Lucca is a city that practically breathes history on every cobblestone street and behind every tower. Its well-preserved medieval walls, charming piazzas, and Renaissance architecture make it a perfect playground for those passionate about exploring history in an authentic way. What makes Lucca especially appealing for history lovers is its blend of tangible landmarks—like the Guinigi Tower and Roman forums—and stories hidden in alleyways and local traditions. We particularly enjoy the small-group walking tours, which offer intimate insights into Lucca’s past, and the carriage rides that let you glide past the city’s most iconic sights without breaking a sweat. For a musical twist, the Lucca music tour gives a fascinating look into the city’s contributions to Italian opera and classical music, which is perfect for art and music enthusiasts.
Whether you’re after a leisurely walk, a scenic carriage ride, or an in-depth exploration of Lucca’s walls and historic sites, this list covers the best options for experiencing the city’s story. Each tour offers a unique way to connect with Lucca’s past—whether through food, music, or architecture—making it easier to pick the right experience for your interests and schedule.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the 13 best historical tours in Lucca, highlighting what makes each one special, practical details, and real reviews from travelers who’ve been there.
1. Flavours of Lucca, Art, History, Food for Small Groups or Private
At number 1, this food-focused walking tour combines Lucca’s culinary traditions with its historical sights. For around $87, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours touring the city with a passionate local guide, who will introduce you to landmarks like the Lucca Duomo and hidden eateries that you’ll want to revisit later. This small-group experience, capped at just 12 people, offers personalized attention and intimate storytelling—perfect for first-timers or those who love food and history in equal measure. The tour kicks off at the Mura di Lucca, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city and surroundings, followed by a delicious Lucca-style breakfast in a charming pastry shop. Travelers praise the guide’s engaging commentary and the ability to enjoy Lucca’s flavors with friendly company. If you want a taste of everything—history, architecture, and authentic Tuscan flavors—this is a top pick.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, personal introduction to Lucca’s history and cuisine, ideal for foodies and first-time visitors eager for a memorable, small-group experience.
2. Carriage tour in the historic center of Lucca
Number 2 on our list takes a more relaxed approach with a 30 to 35-minute carriage ride through Lucca’s most stunning squares and streets. For $104.50 per group (up to 4 people), this tour offers a charming way to see highlights like the Square of the Roman era, the Tallest tower in the city, and the Tree-lined Tower of Italy. The ride is led by a knowledgeable driver and a horse, providing a picture-perfect way to learn about Lucca’s layout and key sites without walking dozens of blocks. Travelers especially enjoy how accessible and personable the experience is, with reviews mentioning how it “fits perfectly into a busy schedule” and “makes history come alive.” This tour is perfect for those who prefer a scenic, comfortable overview or are traveling with family who might need a break from walking.
Bottom Line: A delightful, low-effort way to orient yourself in Lucca’s historic center, especially suitable for small groups or families.
3. One-hour tour through the historic center and half Renaissance walls
At number 3, this carriage tour offers a quick, comprehensive look at Lucca’s most iconic sites in just an hour. For about $202, a private group up to four can enjoy this guided ride that covers the city walls, the Duomo di San Martino, and the Roman square. The tour’s highlights include a stop at the most distinctive tree-lined tower in Italy and the medieval doors still standing along the city walls, making it an excellent choice for travelers pressed for time but eager for a thorough overview. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the relaxed pace, which allows for plenty of photo stops and explanations. This tour balances depth with brevity, ideal for those wanting a taste of Lucca’s history without committing to a longer experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick yet insightful introduction to Lucca’s top sights, especially for first-time visitors with limited time.
