The best way to experience Lucca’s rich history is through its excellent guided tours. Several memorable options stand out: The traditional cooking class in a centuries-old olive mill offers hands-on culture, while private carriage rides provide a romantic overview of the city’s highlights. I love the guided walks along the Renaissance walls – they’re informative and give you the perfect orientation to this remarkable Tuscan town. For music lovers, specialized tours showcase the hometown of Puccini, and bike tours let you cover more ground while enjoying the local atmosphere. The historic center walking tours are especially worthwhile, combining major landmarks with fascinating local stories. Let’s explore the top historical tours in Lucca.
Good To Know
- Explore Lucca’s rich history through a one-hour guided tour of the historic center and Renaissance walls, with highlights like a horse-drawn carriage ride.
- Enjoy Lucca’s musical heritage by joining a 2-hour guided walking tour focused on the city’s musical legacy.
- Discover Versilia’s history and landmarks on an e-bike tour, or opt for a 2-hour private bike tour with a local guide.
- Experience Lucca’s culinary traditions by participating in a hands-on cooking class at a 15th-century olive mill, including a market tour and wine tastings.
- Venture beyond Lucca to the Chianti region for a Chianti Secrets Tour, featuring wine tasting and lunch in the historic town of San Gimignano.
Cooking Class in Luccas Historic Center
One of the highlights of historical tours in Lucca is the opportunity to participate in a cooking class set in the heart of the city’s historic center.
Located in a renovated 15th-century olive mill, the class offers an immersive culinary experience with a maximum of 14 participants.
For $177.72 per person, guests can expect a hands-on four-course meal preparation, local wine and product tastings, a market tour, and a certificate of achievement.
With its 5.0 rating from 132 reviews and 98% recommendation, this class provides an engaging way to learn about Lucca’s rich food traditions while exploring its picturesque setting.
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Carriage Tour in the Historic Center of Lucca
Visitors exploring Lucca’s historic center can embark on a delightful carriage tour that provides an immersive introduction to the city’s charming character.
Boasting a 5.0 rating from 98 reviews, the private tour transports guests around the historic area in a comfortable carriage.
The tour’s knowledgeable guides, like Marika and Luigi, captivate participants with insights into Lucca’s history and culture.
Children can even get involved by “driving” the beloved horse, Luigi or Gigi.
The experience includes stops at local shops, where guests can interact with the friendly equine.
With its positive traveler feedback, the carriage tour is a must-do activity for those seeking an authentic and enjoyable exploration of Lucca.
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Wine Tasting in the Historic Cantalici Winery
After exploring Lucca’s historic center by carriage, visitors can indulge in a captivating wine tasting experience at the renowned Cantalici Winery.
Located just a short distance from Lucca, the winery offers tasting options of 4, 6, or 8 wines per person, accompanied by a tasting of Extravergin Olive Oil. Guests can enjoy snacks during the private tour, which is exclusively for their group.
Priced at $11.69 per person, the experience is non-refundable but comes with a lowest price guarantee. Accessibility is suitable for most travelers, with the winery being stroller-accessible and allowing service animals.
The experience has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 5.0-star rating based on 36 reviews.
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One-Hour Tour Through the Historic Center and Half Renaissance Walls
Frequently, travelers to Lucca embark on a captivating one-hour tour that guides them through the historic center and along the city’s half Renaissance walls.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 30 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, this private tour offers an engaging experience led by English and Spanish-speaking guides.
Highlights include a unique horse-drawn carriage ride, insights into local history and culture, and opportunities to sample treats at local cafes.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, such as Merica and Luigi, and describe the tour as enjoyable, beautiful, and informative.
At $138.95 per group of up to 5 people, this tour is a must-do for visitors to Lucca.
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Enjoyable Music Tour of the Historical City of Lucca
Travelers seeking a captivating musical journey through the historic city of Lucca can embark on an enjoyable 2-hour guided walking tour that delves into the city’s rich musical heritage.
The tour, which boasts a 5.0 rating from 31 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, explores the works of renowned Italian opera composers like Puccini. Guests will visit the Teatro del Giglio, a 17th-century opera house, and the Puccini Museum, the composer’s birthplace.
