Piazza dell'Anfiteatro Lucca
A unique oval piazza built on Roman amphitheater ruins, now Lucca's lively social heart with cafes and shops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro Lucca
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique oval piazza built on Roman amphitheater ruins, now Lucca's lively social heart with cafes and shops.
"Quite stunning from a Roman architecture perspective. The town on Lucca is well worth a visit and this is the centre of the town."
🎯 Enjoy an Aperitivo
Grab a drink and soak in the atmosphere. Perfect for people-watching! :wine_glass:
🚶♀️ Wander the Alleys
Explore the side streets for authentic shops and fewer crowds. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Unique Oval Shape
The entire piazza
A perfectly preserved oval, once a Roman amphitheater, now a vibrant public space.
Cafes and Restaurants
Ring of buildings surrounding the piazza
Sip an aperitivo or enjoy a meal with a view of this historic, circular plaza.
Architectural History
The structure itself
Marvel at how Roman ruins were transformed into a medieval and modern gathering spot.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Oval Charm
Timing is Key for Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Enjoy an Aperitivo
Grab a drink and soak in the atmosphere. Perfect for people-watching! :wine_glass:
🚶♀️ Wander the Alleys
Explore the side streets for authentic shops and fewer crowds. :walking:
🏛️ Appreciate the History
Imagine gladiators and ancient Romans where you stand.
⏰ Check Shop Hours
Shops and restaurants may close and reopen mid-day. Plan accordingly! :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Enjoy an Aperitivo
Grab a drink and soak in the atmosphere. Perfect for people-watching! :wine_glass:
🚶♀️ Wander the Alleys
Explore the side streets for authentic shops and fewer crowds. :walking:
🏛️ Appreciate the History
Imagine gladiators and ancient Romans where you stand.
⏰ Check Shop Hours
Shops and restaurants may close and reopen mid-day. Plan accordingly! :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Piazza dell'Anfiteatro stunning, appreciating its unique Roman architectural history and vibrant atmosphere. It's a central hub for dining and enjoying the Lucca experience, though some note that vendors and restaurants directly on the piazza can be touristy and pricier than those on side streets.
"Quite stunning from a Roman architecture perspective. The town on Lucca is well worth a visit and this is the centre of the town. The vendors on the amphitheater are very touristy and much better fare can be found on the side streets, as usual in Italian tourist towns."
Graham Pudney
"Quite a unique place. Oval square in the middle of the walled city of Lucca was a Roman amphitheater back in ancient times and with its destruction, houses were build on its place on the same plot, so the houses are build facing oval square. Place is accessible via 4 entrances from north, east, west and south, like all streets alignment in old Lucca since Roman times. Place is full of restaurants and bars where one can sit and drink aperol and enjoy the wonderful time in Lucca."
Tomi Valny
"Historic amphitheatre from Roman times redeveloped into housing and restaurants/shops and free to visit.. Lots of restaurants to dine Al fresco."
Finbarr Keaveney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is located in the heart of Lucca's historic center, which is a pedestrian-only zone. You can easily walk to it from anywhere within the city walls. If arriving by car, park outside the walls and walk in.
While there are no direct bus routes into the piazza itself due to its pedestrian nature, Lucca's main bus station is a short walk away, making it easily accessible by public transport from surrounding areas.
Many visitors find cycling or walking the best ways to explore Lucca. The city walls offer a fantastic cycling path, and the piazza is a central point within the charming, walkable streets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
As a public square, it's always open. However, individual shops and restaurants surrounding the piazza have their own operating hours, which can vary.
The piazza itself is free to access. If you wish to visit specific attractions within or near the piazza, like museums or towers, separate tickets may be required.
📸 📸 Photography
The late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful golden hour light, perfect for capturing the piazza's unique atmosphere.
Try standing at one of the four entrances to get a sense of the full oval. Wide-angle lenses can also help capture the entire circumference.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Be mindful of patrons at cafes and restaurants when taking photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The piazza is lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants offering a range of Italian cuisine, from quick snacks and gelato to full meals.
Yes, many restaurants offer al fresco dining, allowing you to enjoy your meal while taking in the historic surroundings.
While convenient, dining directly in the piazza can be more tourist-oriented and pricier. Exploring the side streets often reveals more authentic and local trattorias.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Grab some gelato from one of the many shops and let the kids enjoy the unique atmosphere. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
🏛️ History Buffs
+1 Take time to appreciate the architectural evolution, from the original amphitheater to Nottolini's 19th-century redesign. +1 Imagine the gladiatorial contests and the lives of those who once frequented this space. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Roman Amphitheater Reimagined
+1 The original structure, designed for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, was largely buried or dismantled over centuries. What remains is the distinct elliptical shape, which dictated the layout of the medieval and Renaissance buildings that now encircle the piazza. +1In the 19th century, architect Lorenzo Nottolini spearheaded a significant urban redevelopment project, transforming the space into the harmonious oval piazza we see today.
+1 The four entrances to the piazza align with the ancient access points of the amphitheater, a subtle nod to its past. Today, the former arena floor is occupied by buildings, and the arcades that once held spectators now house charming shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Experiencing the Piazza's Vibe
+1 During the day, it's a pleasant spot to grab a coffee or gelato, browse the stalls of local vendors, and soak in the sun. As evening approaches, the piazza transforms. The cafes and restaurants spill out onto the cobblestones, creating a lively ambiance perfect for an aperitivo.
+1 The unique oval shape creates an intimate setting, making it feel like a hidden gem even when busy. While the piazza itself is free to explore, be aware that dining and shopping directly on the piazza can be more tourist-focused and potentially pricier than in the surrounding side streets.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit