features statues of Greek gods, a lemon house, and an ornamental pond.

The interior boasts frescoed salons and a collection of medical instruments once belonging to Pietro Pfanner, a notable surgeon and philanthropist.

Domus Romana Lucca

The Domus Romana in Lucca is a captivating archaeological site that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s ancient past.

Discovered in 2010 during renovations in the historic center, this site showcases the evolution of construction techniques over more than 2,000 years, with visible structures from the Roman, Lombard, medieval, and Renaissance periods.

A highlight of the Domus is the terracotta frieze depicting two putti-riding dolphins, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil. This frieze dates back to 56 B.C., a significant year when Lucca hosted the First Triumvirate, including Julius Caesar.

Stop here if you have time and are passionate about Ancient Rome!

Shop on Via Fillungo

Via Fillungo is the main shopping street in Lucca. Here, you can find local products to take home as souvenirs.

Piazza San Michele & San Michele a Foro Church

Or “the main piazza in Lucca,” this is the place we love to go for a drink or a gelato.

Constructed over the site of the ancient Roman forum, this church stands as a testament to the city’s rich historical tapestry. Documented since 795 AD, it has undergone various transformations, with significant enhancements initiated around 1070 under Pope Alexander II.

Architecturally, the church is a masterpiece of Romanesque design, heavily influenced by the Pisa school. Its façade is adorned with multiple tiers of loggias and intricate sculptures, culminating in a striking statue of the Archangel Michael triumphing over a dragon.

A local legend suggests that under certain lighting conditions, this statue emits a green gleam, believed to be a hidden emerald.

Around the piazza you will find plenty of restaurants and bars. We often come here for aperitivo, a gelato, or a coffee with cornetto.

Piazzetta del Libro

This is a hidden gem any book lover should visit. Right next to it, there is a famous bakery (Pinelli Bakery) where you can enjoy a coffee with your new book.

Guinigi Tower

One of Lucca’s most distinctive landmarks, the tower offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and panoramic views.

Built in the late 14th century by the affluent Guinigi family, this 45-meter-tall tower stands out for its rooftop garden adorned with ancient holm oak trees – a symbol of rebirth and a testament to the family’s prominence.

Climbing the 230 steps to the top rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Lucca’s charming rooftops and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.

Lucca City Walls

Rent a bike or walk around the city walls. That’s how you can enjoy the best views over the old town.

Originally built in the 16th and 17th centuries for defense, the walls were never actually used in battle, which means they’ve stayed beautifully intact.

Today, they’re the perfect place for a leisurely walk or bike ride under the trees, with sweeping views over Lucca’s red rooftops on one side and the rolling Tuscan countryside on the other.

Where to eat in Lucca

When we first visited Lucca we often went to eat in the popular Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. However, we now know that’s a tourist magnet, thus the local places are hidden inside of the old town.

Here are a few of our favorite spots:

Dante & Gentucca – slices of pizza, located on the main shopping street.

Pizzeria da Felice – another great pizza place

Forno a vapore Amedeo Giusti – a place packed with history and some of the best focaccia and schiacciata in Lucca

La Dogana Lucca – great for morning snaks and aperitivo

Pasticceria Buralli – amazing cakes

Antica Osteria

Other things worth seeing around Lucca

If you decide to stay longer in Lucca, these are a few of the things worth doing and seeing around the city.

Because of its perfect location, you will be close to the sea, mountains, and other important Italian attractions.

But here are only a few of our favorite places around Lucca:

Villas

In the hills around Lucca there are so many stunning villas with tranquil lush gardens. We love exploring them and here are a few of our favorite ones:

Villa Torrigiani

Villa Reale di Marlia

Grabau Villa

If you only have time to see one, go to Villa Reale di Marlia. They have a cafe in the garden where you can enjoy the peace and quiet to the Tuscan countryside.

Go on a wine tasting tour

We are in Tuscany so every region has its amazing topical wine and olive oil. The good part about going on a wine tasting from Lucca and not Florence is that you will get more privacy.

Here are a few of our favorite tours and vineyards around Lucca:

Private wine tour on the magical hills of Lucca

Guided Winery Tour with Wine Tasting at Tenuta Adamo

Azienda Agricola Cantina Giannecchini

Azienda agricola Valle del Sole

Cantina Biagiotti

Fattoria Le Luci

Montecarlo

This is a very small town 20 minutes outside of Lucca.

It is the kind of charming hilltop village that feels like it belongs in a storybook – but with excellent wine.

Perched between Lucca and the Valdinievole, it’s known for its medieval walls, cozy cobblestone streets, and stunning views over vineyards and olive groves.

Wine lovers should absolutely stop by – Montecarlo is famous for its crisp white wines and has plenty of small, family-run wineries where you can sip right where the grapes grow.

Viareggio

Our favorite sea side getaway from Lucca. You can get there in 20 minutes by train.

This seaside town is best known for its wide, sandy beaches and long promenade lined with pastel-colored buildings, boutiques, gelato stands, and seafood spots perfect for a lazy lunch.

In summer, it’s a go-to for sunbathing and dipping your toes in the Ligurian Sea. But it’s also famous for one of Italy’s most over-the-top carnivals, complete with giant papier-mâché floats and parades.

Vinci

Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace is 40 minutes away from Lucca. We love this place so much that we wrote an entire article about why you should visit.

Other options for day trips from Lucca

Forte dei Marmi – one of the most luxurious sea side resorts

Cinque Terre – you can be in La Spezia in 1 hour and hop on the Cinque Terre express

Pisa – only 25 minutes by train

San Gimignano – a little over one hour by car

Volterra

Where to stay in Lucca

If you decide to stay longer or at least spend the night, here are our favorite accommodation options for Lucca:

Grand Universe Lucca, Autograph Collection

Overlooking Piazza del Giglio and Piazza Napoleone, the hotel provides guests with stunning views of the city’s landmarks, including the Cathedral of San Martino.

The property features elegantly appointed rooms and suites, a rooftop bar serving champagne under the stars, and a cozy wine cellar for private dining.

See availability and prices here!

Dimora Leone

A luxurious apartment nestled in the heart of Lucca’s historic center, offering an authentic Tuscan experience.

This spacious residence spans over 200 square meters and is adorned with original 18th-century frescoes and antique furnishings, reflecting the elegance of Lucca’s aristocratic heritage.

The apartment features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a grand living area, providing ample comfort for guests.

See availability and prices here!

Tenuta di Tramonte Boutique Hotel

I fell in love with this place as soon as I saw it. And sometimes I still cannot believe I live minutes away from it, in such a tranquil area.

This boutique hotel has gorgeous rooms and is set in a dreamy location. Even though you won’t be in Lucca, you have great train connection to the city.

See availability and prices here!

Hotel Villa San Michele

A charming 4-star retreat nestled in the serene Tuscan countryside, just a short drive from Lucca’s historic center.

Set within a beautifully restored 15th-century villa, the hotel seamlessly blends historical elegance with modern comforts.

The property boasts a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, lush gardens, and an on-site restaurant serving delectable local cuisine.

See availability and prices here!

PIN FOR LATER!

Florence to Lucca day trip: the complete guide