Along the way, they’ll discover the city’s picturesque piazzas and significant locations where musicians once performed.
Available in both Italian and English, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a versatile option for all travelers.
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Historic Versilia by E-Bike. From the Sea to the Hills Passing Through Pietrasanta
Embarking on a two-wheeled exploration, travelers can uncover the captivating history of Versilia by e-bike. This 80.78 USD per person tour takes guests from the seaside to the hills, passing through the charming town of Pietrasanta.
An escort will guide the private group, which is limited to the participants’ party, on a route curated to showcase the area’s rich heritage. Included in the experience are the use of bicycles, San Carlo water, and branded gifts.
With free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours prior, this tour caters to most travelers, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
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Private Tour: Historic Lucca by Bike
Explore the historic heart of Lucca on a private bike tour. This 2-hour experience allows visitors to rent bikes and follow a local guide through the city’s picturesque streets and landmarks.
The tour includes stops at the Piazza Santa Maria, Guinigi Tower, and Palazzo Pfanner, with the guide providing insights into Lucca’s rich history.
While children aged 0-14 can join for free with a paid adult, some reviewers noted the tour may not be suitable for young kids.
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Lucca Private Walking Tour of the Historic Center and San Martino
Visitors to Lucca can explore the city’s rich history and architectural marvels on this private walking tour.
The 5-star rated experience includes guided visits to the impressive Cathedral of San Martino and the Basilica of San Frediano. Entrance fees for these sites must be purchased separately on-site.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and kids on laps are welcome. Guests can conveniently meet the guide at the Lucca train station and conclude the experience at Piazza Bernardini.
Priced from $31.24 per person, this private tour offers free cancellation and flexible rescheduling up to 24 hours prior, making it an ideal choice for visitors with mobility challenges or limited time.
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Private Italian Cooking In A Historic Villa In The Hills Of Lucca (Groups of 10)
Guests can enjoy an immersive Italian cooking experience at a historic villa nestled in the picturesque hills surrounding Lucca.
The private cooking class accommodates groups of up to 10 people and features a sample menu of traditional Tuscan dishes, including bruschetta, gazpacho, and homemade pasta.
The experience includes a large Tuscan lunch with local wine, coffee, tea, and dessert.
Private transportation from the meeting point in Lucca to the villa is provided.
The cooking class is available year-round, with convenient opening hours from 10 AM to 2:30 PM.
Guests can expect confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
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Chianti Secrets Wine, History in San Gimignano, From Lucca
This comprehensive tour whisks visitors away from Lucca to uncover the secrets of the Chianti region and the historic town of San Gimignano.
The experience, which runs from March 2024 to December 2025, includes private transportation, wine tasting, and a delicious lunch. Guests will meet at the Piazzale Verdi in Lucca and return to the same location at the end of the day.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and near public transportation.
Travelers can enjoy this experience from $624.72 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies.
Read our full review: Chianti Secrets Wine, History in San Gimignano, From Lucca Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos During the Tours?
Most historical tour providers in Lucca allow visitors to take photos during the tours. However, visitors should be mindful of the tour guide’s instructions and any restrictions on photography in certain areas or sites.
Are the Tours Suitable for Children?
The historical tours in Lucca are generally suitable for children, though the duration and content may vary. Most tours offer engaging activities and storytelling to keep kids interested and entertained throughout the experience.
Do the Tour Guides Speak Multiple Languages?
The tour guides typically speak multiple languages, including English, to accommodate visitors from around the world. They’re well-versed in the local history and culture, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging experience for all participants, regardless of their native language.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Most historical tours in Lucca offer wheelchair accessibility, with guides accommodating visitors’ needs. Guests should inquire about specific tour accessibility when booking to ensure their experience is comfortable and inclusive.
How Long Are the Typical Tour Durations?
Typical historical tours in Lucca usually last around 2-3 hours, though some may be shorter or longer depending on the specific itinerary. Tour durations can vary to accommodate different schedules and interests of visitors.
The Sum Up
Lucca offers a variety of historical tours that allow visitors to enjoy the city’s rich past. From cooking classes and carriage rides to wine tastings and bike tours, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in the city’s architecture, cuisine, or culture, these tours provide an engaging and informative way to explore Lucca’s fascinating history.