Kayaking in Lucca with aperitif and souvenir photos

A gentle paddle through the River Park, not a sightseeing tour from a boat.

A two-hour kayaking activity on the Serchio River near Lucca's historic center, where you paddle yourself through the River Park's greenery, with a live guide in English or Italian, an aperitif (alcoholic or non-alcoholic to your choice), snacks, and free souvenir photos included. Children from age five are welcome. The packraft is designed for first-time paddlers and all fitness levels.

The experience

Two hours on the water starts with you in the kayak, paddle in hand, moving through the river at your own pace. The Serchio runs a stone's throw from Lucca's old town, but the River Park feels removed from the crowds: greenery on both banks, clear water, and room to breathe. A live guide leads the group in English or Italian, so you know what you're paddling toward and why the route matters. The pace is soft and deliberate, built for everyone from couples to families to first-timers. The packraft itself is stable and forgiving, designed so you focus on the paddle stroke, not on staying upright.

Halfway through, the group stops for an aperitif. You choose whether you want alcohol or not, and you can flag any intolerances or allergies when you book. Snacks come with it. Some groups swim in the clear water during the break. Others rest on the bank. The guide takes photos throughout the paddle, and you get them free as a souvenir, so you leave with proof of the morning beyond your phone.

The activity suits birthdays, stag and hen parties, and ordinary summer days when you want to move under your own power instead of watching from a bench. Service animals are welcome. Public transport stops nearby if you're coming from the city center without a car.

What’s included

• Packraft, paddle, and life buoy.
• live guide in English or Italian.
• aperitif (alcoholic or non-alcoholic, adapted for allergies or intolerances).
• snacks.
• free souvenir photos taken during the paddle.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 Jun 2027

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (11 to 60 years) · Child (5 to 10 years) · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupUp to 40

Live guideEnglish and Italian

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Lucca Rafting

Is this one for you?You paddle the kayak yourself at your own pace, so this suits anyone who wants to move under their own power rather than watch from a boat. The guide leads the route and handles the group, leaving you free to focus on the paddle and the river.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Italian.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 10 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I kayak on the Serchio if I've never paddled before?

Yes. The packraft is designed for first-time paddlers, and the guide leads a soft excursion suitable for all fitness levels. The water is clear and the pace is gentle.

What's included in the two hours on the water?

The packraft, paddle, and life buoy are provided. An aperitif (your choice of alcoholic or non-alcoholic), snacks, and free souvenir photos taken by the guide during the paddle.

What happens if I have a food allergy or dietary preference?

Tell the operator when you book which intolerances or allergies you have, and they'll arrange the aperitif and snacks accordingly: alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks are both available.

Where does the kayaking start, and how do I get there?

The Serchio River is a short distance from Lucca's historic center. Public transportation options are available nearby if you don't have a car.