Lucca is a jewel of Tuscany that invites exploration through a variety of engaging tours and experiences. Its compact city center, surrounded by well-preserved Renaissance walls, makes it perfect for bike rides and guided walks. We especially love the Lucca Bikes and Bites tour, which combines sightseeing with regional food tastings, giving insight into local life while keeping active. The city’s scenic hills also beckon wine lovers, and several of the tours, like the Tuscan Wine Tour in Lucca by van, offer a chance to sample organic wines at boutique wineries, all with convenient transportation. If you prefer hands-on experiences, the Cesarine’s pasta and tiramisù class lets you learn authentic recipes from a local “mamma” in her home, turning culinary curiosity into a delicious meal. Whatever your interest, Lucca has something to delight every traveler.
Quick Overview
Lucca shines as a destination for active exploration, culinary adventures, and cultural discovery. Whether you prefer biking along city walls, sampling estate-grown wines, or tasting traditional dishes in a local home, this list covers the best options. For an adrenaline shot of adventure, the Vespa tour offers a scenic ride through the Tuscan hills, while history buffs can enjoy guided walking tours in Italian. Families can appreciate the kayaking tour or self-guided bike routes to Pisa. For full details, check out the full list below, each ranked by its uniqueness and value.
1. Lucca Bikes and Bites with food tastings for Small Groups or Private
At number one, this half-day bike tour blends sightseeing with regional food tastings. Starting from Lucca’s train station, you’ll cycle along the city walls for sweeping views and explore secret passages, then stop for gelato and wine in local spots favored by Lucchesi. The tour includes stops at notable sites like San Michele in Foro and the Guinigi Tower, with commentary from your guide about Lucca’s history. The highlight is the combination of fun, fitness, and flavor—a balanced way to absorb the city’s charm. The guide’s reviews praise the friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable commentary, making it ideal for those wanting a relaxed, informative experience. The private option ensures an intimate journey for your group.
Bottom Line: A perfect way to see the city by bike while sampling the local cuisine, suited for casual explorers and foodies alike.
2. Tuscan Wine Tour in Lucca by van
For around $173, the Tuscan Wine Tour in Lucca by van offers a comprehensive day in the hills. The tour includes visits to two boutique, organic wineries, where you’ll meet winemakers and learn about both traditional and modern techniques. Sampling wines paired with local pecorino, cold cuts, and delicious Tuscan snacks, you’ll gain insight into Tuscany’s famed viticulture. The relaxed countryside lunch adds a social touch, and reviews highlight the guides’ engaging storytelling and the personal character of the wineries. This trip is ideal if you want to indulge in authentic local wines without the hassle of navigating country roads yourself.
Bottom Line: An authentic, well-paced wine experience that pairs small-batch wines with regional delicacies, best for wine enthusiasts seeking a leisurely day.
3. Tasting in a Tuscan Vineyard with transfer from Lucca
For those with limited time but a passion for wine, this private vineyard visit and tasting is perfect. Starting from Lucca, you’ll be driven in a private vehicle to a scenic Tuscan vineyard, where the owner provides an insightful tour of the winery. The experience includes sampling local wines alongside cheeses and salami, with the option to customize your visit. Guests rave about the stunning views and the personal attention from the hosts. This tour is flexible and tailored, making it an excellent choice for couples or small groups who want a premium, intimate wine experience.
Bottom Line: Enjoy a personalized vineyard tour with beautiful scenery and authentic tastings—ideal for wine lovers short on time but craving quality.
4. Private wine tour on the magical hills of Lucca (2 wineries)
Led by Simone Vergamini, a certified Sommelier and top Tuscan wine expert, this private tour visits two carefully selected wineries. Over 4-5 hours, you’ll explore the cellars and vineyards, taste 4 to 6 wines, and enjoy seasonal local products. Raved about in reviews for the depth of knowledge and personalized approach, Simone shares fascinating stories about the region’s viticulture and traditions. It’s perfect for those wanting to learn about Tuscany’s wine denominations while savoring top-tier bottles in a relaxed setting. The tour’s intimate size and expert guide make it stand out.
Bottom Line: A premium, in-depth private wine experience suitable for connoisseurs or anyone eager to deepen their understanding of Tuscany’s wine culture.
5. Lucca Aperitivo evening walk with food and wine for Small Groups
This 2.5-hour evening tour combines a relaxed stroll through Lucca with local aperitivo. Starting outside the train station, you’ll walk along the city walls, then explore narrow medieval alleys leading to Piazza San Martino and San Michele in Foro. The highlight is ending in a bar favored by locals, where you’ll enjoy wines and snacks—a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The small group size fosters a friendly vibe, and reviews mention the knowledgeable guide and the chance to experience Lucca like a local. Private options are available for a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: A delightful way to combine gentle sightseeing and local flavors, great for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, social evening.
6. Cesarine: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu with Mamma in Lucca
For a hands-on culinary experience, this 3-hour class is led by a local “mamma” in her home, where you’ll learn to make fresh pasta and traditional tiramisù. Guests praise the authentic atmosphere and the chance to interact directly with the host, who shares stories behind each dish. The class includes a family-style lunch or dinner, with all ingredients and wine provided. It’s perfect for food lovers, families, or anyone wanting an immersive local experience. Reviewers highlight the warm hospitality and the delicious result of their efforts.
Bottom Line: A memorable cooking class for foodies and families that leaves you with new skills and a hearty meal.
