If you’re in Versilia and looking to explore a historic city, spending a day in Lucca is an experience that won’t disappoint. From the very beginning, you’ll be transported to a timeless atmosphere, and this little gem will surprise you with its well-preserved charm, its numerous churches (legend has it there are 99!) and the kindness of its residents.
During my day in Lucca, I followed an itinerary that allowed me to visit Lucca in one day, discovering the city’s main attractions. After exiting the highway (Lucca Est), I headed towards the city center and was immediately greeted by the majestic Renaissance walls that perfectly encircle the city. Standing 12 meters high and stretching for 4.5 kilometers, these walls are a must-see. I decided to take a walk along the walls, but you can also rent a bike and ride along the entire length.
Visit Lucca in one day
I parked at the Palatucci parking lot (but there are also other parking options both inside and outside the walls) and entered the city through Porta San Donato. Once inside, I climbed the walls and, after about 800 meters, descended at Rampa San Frediano. From there, I passed through Piazza del Collegio and Via San Frediano, heading towards the Basilica of San Frediano, an impressive church from the 1100s, famous for the stunning golden mosaic on its façade.
The Basilica overlooks Via Fillungo, the city’s main shopping and artisan street. Walking along Via Fillungo, I admired the workshops selling traditional Lucchese products like fabrics, leather, paper, and more. I also made a stop at Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a unique square built on the remains of a 2nd-century Roman amphitheater, retaining its characteristic elliptical shape.
If you’re up for exploring a less touristy area, I recommend heading to Via del Fosso, where you can see the different levels of the walls. Here, you’ll notice how the city expanded over time, with medieval sections of the original walls still visible. Nearby, you’ll also find the Church and Complex of San Francesco, which are worth a visit if you feel like walking a bit further.
From Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, I visited the Guinigi Tower and the Torre delle Ore, both of which are accessible and offer breathtaking views over the city. After exploring the Guinigi Tower, with its small rooftop garden, I continued towards the Torre delle Ore, which, at 50 meters high, is the tallest tower in Lucca.
My tour then took me to the Church of San Michele, located in what was once the Roman forum. It’s a true architectural masterpiece, as is the Cathedral of San Martino, located a short distance away. At the Cathedral, I admired both the exterior and interior, which house treasures like the tomb of Ilaria del Carretto, paintings by Ghirlandaio, Tintoretto, and the famous wooden crucifix known as the Volto Santo, a revered relic of the city.
Visit Lucca in one day
If you’re planning to visit Lucca in one day, don’t miss the Puccini Birthplace Museum and Palazzo Mansi, where you can explore collections of textiles and paintings that tell the story of Lucca’s rich history.
Finally, if you choose to visit Lucca in one day, remember two key events: the Lucca Summer Festival in July, and the Lucca Comics and Games festival in November. I’m sure that your day in Lucca will be an unforgettable experience, immersed in a fascinating atmosphere rich in history and culture.
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