A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Caltagirone vs. Lucca for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Caltagirone or Lucca?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Caltagirone and Lucca can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Caltagirone

Caltagirone is a friendly, charming, and quaint city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Lucca

Lucca is a quaint, popular, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Caltagirone and Lucca: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Caltagirone or Lucca?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lucca. Although Caltagirone and Lucca are popular destinations, Lucca has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucca is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Caltagirone attracts visitors for its shopping. Lucca is more touristy than Caltagirone and is known for its ancient city walls and its many historic buildings. It is also well known for The Guinigi Tower. Caltagirone is famous for its pottery and ceramic industry as well as the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase.

How is Caltagirone different from Lucca?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lucca and Caltagirone. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Caltagirone or Lucca?

Caltagirone
Lucca

Lucca is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Lucca. There are many interesting historic sights and buildings around this charming town. You can climb to the top of the Guinigi Tower or visit the Roman Amphitheater. Many visitors enjoy walking or biking around the city walls as well. Also make sure you visit the cathedral.

Caltagirone is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many visitors come to see the famed Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, which is a 142 step staircase that connects the upper and lower parts of the city. The staircase highlights the city's ceramic and pottery industry, as every step is decorated with tiles.


Is the Food Better in Caltagirone or Lucca? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Caltagirone
Lucca

Lucca is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Lucca is an experience not to be missed. There are many great Tuscan restaurants inside the city walls. Perhaps the most popular local dish is tordelli Lucchesi. Its a meat filled pasta that has a beef ragu sauce. There are also other Tuscan recipes that include steak, boar, or rabbit.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Caltagirone. There are some great local restaurants that serve seafood and other local specialties.

Is Caltagirone or Lucca Better for Nightlife?

Caltagirone
Lucca

Lucca is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for nightlife.

Lucca has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is most lively during the spring and summer months when tourists crowd into the city. For the highest concentration of bars, clubs, and lounges, head to Piazza Amfiteatro, Piazza San Michele and Via Fillungo.

Caltagirone doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Many people visit as a day trip and the town isn't known for its nightlife scene.

Is Caltagirone or Lucca Better for its Old Town?

Caltagirone
Lucca

Lucca is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

Lucca has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The historic city is surrounded by city walls, which you can walk around. Within the walls there are cobblestone streets and a charming atmosphere.

Caltagirone is a good destination for visiting its old town. It is known for its pottery and ceramics, which have been incorporated into many of the architectural elements around town.


Is the Shopping Better in Caltagirone or Lucca?

Caltagirone
Lucca

Caltagirone is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Lucca is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Caltagirone. Pottery and ceramic shopping is a highlight of a visit to town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Lucca. The city is filled with a mix of tourist shops and more authentic local vendors. If you look hard, you can still find some interesting local items that make for a more unique and personal shopping experience.

Is Caltagirone or Lucca Better for Families?

Caltagirone
Lucca

Lucca is a city with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Lucca. You can pass through town in a day or two, or stay longer and use it as a base for exploring Tuscany. There are playgrounds for the kids as well as some fun activities like cycling the city walls and climbing towers.

For families, Caltagirone is not always the best place to visit. Kids may enjoy running up and down the famous Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase. The town also hosts some fun festivals throughout the year, and if you're traveling with kids, these would be the times to visit.

Is Caltagirone or Lucca Better for Couples?

Caltagirone
Lucca

Lucca is well known for couples. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Lucca frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful city with good restaurants and access to nice countryside. Couples who want to explore Tuscany can use this town as a base to take in much of the region.

Caltagirone is a nice destination for couples. Pottery shopping and exploring the town make this a nice option for a day trip or overnight visit.


Is Caltagirone or Lucca Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Caltagirone
Lucca

Lucca is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lucca is a good city to visit for backpackers. While there aren't many traditional hostels around town, guesthouses are usually affordable.

Caltagirone is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people pass in and out of the town on a day trip or stopover, so you won't find many hostels.

