You know the feeling of landing in Lucca (Lucca, for those in the know) and come across more selfie poles than city dwellers? If you want to experience this warm Tuscan town without following in the footsteps of the sweaty summer crowds, ask yourself the real question: When is the best time to visit Lucca? Honest answer from a Tuscan addict who once railed against the rain in Apriloverheated in the shade in July, but always found something to love under the Lucquois sky.
Understanding Lucca's climate: much less generic than you might think
We've all heard "Tuscany = year-round sunshine". Well, get your glasses ready, but don't put your umbrella away just yet. The Lucca climate oscillates between sweet fragrant springs, suffocating summers (thanks to the humidity), shimmering autumns - sometimes soaking wet - and chilly winters where you'll never feel the cold in your eyes, but maybe the cold at the end of your nose.
In official figures (dati meteorete Toscana 2017-2022), the temperatures in Lucca temperatures range from an average low of 6°C in January to 31°C during the heatwaves of july and august. Side precipitationBut beware, Lucca can play the "tropical Tuscany" card with its autumn rains... but nothing that should dissuade a curious traveler equipped with a good raincoat.
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Seasons that all have their say
The charm of Luccais that it likes to surprise. We think we can organize ourselves recommended best timesbut locally, each season unfolds its secret program. Fickle weather or absolute authenticity, the choice is yours!
A little insider scoop: there really is an avoidable gap between mass tourism and village atmosphere. It's no myth, I assure you.
Spring in Lucca: sweetness, fragrances and secrets revealed
I am convinced that spring is the subtle diva of seasons in Lucca. From Aprilthe temperature is slowly rising again, with temperatures approaching 17°C during the day. Visit Maythe temperature climbs again, to around 21°C, with a reasonable tourist numbers. The gardens are starting to wake up, the ramparts are lined with wisteria and the cafés are bringing out their terraces without fear of too much rain. To better understand the general context on the ideal time to enjoy the Tuscan climateThese figures can be compared with those for other towns in the region.
Be careful, however: April remains capricious and loves to sprinkle the city between two rays of sunshine. But if you're willing to juggle a few showers, it's a great way to enjoy the city. fantasy period to stroll everywhere without the crowds. I once had the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro almost to myself in the early hours of the morning. Magical, even under a cloud.
Why focus on May and June?
May is my personal nugget: pleasant climateThe city is active without being overrun. The city is active without being overrun, and I rarely regret my spring escapades. June remains bearable on the thermometer side (up to 25°C), but thetourist affluence is beginning to show its face. Don't forget your calves: local cyclists are speeding up before the mass arrival of holidaymakers. If you're looking for a different and original experience when discovering Italy's charming cities, a visit to Lucca certainly deserves your curiosity.
Visit springyou can test it all:
- Local tastings trattoria without queuing for thirty minutes.
- Picnic on the walls of Lucca, lulled by the scent of lime blossom.
- Bike ride on the rampartsto refine your tan without melting.
Summer in Lucca: the hustle and bustle... with a risk of overheating
Here's the mythical season when everyone says, "Oh, let's go to Tuscany this summer!" And here's the catch: Lucca can look like a tiled oven between late June and late August. Visit summer temperatures often offer free sauna sessions - up to 33°C recorded in some pedestrian streets, according to ARS Toscana - and thehumidity doesn't really help. Level tourist affluenceNo need to lie to you, it's not always easy. It's also worth noting that the region is generally at its busiest between June and September, particularly for travellers tempted by a luxury villa rental in Tuscany.
Yet it's impossible to ignore impressive summer activities! Concerts under the stars, festivals in historic squares, night markets and lively alleyways... it's easy to see why so many travellers persist in coming to the region. july and august despite sudden precipitation possible in the evening.
What's on offer in Lucca this summer?
The peaceful morningsbefore ten o'clock, remain one of my hidden pleasures. During the day, enjoy the shady palacesexplores the cooler churches or flees to the neighboring hills to breathe the fresh, slightly humid air of the vineyards. For the brave, August is also the white nights of the Lucca Summer Festival, when the city becomes a real movie set.
