Lucca is a city that rewards exploration. Thanks to its compact historic center, well-preserved walls, and rich cultural tapestry, it’s an ideal place for a variety of guided tours. We particularly love the 2-hour city center walking tour for its engaging storytelling and easy pace, perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a quick yet rundown. Also, the bike and food tasting tour offers a fun, active way to savor local flavors while seeing the sights—great for those who like a bit of exercise with their sightseeing. For lovers of wine, the wine tasting experiences and full-day Tuscan wine tours are perfect for relaxing and learning about regional vintages. This list covers all angles—from cultural walks and bike rides to culinary adventures and wine tastings—so you can pick a tour that matches your style and interests.
1. Lucca: 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour
Enjoy a guided stroll through Lucca’s historic old town with this 2-hour walking tour. It’s a fantastic way to get your bearings and see key monuments like the ancient Roman walls and the Church of San Michele, which has stood for over a thousand years. The guide shares stories and insights about Lucca’s architecture, including its medieval towers and Renaissance buildings. With a guest rating of 4.7/5 from over 1,300 reviews, this tour offers excellent value at just $17 per person. Visitors especially appreciate Marta’s engaging commentary and Roberta’s extra time spent in the cathedral. Perfect for travelers who want a quick, affordable introduction to Lucca’s charms, especially if you’re short on time but crave authentic local stories.
Bottom line: An easy, budget-friendly way to see the highlights with a knowledgeable guide.
2. Lucca: Puccini Festival Opera Recitals and Concerts
For around $34, Puccini Festival opera recitals in Lucca deliver a memorable musical experience. Held in the Church of San Giovanni, the acoustics are superb, and the performances feature talented singers interpreting Puccini’s most beloved arias. This hour-long concert is suitable for all levels, from newcomers to opera aficionados. The reviews highlight the excellent performers and intimate venue, which makes you feel close to the music. Guests note, “It was a lovely evening listening to the most beautiful voices,” and the setting’s historic charm enhances the experience. If you’re looking to enjoy Italy’s musical heritage in a setting that feels both authentic and special, this concert is a good pick.
Bottom line: A perfect evening activity that combines culture, history, and beautiful music.
3. Lucca: Wine Tasting Experience – Tenuta Adamo Winery
A short drive outside Lucca leads you to the Tenuta Adamo Winery, where you can sample local wines and olive oils on a private terrace overlooking rolling hills. This 1.5-hour experience includes a tour of the cellars and vineyards and a tasting session, during which guests rave about the delicious wines and stunning views. The guide shares insights into the region’s winemaking history, making it both educational and relaxing. Visitors appreciate the personalized attention and the opportunity to ask questions directly to the winemaker. It’s ideal for wine lovers or anyone seeking a tranquil escape from sightseeing. Guests report the setting as “incredible” and the wines “outstanding,” making this a top-rated experience for around $23.
Bottom line: A charming, intimate wine tasting in breathtaking surroundings, perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
4. Lucca Bikes and Bites with food tastings for Small Groups or Private
This bike and food tour is a lively way to explore Lucca. Over about three hours, you’ll cycle along the city walls and through historic neighborhoods, stopping at charming spots to savor regional delicacies like wine, cured meats, and gelato. The guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and the small-group or private options ensure a personalized experience. Guests love riding on the bike-friendly streets and exploring hidden corners they might miss on foot. The highlight is stopping for tastings in authentic locales where locals love to eat. The tour is especially great for active travelers who want food, culture, and a bit of exercise.
Bottom line: An engaging way to combine sightseeing, local flavors, and physical activity, making it ideal for foodies and cycling fans alike.
5. Lucca: Guided Winery Tour with Wine Tasting
For about $28, this guided winery tour at Tenuta Adamo offers a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at local wine production. The 1.5-hour experience includes a walk through vineyards and cellars, ending with a wine and olive oil tasting on a panoramic terrace. The guide emphasizes the centuries-old tradition of winemaking in the region, with guests commenting on the warm, welcoming atmosphere and delicious wines. Visitors also appreciate the opportunity to chat with the staff and learn about the local varietals. The tour is ideal for those who want a balanced combination of education and tasting in a quaint setting.
Bottom line: A value-packed, informative tasting experience suited for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers.
6. Tuscan Wine Tour in Lucca by van
For a full day of wine exploration, the Tuscan Wine Tour in Lucca is perfect. With pickup and all-day transportation, you visit two boutique wineries and enjoy a light lunch amid scenic countryside. The tour’s highlights include meeting winemakers and sampling organic wines at a certified organic cellar. Guests rave about the personalized service and informative guides who share insights about Tuscan wine production. The leisurely pace and authentic settings make this an excellent choice for wine lovers seeking a comprehensive, stress-free experience. It’s a longer, more immersive option, ideal if your schedule allows.
Bottom line: An all-inclusive, expert-led immersion into Tuscany’s wine culture, ideal for dedicated oenophiles.
7. Flavours of Lucca, Art, History, Food for Small Groups or Private
This food-focused tour combines cultural sights and culinary delights in a 2.5-hour stroll. Starting at the city walls, it includes tastings of local cakes, wines, and cured meats, plus insights into Lucca’s history and architecture. Guests love the personal touch and the relaxed pace that allows plenty of time to enjoy each bite and story. The tour’s small-group format ensures an intimate experience, making it ideal for foodies or first-timers who want to combine sightseeing and tasting.
Bottom line: A well-balanced, tasty introduction to Lucca’s art, history, and culinary scene.
