How to Craft a Thoughtful Florence to Lucca Day Trip

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Planning a day trip from Florence to Lucca offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty. In this guide, you’ll discover how to get from Florence to Lucca, visit iconic attractions like the city walls, Guinigi Tower, and the Puccini Museum, and enjoy local food in Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.

With a full-day itinerary to guide you, your visit will be seamless, whether you’re biking along the walls or exploring Lucca’s rich history. Let’s dive into the details to make your day trip unforgettable!

How to Get from Florence to Lucca

Train, bus, and driving are the main ways to get from Florence to Lucca, each with its own benefits depending on your travel preferences.

By Train

Regional trains leave Florence Santa Maria Novella Station frequently, taking between 1 hour 20 minutes and 1 hour 40 minutes to reach Lucca. The trains run every 30 minutes to an hour, making it an easy and convenient option.

• Cost: $7 to $11 for a one-way ticket.
• Schedule: 05:10 to 22:25
• Booking Tip: You can book tickets in advance online or purchase them at the station. Just remember to validate your ticket before boarding.
• Advantages: Train travel offers scenic views of the Tuscan countryside, and you avoid the hassle of driving or parking.

By Bus

The bus ride from Florence Santa Maria Novella or Florence Rifredi takes 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes to reach Lucca depending on the traffic. 

Every day, between 2 and 17 buses leave, depending on the day of the week and the company that runs the buses. For example, FlixBus usually runs two trips a day, with the first bus leaving around 7 p.m. and the last one leaving at 11:10 p.m.

• Cost: $6 to $9.
• Booking Tip: It’s best to book in advance to secure a seat and choose a time that works best for your schedule.

By Car

Driving from Florence to Lucca is quick, taking around 55 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on the A11 highway. This option is perfect if you want more flexibility or plan to visit other towns along the way.

• Cost: The toll costs approximately $5 each way.
• Parking: Keep in mind that Lucca’s historic center is pedestrian-only, so you’ll need to park outside the walls in one of the designated parking areas like Parcheggio Mazzini.

Florence to Luca Day Trip Itinerary & Attractions

Lucca is one of the best solo travel destinations in Italy. Once you arrive in Lucca, you’ll find plenty to do. Here are the must-see spots and activities to make your day trip unforgettable.

Time	Activity
8:00 AM	Depart from Florence
9:30 AM	Arrive in Lucca
10:00 – 11.00 AM	Stroll/bike along Lucca’s City Walls
11:00 – 11.30 AM	Visit Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
11.40 AM – 12.20 PM	Climb 233 steps to the top of the Guinigi Tower
12.30 – 1.30 PM	Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch in Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
1.40 – 2.30 PM	Visit Lucca’s stunning cathedral, Duomo di San Martino
2.40 – 3.20 PM	Explore the Romanesque Church of San Michele in Foro
3.30 – 4.20 PM	Explore the life of composer Giacomo Puccini at Puccini Museum
4.30 – 5.30 PM	Wander around the city’s charming streets, grab a gelato, and enjoy
5.45 PM	Depart from Lucca and head towards Florence
7.00 PM	Arrival in Florence

So, there you have it, a look at your possible itinerary for the day trip to Lucca from Florence. Now, let’s see what awaits you on a day trip to Lucca. 

Stroll Along Lucca’s City Walls

Lucca’s Renaissance walls are one of Europe’s few fully intact city walls. These walls, now a public park, are perfect for walking or biking, offering beautiful views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

• Distance: The walls stretch for 2.6 miles around the city, surrounded by trees and greenery.
• Things to Do: You can rent a bike or simply walk along the walls, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning panoramas. The flat, tree-lined paths on the walls are perfect for a family bike ride too. 

Visit Piazza dell’Anfiteatro

This historic square was built on the ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheater, which gives it its distinctive oval shape. Today, Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is a lively square filled with cafes and restaurants.

• What to Expect: It’s a great place to have lunch or a coffee while taking in the vibrant atmosphere. You’ll also enjoy the colorful buildings and the rich history behind the square. Children can run around while parents relax at a nearby cafe.

