Siena to Lucca via public transportation

Have you considered taking a bus to Florence (they run frequently), then train to Lucca? It will take a little longer, but there are more options for times.

Charlotte, thanks for your help. We continue our research. Have a great weekend.

There are no train options without a change.

Ironically the train option with two changes is the fastest - about 2:30 - changing in Empoli and Pisa. The train with a single change in Florence is about 3:10 but that's mostly because there is a 30 minute wait in Florence.

Changing trains is not generally a big deal. Smaller stations usually only have a couple of operating tracks so the choices are pretty clear. Florence is a very large, busy station but with 30 minutes you'll be in no rush to get from one track to the other.
While extra time spent in train stations is never ideal the bookstore in Florence has good coffee, sandwiches and fresh fruit drinks if you want to have something while you wait.

There's not a lot to be done about the time - I think 2 hours would be decent time you could expect driving so 2:30 for the train is really not bad.

Have a great trip,
=Tod

Just to piggyback on Tod's post, the bookstore in Florence station also has bathroom which can be used with a purchase from the bookstore, which includes a cafe. Just keep your receipt if you use the bathroom.

Hiredman and David, thanks, I always appreciate the practical tips. So maybe the bus at 18:05 bus isn't a bad option, as it's direct. Tours by Roberto was going to drop us off at the bus/train station after the all day tour that ends around 4pm. But they could just drop us off back in old town, and we could walk around for awhile. I'm assuming the bus station is close to the train station? Thanks again.

If you're talking about the Flixbus then it looks like it does go from the train station piazzale.

With 2 hours I'd probably grab one last drink - spritz or hydrating - on Piazza del Campo and then catch a bus or taxi to the train station. There is a taxi stand in Piazza Indipendenza near the piazza but a train station bus is a bit further from the center of old town.

Sunset is probably a little after 6 so hopefully the piazza will start to be in shadow at that point. I think a sunset evening drink in del Campo can be a great Italian moment. Check and see if Bar Gelateria La Costarella or better yet Key Largo Bar has any seats on the their balcony over looking the piazza.

Have a great trip,
=Tod

Tod, great idea, thanks so much!