The best cycling routes around Lucca

Lucca offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 950 options available. These routes cater to all skill levels, from easy rides along flat plains to challenging ascents in the surrounding hills and mountains.

The terrain around Lucca is remarkably diverse. You can enjoy flat, traffic-free cycling on the historic city walls, or explore the picturesque Plain of Lucca with its olive groves and vineyards. For more challenging rides, the foothills and the Apuan Alps offer rolling hills and demanding ascents with breathtaking views.

Yes, Lucca is very welcoming for families and beginners. The most iconic easy route is The city of Lucca and its city walls - Ring tour, a flat, traffic-free loop offering panoramic city views. The Serchio River Park also provides peaceful, flat paths. Overall, there are nearly 200 easy routes to choose from.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes venturing into the Apuan Alps or the Garfagnana region offer significant elevation gains. Examples include Lago di Turrite Cava e Foce di Sella — Round trip, which features over 1,100 meters of ascent, or the demanding All the slopes of Monte Cusna around Monte Prado – gravel loop tour from Casone di Profecchia with nearly 1,800 meters of climbing.

Many touring cycling routes around Lucca are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular moderate option is Towns and views around Lucca - Loop tour, which takes you through charming towns and offers scenic vistas. The city walls also form a perfect circular route.

Beyond the city walls, you can cycle through the agricultural Plain of Lucca, rich in olive groves and vineyards. The Serchio River Park offers a peaceful escape along the river, and the Aqueduct of Nottolini provides a unique path alongside elegant stone arches. For more varied scenery, explore routes around Lake Massaciuccoli or venture into the chestnut forests and olive groves of the foothills.

Lucca's cycling routes are rich with historical sights. You can cycle atop the Lucca City Walls, offering views of landmarks like Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. Routes often pass through charming medieval villages like Collodi and Montecarlo, and past historic villas such as Villa Reale. You might also encounter ancient Romanesque churches and sections of the historic Via Francigena pilgrimage route.

Yes, for those interested in natural beauty, several waterfalls are located within cycling distance. Notable ones include the Candalla Waterfalls, Acquapendente Waterfall, and Serchio Waterfalls. These can be incorporated into longer rides for a refreshing stop.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 3,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique experience of cycling on the historic city walls, the diverse and picturesque landscapes of the surrounding countryside, and the variety of routes suitable for all abilities.

Lucca's central location makes it relatively easy to access by public transport, particularly trains. While specific routes may not have direct public transport links along their entire length, you can often reach starting points by train or bus, especially for routes closer to the city or major towns. Always check local transport schedules for bike carriage policies.

Generally, no special permits are required for touring cycling on the established routes and paths around Lucca, including the city walls, river paths, and countryside roads. However, if you plan to cycle through private estates or protected natural reserves, it's always advisable to check for any specific access rules or restrictions.

While specific 'dog-friendly' designations for cycling routes are rare, many of Lucca's paths, especially those through the countryside, along the Serchio River, or on the city walls, are suitable for cycling with a well-behaved dog on a leash or in a bike trailer. Always ensure your dog is comfortable and safe, and be mindful of local regulations regarding pets in public spaces.

Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) are generally considered the best times for touring cycling in Lucca. The weather is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and less humidity than summer. The landscapes are also particularly beautiful during these seasons, with blooming flowers in spring and vibrant colors in autumn. Summer can be hot, especially in July and August, making early morning or late afternoon rides preferable.