Lucca is a city that effortlessly combines medieval charm, Renaissance architecture, and lively local culture—all within its compact, walkable historic center. Its well-preserved city walls, quaint piazzas, and impressive monuments make it an ideal place for a variety of guided tours. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or just want to soak in the ambiance, Lucca offers an engaging variety of experiences. Our favorite? The Lucca: 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour, for its friendly guides and rich narration—perfect to get your bearings in this picturesque city.
If you want to see Lucca from a different perspective, consider the Complete tour of the city and walls, which includes a charming horse ride and panoramic views from the city’s ancient walls. For a cultural twist, the Enjoyable music tour of the historical city of Lucca takes you inside the Teatro del Giglio and the Puccini Museum, celebrating Lucca’s musical heritage. And for those who prefer nighttime strolls, the Guided City by Night Walking Tour shows off the city’s illuminated streets and stories after dark.
Below, we break down each tour in detail to help you choose the best way to experience Lucca.
1. Lucca: 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour
At number 1, this guided walking tour is a fantastic introduction to Lucca’s stately churches, ancient Roman walls, and vibrant piazzas. For only $17 per person, you’ll spend 2 hours walking through the historic core, led by a professional guide. Marta, one of the guides, consistently gets rave reviews for her engaging storytelling and local knowledge—many visitors say she made the city’s stories come alive.
The tour covers the impressive Church of San Michele, which dates back over 1000 years, and includes a walk along the city walls—a highlight that offers stunning views of Lucca’s rooftops. It’s a perfect choice for travelers seeking a manageable, well-organized overview without breaking the bank. Reviewers describe this tour as “informative and entertaining,” emphasizing how guides like Roberta add extra value with anecdotes and personalized insights.
Bottom line: If you want a lively, affordable, and comprehensive intro to Lucca’s main sights, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for first-timers wanting a solid foundation of the city’s highlights.
2. Complete tour of the city and walls
For those eager to see every inch of Lucca, the Complete tour of the city and walls is a standout. Priced at $269.40 per group (up to four people), this 1 hour 45-minute tour takes you on a 360-degree journey through over 2500 years of Lucca’s history. What sets it apart? Riding a charming horse named Luigi—an icon of the city—adds a whimsical, memorable touch.
During this tour, you’ll stop at key sites like Piazza Napoleone, the Cathedral of San Martino, and the Guinigi Tower. The highlight is covering the entire city walls, which takes about 40 minutes and offers panoramic views. The tour also includes a visit to the botanical gardens and Palazzo Pfanner gardens, providing a well-rounded experience.
Guests love the personalized narration and the fun of riding Luigi, with many saying it was “the best way to experience Lucca.” The tour is perfect for travelers wanting in-depth context, plenty of sights, and a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Best suited for small groups or couples wanting an engaging, full-circle exploration with a local touch—and an adorable horse to boot.
3. Enjoyable music tour of the historical city of Lucca
Music lovers will find this Lucca music tour a special treat. For about $34.39, you’ll spend roughly 2 hours exploring the city’s musical roots, including a visit to the Teatro del Giglio—built in 1675—and the Puccini Museum, birthplace of Italy’s beloved composer.
Your guide shares stories of Puccini and other famous Italian musicians, playing clips of their music along the way, which makes history come alive. The tour also visits piazzas where musicians performed centuries ago, and explains Lucca’s contributions to Italy’s rich musical scene. Visitors praise Vittoria’s engaging storytelling and her ability to connect music to the city’s architecture and streets.
Highlights like the interior visit of the Teatro del Giglio, combined with the birthplace museum, make this tour a deep dive into Lucca’s artistic soul. It’s perfect for music buffs or those wanting a more cultural experience.
Bottom line: If you love opera and Italian musical traditions, this tour offers a captivating, small-group experience of Lucca’s soundscape.
4. Lucca: Renaissance City Walls Walking Tour
Number 4 on our list, the Renaissance city walls tour explores one of Lucca’s most distinctive features. For $17 per person, the 2-hour walk offers a chance to stroll along the historic walls, which are remarkably intact and provide spectacular views over the city.
The guide shares insights into the history of these fortifications, built during the Renaissance to defend Lucca. You’ll visit the interior bastions and marvel at the massive brick vaults of the galleries within. Guests often comment on how passionate and informative the guide is about the walls’ past and present utility.
This tour suits travelers interested in architecture and city planning, as well as those wanting a leisurely walk with great photo opportunities. The fact that the tour includes both the walls and interior galleries makes it a well-rounded experience.
Bottom line: If you’re curious about Lucca’s defenses and want a relaxed walk with insightful commentary, this tour is a top pick.
5. Lucca: Walking tour to discover the city of 100 churches
This walk through Lucca’s myriad churches is a 2.5-hour dive into the spiritual architecture of the city. Costing $34.39 per person, it includes entrance and guided visits to the Cathedral of San Martino and the Basilica of San Frediano—two of the city’s most revered religious sites.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore cobbled streets, ancient squares, and severed towers, learning stories about Lucca’s never having been dominated by the Medici. The tour also features a walk along Via Fillungo, Lucca’s main shopping street, with a quick stop for a taste of Buccellato, a local sweet delicacy.