4. Enjoyable music tour of the historical city of Lucca
Number 4 offers a cultural journey through Lucca’s musical heritage, ideal for art lovers. For just $34.39 per person over about 2 to 2.5 hours, this tour combines walking and inside visits to the Teatro del Giglio and the Puccini Museum—the birthplace of the renowned composer. Your guide will share stories about Lucca’s contributions to Italian opera, playing musical excerpts along the way, which enriches the experience. Visitors often comment on how engaging and knowledgeable the guides are, with some noting it’s “a perfect mix of history and music,” and others appreciating the inside look at the theatre’s 17th-century history. This tour is particularly well-suited for music aficionados or those wanting a blend of cultural history and entertainment.
Bottom Line: An engaging, affordable way to connect Lucca’s musical past with its architecture, with insider visits that bring the stories to life.
5. Wine tasting in the historical Cantalici winery
For a different kind of history, number 5 is a wine tasting experience at the Cantalici winery, costing about $17.20 per person for roughly 50 minutes. Here, you’ll explore Chianti Classico wines, learning about the family traditions that have preserved these flavors through generations. While not a traditional tour of the city, this experience offers insight into the regional history through its wines, which have been crafted with care and respect for local tradition. It’s a great option for travelers who want to combine their love of history with a taste of Tuscany.
Bottom Line: A short but immersive way to appreciate Tuscany’s wine-making heritage—perfect for wine lovers and those curious about local tradition.
6. Learn Pasta-Making in Lucca’s Historic Center (5-Course Meal)
Number 6 transforms your visit into a culinary history lesson with a 5-hour pasta-making class costing around $200 per person. Held inside Lucca’s historic walls, this experience pairs hands-on cooking with storytelling about Tuscan food traditions. You’ll learn to make Ricotta & Spinach Ravioli, Black Ravioli with Salmon, and other regional specialties, finished with a 5-course meal. It’s an intimate, engaging way to uncover Lucca’s culinary roots—an edible history lesson that kids and adults alike will enjoy. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the hosts are, making this as much a cultural experience as a cooking class.
Bottom Line: Best suited for foodies wanting an interactive, culture and a delicious meal to cap off their day.
7. Learn Italian Cooking in Lucca’s Historic Center (4-Course Meal)
At number 7, this 4-hour cooking class offers a taste of Italy’s culinary history through a menu of antipasti, risotto, veal, and dessert. Led by a local expert, you’ll prepare dishes like Beef Carpaccio and Risotto with saffron and shrimp, all within a boutique restaurant in the historic center. It’s a relaxed, informative class that emphasizes regional recipes and techniques, perfect for those eager to cook their way into Italian culture. Reviewers note the warm atmosphere and the quality of the dishes, making it clear this is more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a cultural dive into Tuscany’s flavors.
Bottom Line: Excellent for culinary travelers who want a hands-on experience in authentic Italian cuisine.
8. Tuscan Cooking in Lucca’s Historic Center (4-Course Meal)
Number 8 continues the culinary theme with another 4-course class, costing around $178.17 per person, focusing on regional specialties like Panzanella and Tordelli. Hosted in a welcoming setting in Lucca’s historic core, this chef-led workshop emphasizes regional recipes and techniques. You’ll master dishes like Ravioli in slow-cooked meat sauce and traditional Tuscan desserts, making it ideal for food lovers who want to understand regional flavors in depth. Participants praise the authentic atmosphere and the opportunity to learn family recipes.
Bottom Line: A highly practical experience perfect for those eager to deepen their knowledge of Tuscan culinary traditions.
9. History and Sights, a Lucca Walking Tour
Number 9 offers a classic 1.5-hour guided walking tour at $30.10 per person, led by a passionate local guide. Starting at Piazzale Verdi, you’ll visit San Michele in Foro, the Piazza Anfiteatro, and the Guinigi Tower. The tour brings Lucca’s story to life with detailed explanations of landmarks like the city walls and medieval architecture. Reviewers mention how the guide’s storytelling makes the history engaging and easy to follow, ideal for visitors seeking a quick but meaningful introduction to Lucca’s sights and background.
Bottom Line: A concise, well-reviewed option for those wanting a structured overview of Lucca’s highlights.