Climb the Guinigi Tower

One of the most iconic sights in Lucca is the Guinigi Tower, notable for its rooftop garden with ancient oak trees. Climbing this tower rewards you with stunning views of the entire city and the surrounding hills.

• Height: The tower is 148 feet (45 m) tall, with 230 steps to the top.
• What to See: From the rooftop garden, you’ll have a 360-degree view of Lucca and its historic landmarks.

Duomo di San Martino

Lucca’s Duomo di San Martino is a beautiful Romanesque cathedral, renowned for its detailed facade and rich history. Inside, you’ll find the Volto Santo di Lucca, a famous wooden crucifix said to represent Christ as he appeared in life.

• Architectural Highlights: The mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, along with the intricate carvings on the facade, make this cathedral a must-see.

Church of San Michele in Foro

Located in Piazza San Michele, this church sits on the site of the ancient Roman forum in Lucca. Its ornate facade features statues and carvings that make it one of Lucca’s most stunning buildings.

• Must-See: The church houses Filippino Lippi’s Four Saints altarpiece, a beautiful piece of Renaissance art.

Puccini Museum

Lucca is the birthplace of famous composer Giacomo Puccini, and his childhood home has been turned into a museum. The Puccini Museum offers a glimpse into his life, featuring personal items, letters, and memorabilia from his illustrious career.

• Why Visit: Even if you’re not an opera buff, the museum offers a fascinating look at one of Italy’s most famous cultural figures. Though cultural, the museum offers interactive displays that may interest older children.

Dining and Local Cuisine in Lucca

Lucca is a haven for food lovers, offering a variety of traditional Tuscan dishes and charming local eateries. The town is known for its relaxed dining atmosphere, where you can savor local specialties like:

• Tordelli Lucchesi: A delicious meat-filled pasta served with a rich ragù.
• Zuppa di Farro: A hearty soup made with spelt, beans, and vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal.
• Baccalà alla Lucchese: A salt cod dish typical of the region, often served with tomatoes and olives.

For a true Lucchese experience, visit family-run trattorias such as Trattoria Da Giulio, where locals and tourists alike enjoy hearty, authentic meals. If you’re in Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, stop by a café to enjoy a leisurely lunch while people-watching.

Pro Tip: Be sure to finish your meal with a sweet treat, such as buccellato, a traditional sweet bread with raisins and anise, often enjoyed with a glass of local wine. 

Practical Tips for Your Day Trip

To ensure you have the best experience possible on your Florence to Lucca day trip, here are some practical tips to keep in mind.

Hidden Gems to Discover in Lucca

Beyond the well-known attractions, Lucca has some hidden treasures that offer a more intimate experience of the city. You can spend your afternoon leisure time exploring these amazing hidden gems of the city.

• Via Fillungo Side Streets: Venture off the main pedestrian street to find quiet alleyways with charming local shops and cafes.
• Villa Bottini Gardens: A quiet spot for kids to play in a safe, open area.
• Orto Botanico di Lucca: A peaceful botanical garden tucked away from the crowds.
• Torre delle Ore Legends: Ask a local guide to share the eerie legend of the haunted clock tower.
• Cafes in Piazza Cittadella: Home to the Puccini statue, enjoy a coffee away from tourist-heavy areas.

These hidden gems will give your Lucca visit a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path feel.

Best Time to Visit Lucca

Lucca is beautiful year-round, but certain times make the experience even better:

• Spring (April to June): Perfect weather with blooming gardens, fewer crowds, and pleasant temperatures.
• Fall (September to October): Mild weather, beautiful autumn colors, and seasonal events.
• Early Morning or Late Afternoon: Beat the rush by exploring the city’s main attractions when they are less crowded, allowing for peaceful moments at popular sites.

Avoid visiting Lucca in August, as it can get quite hot and crowded, and many locals go on holiday, leaving some shops closed.

Have A Cool Day Trip

A day trip from Florence to Lucca is a fantastic way to experience the charm and history of Tuscany. With its well-preserved walls, stunning towers, and rich cultural heritage, Lucca offers plenty to see and do in just one day. 

Whether you choose to explore by foot, bike, or even climb to the top of a medieval tower, Lucca is sure to leave a lasting impression. Make sure to indulge in the local cuisine and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere before heading back to Florence!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)