Lucca is a fantastic place to explore through food because its compact, walkable center is full of family-owned eateries, charming piazzas, and centuries-old walls. What makes Lucca special for food tours isn’t just the delicious cuisine but the authentic, often quiet corners that most visitors miss. Among these options, we love the Lucca Bikes and Bites tour for its active, fun approach and the chance to see the city from a bike, stopping for regional treats along the way. It’s perfect if you want to combine sightseeing, local eats, and some exercise, all with a friendly guide. Alternatively, the Flavours of Lucca walking tour offers a deep dive into the city’s history and culinary traditions in a more relaxed, intimate setting. For those wanting a leisurely evening, the Lucca Aperitivo evening walk blends city sights with good wine and snacks, ideal for winding down after a day of exploring.
Lucca’s food scene is as charming as its streets, with tours that suit different interests—whether active, cultural, or simply indulgent. Check out the options below to find the one that fits your style and schedule, and be sure to book early, especially in high season.
1. Lucca Bikes and Bites with food tastings for Small Groups or Private
At number one, the Lucca Bikes and Bites tour stands out for its combination of active exploration and authentic food sampling. This half-day bike tour is perfect if you like to see a city while working up an appetite—it’s rated 5.0/5 with over 200 reviews, which speaks to its popularity and quality. For around $103, you get approximately three hours of cycling through Lucca’s historic streets, city walls, and secret passages, all while stopping at local favorites for tasting regional specialties like cured meats, cheese, gelato, and wine.
What makes this tour unique is that it offers both small-group and private options, giving you flexibility to customize your experience. The ride begins at Lucca’s train station and passes along the Le Mura di Lucca, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city and countryside, plus insights into the fortifications’ history. Along the way, you’ll visit San Michele in Foro and other landmarks, learning about Lucca’s past from your guide. The food stops are thoughtfully timed, with guests praising the gelato and wine tastings, and the fun, casual vibe makes it ideal for families or solo travelers. The bikes are easy to ride, even for kids, and the scenic route offers a refreshing way to combine sightseeing with delicious bites.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a lively, active way to experience Lucca’s sights and flavors—great for those who want a mix of movement, history, and local food in a friendly setting.
2. Flavours of Lucca, Art, History, Food for Small Groups or Private
At number two, the Flavours of Lucca walking tour delivers a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary delights in about two and a half hours. For just $87, this intimate experience is capped at 12 people, making it perfect for travelers seeking personal attention and authentic insights. The tour kicks off from the train station and ascends the Mura di Lucca, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views and hear stories about the city’s past defenses.
What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on local eateries that aren’t in guidebooks. You’ll sample a classic Lucca breakfast of pastry and espresso, then walk through the narrow streets to visit beloved bakeries and cafes. Highlights include tasting Buccellato (a sweet bread), exploring Piazza Anfiteatro, and discovering lesser-known corners of the city. The guide shares stories about Lucca’s art, architecture, and culinary traditions, making it a great choice for first-time visitors who want to understand the city’s soul. Several guests have called it a perfect introduction, especially appreciating the small group size and the delicious food.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a friendly, comprehensive introduction to Lucca’s food and history, with enough time to ask questions and enjoy local flavors in relaxed settings.
3. Lucca: Taste Tuscany on a Full Meal Food Tour by Do Eat Better
Third on our list, the Lucca: Taste Tuscany tour emphasizes full meal experiences that introduce you to the city’s culinary scene through multiple tastings in about three hours. For $105, this tour takes you through Lucca’s old town with a focus on traditional and modern dishes. From the historic Piazza Napoleone to Piazza Anfiteatro, you’ll sample local favorites like pasta, charcuterie, wine, chocolate, and desserts.
This tour is distinctive because it combines sightseeing with culinary storytelling, explaining the cultural significance of each dish. You’ll visit several carefully chosen stops—an elegant piazza, historic churches, and lively streets—where you’ll taste Lucca’s iconic Buccellato as well as regional specialties. The guide shares insights into Lucca’s food culture, making the experience both educational and satisfying. Guests note the generous tastings and the relaxed pace as a highlight, especially those who want a comprehensive dining experience rather than just snacks. The price reflects the variety of food, and the walking is manageable for most travelers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers eager to sample a wide range of dishes in a relaxed, informative setting that highlights Lucca’s culinary traditions.
4. Lucca Aperitivo evening walk with food and wine for Small Groups
Fourth, the Lucca Aperitivo Evening Walk offers a relaxed, sociable way to end your day. For about $139, you’ll spend roughly two and a half hours strolling around the city’s historic streets, stopping at a local bar to enjoy wine, snacks, and good conversation. This evening tour is ideal if you’re interested in experiencing Lucca’s nightlife and local bar culture. It starts with a walk along the Mura di Lucca, then moves to the Duomo di San Martino and the charming Napoleon Square, learning about the city’s stories along the way.
The highlight is the visit to a bar loved by locals, where you’ll enjoy classic aperitivo—a tradition of having small bites paired with wine or spritz. The small group size (maximum 12) ensures a friendly, conversational atmosphere. Several reviewers mention how engaging the guide is and how the combination of walking, storytelling, and tasting creates a memorable experience. The focus on local customs makes this a great choice for couples or anyone wanting a laid-back, cultural evening.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a perfect relaxed, social way to taste Lucca’s evening scene, with plenty of opportunities to chat with fellow travelers and enjoy good wine and snacks.
5. 2Italia Lucca Food Tour
Last but not least, the 2Italia Lucca Food Tour provides a comprehensive, immersive experience lasting about three and a half hours for $109. This walking tour takes you through hidden streets and family-run eateries, sampling Tuscan pasta, cured meats, cheeses, and sweets. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a fuller picture of Lucca’s culinary scene, with visits to local shops not typically found in guidebooks.
The guide, Paola, is praised for her deep knowledge and friendly manner, making each stop informative and enjoyable. The tour includes tasting regional specialties and learning about their history. Guests mention the variety of food—ranging from local cheeses and cured meats to freshly baked bread—plus the opportunity to get tips for the rest of their stay. The pace is relaxed, and the food is described as delicious, making it a great value for a full afternoon of experiences. It’s ideal for foodies who want a detailed, authentic taste of Lucca’s culinary landscape.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, in-depth food adventure with a focus on local ingredients and family-owned eateries.
How to Choose
When deciding which Lucca food tour suits you best, consider your interests and schedule. Want a fun, active experience? Opt for the Bike and Bites tour. For a more intimate, cultural introduction, the Flavours of Lucca walking tour offers a relaxed pace. If you prefer an evening social experience with wine and local stories, the Aperitivo walk is ideal. Love to sample a wide variety of foods and explore hidden shops? Then the 2Italia Lucca Food Tour is your pick.
Budget-wise, the walking tours are generally more affordable, while the bike tour offers a unique combination of activity and taste. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot. Check each tour’s details for any specific requirements, such as fitness levels or seasonal availability.
Final Thoughts
Lucca offers a range of excellent food tours that highlight its culinary richness and easy-to-navigate city layout. Whether you’re interested in a scenic bike ride, a small-group walk, or a relaxing evening aperitivo, there’s an experience that fits your style. Top picks like the Lucca Bikes and Bites tour stand out for combining sightseeing with local flavors, while options like the Flavours of Lucca provide a deeper dive into art and history intertwined with food. For a leisurely, sociable evening, the Aperitivo walk hits the spot.
No matter your choice, booking in advance is wise, especially during high season. These tours offer a fantastic way to enjoy Lucca beyond just wandering its streets—by tasting it, learning about it, and experiencing it like a local. Happy eating!