Guests love the combination of history, architecture, and local flavors, with many saying it’s a comprehensive way to get to know the city’s cultural fabric. The inclusion of guided interior visits adds depth to the experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in religious art, architecture, and local cuisine, this tour gives a well-rounded picture of Lucca’s spiritual and social life.
6. Lucca: City Bike One-Day Rental
For cyclists, the one-day bike rental offers the freedom to explore Lucca on your own terms. Priced at $17 per person, the rental includes new bikes, helmets, and locks.
Cycling around Lucca is one of the best ways to cover more ground without fatigue. Pedal along the city walls, enjoying the greenery and fresh air, then weave through narrow streets to see Giacomo Puccini’s hometown. Many guests comment on how easy and enjoyable the ride is, especially on the wide pathways atop the walls.
This option is ideal for active travelers comfortable with cycling, or families wanting a self-guided adventure. The flexibility allows you to stop wherever you like, whether for coffee in a quiet square or to admire a hidden church.
Bottom line: If you prefer exploring at your own pace and love cycling, this rental provides the perfect combination of freedom and convenience.
7. Lucca: walking tour of the city centre and the walls
This small-group walking tour offers a detailed look at Lucca’s main sights, including the piazzas, hidden passages, and offbeat streets. At around $105.54 per person, it’s a slightly more premium experience with personalized attention.
Starting near the train station or your accommodation, you’ll visit Piazza Anfiteatro, explore the Torre Guinigi, and learn about the cathedral of San Martino. The tour emphasizes lesser-known spots, giving a richer, more intimate feel of the city.
Guests appreciate the knowledgeable guide and the chance to discover hidden corners not found on typical tourist routes. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a more curated, in-depth experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a personalized and nuanced understanding of Lucca’s architecture and secrets.
8. Lucca: Guided City by Night Walking Tour
See Lucca in a different light with the Night Walking Tour, priced at $17 per person. This 2-hour stroll introduces you to the city’s illuminated facades, San Frediano, and Amphitheater square.
Your guide shares stories of Lucca’s past darkness and light, revealing hidden alleys and artistic details that are less noticeable during the day. Many reviewers mention how magical the city looks when lit up, adding an almost cinematic quality to the experience.
The tour is perfect for travelers wanting a romantic or atmospheric experience, especially in summer evenings. It’s a relaxed way to see the city’s nighttime ambiance.
Bottom line: If you enjoy history, stories, and beautiful cityscapes after sunset, this tour delivers a memorable evening.
9. Guided Tour of Lucca by E-bike or City bike
This e-bike tour offers an active way to cover Lucca’s highlights. At about $105.74 per person, it provides guided cycling along the city walls and through the historic streets.
It’s perfect for those who want an easy ride with assistance, making it suitable for different fitness levels. The tour includes bike and helmet rental, and touches on key points like the cathedral and medieval towers, all within 2-2.5 hours.
Guests note the passionate guide and the convenience of riding on smooth, wide paths. Some mention the bike condition as a concern, so it’s worth checking if you’re particular about gear.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers who prefer a guided, scenic ride without the hassle of navigating on their own.
10. Lucca: guided visit of S. Martino, S. Frediano, city center
Finally, the guided visit is a 2.5-hour tour focused on Lucca’s top religious sites, like San Martino Cathedral and San Frediano Basilica. Conducted in Italian, it includes tickets and guided visits, making it suitable for travelers comfortable with language barriers.
The guide will point out Santa Zita’s tomb, the funerary monument of Ilaria del Carretto, and introduce you to the bustling Via Fillungo. It’s a deep dive into the city’s sacred architecture and its stories, with a focus on the artistic and spiritual aspects of Lucca.
Guests appreciate the insider hints for local eateries and are drawn to the small group size, which ensures more attention from the guide.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking an authentic, detailed look at Lucca’s religious art and architecture, especially if Italian isn’t a barrier.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lucca Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, pace, and budget. For a quick overview, the Lucca: 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour offers excellent value and covers the essentials. If you prefer active exploration, the City Bike One-Day Rental allows you to see the city on your own schedule.
History enthusiasts might lean toward the Complete tour of the city and walls or the small-group walking tour. For cultural and musical immersion, the Music tour is a top pick.
Night owls or romantic couples may enjoy the City by Night Walk, while those interested in religious art should consider the guided visits to San Martino and San Frediano.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular options like the horse ride or evening tours. Check availability ahead to ensure your preferred times and group sizes.
Final Thoughts
Lucca offers a diverse range of ways to experience its historic streets, walls, and cultural highlights. Whether you want a budget-friendly walk, a scenic bike ride, or a musical journey, there’s an option suited for you. For family groups or couples, the Complete tour of the city and walls delivers a memorable, comprehensive experience, while night explorers will love the City by Night Walk.
If it’s your first trip or if you want to dive deep into Lucca’s architecture and stories, the small-group walking tour offers a very personal touch. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on discovering this enchanting Tuscan town.
Happy exploring—Lucca’s awaiting, and every tour adds another layer to your experience.