Excursion Medieval lucca tour at Livorno

Explore the fascinating streets and squares of Lucca during a scenic and memorable half-day tour of this historic medieval city. Lucca endears itself to everyone who visits, hidden behind imposing Renaissance walls with cobbled streets, handsome piazzas and shady promenades; it makes for a perfect destination to explore by foot.

Depart the pier for the approximate 45-minute drive to Lucca.  Upon arrival, your tour begins inside the massive red bricks walls, which were built between 1504 and 1645, and are amongst the best-preserved Renaissance defenses in Europe.

Lucca

Lucca is enclosed by massive red brick walls, which help to give the city its special character by shutting out traffic and the modern world. Within these walls, Lucca is a peaceful city of narrow lanes, preserving intact its ancient Roman street plan. Unlike several other Tuscany's cities, Lucca is flat; many locals use bicycles, which impart an additional charm to the city. This memorable outing is ideal for those looking to experience a Tuscan city that is rich in history, art and architecture, but is hidden from the crowds of tourists.

Church of San Michele

Along the way, an inside visit is made to the Church of San Michele in Foro, which stands on the site of the ancient Roman Forum. It has a wonderfully-rich Pisan Romanesque façade that competes in splendour with that of St. Martin.

Guinigi Tower

Another outside visit is then made to the Guinigi Tower, one of many in Lucca that belonged to the Guinigi family, rulers of the city in the 15th century. The tower has a small roof garden, with some trees sprouting incongruously at the top.

Anfiteatro Romano

Next, proceed to the Anfiteatro Romano, formerly the ancient Roman Amphitheatre. Today, it is enclosed by medieval houses that were built up against the walls of the amphitheatre. It's perfectly-preserved shape reminds us that Lucca was founded by the Romans in 180 B.C.

Church of San Frediano

From here, continue on to the Church of San Frediano, which is adorned with a striking façade and a 13th-century mosaic (outside visit only). Inside, there is a splendid Romanesque font and beautiful frescoes. In the chapel dedicated to Santa Zita, her well-preserved body is interred.

Church of San Martino

Your next stop is the Church of San Martino (outside visit only). Lucca's extraordinary cathedral, its façade abuts incongruously on to the campanile. St. Martin is the Roman soldier depicted on the façade dividing his cloak with a sword to share with a needy beggar.

Via Fillungo

The guided portion of your visit concludes at Via Fillungo, Lucca's principal shopping street, which winds its way through the heart of the city towards the Roman Amphitheatre.

Following your walking tour re-boarding your coach for the return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Lucca, Guinigi Tower, Anfiteatro Romano, Church of San Michele, Church of San Frediano, Church of San Martino

Note

Please note:  This tour requires a moderate amount of walking for approximately 3.5km (2.17 miles), some of which is over cobblestone surfaces, and there are steps to climb. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. There will be an exterior visit only should a mass be in progress at the church. Guests may be able to enter on an individual basis to view the interior. Tour sequence may vary.