Avoiding the Snoblandia shopping troop also sometimes involves exploring a neighboring village for an afternoon, and come back to enjoy the charms of Lucquois after dark.
- Live concerts in several piazzas.
- Canoeing or paddling on the Serchio river.
- Sipping an Aperol Spritz admiring the sunset from the ramparts.
Autumn in Lucca: when magic takes on a golden hue
Visit september and octoberLucques is once again my favorite playground. Visit colors explodeThe temperature drops gently (around 22°C in early September, then 17°C in October), the tourist crowds return home and the city finally breathes. It's also the time when the first leaves fall... and the first serious rainfall.
Don't be afraid to open an umbrella between visits: themelancholy atmosphere of the old townburied under russet branches, is perfect for dreaming in front of pastry shop windows or lingering in bookshops. November is the wettest month of the year, so don't forget your waterproof boots! According to Regione Toscana, we sometimes exceed 110 mm monthly rainfall.
What experiences should you try in autumn?
Autumn rhymes with gastronomy in Lucca. Taste the roasted chestnuts Piazza San MicheleYou've never experienced a real Italian evening until you've shared this crisp snack on a floodlit piazza. The markets offer trufflesmushrooms and fresh oils - take a culinary souvenir, much better than a magnet made in China.
The city is also home to many artistic and folk events in October, taking advantage of the newfound calm. I recently discovered an improvised mini-film festival in a desecrated church. Yes, Tuscany is often like that: full of surprises in all seasons.
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4-person villas
|
Villas with swimming pool
|
Detached villas
|
Villas for 20 people
|
Last minute offer!
|
The cheapest
|
With private pool
|
| Month | Average temperature | Average precipitation | Tourists |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | 16°C | 70 mm | Low |
| May | 21°C | 62 mm | Average |
| June | 25°C | 45 mm | High |
| July | 31°C | 37 mm | Very high |
| August | 32°C | 39 mm | Very high |
| September | 22°C | 65 mm | Average |
| October | 17°C | 89 mm | Low |
| November | 12°C | 113 mm | Very low |
Everything you wanted to know about Lucca's best season (and were afraid to ask)
What are the advantages of visiting Lucca in spring?
the springespecially in april and mayoffers mild temperatures ideal for exploring the city on foot or by bike. Lesstourist affluence means more space on the terraces and moderate prices. You'll also enjoy :
- Former flower gardens accessible free of charge or during special events.
- Flushes offresh air on the ramparts without the rush.
- A unique blend of golden light and quiet streets for relaxation.
Is it worth discovering Lucca at the height of summer, despite the tourist crowds?
Yes, if you're looking for entertainment and festivities, thesummer activities regorge such as open-air concerts and night markets. However, thetourist affluence reaches new heights, as does the temperature (over 30°C). To avoid overheating, plan your visits early in the morning or late at night, and opt for shady areas (palaces, museums).
What's Lucca like in autumn?
Autumn rhymes with pleasant temperatures in September, then progressively cooler. Expect more precipitation in October and November. The atmosphere is particularly appreciated by lovers of photography and good food:
- Bright leaves covering the piazzas and peaceful lanes.
- Typical gastronomic products served in local restaurants.
- No waiting in the museums and historic stores.
Are there any climatic risks to be aware of before planning a stay in Lucca?
A few words of caution are in order. In spring, sudden showers can cool the atmosphere, so be sure to pack a light raincoat, especially in April. In summer, remember to protect your skin from the sun, which can be strong; drink regularly and seek shade during the heat peaks between midday and 4pm. In autumn, particularly in October and November, rainfall becomes more frequent and abundant, sometimes leading to minor local flooding, especially in the districts near the Serchio. As for winter (December-February), although it's not mentioned here as much, you should be aware that temperatures can drop close to freezing at night, even if snow remains rare. The main risk, therefore, is heavy autumn rain and, in summer, heat stress due to humidity combined with high temperatures. Nothing to spoil a well-planned holiday!