Excursion Scenic lucca by bike tour at Livorno

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Experience the Old World beauty and landmarks of Lucca in an active new way during this invigorating, half-day bicycle excursion.


Livorno, Lucca

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to Lucca. Erected in a plain crossed by the Serchio River, not far from the sea, Lucca has managed to remain a typical Italian city. Known as the 'Tuscan open-air museum', Lucca stands proudly with its three walls surrounding the old city centre, which kept the precious and original urban structure unchanged. Lucca conveys the impression of a peaceful and happy town. Motorcars have been almost completely banned inside the town walls, making it the ideal setting in which to enjoy your scenic and invigorating bicycle tour. Upon arrival at Lucca, proceed to the bike rental centre. After receiving your safety, riding and tour instructions, begin your picturesque, approximately two-hour guided bicycle tour of Lucca.


City Walls, Piazza San Michele, Palazzo Pretorio, Church of San Michele

Along the way, stops are made at some of the most beautiful and popular landmarks in the city. From the top of the walls, you can contemplate the city; the roof, tower-houses, alleys, buildings, and several stunning, timeless churches. The heart of the ancient town centre still retains its original rectangular, chessboard-like shape, typical of the Roman castrum, whose centre was what today is Piazza San Michele. An ancient trading site for traders and silk merchants in the beating heart of the city, Piazza San Michele is overlooked by two of the most beautiful and popular local buildings; the Palazzo Pretorio and 11th-century Church of San Michele. Following an inside visit to the church, continue on to the Piazza del Mercato.


Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, Roman Amphitheatre, San Martino Cathedral, San Frediano Church, Free Time

Among the great squares in Lucca, the Piazza dell'anfiteatro was built near the 2nd-century Roman Amphitheatre, the ruins of which are still visible today. Other destinations not to be missed are some churches in the city, a melting pot of art and history. Exterior photo stops are made at the Cathedral of San Martino and Church of San Frediano, a rare example of local Romanesque art. Following your tour, some free time is made available for shopping and independent exploration, or to simply relax and enjoy a coffee in an open-air café of the centre. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Livorno, Lucca, City Walls, Palazzo Pretorio (outside visit), Piazza and Church of San Michele, Roman Amphitheatre, San Frediano Church (outside visit), Free Time

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of bicycling for approximately 3.7 miles-4.3 miles (about six kilometres-seven kilometres) and a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and ramps, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and bicycle, and stairs at the sites visited. Walking in Lucca is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition, and able to ride a bicycle for long distances. This tour is not recommended for pregnant guests, guests with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable sportswear in layers with flat, closed-toe sport shoes, and bring sun protection, bottled water, a weatherproof windbreaker, and local currency for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least eight years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18 years old. Bicycles and safety helmets are provided, and must be worn the entire time whilst bicycling; smaller bicycles and helmets are available for children. Proper attire is required to enter the church; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. The tour sequence may vary. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. In case of sudden and heavy rain during the tour, it will be continued on foot.The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment. During the route, in the old town, some cars might be encountered.