Lucca
Food | Wine | ArchitectureLucca Travel Guide: Things to Know Before You Go
We spent the second half of March exploring the food, wine, and architecture in Lucca, Italy. Lucca offers a plethora of gastronomic pleasures, exquisite wines, and remarkable architectural attractions.
The architectural beauty of Lucca is evident in its well-preserved Renaissance walls, which encircle the historic center and offer panoramic views of the city. Visitors can explore medieval towers, elegant palaces, and picturesque piazzas that reflect centuries of history and culture.
The culinary scene in Lucca is renowned for its traditional Tuscan dishes, such as Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak). The Bistecca alla Fiorentina exemplifies the Tuscan approach to cuisine—simple yet flavorful ingredients prepared with skill and care. The region’s vineyards produce world-class wines like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino, perfect for pairing with local delicacies.
Below is a guide to our favorite food, wine, and architecture in Lucca, plus some tips and resources we picked up along the way. We hope this information will inspire you to plan your next trip!
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Lucca Food
The culinary scene in Lucca is celebrated for its rich gastronomic heritage, prominently featuring traditional Tuscan delicacies. Among these renowned dishes is the iconic Bistecca alla Fiorentina, also known as the Florentine steak. This dish is a thick-cut T-bone steak that is grilled to perfection, seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The steak is typically cooked rare to medium-rare and is meant to be shared among diners as a communal meal.
In addition to Bistecca alla Fiorentina, food enthusiasts can explore an array of other Tuscan specialties in Lucca, ranging from hearty soups like ribollita to delicate pastries such as Buccellato di Lucca —a sweet bread filled with raisins and anise seeds that is a beloved dessert in the region.
Visitors to Lucca can indulge in this culinary masterpiece at local trattorias and restaurants that pride themselves on preserving the authenticity of Tuscan cooking traditions.
Lucca Wine
Lucca is located in the Tuscany region which is home to vineyards that yield some of the finest wines globally. Among its renowned wine varieties are Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino, both celebrated for their exceptional quality and distinct flavors.
The marriage of these exquisite wines with local delicacies creates an unforgettable gastronomic experience that embodies the essence of Tuscany’s culinary and winemaking traditions. Visitors to the region can indulge in wine tastings at historic vineyards, immersing themselves in the artistry and passion that goes into producing these world-class wines.
The Tuscany Wine page includes information we’ve gathered about the outstanding wines produced in the region.
Lucca Architecture
Lucca’s architecture is a captivating fusion of various architectural styles and historical periods, showcasing the city’s diverse heritage and storied past. The iconic Renaissance walls that still envelop the old town are a testament to Lucca’s strategic importance and the skilled craftsmanship of that era. The city’s medieval churches and towers, adorned with intricate details and ornate decorations, offer a glimpse into its religious and cultural significance throughout history.
The architectural landscape of Lucca serves as a living museum, preserving the essence of each era it has traversed. The blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque influences creates a unique tapestry that captivates visitors and locals alike. Exploring the streets lined with ancient buildings and charming piazzas allows one to unravel the layers of Lucca’s past, each façade whispering tales of bygone days.
Where Is Lucca Located?
Lucca is in the Tuscany region of Central Italy. The town is on the Serchio River, in a fertile plain near the Ligurian Sea. Lucca is approximately 30 minutes northeast of Pisa and 1 hour west of Florence.
Where Is the Best Place to Stay In Lucca?
Hotels in Lucca
There are many great places to stay in Lucca. For the best experience, we recommend staying near Piazza dell’Anfiteatro (the castle marker on the map below). The area around Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is the most pedestrian-friendly, surrounded by restaurants and historical shops, and the main attractions are nearby.
Here’s a map with hotel and apartment options that can be filtered to meet your needs. Select your travel dates to get specific availability and prices.
Book your stay now!
What Is The Best Time To Visit Lucca?
The best month to visit Lucca depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want the best weather, fewer crowds, or the best value? Following are our suggestions for each.
Weather
The best weather is a personal preference. We find the best weather for exploring a city is around 55° F and sunny. The weather in Lucca during the summer can be very hot, so plan accordingly if you visit in July or August.
Below is a chart showing the average high and low temperatures for each month so you can decide what is best for you.
Shoulder Season
The time of the year with good weather and fewer crowds is often called the shoulder season. The shoulder season in Lucca is April through May and September through October. For many, this is the best time of the year to visit.
We spent the second half of March in Lucca. The weather was cool and occasionally rainy. The city was lively but not terribly overcrowded.
Best Value
March and October are good months to visit Lucca for the best value and with fewer crowds. The weather during these months is cool in Lucca and similar to our preferred temperature for walking most of the day.
Other Things to Know About Lucca
Airport
The nearest airport to Lucca is Pisa (PSA) Airport, which is only 11 miles (18 km) away. Other nearby airports include Florence (FLR), which is 35 miles away (56.1 km), and Bologna (BLQ), which is 62 miles (98.9 km) away.
Train Station
Lucca railway station (Stazione di Lucca), Viale Camillo Benso Cavour, 15, is the main train station in Lucca.
