Piazza Napoleone Tours

Piazza Napoleone showing heritage architecture, a city and road cycling
Piazza Napoleone featuring a city, heritage architecture and street scenes
Piazza Napoleone showing a city and street scenes
Piazza Napoleone showing skyline, a city and cycling


The largest square in Lucca is a favorite spot for socializing. Some of the biggest names in music entertain here.

With rock concerts, cafés, interesting architecture and a wide open space, the sprawling tree-lined Piazza Napoleone has a broad appeal that attracts thousands of visitors every day.

Lucca’s main public square is also called Piazza Grande. It was dedicated to Napoleon by his sister Elisa Bonaparte who ruled the city from 1805 to 1815.

Stroll around the piazza’s perimeter to survey the facades of the buildings. The focal point is the colossal Ducal Palace (Palazzo Ducal), once home to Elisa and now the headquarters of Lucca’s provincial government. For more than 800 years the building has been the political and administrative center of the city.

Pay a visit to the Teatro del Giglio in the adjacent piazza. Built in the mid-17th century, it’s one of the oldest theaters in Italy. Watch an opera, listen to a symphonic music concert or enjoy the spring dance season.

Piazza Napoleone is a favorite picnic spot of the Lucchese. Buy fresh regional produce from nearby shops and enjoy your food under the shade of a tree just as the locals do.

Every summer the piazza rocks to the sounds of some of the biggest musical artists on the planet. If you will be in the city during July, reserve a ticket for one of the many evening concerts held here. The piazza is a venue for the Lucca Summer Festival, an annual musical celebration. A stage and giant television screens are erected with the Ducal Palace providing a dramatic backdrop for the performances. Among the international artists who have played to enthusiastic crowds in recent years are Elton John, Eric Clapton, James Brown and Pink. Purchase tickets from the Summer Festival’s official website.

During December, enjoy the square’s seasonal attractions, including a temporary ice rink and children’s carousel ride.

Situated in the center of Lucca, the piazza is about a 10-minute walk from the train station and a quarter mile (400 meters) from the bus terminus in Piazzale Verdi.

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Best Lodging Options Near Piazza Napoleone

Grand Universe Lucca, Autograph Collection

Grand Universe Lucca, Autograph Collection

4 out of 5
Piazza Del Giglio 1, Lucca, LU
Grand Universe Lucca, Autograph Collection
Palazzo Dipinto

Palazzo Dipinto

4 out of 5
Piazza del Palazzo Dipinto, 27, Lucca, LU
Palazzo Dipinto
Hotel Ilaria

Hotel Ilaria

4 out of 5
Via Del Fosso 26, Lucca, LU
Hotel Ilaria
Hotel Diana

Hotel Diana

2 out of 5
Via della Dogana 9, Lucca, LU
Hotel Diana
Albergo San Martino

Albergo San Martino

3 out of 5
Via Della Dogana 9, Lucca, LU
Albergo San Martino
San Luca Palace Hotel

San Luca Palace Hotel

4 out of 5
Via San Paolino, 103, Lucca, LU
San Luca Palace Hotel
B&B Pergola House

B&B Pergola House

Piazza San Romano 11-12, Lucca, LU
B&B Pergola House
Perle d'Ambra

Perle d'Ambra

8 Via San Girolamo, Lucca, LU
Perle d'Ambra
Lucca Charm

Lucca Charm

Via Roma 14, Lucca, LU
Lucca Charm
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Piazza Napoleone

When visiting Piazza Napoleone in Lucca, Tuscany, be sure to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with activities like opera performances, leisurely walks through the picturesque surroundings, and lively festivals that showcase the local culture. This iconic square is a fantastic spot to soak in the charm of Italy while participating in various events and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.

Shopping

Piazza Napoleone offers a delightful shopping experience with charming boutiques and local shops. For a bit more adventure, if you're up for a drive, explore Passeggiata di Viareggio and Norcineria Bonuccelli, both 14 miles away, or head to Mercato Centrale, located 22 miles from the piazza.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at Bagni di Pisa Spa, where you can indulge in luxurious body treatments just 6 miles from Piazza Napoleone. For sports enthusiasts, Arena Garibaldi offers thrilling matches 9 miles away. Families can enjoy outdoor fun at Parco Giochi Bim Bum Bam, located 11 miles from the square.

Adventure

Experience the stunning views at the Funicolare Cablecar Railway, located 14 miles from Piazza Napoleone, perfect for adventure seekers. Enjoy the outdoor atmosphere at L'attesa, located 13 miles away, ideal for family outings. For winter enthusiasts, the Cutigliano - Doganaccia Ski Lift, 22 miles away, offers thrilling skiing adventures.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Piazza Napoleone with a visit to Teatro del Giglio, just 0.1 miles away, offering a romantic atmosphere and captivating performances. For more cultural experiences, head to Cinema Teatro Lux or Teatrino di Vetriano, both within 10 miles, featuring family-friendly entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Piazza Napoleone

Piazza Napoleone in Lucca, Tuscany, offers a rich blend of culture and history, making it a great spot for tourists. Visitors can explore nearby attractions like historic churches, stunning towers, and the enchanting city of Lucca itself. Whether you're interested in family-friendly activities or immersing yourself in the local culture, Piazza Napoleone serves as a perfect starting point for your adventures in central Lucca.

  • Leaning Tower: A marvel of medieval architecture, the Leaning Tower is famous for its unintended tilt. Located 10 miles from Piazza Napoleone, visitors are captivated by its intricate marble façade and stunning views from the top. It's a must-see for history and culture enthusiasts.
  • Piazza dell'Anfiteatro: Just 0.3 miles away, this unique circular piazza was built on the remains of a Roman amphitheater. Its charming cafes and shops create a lively atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the vibrant local culture.
  • Cathedral of St Martin: Located only 0.2 miles from Piazza Napoleone, this stunning cathedral features beautiful frescoes and intricate architecture. It's a serene spot to admire art and history in the heart of Lucca.

Best time to go to Piazza Napoleone

The best time to visit Piazza Napoleone can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Piazza Napoleone falls in July and August. August has high visitor numbers and sunny weather. The coolest average temperature around Piazza Napoleone falls in January, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
February43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
March48.2°F (9.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May61.5°F (16.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.0°F (21.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July75.0°F (23.9°C)No RainSunnyHighSlightly High
August75.0°F (23.9°C)No RainSunnyHighSlightly High
September67.5°F (19.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
October59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Piazza Napoleone

To save money on your trip to Piazza Napoleone, consider visiting between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance often yields the best rates, especially on Saturdays, while Sundays tend to be pricier. Check for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia, and consider combining your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Utilize Expedia's price filter and join their One Key membership for exclusive discounts and cash rewards on future stays. Walking is a great way to explore the area without incurring transportation costs.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Piazza Napoleone are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Piazza Napoleone about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Piazza Napoleone is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Piazza Napoleone is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at Piazza Napoleone with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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