Is Caltagirone or Lucca Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Caltagirone
Lucca

Caltagirone is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Lucca is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Caltagirone, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses travel in and out of town.

Public transit is quite limited in Lucca. There's no public transit within the city so if you can't walk somewhere, you'll want to take a taxi. In general, walking is the best option though.

Is Caltagirone or Lucca a more walkable city?

Caltagirone
Lucca

Lucca is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Lucca is a very walkable destination. Much of the city can be explored on foot.

Caltagirone is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are steep, but many people choose to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Caltagirone Worth Visiting? and Is Lucca Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lucca or Caltagirone?

How long in Caltagirone or Lucca?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Caltagirone or Lucca to fill your time. In our opinion, Lucca has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lucca than Caltagirone. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Lucca than Caltagirone. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lucca, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lucca than Caltagirone. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lucca that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lucca than Caltagirone if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lucca.


  • How many days in Caltagirone or Lucca? Ideal Length of Stay
    Caltagirone 1-2 
    Lucca 1-2

One day in Caltagirone or Lucca?

In Caltagirone, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this quaint destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming city of Lucca. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Caltagirone or Lucca?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Caltagirone. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the popular destination of Lucca. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Caltagirone or Lucca?

Caltagirone is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Caltagirone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The historic city of Lucca offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Caltagirone or Lucca?

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Caltagirone. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lucca. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Lucca or Caltagirone?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Caltagirone is €95, while the average daily cost in Lucca is €106. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Caltagirone and Lucca in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Caltagirone 59
    Lucca 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Caltagirone 118
    Lucca 122
Compare Hotels in Caltagirone and Lucca

Looking for a hotel in Caltagirone or Lucca? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Caltagirone


Hotels in Lucca


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Caltagirone Hotel Prices and Lucca Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Caltagirone 8.57
    Lucca 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Caltagirone

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Caltagirone:

  • Airport Transfer to Catania City Center and surrounding areas: $55
  • Arrival Private Transfer Catania Airport to Catania, Taormina or Noto Luxury Van: $41
  • Arrival Private Transfer Catania Airport to Catania, Taormina or Noto Sedan Car: $30
  • Arrival Private Transfer Palermo Airport PMO to Erice by Business Car or Van: $157
  • Catania Airport (CTA) to Messina Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Catania Airport (CTA) to Messina Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $122
  • Catania Airport (CTA) to Palermo Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $152
  • Catania Airport (CTA) to Siracusa Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Catania city to Siracusa Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $49
  • Departure Private Transfer Catania, Taormina or Noto to Catania Airport by Sedan: $30
  • Free visit with transfer to Cefalù from Palermo: $82
  • Guided trekking on the Etna volcano with transfer from Syracuse: $218

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucca

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lucca:

  • Private Transfer from Lido di Camaiore to Pisa (PSA) Airport: $125
  • Tasting in a Tuscan Vineyard with transfer from Lucca: $86

Is it cheaper to fly into Caltagirone or Lucca?

Prices for flights to both Lucca and Caltagirone change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Caltagirone 31
    Lucca 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Caltagirone

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Caltagirone.

  • Palermo Street Food Tour including Market and City Centre: $21
  • Palermo Street Food tour: art, history and ancient markets: $49
  • Walking Tour and street food Tour Palermo: $49
  • Gastronomic Street Food Tour of Catania: $53
  • Catania Patisserie Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $60
  • Classic Palermo Street Food Tour: $60
  • Dinner in the Madonie Mountains : $65
  • Catania Street Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $67
  • Palermo Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $69
  • Vegan Street Food Tour: $71
  • Street Food Tour in Ortigia Syracuse: $75
  • Italian Bread and Pizza Making Experience in Palermo: $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucca

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Lucca.