Time Zone
Central European Standard Time (GMT +1)
Currency
Euro €
Language
Italian – Lucca is a city where English is spoken by many in the restaurants and shops.
Visa
Citizens from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia don’t need a visa to visit Italy if they stay 90 days or less. For more information on visa-free travel in Italy, check out our article on traveling visa-free.
Electricity
Italy’s electrical outlets are Type C, F, and L. They have a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Travelers from the United States will need an adapter.
If you have many items to plug in, we recommend a travel power strip with multiple USBs and standard plug-ins. Using a power strip, you will only need one adapter to plug the strip into the wall.
SIM Card
Travelers will want a SIM card for Italy. You can get either a local SIM card or an eSIM card.
To get a local SIM card, you have to find a local cellular service provider, often stand in line for assistance, show your passport, and complete some paperwork. The SIM cards work great, but purchasing them is somewhat inconvenient. This option is best if you need more than 5GB of data.
We use eSIMs exclusively because they can be purchased through an app prior to arrival in a new country and activated when you hit a cell tower in the country. We use Airalo eSIMs. They work great, and I recommend them if you plan to use less than 5 GB of data during your stay or if you need internet immediately on arrival.
Car Rental
The fantastic train system in Italy makes rental cars unnecessary for most destinations. However, rental cars are needed to reach smaller towns and explore the countryside. In addition to the major car rental companies found in the United States, Sixt and Europcar are common throughout Europe. For a comparison of rental car offers from large, international brands and smaller regional brands, we recommend Discover Cars.
FAQs About Lucca
Is Lucca, Italy worth visiting?
Absolutely! Lucca, Italy is definitely worth visiting. This charming city in Tuscany is known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls, historic city center with cobblestone streets, and beautiful architecture. You can rent a bike and ride along the top of the walls for a unique view of the city, visit the stunning Lucca Cathedral, explore the picturesque Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, and relax in the lovely public gardens. Don’t forget to try some delicious local cuisine and soak in the relaxed Italian atmosphere. Lucca offers a wonderful blend of history, culture, and beauty that makes it a must-visit destination in Italy.
What is special about Lucca, Italy?
Lucca, Italy is special for its enchanting blend of history and beauty. The city’s well-preserved Renaissance walls, cobblestone streets, and stunning architecture transport visitors back in time. Lucca offers a unique experience with activities like biking atop the walls for panoramic views, exploring historic landmarks like the Lucca Cathedral, and enjoying the relaxed Italian atmosphere in charming public gardens. Delightful local cuisine adds to the allure of this Tuscan gem, making it a must-visit destination that promises unforgettable memories.
How many days do you need in Lucca?
The number of days you need in Lucca depends on your travel preferences and the activities you want to do. However, typically 2-3 days are recommended to explore the main attractions of Lucca, such as walking or biking along the city walls, visiting historical sites like the Guinigi Tower and Cathedral of St. Martin, strolling through picturesque streets, and enjoying local cuisine. If you wish to delve deeper into the city’s culture and relax at a leisurely pace, you may consider extending your stay for an extra day or two.
Is it better to stay in Lucca or Florence?
Both Lucca and Florence are beautiful cities in Tuscany, Italy, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Choosing between them depends on your preferences and what you are looking to experience during your stay:
Lucca is a charming medieval city known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls that encircle the historic center. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere with picturesque cobblestone streets, lovely piazzas, and peaceful gardens. If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed environment while still having access to historical sites and local culture, Lucca might be the better choice for you.
Florence, on the other hand, is renowned for its rich history, art, and architecture, including iconic landmarks such as the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery. It is a bustling city with vibrant street life, world-class museums, and an abundance of restaurants and shops. If you are interested in immersing yourself in Renaissance art and architecture, exploring famous landmarks, and enjoying a lively urban atmosphere, Florence could be the ideal destination for your visit.
Ultimately, whether it’s better to stay in Lucca or Florence depends on your personal preferences for ambiance, activities, and pace of travel. Both cities offer a wonderful taste of Tuscany’s cultural heritage and hospitality.
Is it better to stay in Pisa or Lucca?
Both Pisa and Lucca are charming cities in Tuscany, Italy, each with its own unique attractions and atmosphere.
Pisa is well-known for its iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, which is part of the Cathedral Square (Piazza dei Miracoli). In addition to the tower, you can explore the beautiful cathedral, baptistery, and cemetery in the square. While Pisa is famous for the tower, it is a relatively small city that can be explored in a day or two.
On the other hand, Lucca is a picturesque walled city known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls that you can walk or bike along. Lucca has a more relaxed and local vibe compared to Pisa. The city offers charming cobblestone streets, historic churches, cozy piazzas, and excellent dining options.
Choosing between staying in Pisa or Lucca depends on your preferences. If you prefer a larger city with iconic landmarks and easy access to transportation hubs, Pisa might be more suitable. However, if you enjoy a quieter atmosphere with a focus on local culture and history, Lucca could be the better choice for your stay. Ultimately, both cities offer unique experiences worth exploring during your visit to Tuscany.
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