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Top things to do
1. Visit Fortezza Vecchia
Immerse yourself in Livorno's history by exploring this ancient fortress with breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The Fortezza Vecchia, a historic fortress surrounding the Medici port of Livorno, holds a rich history. Initially a medieval centre, it evolved with the addition of structures like the Mastio di Matilde, commissioned by Grancontessa Matilde di Canossa. The fortress underwent significant transformations around 1500 under the Medici family's influence, turning it into a formidable fortification. Throughout the Lorraine period, it served various purposes, from military barracks to a prison, enduring damage during World War II. Restoration efforts have revived the Fortezza Vecchia, making it a prominent landmark in Livorno's Venice district. Today, it hosts diverse events, including art, music, and cinema, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.
2. Stroll through Venezia Nuova – The little Venice of Italy
A visit to Livorno is only complete with a visit to the beautiful La Venezia neighbourhood. With its enchanting waterways, bridges, and squares, this is the city's counterpart to Venice. Take a stroll through the Livorno of the 17th and 18th centuries. The district starts from Ponte San Giovanni Nepomuceno, continuing along Via Borra, full of historic buildings such as the Palazzo delle Colonne and the Palazzo del Monte di Piet, as well as across the Dominicans reaching as far as the Church of Santa Caterina.
During the day, this is the perfect place for a stroll, exploring shops and historic buildings, while in the evening, the numerous bars and restaurants create a lively atmosphere. Don't miss the Teatro San Marco, the huge Piazza della Repubblica and the Chiesa dei Domenicani, a Dominican church with a marvellous domed roof.
3. Climb the Terrazza Mascagni
Terrazza Mascagni, situated along the seafront of Livorno, stands as one of the city's most captivating locations. The square, adorned with a distinctive black and white checkered floor spanning 8,700 square meters, provides a stunning view of the sea.
Originally the site of Forte dei Cavalleggeri, a defensive structure dismantled in the 19th century, the area has transformed into a spacious square designed in 1925 by engineer Enrico Salvais. Named after Livornese composer Pietro Mascagni, the Terrace boasts a balustrade with 4,000 columns separating it from the sea. The Terrace's simple architecture and breathtaking sunset views make it an essential destination in Livorno, perfect for taking in the sunset and capturing unique photographs.
4. Discover Museo Civico Giovanni Fattori
The Giovanni Fattori Civic Museum, housed in the picturesque Villa Mimbelli, is a treasure trove of Livorno and Tuscan art.
The collection spans from the early works of Enrico Pollastrini, a romantically inclined academy artist, to the pinnacle of artistic expression seen in the creations of Fattori and other prominent figures of the Macchiaioli school and the Postmacchiaioli movement. Marvel at their masterpieces and gain insights into Livorno's artistic heritage. Surrounding the villa is a lush park designed in romantic elegance, adorned with a multitude of exotic plants.
Ticket office: 0586 – 824607
Administration: 0586 – 824602
5. Bathe at Cala del Leone
For a beach day, head to Cala del Leone, also known as the Lion's Cove, a pristine cove with crystal-clear waters.
The cove got its name due to a legend that says a lion once roamed the area. Throughout history, the Maremma region was known for its coastal fortifications and maritime activities. In ancient times, the cove was likely used as a shelter for sailors and fishermen. Today, Cala del Leone remains a peaceful and unspoiled spot, attracting visitors seeking a tranquil beach experience. It is the perfect place to relax, swim, and soak up the Tuscan sun.
6. Bathe at Cala del Leone
For a beach day, head to Cala del Leone, also known as the Lion's Cove, a pristine cove with crystal-clear waters.
The cove got its name due to a legend that says a lion once roamed the area. Throughout history, the Maremma region was known for its coastal fortifications and maritime activities. In ancient times, the cove was likely used as a shelter for sailors and fishermen. Today, Cala del Leone remains a peaceful and unspoiled spot, attracting visitors seeking a tranquil beach experience. It is the perfect place to relax, swim, and soak up the Tuscan sun.
7. Take a Boat Tour to Isola d'Elba
Explore the nearby Elba Island for a day trip with beautiful landscapes and historical sites.
The Island of Isola d’Elba is situated between the Tyrrhenian and Ligurian Sea and is the largest of the Tuscan Archipelago. Take a boat trip out to the island to experience true natural beauty. The island has many beaches and bays for tourists to explore. Whether you're looking for sand, rocks, gravel or pebbles, there is something for everyone.
The island has a rich history, with even Napoleon Bonaparte living on the island for ten years.
The island of Isola d’Elba has it all.
Boat trips and tours: https://www.infoelba.com/island-of-elba/guided-excursions/fishing-boat-trips/
8. Gape at Cathedral of Livorno (Cattedrale di San Francesco)
Admire the architectural beauty of Livorno's cathedral, a blend of Renaissance and Baroque styles.
