Known in English as “Leghorn,” Livorno is an Italian port that many cruise ships stop at when sailing through the Mediterranean. Although some would argue that Livorno is suitably close to Florence, the fact is that for the majority of cruise ship passengers, such an excursion simply isn’t realistic. During the Renaissance, Livorno was considered to be a model city thanks to its impeccable design and layout. Much of that is still in evidence today, and by walking the streets of this city – which was designed at the end of the 16th century – you can get a taste for what the Renaissance meant in terms of style and structure.
Sightseeing & Things To Do
The Renaissance period of Italian history was such a turning point for the entire world that it’s delightful being able to experience a little taste of it first hand. By getting off your ship in Livorno, you can do precisely that. Along the way, dine on some of this city’s famous seafood, stroll its picturesque streets and immerse yourself in a bit of its stunning history and culture.
Even if you can’t make it over to Florence while visiting the port of call of Livorno, you can make the most of your visit here by exploring some of the local attractions. Think about including one of the following spots on your tour of the city:
The Venice District
Livorno’s Venice district is the best place to immerse yourself a bit in the classic Renaissance flavor that helps make Tuscany and Italy so famous. Most of the original layout and design of the town has been well preserved in this section of Livorno, so it is a very appropriate place to spend time if you want to see such plans for yourself. There is even a network of canals here, which is largely what lends this district its name.
Museo Mascagnano
Even if you don’t know who he is, learning a bit about composer Pietro Mascagni is a wonderful way to discover new facts about Livorno. The Museo Mascagnano is home to many of his original operas, documents and other treasures and it’s a pleasant place to visit.
Funicolare di Montenero
There are few places in the world where one can experience a cable railway; the Funicolare di Montenero is one of them, so why not hop on board and see what it’s like while in Livorno?
The Sanctuary of Montenero
Up in the nearby hills, you can pay a visit to this sanctuary. It was built in honor of Our Lady of the Graces and features a gallery where you can learn more about the associated story.
Shopping
Due to its compactness and its scenic nature, the Venice district of Livorno is also the best place to shop in the city. Whether you simply wish to stroll along window shopping – or if you are looking to part with a serious amount of cash – the Venice district of Livorno is a very suitable and convenient place to do so in this Italian seaside city. Several small shops and boutiques line the way along streets in this area, and you won’t have to spend a great deal of time finding exactly the right thing.
Best Souvenir To Bring Back To the Cruise Ship
One of the most important companies in Livorno is the Tuaca Liquor company, so picking up a bottle of this fine brandy drink is a delightful way to remember your visit to this fascinating seaside city. Bring home a couple of extra bottles for friends and family.
Eating – Sample the Local Cuisine
Seafood is an understandably huge part of the cuisine of Livorno. Try a bit of the local flavor by sampling some caciucco alla Livornese, which is a fish soup featuring a tasty sauce and delectable, toasted bread. Riso nero con le seppie – which is black rice served with cuttlefish – is another very popular local dish. You can find these and other tasty seafood traditions all over Livorno. Don’t miss out on pappa col pomodoro, a tomato based dish that is sure to please the widest variety of people in your traveling party.
When, Where, and How
When To Go
Summertime is, hands down, the best time to be in Livorno. Anytime from the end of June through the end of August is when you will enjoy the most temperate weather in this well-preserved Italian city. Since so much of the fun in Livorno involves roaming its streets, it makes sense to come when the weather is at its absolute best.
Where You’re Docked
There is a massive dock with a state of the art cruise ship terminal located directly in Livorno. Therefore, getting off the ship and having a look around is really not an issue. Although you probably won’t have time to see Florence, you can still enjoy a taste of what a Renaissance city is meant to be.
Which Cruise Ships Go Here?
Many of the biggest cruise lines have itineraries that include stops at Livorno or Leghorn. A few of the better-known cruise lines that stop in Livorno are Norwegian Cruise Lines, MSC Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises. However, there are many other options available in terms of ships, dates, days at sea and in port when it comes to Livorno.