Complete tour of the city and walls

Taking a sightseeing tour in Lucca often involves wandering through its charming streets, but for a truly standout experience, many travelers are now opting for a horse-drawn carriage ride that covers both the city’s most iconic sights and its impressive medieval walls. This tour, rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on 34 reviews, promises a personalized, relaxed, and engaging way to explore one of Italy’s most enchanting towns.

What really makes this experience special? It’s the combination of stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and the adorable horse Mario (or Luigi), who’s become somewhat of a local celebrity. The tour balances historical insight with playful moments, all while cruising through the streets and around the city walls.

A key consideration? The cost of roughly $269 for a group of up to four may seem high at first glance, but when you consider the private service, the use of a charming horse, and the intimate, personalized experience, it offers excellent value—especially for those wanting an authentic taste of Lucca without the crowds.

This tour is especially well-suited for couples, families, or small groups seeking a memorable, leisurely way to discover Lucca’s secrets. If you’re after an active, walking-heavy day, this might not be your best pick, but for a relaxed, immersive experience, it’s hard to beat.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Tour: Only your group participates, with guides available in English, Spanish, and Italian.
• Stunning Views and Unique Perspectives: Ride along the city walls, enjoy different vantage points, and see the city from above.
• Rich Cultural Insights: Guides share fascinating stories about Lucca’s 2500-year history, making every stop meaningful.
• Adorable Horse Companion: Mario or Luigi isn’t just a mode of transportation but also an engaging part of the experience—stop for treats, take photos, and enjoy the company.
• Flexible and Convenient: Includes private transportation, with pickup points easily accessible near public transit.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: The tour lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes, perfect for a quick yet rundown.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Meeting Point: Piazza Napoleone

Your journey begins at the lively Piazza Napoleone, a hub of Lucca’s social life and a great starting point to get a feel for the city’s atmosphere. From here, the tour seamlessly transitions into a scenic ride that covers the key highlights.

Stopping at S. Michele and Piazza Napoleone

First stop is in front of the Church of S. Michele, where guides often share captivating stories about the church’s architecture and significance. The Piazza Napoleone itself is historic, with a lively ambiance that hints at Lucca’s political past.

The Dom and Piazza Anfiteatro

Next, you’ll visit the beautiful cathedral, often simply called “the dome,” which showcases stunning medieval and Renaissance features. Then it’s onto Piazza Anfiteatro, a uniquely oval-shaped square built atop an ancient Roman amphitheater. Reviewers frequently mention how the tour uncovered corners of Lucca they hadn’t explored on foot, making this a real treasure hunt for history buffs and casual travelers alike.

Via Fillungo and City Walls

Cruising along Via Fillungo, Lucca’s main shopping street, the guide shares tidbits about local artisans and lively markets. The highlight, however, is the walk along the city walls (Le Mura di Lucca), which takes around 40 minutes. The walls are remarkably well-preserved and offer sweeping views of the city below. From above, you’ll see the rooftops, the bustling streets, and the surrounding countryside—perfect for photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

Botanical Gardens and Palazzo Pfanner

From the walls, the tour offers views of the botanical garden, giving you a peaceful, green perspective of Lucca’s natural beauty. Stop again in front of the Gardens of Palazzo Pfanner, renowned for their beautifully maintained gardens, often appreciated in reviews for their relaxing atmosphere and historical charm.

Guinigi Tower and Medieval Moat

Finally, the visit includes a peek at the Guinigi Tower — famous for its rooftop garden with ancient oak trees — and the medieval moat, which highlights Lucca’s strategic defenses. These stops give travelers tangible insights into Lucca’s medieval past and its defensive ingenuity.

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a clear picture of what you can expect. Many mention guides like Marika, who is praised for her warmth and knowledge, making the tour engaging and informative. One reviewer noted, “Marika shared a short but great history of Lucca and took us to places we hadn’t seen on foot,” emphasizing the added value of this experience.

The horses, particularly Mario, Luigi, and Lugi, are praised for being “adorable” and “clever,” with guests enjoying the playful interactions — Mario stops for treats, and Luigi even visits shopkeepers along the way. One visitor joked that Luigi “knows his window shopping routine,” highlighting the fun and relaxed nature of the ride.

Many reviews also highlight the stunning views from above the walls and how the tour offers a different perspective from traditional walking tours. “The view of Lucca from the walls was incredible,” one guest said, “and the guide’s stories made the experience even better.”

In terms of the tour’s pace, travelers find it ideal: “It’s relaxing but packed with enough sights and stories to keep it interesting,” said one. The duration of approximately 1 hour 45 minutes strikes a good balance, providing a rundown without feeling rushed.

The Value of the Experience

While the price of around $269 might seem steep at first glance, considering the private service, the guided commentary, and the charming horse companion, it provides excellent value for travelers seeking an exclusive, memorable way to explore Lucca. This isn’t a generic bus tour; it’s a tailored experience that combines comfort, storytelling, and authentic local charm.

On top of that, the private nature of the tour means you avoid crowded groups, and the guides are able to adapt the experience to your interests or pace. For families, especially with children or older travelers, this offers a relaxed and enjoyable alternative to walking.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for small groups, couples, and families wanting to indulge in a leisurely exploration of Lucca’s most iconic sights. If you love stunning views, engaging stories, and playful interactions with animals, then this tour will certainly meet your expectations. It’s especially ideal if you’re looking for a unique, personal way to see the city, away from crowded buses or self-guided walking.

However, if you prefer a fast-paced, extensive exploration or are looking for a budget-friendly option, you may want to consider other types of tours. But for those after a relaxing, authentic glimpse into Lucca’s everyday charm, this horse-drawn carriage ride hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it enjoyable for families, especially since the horse Luigi is friendly and interactive. It’s a gentle ride, ideal for children who can sit comfortably for the duration.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and Italian, so you can choose the language you’re most comfortable with.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, providing enough time to see numerous sights without feeling rushed.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, private transportation is included, making it convenient to start and end the tour without extra hassle.

Are the views from the walls worth it?
Absolutely. The views from above the city walls are praised as stunning and provide excellent photo opportunities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather, as the ride is outdoors. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out from other Lucca experiences?
The combination of personalized private service, a charming horse, and the opportunity to explore both the city’s streets and walls sets it apart. Reviewers consistently highlight how memorable and engaging the experience is, often mentioning the guide’s warmth and the horse’s playful antics.

Final Reflection

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate look at Lucca’s most iconic sights, this horse-drawn carriage tour offers a truly special way to do so. With friendly guides, adorable horses, and breathtaking views, it balances fun and learning in a way that appeals to a wide range of travelers. While it comes at a premium, the personalized touch and the opportunity to see Lucca from a new perspective make it well worth considering.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a unique way to experience Italy’s charming towns, this tour guarantees a memorable outing that will leave you with stories to tell long after you’ve left.