The Cathedral of San Francesco, Duomo di Livorno, underwent significant transformations after the Second World War bombings. The façade, attributed to Inigo Jones, showcases a rebuilt portico with round arches. Post-war, two smaller porticoes were added, and the apse area underwent modifications. The interior, shaped like a Latin cross, contains side chapels, including the Blessed Sacrament and the Conception of Mary. The nave's original ornate ceiling, crafted between 1610 and 1614, survived bombings and was relocated in a simplified structure. Notable paintings by Jacopo Ligozzi, Passignano, and Empoli adorn the cathedral. In 2006, the Christ crowned with thorns by Beato Angelico was placed, and a monumental door depicting Livorno's history was installed on the facade, created by Antonio Vinciguerra.
9. Discover Acquario di Livorno
Ideal for families, this aquarium showcases a diverse range of marine life, offering an educational and entertaining experience.
The aquarium is dedicated to Diacinto Cestoni, a 17th-century biologist and the first researcher to discover that corals and sponges are animals. With the aquarium situated on the city’s seafront, both the buildings historical and architectural prestige become linked to the life of the surrounding area. Within the aquarium, visitors can visit the Etruscan Coast, with its archaeological attractions, the Tuscan Archipelago and the Pelagos Sanctuary for Mediterranean Marine Mammals, which are part of this stretch of coast.
Families with children can become involved with some of the activities at the centre, combining information with fun.
10. Sanctuario di Montenero
The Sanctuario di Montenero, also known as the Sanctuary of Montenero, is located at the top of the hills of Montenero, sitting 300m above sea level, providing the perfect viewpoint of both land and sea to visitors.
The origins of the sanctuary date back to the Pentecost in 1345 when, according to tradition, a poor shepherd found the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary and followed inner intuition to it to the Montenero hill. It has become one of the most famous places to worship in Tuscany.
Whilst the original chapel was semi-destroyed in 1943, a larger church was built in the 1950s in the same place. Located just before Piazza delle Carrozze, it is the place where tradition traces the image of the Madonna of Montenero discovered by a shepherd to have been found.
To get there, we recommend the Funicolare di Montenero, one of the few cable cars still operating. This cable car uses modern, solar-powered technology to transport you from the town to the Sanctuario di Montenero at the top of the hill.
Eating and Drinking
Livorno's cuisine is honest and uncomplicated. The town's speciality is cacciucco, a rich fish and tomato stew made with various types of fish and shellfish. We also recommend riso nero, black risotto with squid ink and triglie alla mosaic, red mullet in tomato. Finish your meal with a ponce livornese, a coffee with rum, cognac, aniseed liqueur, lemon and sugar.
Osteria del Mare
Ideal for lunches and dinners this is the perfect place for those looking for exceptional Italian seafood dishes.
Al Fosso Reale Restaurant
The perfect place to go for pasta lovers. Serving fresh fish and homemade pasta, this restaurant is ideal for those looking for authentic Italian cuisine.
La Barcarola Wine Bar
Unwind with a glass of fine Tuscan wine and a selection of local cheeses at this charming wine bar overlooking the canals.
Caffè Roma
Experience Livorno's coffee culture at Caffè Roma. Enjoy a classic Italian espresso or cappuccino paired with freshly baked pastries.
DrupaCaffe'
If you are looking for somewhere to get an Italian coffee, then this is the place. With a wide range of coffee and pastries, it is perfect for light breakfast.
Shopping
Mercato Centrale
Indulge in a sensory feast at Livorno's central market. Taste fresh produce, local cheeses, and seafood as you mingle with friendly locals.
The Livorno Provisions Market was built in a historical period of rebirth, giving it a long history and leading the city to be a commercial and cosmopolitan centre, with the proximity of water being essential for the supply and export of goods sold inside the building.
The Victuals Market, the Central or Covered Market, is located on the Scali Aurelio Saffi along the Fosso Reale of Livorno. The market provides a union between the old city and the new, having been first located between the New and Old Fortresses. The design phase of the market covers almost 40 years, with different architects overlooking its development.
As well as finding lots of local produce and local delicacies, such as the local sandwich ‘Cinque e cinque’ (five and five), a range of activities are also held inside the market. The traditional morning markets, events such as wine tasting, cooking shows and many live musical events and cultural activities all take place here.
Via Ricasoli
Explore Livorno's main shopping drag. This bustling street lined with shops offering everything from fashion and accessories to artisanal crafts.
Livorno Centro Commerciale
For a modern shopping experience, visit Livorno's commercial centre, featuring a variety of stores and boutiques.
Antiques Market in Piazza Cavallotti
If you love antiques, don't miss the market in Piazza Cavallotti, where you can browse through a treasure trove of vintage finds.
Parking
When exploring the city, this can be easily done by foot.
Getting there and travelling around
When travelling outside of Livorno, travelling by train is often easier than driving, especially if you are going to Florence. You can also take a trip north to Pisa, which is only 20 minutes away by train.