This coastal Italian city is known for its Renaissance-era Medici Fortress and active port. Home to the Italian Naval Academy and Museum of the Sea.
Livorno, a port city on Italy's Tuscan coast, has a maritime atmosphere and rich culture. You can explore the canal-lined streets of the Venezia Nuova district, climb the towers of Fortezza Vecchia, or walk along the checkerboard promenade of Terrazza Mascagni. Livorno is known for its seafood cuisine, especially the flavorful fish stew cacciucco, and its convenient location for visiting other Tuscan destinations.
Wandering Through Venezia Nuova
Venezia Nuova, or "New Venice," is Livorno's most atmospheric neighborhood. This 17th-century district has a network of canals that wind through narrow streets and under small bridges. You'll find historic buildings like Palazzo delle Colonne and Palazzo del Monte di Pietà along Via Borra. To fully appreciate the area's charm, take a boat tour that navigates the canals, giving you a unique perspective of this water-bound quarter.
Exploring Fortezza Vecchia and Fortezza Nuova
Livorno's two fortresses, Fortezza Vecchia (Old Fortress) and Fortezza Nuova (New Fortress), are important parts of the city's history. At Fortezza Vecchia, built in the 16th century, you can climb the towers and walk the ramparts for panoramic views of the port and city. A small museum inside tells the fortress's story. Fortezza Nuova, constructed in the late 16th century, now functions as a public park. While it needs some maintenance, the fortress still provides interesting views of the canal district and insight into Livorno's defensive past.
Walking Along Terrazza Mascagni
Terrazza Mascagni, a seafront promenade, is one of Livorno's most recognizable spots. The terrace's black and white checkerboard pavement extends for 500 meters along the coast, creating a visually impressive walkway. From here, you'll see the Ligurian Sea and, on clear days, the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago. Local residents often gather here for evening strolls, and the terrace becomes particularly active at sunset.
Tasting Livornese Cuisine
Livorno's cuisine is shaped by its coastal location and multicultural history. Try cacciucco, the city's signature dish - a rich fish stew that includes at least five different types of fish. Other local specialties worth sampling are riso nero (black risotto made with cuttlefish ink) and triglie alla livornese (red mullet in tomato sauce). For the freshest seafood and local produce, go to the Mercato Centrale, a 19th-century covered market. Here, you can taste local delicacies and observe daily life in Livorno.
Visiting Livorno's Museums
The Giovanni Fattori Civic Museum, located in the 19th-century Villa Mimbelli, has works by the Macchiaioli school of painters, including Giovanni Fattori. This museum showcases 19th and early 20th-century Tuscan art. If natural history interests you, visit the Mediterranean Natural History Museum, which has exhibits on local flora and fauna and includes a small botanical garden.
Taking Day Trips from Livorno
From Livorno, you can easily explore other Tuscan cities. Pisa, home to the famous Leaning Tower, is just a 15-minute train ride away. Florence, with its Renaissance art and architecture, takes about an hour and a half to reach by train. Consider visiting the walled city of Lucca as well, which is a quieter alternative to the more popular tourist destinations.
Navigating Livorno
You can explore much of Livorno on foot, especially the historic center and waterfront areas. For longer distances, use the bus network operated by CTT Nord. If you arrive by cruise ship, you'll likely find a shuttle service from the port to the city center. From there, it's about a 30-minute walk to the train station, where you can catch trains to other Tuscan cities. Taxis are also available, but remember to agree on the fare before your journey begins.
