Lucca is a city made for walking. Its compact size, surrounded by impressive medieval walls, makes it easy to explore on foot—and each twist and turn offers a new story or charming vista. Whether you’re interested in learning about its history over a leisurely evening drink or getting a quick overview of its most famous sights, Lucca’s walks deliver an authentic, intimate experience. We’re especially fond of the Aperitivo evening walk because it combines local culture with excellent food and wine, giving you a taste of life in this Tuscan town. For a structured, quick introduction, the Lucca: join a ‘must see’ walking tour offers a solid overview of the city’s highlights—perfect for first-timers. And if you’re short on time but want a taste of Lucca’s essence, the Express Walk lets you see the key sights in just an hour.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the top five options for walking in Lucca, from social evening outings to brief city explorations. Each offers a different perspective—so whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or simply want a quick orientation, you’ll find something that suits your trip.
1. Lucca Aperitivo evening walk with food and wine for Small Groups
At number one, we love the Lucca Aperitivo evening walk because it combines a relaxed stroll through the historic center with a taste of local life. This tour is ideal for those wanting to experience Lucca’s social scene and enjoy authentic food and wine without the formality of a sit-down dinner. The 2.5-hour experience begins with a walk around the Mura di Lucca, where your guide shares stories about the city’s defenses and history. Then, you’ll explore narrow medieval alleys leading to the Duomo di San Martino and the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, all while learning about local legends and architecture.
The highlight is visiting a popular local bar for a classic aperitivo—enjoying wine and snacks in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. The small group cap at 12 ensures an intimate experience, and there’s an option to upgrade to a private tour for your group. Guests consistently praise this experience for its knowledgeable guides, excellent food, and relaxed vibe, with one reviewer mentioning, “Luca was knowledgeable and made the evening fun and engaging.”
Bottom Line: This tour offers a perfect mix of culture, conversation, and culinary delights—ideal for those wanting a social, relaxed introduction to Lucca.
2. Lucca: join a ‘must see’ walking tour! (English)
Second on our list, the ‘must see’ Lucca walking tour provides a concise, structured overview of the city’s top sights. For around 2 hours, you’ll wander through impressive medieval architecture, including visits to the San Michele in Foro and the Piazza Anfiteatro. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting to get their bearings and see the most iconic spots without the hassle of planning.
It covers the city walls, churches, and key squares, skipping the need for tickets to the Duomo but offering plenty of insights about Lucca’s design and history. The guide is praised for being knowledgeable and making the city’s stories come alive, with reviews highlighting the balance between information and enjoyment. One reviewer notes, “Very informative and enjoyable—Michaela made the history engaging.”
Bottom Line: If you’re short on time or prefer a lively, informative walk that hits all the highlights, this tour is an excellent choice.
3. Lucca: 2-Hour Introductory Walking Tour with a Local
Number three offers a personalized touch with a local guide showing you the best highlights and hidden corners of Lucca. This tour emphasizes local insights and includes a tasting of a typical Lombard or Tuscan product, making it appealing for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. Over 2 hours, you’ll visit Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, the Guinigi Tower, and the city walls, while your guide shares stories about how Lucca’s residents have lived and thrived through centuries.
This tour stands out because of its small group size—up to 8 travelers—allowing for a more intimate experience and personalized tips on where to eat, drink, and explore further. Guests often mention how the guide’s local expertise makes the tour feel authentic, and the tasting adds a memorable flavor of the region. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive, yet relaxed introduction to Lucca, with practical tips to continue exploring independently afterward.
Bottom Line: This is a solid choice if you prefer a friendly, tailored experience, and the included tasting adds a flavorful touch.
4. Lucca: Express Walk with a Local in 60 Minutes
If your schedule is tight, the Express Walk is a smart, quick way to get a feel for Lucca’s highlights. In just 60 minutes, a local guide takes you through the most iconic sights like Guinigi Tower, the Church of San Michele, and the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. This tour is designed for maximum efficiency, making it ideal for travelers who want a brief orientation or those with limited time in the city.
Guests appreciate the local tips on the best bars and cafes to visit afterward, knowing exactly where to go for more authentic experiences. The tour is limited to small groups, making it personable and flexible. Reviewers mention how it’s perfect for “getting the lay of the land in a short amount of time,” with some saying it’s “a great way to decide what to explore further.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers looking for a quick, fun overview of Lucca’s key sights without the fuss.
5. Walking Tour: Mysterious Lucca through Stories and Legends
Last but certainly not least, this storytelling-focused tour takes you through Lucca’s legends, secrets, and curiosities. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll hear about characters and events that add a layer of intrigue and mystery to the city’s landmarks. This tour is perfect for families or travelers who enjoy a fun, engaging narrative while learning about the city’s symbolic places.
Led by licensed guides with over 10 years of experience, this tour makes history accessible and entertaining. The focus on stories and legends offers a different angle on Lucca, making it memorable beyond the usual sightseeing. The tour’s affordability ($24 per person) makes it appealing for those on a budget or looking for a light, fun experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or those wanting a playful, story-driven exploration of Lucca’s secrets.
How to Choose the Right Lucca Walking Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your time constraints, interests, and budget. For a relaxed social evening with wine and local flavors, the Aperitivo walk offers great value, especially if you enjoy meeting fellow travelers. First-time visitors wanting a structured overview might prefer the ‘must see’ tour, which hits the key sights efficiently. For those seeking a personalized experience with a local, the 2-hour intro provides a deeper dive. If your schedule is tight, the 60-minute express walk offers a quick but meaningful glimpse. Finally, for a fun, storytelling twist, the mysterious legends tour adds an element of intrigue.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid missing out on these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Lucca’s compact size, friendly atmosphere, and rich stories make it a perfect city for walking. Whether you want a lively evening with food and wine, a quick orientation, or a themed storytelling adventure, there’s a tour that fits your style. For a social, immersive experience, the Aperitivo walk shines. For a straightforward visit, the ‘must see’ tour offers great value. And if you’re pressed for time, the express walk makes sure you see the highlights without fuss. No matter which you choose, booking early will help you make the most of your time in this charming Tuscan city.