Key takeaways
- Lucca’s station is a short walk from the historic center, making day trips straightforward.
- Regional trains connect Lucca with major hubs like Pisa and Florence throughout the day.
- Pisa is the quickest classic trip; Florence is the best for art and museums.
- Cinque Terre is doable in a day, but allow extra time and expect occasional trail closures.
- Siena is farther by rail, so start early (or stay overnight for a slower pace).
How to get to Lucca by train
Train routes and typical journey times
From Florence (Firenze S. M. Novella), trains to Lucca commonly take around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes, depending on the service. From Pisa Centrale, the trip is typically about 25–40 minutes on regional trains. Times vary by day and timetable, so check your specific departure.
Accessibility and convenience
Arriving by train keeps logistics simple. Lucca’s station sits just outside the city walls, so you can reach the main sights on foot in minutes, or use local buses/taxis if you prefer.
Day trip to Pisa
A day trip to Pisa from Lucca is one of the easiest: trains run frequently and the journey is short. In Pisa, head to the monumental Piazza dei Miracoli (also known as the Piazza del Duomo), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alongside the famous Leaning Tower, you’ll find the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Baptistery.
If you book a tower visit, the climb is steep but rewarding: the official site lists a staircase of 273 steps to reach the top. After the monuments, enjoy a slow stroll through Pisa’s streets or settle into a café for a quick lunch before returning to Lucca.
Day trip to Florence
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | About 60 km (37 miles) |
| Typical train time | About 1h 15m–1h 50m (some services faster) |
| Top attractions | Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo |
| Food to try | Bistecca alla Fiorentina, ribollita, pappa al pomodoro |
| Ticket costs | One-way fares often start around €8–€10 for regional trains (prices vary by day and booking method) |
Florence—often called the cradle of the Renaissance—is packed with museums, churches, and landmark architecture. From Santa Maria Novella station, you can walk to the Duomo complex and the Ponte Vecchio. If you have time, visit the Uffizi or the Accademia (home to Michelangelo’s David). For a scenic finish, go up to Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset views before your train back to Lucca.
Day trip to Cinque Terre
For coastal scenery and colorful villages, Cinque Terre is a memorable (but longer) rail day trip. Many routes run via La Spezia. The Lucca → La Spezia leg can range from roughly 1h 15m to 1h 50m, depending on connections. From La Spezia, frequent regional trains link the five villages.
If you plan to hike sections of the Sentiero Verde Azzurro (Blue Trail), openings and rules can change due to weather, maintenance, or crowd control. For the most reliable, up-to-date information on trail access and the Cinque Terre Card, check the official Cinque Terre National Park guidance before you go.
Day trip to Viareggio
Easy access to a seaside break
Viareggio is an easy seaside escape from Lucca. Trains usually take about 20–30 minutes (with some faster services), putting beaches and the palm-lined promenade within easy reach.
Beach time, Liberty-style architecture, and events
Spend the day at the beach clubs, explore Viareggio’s Liberty-style buildings, and linger over seafood and an aperitivo. Viareggio is also famous for its annual carnival; for 2026, the official tourism calendar lists events from January 31 to February 21, 2026.
Day trip to Siena
Siena is known for its medieval streets and the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. From Lucca, the train trip usually needs at least one change. The fastest routes are just over 2 hours, but many take around 3 to 4 hours. The Palio horse race is held each year on July 2 and August 16.
Practical tips for train day trips
- Check the day’s timetable: regional schedules can shift on weekends and holidays.
- Know your ticket type: as of 2026-01-22, Trenitalia’s Digital Regionale Ticket is automatically validated at your selected departure time (no manual check-in needed).
- Start early for longer trips: Cinque Terre and Siena both reward an early departure.
FAQs
What are the easiest day trips from Lucca by train?
Pisa and Viareggio are typically the quickest by rail, with frequent regional services throughout the day.
How long does it take to reach Florence from Lucca by train?
Most journeys take about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes, depending on the specific service and stops.
How long is the train from Lucca to Pisa?
The trip is commonly around 25–40 minutes on regional trains.
Can I visit Cinque Terre as a day trip from Lucca?
Yes—many routes run via La Spezia. Plan extra time for connections and consider checking official park notices if you want to hike.
Are there direct trains from Lucca to Viareggio?
Yes, there are direct services, and travel times are commonly around 20–30 minutes.
How much does the train from Lucca to Florence cost?
Prices depend on the train type and when/where you buy. One-way fares often start around €8–€10 for regional trains, but you should check current fares for your travel date.
Traveling through Tuscany by train lets you see more with less stress. From iconic landmarks in Pisa and Florence to the sea air in Viareggio or Cinque Terre, Lucca pairs beautifully with day trips across the region.