10. Make Italian Pizza & Bread at a Restaurant in the Historic Center
Number 10 offers a hands-on cooking class focused on pizza and bread-making, costing about $177.74 for 4 hours. Held at a welcoming restaurant in the historic center, it’s ideal for those who want to learn authentic techniques while enjoying regional ingredients. The menu includes whole wheat, semolina, and Tuscan flour breads, along with toppings like mozzarella, ham, and mushrooms. Reviewers highlight the fun, relaxed environment and the chance to take home skills for making Italian bread and pizza.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culinary travelers wanting an interactive experience with a delicious payoff.
11. Private Tour: Historic Lucca by bike
At number 11, this private biking tour offers a flexible 2-hour exploration of Lucca’s landmarks. For around $204, it’s suitable for those who want a personalized, active way to see the city. Highlights include the Guinigi Tower, Lucca Cathedral, and the city walls—all accessible via bike, which makes covering ground easy. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you see hidden corners and avoid tourist crowds. Reviews mention how knowledgeable guides make the experience memorable, and the ride up to the top of the Renaissance walls provides spectacular views. It’s ideal for active travelers who want a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: A personalized, active way to see Lucca’s top sights, especially suited for those comfortable on two wheels.
12. Historic Versilia by e-bike. From the sea to the hills passing through Pietrasanta
Number 12 takes you outside Lucca into the Versilia region, combining e-bike riding with cultural exploration. Costing about $90, this 4-hour tour includes visits to Pietrasanta’s art-filled streets and Capriglia’s panoramic climbs. It’s suited for experienced bikers, with descents and hill climbs providing a physical challenge. The tour also touches on Palazzo Mediceo and Gabriele D’Annunzio’s villa, connecting natural beauty with historical sites. Reviewers note the tour’s scenic routes and the technical elements, making it a good choice for active history lovers. The additional cost of bike rental and helmets should be considered, but this is a comprehensive way to combine outdoor activity with regional history.
Bottom Line: A physically engaging, scenic experience ideal for cyclists looking to combine outdoor adventure with cultural sights.
13. Lucca Red Light Tour: Discovering the City’s Naughty History
The final entry on our list explores Lucca’s lesser-known, provocative side. This 1.5-hour walk uncovers tales of vice, legends, and scandals that have long been hidden behind the city’s walls. Perfect for those interested in quirky stories and the city’s naughty past, the tour is conducted by licensed guides with over 10 years of experience. It’s suitable for older children and adults eager for a different perspective on Lucca’s history. Although reviews are not provided, this tour promises an entertaining, offbeat take on the city’s past, making it a fun contrast to more traditional sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A lively, unconventional way to learn about Lucca’s secrets, ideal for travelers who enjoy stories of vices and legends.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lucca Tour
When selecting the right historical tour in Lucca, consider your interests and travel style. For a culinary-focused visit, the Flavours of Lucca or the pasta and pizza classes offer immersive experiences. If you prefer a scenic overview with minimal effort, the carriage rides (Carriage Tour) and bike tours (Private bike tour) are excellent options. For art and music lovers, the Lucca music tour (Enjoyable music tour) provides a rich cultural insight, while the scenic e-bike excursions (Versilia e-bike) are perfect for active explorers. Budget-minded travelers can enjoy the wine tasting (Cantalici winery) or the naughty history walk (Lucca Red Light). Booking early is advisable, especially for popular small-group tours and classes, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Lucca offers a diverse range of historical tours that cater to varying interests—from scenic carriage rides and energetic bike tours to in-depth culinary and musical explorations. For travelers seeking a comprehensive city overview, the carriage ride or guided walking tour provide efficient introductions. Foodies will appreciate the pasta-making classes or wine tastings, while culture enthusiasts might prefer the music tour or the naughty history walk. Whichever you choose, booking in advance will guarantee your spot in these unique experiences. With such a variety, Lucca’s stories are sure to leave a lasting impression.
