I often get asked by my readers—how can I get to Lucca? Located in the heart of Tuscany, Lucca is a charming city known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls, picturesque streets, rich culture, and beautiful landscapes. It’s one of Italy’s hidden gems that attracts travelers from all around the world. But how do you get there? I’m going to share with you a detailed guide on how to reach Lucca, whether you’re flying in from another country or traveling within Italy. I will also give you some useful tips to make your journey smooth and easy.
1. Airports Near Lucca: Which One Should You Choose?
Although Lucca itself does not have an international airport, it is well-connected to several major airports in Tuscany and other regions of Italy. The good news is that reaching Lucca from any of these airports is convenient and straightforward.
1.1 Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport)
The closest and most convenient airport to Lucca is Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport), located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the city. This is the primary gateway to Tuscany and is well-served by both international and domestic flights. Whether you’re flying in from London, Paris, Berlin, or Milan, you can easily find direct flights to Pisa. Since Pisa and Lucca are so close, this airport is by far the most popular option for visitors heading to Lucca.
Pisa Airport is a major hub in Tuscany, so it’s convenient not only for those traveling directly to Lucca but also for those who plan to explore the surrounding region. From Pisa, you can continue your journey to other nearby Tuscan cities like Florence and Siena.
1.2 Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci Airport)
Another good option is Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci Airport), located about 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Lucca. This airport also handles both international and domestic flights, but it is not as large as Pisa. Florence Airport is a great option if you are planning to spend some time in Florence, as it is well-connected to the city and offers a more relaxed entry point to the region.
Florence Airport may not have as many flights as Pisa, but it is a fantastic alternative if you want to explore more of Tuscany. From Florence Airport, you can either take a train or drive to Lucca.
1.3 Rome Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci International Airport)
If you are flying from outside Europe or your flight doesn’t land in Pisa or Florence, Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci International Airport) is another good choice. Located about 3 hours from Lucca, Fiumicino is Italy’s busiest airport and is a major international hub. The airport is well-connected to both domestic and international flights, making it easy to find direct flights from various cities around the world.
Although Rome is farther away from Lucca, it provides a wider range of flight options. From Fiumicino, you can take a train or rent a car to reach Lucca.
2. How to Get from the Airport to Lucca?
Once you’ve arrived at one of the airports near Lucca, the next step is figuring out how to get to the city center. Luckily, there are several convenient options for transportation, and I’ll break them down for you.
2.1 From Pisa Airport to Lucca: Convenient Bus and Train Connections
If you’re arriving at Pisa International Airport, you have a couple of straightforward options to get to Lucca.
Option 1: Bus – The most convenient and direct method is to take a bus from Pisa Airport to Lucca. Several shuttle buses operate regularly, with departures every hour. The bus ride takes around 40 to 45 minutes and is a comfortable way to reach Lucca. The ticket costs approximately 10 euros, and the buses are equipped with air conditioning, making for a pleasant ride.
Option 2: Train – Alternatively, you can take a train from Pisa Airport to Lucca. First, you’ll need to take a bus from the airport to Pisa Centrale (Pisa Central Train Station). From there, you can board a direct train to Lucca. The train ride is only around 20 minutes and costs approximately 3 euros. The trains are frequent, so this is a flexible and scenic way to travel.
2.2 From Florence Airport to Lucca: Train or Taxi
If you’re arriving at Florence Airport, you’ll have to take a few more steps to reach Lucca.
Option 1: Train – First, take a bus from Florence Airport to Firenze Santa Maria Novella (Florence’s main train station), which takes about 20 minutes. From there, you can take a direct train to Lucca, which takes around 1 hour. Train tickets cost approximately 10 euros. This is a great option if you’re comfortable with public transportation.
Option 2: Taxi – If you’re not keen on dealing with multiple forms of transport, you can take a taxi directly from Florence Airport to Lucca. The drive will take about 1 hour, and the fare will typically range from 100 to 120 euros.
2.3 From Rome Airport to Lucca: Long-Distance Bus or Train
If you’re arriving at Rome Fiumicino Airport, you can take a bus or train to reach Lucca.
Option 1: Long-Distance Bus – The easiest and most affordable option is to take a long-distance bus from Rome Airport to Lucca. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, and tickets cost around 15 to 20 euros. The buses are comfortable, and it’s a direct route to Lucca.
Option 2: Train – Alternatively, you can take a bus from the airport to Fiumicino Train Station, then take a train to Rome Termini Station. From there, take a train to Lucca. This method takes longer and involves transfers but gives you a chance to experience Italy’s beautiful countryside along the way.
3. Getting Around Lucca: Transportation in the City
Once you’ve made it to Lucca, you’ll be glad to know that the city is easy to explore and doesn’t require complicated transportation. Here’s how you can get around the city:
3.1 Walking: The Best Way to Explore Lucca
Lucca is a compact, walkable city, and walking is by far the best way to get around. The historic center of Lucca is full of charming streets, piazzas, and landmarks, and many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other.
The city’s ancient walls, which are still intact and encircle the city, provide a lovely backdrop for your walks. You can stroll along the top of the walls for stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. There’s no better way to explore the medieval streets of Lucca than on foot, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the leisurely pace of this charming city.
3.2 Public Transportation: Buses
While the city is small, you can also make use of public buses if you want to explore the outskirts or nearby villages. Lucca has a decent bus network, and the buses are reliable, with a ticket price that’s quite affordable. You can check bus timetables and get tickets at the main bus stations in the city.
3.3 Taxis and Bicycle Rentals
For more flexibility, you can opt for a taxi or rent a bicycle. While taxis are not as frequent in Lucca as in larger cities, you can find them at the main squares or call them through local apps. Bicycle rentals are also popular in Lucca, as it’s a great city for cycling, and there are several shops where you can rent a bike for a day.
4. Transportation Tips for Lucca
- Plan Your Route in Advance: Whether you’re arriving at Pisa, Florence, or Rome, it’s a good idea to check transportation schedules and book tickets in advance if possible.
- Walking is Key: Lucca is small, and walking is the best way to get around. Wear comfortable shoes to explore the city at a relaxed pace.
- Carry Cash: While credit cards are accepted in many places, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small shops, buses, or taxis that may not accept card payments.
Getting to Lucca is easy and convenient, whether you’re flying in from Europe or beyond. With multiple airports to choose from and simple transportation options once you arrive, you’ll be able to start your Tuscan adventure with ease. I hope these transportation tips help you plan your trip to Lucca, and I can’t wait for you to discover this stunning city!
