The beautiful walled city of Lucca has something for everyone. Besides being very elegant (to rival Florence in its handsomeness), the town is full of chic boutiques, great restaurants, and awesome gelato. The massive fortification wall that still completely encircles the city is in perfect condition and has been transformed into a tranquil pedestrian greenspace, which makes Lucca idea for families and active adults. You can rent bikes and cruise the wall or simply stroll or sit in the shade of the big trees. There are also many architectural points of interest, such as Piazza dell'Amphiteatro (built on the site of a Roman stadium, the remains of which are still visible) and Palazzo Pfanner (a historic dwelling with a formal garden). This excursion is carried out with an English-speaking driver who will share information as you're traveling. In each location, you will be given time to explore on your own. No tour guide is provided.
Pickup included
After a 45-minute drive from the port of Livorno, we'll arrive in Lucca. You will be welcomed by the city's amazing ancient wall, and we'll take a drive around the city's perimeter so you can appreciate its beauty and scale. Among the best-preserved Renaissance fortifications in Italy and standing 40 feet (25m) tall, the wall still encircles the entire city. The top of the wall has been transformed into a beautiful pedestrian green space lined with shade trees, where you can stroll or cruise around on rented bikes.
There has been a church on the site of the present Basilica of San Frediano since the 6th Century. Its Romanesque esthetic came about in the 12th Century and the impressive mosaics on the facade were created in the following centuries. In addition to the mosaics, which draw numerous visitors with their detail in the Byzantine/Medieval style, there is a novel attraction within the church: the mummified body of St. Zita. Zita, who lived during the early 12th century, is the patron saint of domestic workers. Her life was marked by acts of kindness to the poor, including a plethora of miracles, according to legend.
Via Fillungo is Lucca's shopping street. Lined with boutiques and famous-brand stores of all sorts, its the perfect place to shop til you drop while you surrounded by a marvelous Renaissance environment.
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 10 minutes before departure time.
You will be picked up either at your ship or inside the cruise terminal if you dock at that pier. DO NOT TAKE A SHUTTLE, DO NOT GO TO PIAZZA DELL'ARSENALE! Your driver will be waiting for you in the area designated for private drivers, holding a sign with your name on it.