On the western coast of Tuscany by the Ligurian Sea lies Livorno, the capital of the province of the same name. This port city is a fascinating place to visit and you will find plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained during your stay.
The Port
Livorno’s port is one of the largest in the Mediterranean and has played an important role in this city. It is now used as a harbor for boats carrying tourists to various locations in the Tuscan Archipelago, Sardinia, and Corsica.
The Old Fortress
Built between 1521 and 1534, Fortezza Vecchia is one of the most notable structures in Livorno. The most prominent feature of the fortress is the round tower, called the Mastio di Matilde. You can climb to the top of this tower if you take a tour of the fortress and this allows you to enjoy spectacular views of the city and across the Mediterranean Sea. The fortress was built by Antonio da Sangallo and is located at the north end of the port.
Nuova Venezia
Nuovo Venezia, or New Venice, is an area of Livorno that is based on the building techniques of Venice. The canals were once moats for the fortresses and architects planned a new section of the city that incorporated these important waterways.
Terrazza Mascagni
This is the promenade that runs alongside the waterway. Not only is this a beautiful place to walk, there are also many tourist attractions along this stretch of the city, including the Municipal Aquarium. The promenade is paved in an interesting chequered design.
Via Grande
Via Grande is the main street of Livorno. As you walk along this street, you can take in the different architectural styles of historical buildings and admire many interesting statues. It is also a good place to go if you fancy a little retail therapy or want a spot of lunch in one of the many cafes and bistros located in this part of the city.
Viale Italia
This stunning stretch of coastline has panoramic views across the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is the best place to head if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and take in the beautiful surroundings. Along Viale Italia, you will find parks and pretty beaches.
Mercato Centrale
The central market is a hive of activity that is open every morning except Sunday. It is contained within a 19th-century building and boasts over 200 shops and stalls so it is a great place to pick up some gifts or mementos of your stay. The food hall at the market is a fantastic place to grab a bite to eat and you can try the local delicacies and traditional dishes.
Museo Civico Giovanni Fattori
A group of Tuscan painters formed the Macchiaili in the 19th-century. Their aim was to focus on their impressionist styles rather than paint within academic restrictions. The Museo Civico Giovanni Fattori is a museum that exhibits the work of these artists. It is located within the Villa Mimbelli.
Eating Out
As a coastal city, Livorno is well known for the quality of its fish and seafood. The majority of the restaurants in the area feature meals containing locally caught seafood and fish and you should try some of these during your stay.
