Lucca wins you over with its intimate, elegant atmosphere: an intact old town enclosed by perfectly preserved Renaissance walls, now a green ring where locals stroll and cycle.
It's the birthplace of Giacomo Puccini and home to Romanesque churches, panoramic towers and a uniquely shaped square. It's best explored on foot or, even better, by bike.
What to see in Lucca
The Walls of Lucca
Over 4 km of tree-lined ramparts you can walk or cycle: the city's signature promenade, with views over the rooftops and the Apuan Alps.
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
A square with a distinctive oval shape, born on the remains of the Roman amphitheatre: cafés and shops all around.
Guinigi Tower
The tower with centuries-old oaks growing on top: climb it for one of the finest views over the city.
Cathedral of San Martino
A Romanesque cathedral with the famous Volto Santo and the funerary monument of Ilaria del Carretto, a masterpiece by Jacopo della Quercia.
Via Fillungo and the towers
The historic shopping street, among period shops, the Clock Tower and artisan workshops.
Puccini's sites
The composer's birthplace-museum and his statue in the square: a must for music lovers.
How to get to Lucca from Pontedera
By train the connection is convenient with one change at Pisa Centrale (Pisa–Lucca line): about 50–70 minutes in total. Lucca station is right in front of the walls.
By car about 40–45 minutes. The centre is a restricted-traffic zone: use the car parks just outside the walls and continue on foot or rent a bike, the nicest way to visit.
FAQ
How do you get to Lucca from Pontedera by train?
You change at Pisa Centrale and then take the Pisa–Lucca line: about 50–70 minutes in total depending on the connection. Lucca station is right in front of the walls.
Can you cycle around Lucca?
Yes, and it's the best way: several rental shops near the walls let you ride the ring of ramparts (over 4 km) and easily reach the points of interest in the centre.
What to see in Lucca in half a day?
The walk along the Walls, Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, the Guinigi Tower and the Cathedral of San Martino are the heart of the visit and are concentrated within a few hours on foot.
Last updated October 19, 2026 · Editorial team of Visit Pontedera