Start in Livorno, marvel at Pisa and fall in love with Florence
When you hear the name Tuscany, many people think of rolling hills, cypress trees and world-famous wines, but the region has so much more to offer. If you’re coming to Italy by sea, you’re likely to find yourself ashore in Livorno – a city often treated as a transit point, but well worth a walk to discover. Pisa and Florence, two iconic Tuscan cities that everyone should see at least once, are within easy reach.
Did you know? The city’s inhabitants are known for their sense of humour and slightly rebellious nature. According to a local saying: ‘Florentines make the rules, Livornoers break them.’
Livorno – A Port City More Than a Station
The history of Livorno is closely intertwined with the sea and the Medici family. It was planned as a free port by the Florentine rulers in the 16th century to become a commercial centre. As a result, Livorno became a multicultural city, home to Italian, Jewish, Armenian and Dutch communities.
Attractions Not to Miss
On a sunny day, Livorno is the perfect place for a pleasant walk. The city’s canals, built like Venice, were once important routes for trade and transport. Today they give the city a romantic atmosphere, and a stroll along their banks reveals old quays, historic buildings and charming restaurants. Following the canals you can reach the Fortezza Nuova, a 16th century fortress designed by Buontalenti. Once used to defend Livorno, it is now surrounded by a huge park where locals – mainly teenagers and dog walkers – relax.
Heading towards the sea, you come to a busy road with a statue of Grand Duke Ferdinand I. This monument is one of the most famous in the city, depicting the capture of the Four Moors. Interestingly, the statue is not named after the Grand Duke, but after the four bronze figures below him, sculpted by Pietro Tacca – the same artist who created Florence’s famous lucky boar. The Moorish figures are modelled on real Saracen pirates and the work is intended to illustrate the history of Livorno’s naval defences.
From here you can continue to Terrazza Mascagni, one of the most iconic sites in the city. This seafront promenade is named after the 19th century composer Pietro Mascagni and is extremely photogenic with its black and white checkerboard paving. Originally built in 1925, it was extended after the Second World War. The Terrazza is the perfect place for a romantic stroll, where you can enjoy endless sea views and stunning sunsets.
In the heart of the city is the Mercato delle Vettovaglie, Livorno’s central market. Built in 1894, the huge covered market is one of the largest in Italy and an essential part of everyday life for locals. Here you can find fresh fish, local cheeses, meats and vegetables, as well as small restaurants serving authentic Tuscan dishes. The vibrant atmosphere of the market and the shouting of the vendors make for a truly Italian experience.
Try it: cacciucco, a rich seafood soup, is one of Livorno’s culinary specialities.
Perhaps Livorno’s most famous artist is Amedeo Modigliani, one of the most prominent figures of avant-garde painting. Born in 1884, the artist lived a tragically short but influential life. He struggled with illness and financial difficulties for many years before finding his own unique style in Paris. His long-faced portraits and unique sculptures made him world famous, but he was not a great success in his lifetime. Only after his death was his talent truly recognised and he is now considered one of the most important figures in modern art. Several places in Livorno commemorate him, and the people of the city are proud to remember him as one of the greatest Italian artists.
Did you know? From the port of Livorno you can easily reach the island of Elba, where Napoleon lived in exile. Read my Elba Island trip report here
Pisa – More Than A Leaning Tower
Pisa’s name is synonymous with the world-famous Leaning Tower, but the city has much more to offer. Piazza dei Miracoli (Miracles Square) not only houses the tower, but also the impressive Duomo and the Baptistery. Venturing a little further away from the tourist belt, you can discover the city’s vibrant university life and hidden little streets.
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👉 Read more about Pisa here!
Florence – Heart of the Renaissance
Florence is the city that captivates all visitors. The cradle of the Renaissance, once the centre of power for the Medici family, it is still one of the most beautiful and artistic places in the world.
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🖼️ Uffizi Gallery – home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
⛪ Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore) – Brunelleschi’s dome is the symbol of the city.
🌉 Ponte Vecchio – The famous bridge over the river Arno, full of jewellery shops.
🏰 Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens – The Medici Palace and its stunning gardens.
🍝 Tuscan flavours – Don’t miss the bistecca alla fiorentina, the famous Florentine steak!
👉 Read more about Florence here!
While you’re in Tuscany don’t miss the wines of Chianti, one of the most famous Tuscan wine regions, made mainly from the Sangiovese grape variety. With their rich, fruity aromas and balanced acidity, these wines are the perfect accompaniment to an authentic Italian dinner.
To learn more about Chianti wines and the specialities of the Tuscan wine region, read our blog
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Livorno: The Start and End of the Journey
Although many people think of Livorno as a stopover, this coastal city offers a surprisingly rich experience. Whether it’s a short stroll on the Terrazza Mascagni, a boat trip along the canals or a delicious cacciucco at a local trattoria, Livorno deserves to slow down a little and enjoy a lesser-known but all the more exciting side of Tuscany.