Discovering the Piana di Lucca on foot: a journey through nature, history, and culture

The Piana di Lucca, located in the heart of Tuscany, is one of the ideal destinations for those who wish to explore one of Italy’s most fascinating areas. This region, rich in history, culture, and traditions, offers countless opportunities for walks and excursions immersed in nature, accompanied by tastings, visits to historic villages, and encounters with local traditions.

Walls of Lucca

A walking excursion in the Piana di Lucca must undoubtedly begin with the city of Lucca itself. Its historic walls of Lucca, which encircle the city center, are one of the area’s defining features. Built between the mid-1500s and mid-1600s, they now serve as a vast park surrounding the city.

Walking along the paths that wind atop the walls, visitors can admire a panorama that stretches from the city itself to the surrounding hills. The walls of Lucca are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering a panoramic view that allows visitors to fully appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Along the route, one can stop for a coffee at one of the panoramic terraces or rent a bicycle for a full tour around the walls. For history enthusiasts, guided tours are available to explore the city’s evolution from its Roman origins to the present day.

The Lucchese countryside

Beyond the city, the Piana di Lucca is famous for its lush countryside, offering a network of trails ideal for nature lovers. Walking through vineyards, olive groves, and cultivated fields, visitors can breathe in the fresh country air and discover hidden corners of rare beauty.  During these excursions, it is possible to stop and visit some of the historic villas scattered throughout the area, such as Villa Torriani or Villa Reale di Marlia, where visitors can admire magnificent Italian-style gardens and participate in cultural events. For an authentic experience, many local farms offer tastings of extra virgin olive oil and local wine, accompanied by visits to historic mills and cellars.

The ancient Via Francigena: a path of history and spirituality

For history enthusiasts, the Via Francigena is an unmissable route that crosses the Piana di Lucca. This ancient pilgrimage road, which connected Canterbury to Rome, passes through Lucca, offering travelers the opportunity to walk a stretch of this historical path. Walking along the Via Francigena, one can retrace the footsteps of pilgrims who have crossed these lands for centuries, passing through medieval villages such as Altopascio, famous for its medieval pilgrim hospital, or Capannori, where visitors can explore ancient Romanesque churches. For more adventurous travelers, it is possible to hike a section of the route with a guide who will 

Exploring the Piana di Lucca with a guide

For those who want an even more complete experience, it is possible to participate in guided tours. Local guides, experts in the history and nature of the area, offer personalized tours that enrich the experience with historical details, local legends, and curiosities.

In addition to historical tours, themed excursions can be booked, such as gastronomic tour with tastings of local products or photographic trekking with panoramic stops perfect for capturing the beauty of the landscape.

The Piana di Lucca is an ideal destination for those who wish to explore Tuscany, immersing themselves in landscapes of extraordinary natural, historical, and cultural beauty. Whether strolling along the walls of Lucca, hiking through the campagna lucchese, or walking historic paths like the Via Francigena, every step is an opportunity to discover an authentic and enchanting corner of Tuscany.

There is no better way to fully experience this region than by walking, letting yourself be surprised by its many treasures, stopping to savor a glass of local wine, or chatting with the locals to uncover stories and traditions passed down through generations.