7. Lucca: Family-Friendly Kayaking Tour with Aperitif
A fun aquatic option, this 1.5-hour kayak tour is suitable for families and travelers of all ages. Launching just outside Lucca’s historic center, you’ll glide on the water, discovering Lucca from a new perspective. The tour includes a refreshing swim and an aperitivo afterward, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon with kids or non-paddlers. Reviews note the friendly guides and the pleasure of exploring nature so close to town. The tour is best suited for active families or those wanting a light outdoor adventure.
Bottom Line: Easy, scenic, and family-friendly, this kayaking experience offers a peaceful escape from the city with a tasty bonus.
8. Lucca classica: visita guidata in ITALIANO
This 2-hour guided tour in Italian offers a deep dive into Lucca’s most iconic sites, including the Piazza San Michele, city towers, and San Frediano Basilica. Designed for Italian speakers or those wanting a local-language experience, it’s ideal for travelers eager to improve their language skills or fully enjoy local culture. The guide’s reviews mention the informative commentary and the stunning views from the Renaissance walls. It’s a condensed tour rich in architecture and local stories.
Bottom Line: Perfect for Italian speakers or language learners wanting an authentic, in-depth exploration of Lucca’s main sights.
9. Cinque Terre Tour by van from Lucca, Pisa or La Spezia Port
For travelers craving a day trip to one of Italy’s most photogenic regions, this 6-hour van tour hits the highlights of Cinque Terre. You’ll visit Manarola and Riomaggiore, exploring the colorful villages and enjoying free time for photos or snacks. The transport is comfortable, and the guide shares insights about the area’s geology and architecture. Reviewers appreciate the personalized service and the ease of travel, although some note it’s mainly transportation with limited guided touring. It’s best suited for those who want to see the villages without the hassle of driving.
Bottom Line: An efficient way to experience Cinque Terre’s charm when time is limited, ideal for travelers who prefer self-directed exploration.
10. Self-guided Bike Tour from Lucca to Pisa
This self-guided 20-mile bike ride offers an adventurous way to reach Pisa from Lucca, with GPS-guided routes and rental bikes equipped with phone holders. The journey takes you along scenic riverside paths, farmland, and small towns like San Giuliano Terme, where you can stop for a quick refresh. The reviews praise the bike quality and the app’s reliability, though caution about battery drain. It suits cyclists comfortable with navigation and looking for a flexible, active day.
Bottom Line: A rewarding, independent ride for confident bikers ready to combine exercise with sightseeing.
11. Wine tasting in Lucca “at home” with expert sommelier – 5 wines
For a cozy, intimate wine experience, this home tasting features five wines selected from small producers, mainly organic. Hosted by Simone Vergamini, a top sommelier, the session includes education on wine tasting, the region’s history, and pairing tips. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable and engaging Simone is, making the evening both fun and informative. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts or anyone wanting to learn more about Tuscany’s wine culture without leaving their accommodation.
Bottom Line: A personalized, educational tasting that’s ideal for wine lovers seeking an authentic, relaxed experience.
12. Dining Experience at a local’s Home in Pistoia with Show Cooking
This home dining experience invites you into a Pistoia family’s kitchen to share regional Tuscan dishes prepared with love. Hosted by Luisa, you’ll watch her cook and then sit down for a four-course meal with wine. The reviews praise the warm hospitality and the chance to learn family recipes firsthand. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting to connect with local life over a delicious meal and learn authentic cooking techniques.
Bottom Line: An intimate, tasty way to experience Tuscan hospitality and cuisine, perfect for foodies and cultural explorers.
13. Lucca: join a ‘must see’ walking tour! (English)
This 2-hour walking tour covers Lucca’s key sights, including Piazza San Michele, the city walls, and Piazza Anfiteatro. The guide highlights architectural highlights and shares interesting stories about the city’s landmarks. Reviews commend the knowledgeable guide and the well-paced itinerary. It’s an excellent option for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick, rundown of Lucca’s main attractions.
Bottom Line: An ideal introduction to Lucca for first-timers, offering a solid overview in a short time.
14. Explore the Rolling Hills of Lucca on a Vespa 125 Primavera
Finally, for a unique thrill, this Vespa tour takes you through the massively scenic countryside of Lucca and the surrounding hills. With the wind in your hair, you’ll enjoy stops along vineyards and olive groves, with the option of a picnic lunch under the shade of olive trees. The reviews mention the stunning scenery and the freedom of exploring on a Vespa. It’s perfect for travelers who want a fun, active adventure and enjoy a taste of Tuscan countryside.
Bottom Line: An exhilarating way to see Tuscany’s landscape, suited for Vespa fans or those wanting a memorable, open-air journey.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting your ideal Lucca experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and personal interests. If you love active exploration and local cuisine, the Lucca Bikes and Bites is hard to beat. For wine enthusiasts, the private wine tours or organic vineyard tastings offer a deeper dive into Tuscany’s viticulture. If you’d rather learn cooking from a local in a cozy setting, the Cesarine pasta and tiramisù class provides hands-on fun. Families or those seeking outdoor adventure will appreciate the kayaking or Vespa rides, while history buffs may prefer the guided walking tours in Italian or the must-see city walk.
Booking early is highly recommended, especially for popular tours like the Cinque Terre day trip or private wine experiences. Be sure to match your choice with your fitness level, interest in food and wine, and the amount of time you want to dedicate to each activity.
In summary, Lucca offers a rich array of tours and experiences that cater to different tastes—from active sightseeings to culinary delights and scenic rides. For a well-rounded visit, consider combining a bike tour with a wine tasting, or indulge in a cooking class and a local walk. Remember, early booking can ensure you secure your top choice, especially during peak seasons. Whatever you decide, these experiences will deepen your appreciation of this charming Tuscan city and make your trip truly memorable.