Top reasons to visit Lucca
- Enchanting Historic Centre: Wander through Lucca's cobbled streets, discovering picturesque squares and stunning architecture.
- Lucca Cathedral: Explore this magnificent cathedral, known for its remarkable artwork and historical significance.
- Historic City Walls: Stroll or cycle along the well-preserved walls, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
- Lucca Summer Festival: Experience vibrant performances and cultural events during this popular annual festival.
- Charming Accommodation: Enjoy a variety of delightful lodgings, from agritourism to cosy bed and breakfasts, catering to all travellers.
Find great hotels near Lucca
Discover the charm of Lucca with a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller's needs. From delightful agritourism properties to cosy bed and breakfasts, you’ll find the perfect base for your Tuscan adventure. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly hotels, family-friendly stays, or facilities for business travel, Lucca offers a range of hotels and lodgings to ensure a memorable vacation experience.
- Grand Hotel Bonanno: Experience a delightful blend of adventure and family-friendly amenities at the 4-star Grand Hotel Bonanno, located a mere 16km from Lucca. With a solid guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this hotel is an excellent choice for those seeking a dynamic vacation. Notable for its proximity to various adventure sports, guests can indulge in activities such as horse riding, hiking, and scooter rentals nearby. The hotel also caters to younger visitors with child-friendly amenities, including cribs and first aid kits, ensuring a comfortable stay for families.
- Hotel Bologna: Situated in the heart of the city, Hotel Bologna is a 4-star establishment that boasts a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. Ideal for adventure seekers and business travellers alike, this hotel offers easy access to nearby bicycle rentals, enabling guests to explore the vibrant surroundings. Its central location allows for convenient access to local attractions and eateries, making it a fantastic base for those looking to immerse themselves in the city's culture.
- NH Pisa: Located slightly further afield at 18km from Lucca, NH Pisa is a well-rated 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This hotel is tailored for business travellers, featuring modern facilities and a prime position in the city centre. The contemporary design and efficient service make it a practical choice for those attending meetings or events, while its proximity to local landmarks provides an opportunity to unwind and explore after a busy day.
Where to stay in and around Lucca
Lucca, a charming city in Tuscany, offers a delightful blend of culture and history, perfect for romantic getaways or outdoor adventures. Stroll through the enchanting old town, where cobbled streets lead to picturesque squares and stunning architecture. Don't miss the Lucca Summer Festival for vibrant performances, and explore the beautiful province surrounding the city, filled with friendly locals and a relaxing atmosphere. Discover the rich historical vibes that make Lucca a captivating destination for every traveller.
- Pisa: Located approximately 16km from Lucca, Pisa is a vibrant city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and iconic landmarks. The city draws visitors year-round, with peak arrivals in April, July, and September. Travellers flock to Pisa for its cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and relaxing beach options. Among the highlights are the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and numerous museums showcasing the city's storied past. Visitors can also indulge in spa treatments and explore the picturesque surroundings, making Pisa a delightful day-trip destination.
- Lucca Historical Center: Nestled within the walls of Lucca, the Historical Center is a charming neighbourhood that attracts seasonal visitors, particularly from July to September. This area offers a unique blend of culture, city life, and beach experiences. Strolling through its cobbled streets, you'll encounter historic fortifications and beautiful piazzas. The centre is also home to numerous spas and exhibitions, providing a perfect mix of relaxation and cultural immersion. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the stunning Lucca Cathedral and the impressive Guinigi Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city.
- Santa Maria del Giudice: This quaint village, situated near Lucca, offers a more tranquil experience, with visitor numbers peaking in April and during the summer months. Santa Maria del Giudice is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. The area is known for its scenic hiking trails, which provide stunning views of the surrounding Tuscan landscape. Nearby attractions include historic towers and museums, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Enjoy the charm of this village while immersing yourself in the local culture and history.
Things to do near Lucca
Shopping
In Lucca, you can enjoy charming shops selling local crafts and delicacies. The vibrant Mercato di Lucca offers fresh produce and unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Centro Commerciale I Gigli for a wider range of retail options, including popular brands.
Recreation
Experience tranquillity at Terme di Montecatini, where you can indulge in thermal baths and rejuvenating treatments. For outdoor relaxation, stroll through the serene Villa Reale gardens, enjoying the lush landscapes and tranquil ambiance, perfect for unwinding amidst nature's beauty.
Adventure
Canyon Park Adventure Park offers an exhilarating zipline and ropes course experience, located 26km from Lucca amidst lush landscapes. For stunning views, the cable car gondolas at 18 Polle-Valcava and 12 Lamaccione, situated 27 and 45km away respectively, provide a delightful outdoor adventure for families.
Nightlife
In Lucca, Pizzeria Da Michele offers a lively atmosphere with delicious local cuisine, while Caffè delle Mura provides a charming spot for cocktails with stunning views. The vibrant Piazza dell'Anfiteatro comes alive at night, perfect for soaking in the city's enchanting ambience.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lucca
To save money during your visit to Lucca, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Opt for walking or cycling to explore the city, as it's compact and pedestrian-friendly. Booking your hotel about a month in advance often yields the best rates, and Saturday is typically the least expensive day to stay. For added savings, check last-minute deals on Expedia and consider combining your hotel with flights and activities for a package discount. Don't miss free attractions like Piazza Napoleone and the Cathedral of St Martin to enjoy the city's charm without spending a penny.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Lucca are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Lucca about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Lucca is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Lucca is Sunday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and various other criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, allowing you to easily identify the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel stay in Lucca with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Lucca
Lucca, nestled in Central Italy, is perfect for culture enthusiasts and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore the enchanting Lucca Cathedral, stroll along the historic Walls of Lucca, and relax in the charming piazzas. The city's attractions cater to families and culture seekers alike, offering a delightful blend of history and outdoor experiences, making it an unforgettable destination.
- Piazza Napoleone: This grand square is a vibrant hub of city life, showcasing Lucca's rich culture through its impressive architecture and lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy local events, art exhibitions, and the surrounding cafés, making it a delightful spot to immerse oneself in the local scene.
- Leaning Tower: Located 16km from Lucca, this iconic structure is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Its unique tilt adds a fascinating character, and climbing the tower offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for those keen on history and culture.
- Porta Elisa: A striking monument within Lucca, Porta Elisa reflects the city's historical significance. As a former city gate, it offers insight into Lucca's past, complemented by the scenic beauty of the surrounding area, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Best time to go to Lucca
The best time to visit Lucca is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Lucca
Flying into Lucca is convenient with three major airports nearby. Florence Airport (FLR-Peretola) is situated 56km away, with excellent hotel options like the 5-star Bernini Palace and Palazzo Montebello, both offering shuttle services. Bologna Airport (BLQ-Guglielmo Marconi) is 100km distant, with luxurious stays such as the 5-star Grand Hotel Majestic and Starhotels Excelsior, also providing shuttle services. The closest option is Pisa Airport (PSA-Galileo Galilei), located 18km from Lucca, where you’ll find the 5-star Bagni di Pisa Palace & Thermal Spa and Hotel Pisa Tower Plaza, both easily accessible from the airport, ensuring a seamless travel experience.