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Exploring Pisa and Lucca: A Perfect Day Trip from Florence

As I mentioned before, what makes Florence such a fantastic city to stay in is its proximity to other cities throughout Italy. I took full advantage of this and scheduled as many day trips as I could during my stay. The first up: Pisa and Lucca, two charming cities in the Tuscan region that were very easy to get to!


Although I have been to Italy a few times before this trip, I never had the opportunity to see one of the most world-famous landmarks, the Tower of Pisa! As much of a tourist attraction it is, it's also a major bucket list item, so I had to see to see it in person. As cheesy as it sounds, it was a real "pinch me" moment!


I must admit, prior to this trip, Lucca wasn't in my radar. However, since its a close train ride from Pisa and I heard amazing things about it, I decided to bundle them together. A little ambitious, yes, but I was there to make the most of every moment!


After going on this jaunt, I will say that a perfect day trip from Florence, Italy is exploring Pisa and Lucca.

Jet Like Jaclyn ready to explore Pisa and Lucca

Ready to go!


The train ride to Pisa is a short one! A direct train takes anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours and costs around $11 - a steal if you ask me! Planning the trip is a breeze using Rome2Rio, where you can check train times, duration and price on here. I highly recommend it!


Upon arriving in Pisa, head out of the station and make your way towards the Arno river. The walk to the tower takes about 23 minutes, but I encourage you to take your time and explore along the way. Cross the river and keep walking, either by following the crowd, the signs guiding you to "Torre di Pisa" or simply getting lost in the streets - in my opionion that's the most fun way to discover a new place!

Jet Like Jaclyn visiting the leaning tower of Pisa in Pisa, Italy

There she is in all of her glory! And yes, the tower actually leans - its pretty incredible to witness in person. There is no fee to see the tower or wonder around the grounds, also known as the Square of Miracles. Know there is a small fee to visit inside of the cathedral and there's always the option to pay to take a tour or to go up to the top. You can find more information on this here.


The rest of Pisa was cute - like many Italian cities there' beautiful architecture, narrow streets, and lots of history. I spent the early afternoon wandering around and exploring. I didn't linger too long, thought, as I had to make my way to Lucca.


A few more shots from Pisa:

Had to stop for a sweet treat, this time it was bomboloni, a yummy Italian doughnut | Fun fact: Pisa is located on the Arno river, just like Florence. If you didn't know, now you do! | There is a beautiful cathedral, the Cattedraledi Pisa, located directly next to the tower. The architecural detail was outstanding.



Train Station in Lucca, Italy

After a delightful few hours in Pisa, it was time to journey to Lucca! I boarded the train and in just 30 minutes (for less than $10), I arrived. Upon seeing the train station, I was immediately charmed. It was so cute, and looked like something out of a movie. Anyways...


Guinigi Tower in Lucca, Italy

What makes Lucca such an alluring city is that it is the perfect blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy. It's encircled by Renaissance-era walls, boasts cobblestone streets, medieval towers, and many, many beautiful churches. It's a true treasure!


While I inteded to grab lunch somewhere in Lucca, my timing was a bit off - I happened to arrive a little bit after lunch time, finding many of the local restaurants closed until dinnertime...oops! If you happen to plan to visit during lunch time, perhaps plan your trip a little better than I did. ;)


I spent the afternoon wondering and weaving through the enchanting streets, passing through lively piazzas, strolling by beautiful churches, all the while absorbing the vibrant energy of the city. The true highlight may have been the many street performers I encounted along my journey: musicians, artists and dancers, putting on performances and displaying their best work.

Piazza Dell'Anfiteatro in Lucca, Italy

The coolest, and most well-known areas is the circlular Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. A fun little fact: not only is this the oldest piazza in Lucca, but it was originally built as a Roman amphitheatre in the second half of the 1st century A.D. Today, the remains are preserved and incorporated in the buildings bordering the piazza and is now home to many restaurants, cafes and shops. SO cool!

Gelato from Gelateria Veneto Lucca in Lucca, Italy

I finished my day with the "lunch" of champions - a gelato! :) Stopping by Gelateria Veneto Lucca, I indulged in this triple delight. It was just what a needed after a long day of exploring and the perfect pick-me-up to hold me over before jumping on a train back to Florence and a propper meal!


As iconic as the Tower of Pisa may be, the true highlight of the day was definitely Lucca. If you have an extra day in Tuscany, or are looking for another place to visit along Italian travels, I would add it to your list. I really loved the few hours I spent here and am already eagerly anticipating my return!


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Cathleen Byrnes
Cathleen Byrnes
May 31, 2024

Nice write-up! I agree Rome2Rio was a great help for me when I was there...The town of Luca looks very interesting…that just might be added to my bucket list!

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Jaclyn Yarusso
Jaclyn Yarusso
Jun 11, 2024
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Rome2Rio is the best! And yes, add Lucca to your list - time to get back to Italy!

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