8. Cinque Terre Tour Small Group Tour from Lucca
This small-group Cinque Terre day trip is a full-day outing to five colorful villages along the Ligurian coast. Traveling by minivan, train, and boat, you’ll visit at least three villages—including Vernazza and Manarola—enjoying spectacular views and photo ops. The tour emphasizes personalized service in a small group, with reviews noting it as “beyond fantastic” and “very enjoyable,” despite some desires for more time in each village. It’s ideal for those wanting to see Italy’s most iconic coastlines in one day.
Bottom line: An immersive, scenic journey perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive Cinque Terre experience with a guide.
9. Lucca: Taste Tuscany on a Full Meal Food Tour by Do Eat Better
This full-meal food tour showcases Lucca’s culinary highlights over about three hours. You’ll sample everything from pasta and street food to artisan chocolates, all while strolling the main sights like Piazza Napoleone and Piazza Anfiteatro. Guides share insights into local food traditions and the city’s best eateries, making this a favorite for food lovers. Guests praise the delicious tastings and friendly guide, with some mentioning that it’s a great way to get your bearings in the city. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, flavorful introduction to Lucca’s cuisine.
Bottom line: An engaging, comprehensive food walk that combines cultural insight with tasty bites.
10. Discover Lucca’s Secrets on a Guided Walking Tour
For travelers who want to go beyond the obvious, this guided walking tour reveals hidden corners and lesser-known stories of Lucca. It covers Roman relics, medieval towers, and famous sites like the Cathedral of San Martino, with a focus on local legends and fun anecdotes. The 2-hour experience is rated 4.5/5, and reviews mention the guide’s knowledgeable narration and enjoyable pace. It’s perfect for those who already know the city or want to add some secret sights to their visit.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, insider’s look at Lucca’s lesser-known stories and spots.
11. Guided E-Bike Tour with Wine Tasting from Lucca
Combine light exercise with wine tasting on this e-bike tour. Over 3 to 4 hours, you’ll ride around Lucca’s city walls and countryside, with your e-bike making hills manageable. The tour ends at a local winery, where you enjoy wine, olive oil, and local nibbles. Reviewers love Luca’s warm, engaging style and the beautiful scenery. The small group of 10 ensures personalized attention, and the e-bikes are praised for their ease of use. Whether you’re a cyclist or just looking for a different way to see Tuscany, this tour offers a relaxed, active experience.
Bottom line: An excellent combo of cycling and wine tasting, suited for active travelers.
12. Carriage Tour in the Historic Center of Lucca
See Lucca in a charming, old-fashioned way with this carriage ride. Lasting about 30 to 35 minutes, it’s a relaxed tour of main squares, churches, and notable landmarks like the Torre Guinigi and Roman-era square. Guides share humorous stories and local insights, making it a delightful way to learn and relax. Guests love the personalized service and the unique experience of touring with a horse and carriage. It’s especially suited for families or travelers who want a more leisurely, picturesque overview of Lucca’s center.
Bottom line: A charming, laid-back way to see Lucca’s highlights in style.
13. Your Lucca Walking Tour English OR Italian
This customizable walking tour is ideal for those who want a flexible schedule. Available in both English and Italian, it covers major sights like Piazza San Michele, San Frediano, and the Gothic cathedral. The 2-hour tour is rated 5/5, and reviews mention the knowledgeable guides and well-paced itinerary. Children under 12 can join for free, making it family-friendly. The tour is perfect if you prefer to tailor the experience or only have limited time but want to see the best of Lucca.
Bottom line: A flexible, family-friendly overview with tailored storytelling options.
14. Tasting in a Tuscan Vineyard with transfer from Lucca
A flexible, private experience, vineyard tasting with transfer takes you out of town to taste local wines and cheeses in the Tuscan hills. The tour includes pickup, a vineyard walk, and a tasting session with owner-guided insights. Guests enjoy the personalized service and the chance to explore Tuscany’s countryside privately. This is perfect for travelers seeking a customizable, intimate experience with time to relax and enjoy. Reviewers mention the “beautiful vineyard” and “authentic experience” as highlights. It’s an excellent choice if you want to combine luxury, flexibility, and wine.
Bottom line: A tailored, pampering wine day that’s ideal for couples or small groups.
15. The Best of Cinque Terre Small Group Tour from Lucca
For a full-day exploration, this Cinque Terre tour is the ultimate way to visit three of Italy’s most iconic villages. Traveling with a small group, you visit Manarola, Vernazza, and Monterosso, moving between them by bus, boat, and train. The tour includes free time for swimming, shopping, and dining, and reviewers praise the scenic boat rides and informative guides. It’s ideal for those who want an immersive coast experience and are okay with a long day.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, scenic adventure perfect for lovers of seaside villages and hassle-free logistics.
How to Choose Your Ideal Lucca Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and your schedule. If you’re short on time but want a solid overview, the 2-hour walking tour offers outstanding value. For active travelers craving a blend of sightseeing and local flavor, the bike and bites is a lively option. Wine lovers should consider the day-long Tuscan wine trip or the vineyard tasting with transfer, especially if they want a more personalized experience. For a family-friendly or leisurely approach, the carriage ride or guided secrets tour can add a charming touch. And if the coast beckons, the Cinque Terre provides a full-day of unforgettable seaside scenery.
When booking, consider the tour length, your fitness level, and whether you prefer active exploration or relaxed tasting sessions. Always check availability especially in peak season, and book early to secure your spot.
Lucca offers a diverse array of tours designed to suit different interests—from cultural walks and cycling adventures to wine tastings and culinary explorations. For a first visit, a combination of the city center walking tour and a food tasting tour can give you a well-rounded experience. For those with more time or passion for wine, the full-day Tuscan wine tour or a private vineyard tasting might be just the ticket. Whatever your style, these carefully curated options ensure you’ll make the most of your time in this charming Italian city. Book early—these experiences fill up fast, especially during peak season!