Retiring in Lucca, Italy

Lucca, with its perfectly preserved Renaissance walls and charming historic center, offers retirees an idyllic Tuscan lifestyle. Known for its high quality of life, excellent cuisine, and strategic location between Florence and the coast, Lucca provides a perfect blend of culture, comfort, and authenticity.

*Purchasing power compared to New York City (baseline = 100)

Pros

  • ✓ Beautiful historic center
  • ✓ Lower cost than Florence
  • ✓ High quality of life
  • ✓ Excellent food scene
  • ✓ Bike-friendly city
  • ✓ Strategic location

Cons

  • × Limited job market
  • × Fewer English speakers
  • × Small airport
  • × Tourist crowds in summer
  • × Limited nightlife

Transportation & Connectivity

Local Transportation

Walkability score: 9/10

Available public transport: Buses, Regional Trains, Bike Sharing

Weather & Climate

Summer

Average temperature: 29°C / 84°F

Winter

Average temperature: 6°C / 43°F

Annual Climate Overview

Annual rainfall: 906mm

Sunny days per year: 248

Language & Communication

Language information coming soon

Visa Requirements

Required Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of income (minimum €31,000/year)
  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Clean criminal record
  • Proof of accommodation

Application Process

Apply through Italian consulate in home country, then register at local anagrafe

Timeline

Estimated processing time: 3-6 months

Healthcare System

Public Healthcare

Well-equipped public hospitals with modern facilities

Private Options

Several private clinics with specialized services

Wait Times

2-3 weeks for non-urgent procedures

Major Hospitals

  • Ospedale San Luca
  • Campo di Marte Hospital
  • Centro Don Gnocchi
  • Casa di Cura Barbantini

Lifestyle & Community

Expat Community

Small but active international community

Activities

Cycling on city walls Classical concerts Wine tasting Art exhibitions Food tours Cultural events

Local Markets

  • Mercato del Carmine
  • Mercato di Via dei Bacchettoni
  • Mercato dell'Antiquariato
  • Farmers Market

Cultural Events

  • Lucca Summer Festival
  • Lucca Comics & Games
  • Puccini Festival
  • September Medieval Festival

Practical Information

Monthly Costs

  • Average Groceries €350
  • Utilities €135
  • Restaurant Meal €25

Banking Options

  • UniCredit
  • Intesa Sanpaolo
  • Monte dei Paschi di Siena
  • N26 (Digital)
  • Wise (Digital)

Internet Providers

  • TIM
  • Vodafone
  • WindTre
  • Fastweb
  • Tiscali

Popular Areas

  • Centro Storico
  • San Concordio
  • Arancio
  • San Marco
  • Sant'Anna

Sources

Source: Numbeo Cost of Living (2024)
Source: Tuscany Healthcare System (2023)
Source: Climate Data (2023)
Source: Immobiliare.it Market Report (2024)