Livorno is truly a fascinating city. On one hand, it's one of the most modern in Italy with a large and thriving port that drives much of its economy. On the other, it's wonderfully quaint. Canals and waterways weave in and around the center, and impeccably preserved fortifications and towers still stand proudly defiant on Livorno's streets. Beyond the city, the majestic region of Tuscany awaits.
Visit Livorno's version of Venice
La Venezia Nuova is Livorno's 'Little Venice', a section of the city frozen in time. This is how Livorno looked centuries ago. Meander along the footpaths beside the canals and cross the little bridges dotted around the area. The most famous of these is the Ponte di Marmo - the marble bridge. It bears dedications and inscriptions to deceased loved ones, scrawled on by boatmen. The area is peaceful during the daytime while, in the evening, it's transformed into a hub of bars and restaurants. If you're lucky enough to be visiting Livorno in the final weeks of July, you'll experience the annual festival of Effetto Venezia.
Spend a lazy evening at Terrazza Mascagni
After a day spent walking around the city or driving in the Tuscan countryside, there's no finer place to relax and unwind than Terrazza Mascagni. This is a glorious spot - a sweeping promenade designed in a distinctive black and white chessboard style. The terrace provides panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and access to manicured golden sands. There are bars, cafes and restaurants here if you're planning to eat, and benches if you prefer just to sit and enjoy the sun sinking languidly below the coastline.
Livorno’s lavish cuisine
When in Italy, food inevitably takes center stage. Livorno is no different to any other Italian city, fiercely proud of its culinary culture and excited to show it off. You must sample Livorno's signature dish - Cacciucco - a Mediterranean fish stew, featuring five different varieties of fish and bursting with flavors of rich tomato broth and herbs. Make sure you've got plenty of thick, crusty bread to mop up any of the remaining, highly addictive sauce.
Given its coastal location it's no surprise that Livorno's seafood restaurants are among the finest in Tuscany, perfect places to dine on generous platters of mussels, jumbo shrimp and squid. Extend the foodie experience further and head to Mercato Centrale, a huge building hosting over 200 stalls and shops selling local cheese, wine, meats and more. Browse, taste, and buy – its ideal for picnics or stocking up on foodie gifts.
Take a day trip to Pisa
A little over 15 miles from Livorno lies Pisa, and one of Italy's most famous - and peculiar - landmarks. It's worth the short drive simply to see the Leaning Tower in all its inexplicable glory; tilting to one side since construction was completed in 1372, it seems to defy gravity by still standing. It's a prime photo opportunity. Of course, Pisa has far more to offer than its architectural miracle, with a medieval cathedral, and baptistery. With a coveted university, the city has a vibrant student population, so you'll find bars and cafes buzzing with atmosphere.
Car rental from Livorno allows you to make the most of your time in this enchanting city, as well as venture around the endlessly gorgeous Tuscany.
