Situated along the west coast of Tuscany is Livorno, a charming Italian port city well worth your time. It’s known for its tasty seafood, Renaissance-era fortifications and modern harbour with a cruise ship port, which you can arrive at after booking ferry tickets with Ferryscanner. Here, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Livorno, so you can enjoy this Italian city in style.
Livorno Port
One of the most impressive parts of the city, Livorno port is a vast site and one of the busiest ports in Italy. Spend some time by the quiet harbour and visit the Livorno Aquarium with its underwater tunnel and a touch pool before strolling along the canal that links up to the river Arno. See how a massive port works first-hand and watch monolithic cruise ships docking as thousands of passengers disembark on Livorno.
Terrazza Mascagni
Located in the southern part of the city, Terrazza Mascagni is a popular wide promenade. City locals enjoy a scenic walk while taking in the best of Livorno here. The 8,700-square-metre terrace paved with a chessboard pattern made up of more than 34,000 black and white tiles is a highlight. Separated from the sea by a long balustrade, it has been a popular meeting spot for more than one hundred years.
Go on a boat ride through Quartiere Venezia
Quartiere Venezia is unique 17th-century neighbourhood and one of the best things to do in Livorno. It’s often referred to as Venezia Nuova because of its resemblance to Venice. Merchants once used the system of canals to move products between people’s homes and warehouses. Today, you can ride those same canals in a boat, admiring this quaint section of Livorno.
Mercato Centrale
Sample a slice of the local life in Livorno by visiting Mercato Centrale. Located in Scali Aurelio Staffi, this gigantic building is packed with over 200 market stalls. Find everything from meat and fish to cheese and wine before heading to the main hall. Here, you’ll find an outdoor area where you can buy clothing, accessories and other locally sourced items.
Fortezza Vecchia
Built between 1521 and 1534, Fortezza Vecchia (old fortress) is a prominent landmark in Livorno. It’s Livorno’s oldest remaining structure from the Middle Ages. You’ll find a round tower known as the Mástio di Matilde, which is part of an even earlier 11-century castle. You can go on a tour of the fortress and climb the top to marvel at the views of the port and city. A trip here is one of the best things to do in Livorno
The beaches
The Viale Italia runs south along the coast and enjoys sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Wander along, and you will find peaceful parks and beautiful beaches with walking paths, secluded coves and headlands. Spend some time lazing the day away on the soft sands during the summer before taking a dip in the sea or a spot of diving in the clear waters.
Things to do in Livorno
The next time you feel like holidaying in Italy, try something a little different and soak up the local culture in Livorno before relaxing on the beaches and experiencing everything this great city has to offer.