  • Flavors of Lucca Food Tour with Local Guide: $75
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Capannori with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Gaiole in Chianti with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in San Miniato with Show Cooking: $93
  • Lucca Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $99
  • Traditional-Traditional Cooking Class cuisine course: $123
  • Pasta Cooking Class with a Local Chef: $148
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Gaiole in Chianti: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Pistoia: $158
  • Lucca Home Cooking Class: $191
  • Market Tour & Lunch/Dinner at a Cesarina's Home: $201
  • 5 Hours Private Activity - Truffle Hunting with Dinner in San Miniato: $207

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Caltagirone 5.71
    Lucca 5.68

Tours and Activities in Caltagirone

Here are a few actual costs in Caltagirone for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Taormina: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Sicily’s Hilltop Town: $8.99
  • Half Day Guided Tour in Palermo _ Hello, my name is Palermo!: $16
  • Guided tour of the salt pans of Trapani and the Salt Museum: $20
  • Classical Ortigia Guided Group Tour: $21
  • Catania walking Tour small group: $22
  • Etna Tour jeep excursion and trekking: $22
  • Tour of Ortigia and sea caves by boat in Syracuse: $22
  • 2 Hour Walking Tour in Ortigia: $22
  • City Sightseeing Palermo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $22
  • Ortigia Walking Tour: $27
  • Bike Tour in Palermo for Small Groups: $27
  • 2 Hours and a Half Private Guided Tour of Catania: $27

Tours and Activities in Lucca

Here are a few actual costs in Lucca for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Walking tour of Lucca and its walls: $11
  • join a walking tour small group!: $15
  • 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour: $16
  • Renaissance City Walls Walking Tour: $16
  • Guided City by Night Walking Tour: $16
  • Self-Guided Tour by Bike: $16
  • Discover Lucca’s Secrets on a Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • Your Lucca Walking Tour: $20
  • Self-Guided Tour by Bike with MAP: $20
  • walking tour on the stories & legends of the city!: $23
  • Musical Walking Tour with Puccini Museum Visit: $27
  • From Lucca to Pisa: Self-Guided Bike Tour: $31

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Caltagirone 13
    Lucca 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Caltagirone

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Caltagirone:

  • Organic wine tasting at our historic cantina: $33
  • Etna DOC & Organic Wine tasting and tour of the 1815 historic winery: $35
  • Di Giovanna Winery Tour & 3 Wine Tasting: $37
  • Marsala wine tasting in historic winery: $38
  • Wine Tasting in a group with other travelers: $41
  • Wine Tasting Experience Etna Nord: $41
  • Wine Tasting in Panoramic Winery on Mount Etna: $41
  • From Marzamemi: 2-Hour Authentic Wine Tasting in Val di Noto: $48
  • Natural wine tasting in Palermo: $49
  • Wine tasting of the Mazara del Vallo nature reserve: $49
  • Wine tasting on the southern slope of Etna: $51
  • Di Giovanna Winery Tour & 5 Wine Tasting: $52

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucca

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lucca:

  • Wine tasting in the historical Cantalici winery: $12
  • Wine Tasting Experience - Tenuta Adamo Winery: $16
  • Guided Winery Tour with Wine Tasting: $21
  • Aperitivo Evening Food and Wine Tour: $80
  • Private wine tasting in Versilia - 5 wines and a taste of local products: $82
  • Chianti Half-Day Wine Tour in the Tuscan Hills Small Group from Lucca: $97
  • Guided E-Bike and Wine Tour: $116
  • Guided E-Bike Tour with Wine Tasting from Lucca: $119
  • Bike Ride & WIne Tasting: $131
  • Tuscan Wine Tour by shuttle from Pisa: $133
  • Tuscan Wine Tour by shuttle from Lucca: $133
  • Tuscan Wine Tour in Lucca by shuttle: $152


When comparing the travel costs between Caltagirone and Lucca, we can see that Lucca is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Caltagirone Expensive? and Is Lucca Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Caltagirone or Lucca?

Lucca has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Caltagirone. When comparing the sizes of Caltagirone and Lucca, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

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