From Pisa to Lucca along Puccini cycling path

Starting with just $39 per person, this five-hour self-guided cycling tour offers a unique way to experience some of Tuscany’s most charming sights. Cycling along the Puccini cycling path, you’ll glide from the iconic city of Pisa—famous for its Leaning Tower—across the Serchio river, into the heart of Lucca, a town famed for its medieval walls and towers. The route covers about 50 km in total, with a roughly equal distance going and returning, making it well-suited for those comfortable with moderate cycling and willing to embrace a bit of adventure.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines spectacular natural landscapes—the river’s playful water jumps and lush terraces filled with birdlife—with historic treasures. The view from the city walls of Lucca is especially memorable. Plus, riding through quiet countryside, away from busier tourist spots, offers a genuine sense of Tuscany’s peaceful rural life. The second highlight? The chance to explore Lucca’s timeless streets, with its towers, piazzas, and ancient shops, at your own pace.

A small caveat? Since this is a self-guided experience, you’ll need to be comfortable navigating with a smartphone app and willing to handle your own logistics, such as bike rental (which is included) and optional train travel back to Pisa. For travelers who prefer a guided experience or assistance, this might feel a bit independent. But for those eager for flexibility and a bit of local flavor, it’s perfect.

This tour is ideal for active travelers with a curiosity for history and scenic beauty. It suits those who want an authentic Tuscan adventure without the crowds, and who appreciate well-maintained bikes and clear itineraries. It’s especially good if you enjoy independent exploration but also appreciate the support of a local company.

Key Points

• Scenic route along the Serchio river and through Tuscany’s countryside
• Historic sights including Lucca’s medieval walls, towers, and Roman-era piazzas
• Affordable price of $39 for a 5-hour adventure with bike rental included
• Flexible self-guided format with a smartphone app and optional train return
• Suitable for active travelers comfortable with self-navigation and a moderate cycling distance
• Excellent reviews highlight friendly staff and memorable views

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The Starting Point and Bike Setup

The tour begins at a designated meeting point, where you’ll be greeted by staff from SMILE & RIDE, the company behind this adventure. They provide a sturdy touring bike, which is well-maintained and suitable for the 50 km round trip. The included application with itinerary acts as your personal guide, offering step-by-step directions, local insights, and timing cues. A phone holder is provided, so your device stays secure while you focus on the ride.

The staff’s friendly and accommodating attitude received praise from travelers, with one reviewer noting, “They were friendly and made sure we were prepared for our ride.” This personal touch helps set the tone for a relaxed, confident cycling experience.

Riding Along the Serchio River

From the start, you’ll follow the Puccini cycling path, which gently meanders along the Serchio river. The landscape is a mix of peaceful water meadows, broken riverbeds with lively water jumps, and lush terraces filled with native plants and birds. This stretch is perfect for nature lovers or anyone looking to enjoy Tuscany’s quieter side.

Because this is a self-guided tour, you can set your own pace, pausing to soak in the views or take photos whenever the mood strikes. The tranquillity of this route, away from tourist-heavy spots, is what makes it stand out. One traveler appreciated that they could enjoy “the natural landscape and birdlife,” feeling immersed in Tuscany’s countryside.

Reaching Lucca: Medieval Marvels

After about 25 km, you arrive at Lucca, a city renowned for its medieval walls and towers. The city’s defenses, built in the Renaissance period, are still intact and accessible. Riding along the top of these walls offers breathtaking vistas of the rooftops and city streets below.

Inside, Lucca’s narrow cobblestone streets are a delight to explore. You’ll see the famous Guinigi Tower, with its hanging garden, and the Roman amphitheater’s square, which has been transformed into a lively gathering place. Reviewers mention the enchanting atmosphere of Lucca’s old town, with its shops, cafes, and historic buildings.

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Food, Culture, and Optional Stops

For a gourmet break, Lucca offers local delicacies such as buccellato (a sweet bread), cecina (a chickpea pancake), and Necci (chestnut pancakes). These are perfect for recharging after your ride. While food isn’t included in the tour price, you might find local markets or cafes tucked along Via Fillungo, the main shopping street.

Returning to Pisa: Flexibility and Convenience

After exploring Lucca at your leisure, you have a couple of options to return. You can take the regional train (with your bikes) for an additional fee, saving your legs for the way back. Or, you can choose to cycle the 25 km back along the same route, if you’re feeling energetic. Some travelers appreciated the flexibility, mentioning that staff provided great directions for the return.

Practicalities and Tips

• The tour lasts approximately five hours, so plan accordingly—bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
• Comfortable clothes and a smartphone are essential; the app guides you along the entire route.
• The bike rental and app are included, but food, drinks, and optional train tickets are extras.
• Not suitable for children under 13, given the distance and physical requirements.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of the friendly staff and stunning views. One mentioned, “The bikes worked well and we decided to ride to the beach instead of to Lucca because we were worried about the distance for our children,” implying the route is flexible enough to suit different energy levels.

Another reviewer loved the interaction with the bike shop staff, saying, “They made sure we were prepared,” which adds confidence to the experience. The breathtaking vistas from the city walls and the quiet, natural landscape along the river seem to be the main draws, judging from positive feedback.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This cycling experience is perfect for active travelers who want to see Tuscany beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s especially fitting if you appreciate history, scenic landscapes, and local food. The self-guided format offers a good balance of independence with the security of a well-organized setup, making it suitable for confident cyclists who enjoy a bit of adventure.

Travelers who value authentic experiences over guided tours will enjoy the flexibility to explore Lucca at their own pace, with the added comfort of a reliable bike and clear directions. It’s also a smart choice for families with older children or groups seeking a day outdoors that combines exercise with cultural discovery.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children under 13?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 13 due to the distance and physical demands.

Are the bikes suitable for all levels?
The bikes are touring bikes designed for moderate distances, so they are suitable for most travelers comfortable with cycling.

Can I take the train back to Pisa?
Yes, you can take a regional train carrying your bikes for an extra ticket fee, which some travelers find convenient.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, credit card, comfortable clothes, and a smartphone for navigation.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You can enjoy local specialties in Lucca or bring snacks along.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, including riding, exploring, and optional stops in Lucca.

What if I want a guided experience?
This tour is self-guided, but staff at the start will provide necessary equipment and instructions. For guided tours, you might want to explore other options.

To sum it up, this Pisa-to-Lucca cycling trip along the Puccini path offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and local flavor—all at an affordable price. It’s suited for those who like to set their own pace and see the countryside away from crowds. With comfortable bikes, a clear itinerary, and stunning views, it’s a memorable way to connect with Tuscany’s authentic side—whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a curious traveler eager for an active day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: