Top 9 Best Things To Do in Livorno

Discover the best things to do in Livorno and explore an underrated seaside city in Tuscany. This guide goes beyond the cruise port to help you experience Livorno like a local. From cacciucco tastings to Bolgheri wine tours and boat rides beneath Piazza della Repubblica, it’s all here waiting for you.

Tuscany is one of Italy’s most iconic regions, famous for its rolling hills, vineyards, and postcard-perfect towns. While cities like Florence and Pisa attract the crowds, there’s much more to discover beyond the tourist hotspots.

One of Tuscany’s hidden gems is Livorno, a port city that’s easy to reach and full of surprises. With a wide selection of activities and tours in Livorno, planning a day trip or a longer stay to explore its underrated charm is simple and enjoyable.

Originally built over a thousand years ago as a coastal fortress to protect nearby Pisa, Livorno soon became one of the most important trading cities on the Tyrrhenian Sea. Today, it still feels like a working, lived-in city rather than a polished tourist destination.

While it’s close to some of Italy’s most famous travel spots, Livorno remains surprisingly quiet. That means fewer crowds and more room to enjoy the city at your own pace. 

You can easily find the best places to stay in Livorno without much competition, making it a smart choice for relaxed travel. It also opens the door to a variety of top vacation packages in Livorno that offer great value and memorable experiences. 

Livorno’s laid-back charm, rich history, and quiet streets make it a refreshing break from the busier corners of Tuscany—and it’s all incredibly easy to explore. So what are you waiting for? Jump in and discover the 9 best things to do in Livorno, and experience a side of Tuscany that most travelers never get to see.

9. Stroll Around Via Grande

Wondering where to begin your Livorno holiday? One of the best things to do in Livorno is simply to start walking—and there’s no better place to begin than Via Grande. This wide, central avenue stretches from the port roundabout to the grand Piazza della Repubblica and gives you a feel for the city right away.

As the heart of Livorno, Via Grande is lined with shops, restaurants, and known Livorno attractions. In the center, you’ll find Piazza Grande and the Cattedrale di San Francesco. Walk west and you’ll reach the striking Monumento dei Quattro Mori (Monument of the Four Moors), which is a symbol of the city’s maritime history. 

Via Grande is especially convenient for cruise visitors because shuttle buses often drop passengers right at its doorstep. This is why a stroll around Via Grande is among the top things to do near Livorno port. 

Many of the top hotels in Livorno are located close to Via Grande, which makes it an easy and central spot to begin your day. The avenue also connects easily to Ricasoli Street, known for its luxury boutiques, so you’re in for a treat if shopping is on your agenda. 

Most stores are open from 09:00 to 13:00, then again from 16:00 to 20:00 after an afternoon break, so time your stroll accordingly.

8. Admire Art at the Museo Civico Giovanni Fattori

If you’re interested in culture and art, one of the best places to visit in Livorno is the Museo Civico Giovanni Fattori. Set inside the beautiful Villa Mimbelli, this museum offers a peaceful atmosphere and a rich collection of Italian art. It’s a great break from the busy port and a top pick among cultural travelers.

The museum highlights the work of 19th- and 20th-century painters, with a strong focus on the Macchiaioli movement. Key works by Giovanni Fattori, along with fellow artists like Giuseppe Baldini, Cristiano Banti, Cesare Bartolena, and Giovanni Bartolena, are featured in its thoughtfully curated rooms. Even if you’re not an art expert, the elegant villa and surrounding gardens make this a pleasant and relaxed stop.

Opening hours are from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 to 13:00 and again from 16:00 to 19:00. Just keep in mind that hours can vary, especially during special exhibitions or renovations—checking ahead is a good idea.

When planning your itinerary, don’t overlook this museum. Taking time to enjoy its art and atmosphere is one of the quieter yet most rewarding things to do in Livorno. For those curious to learn more about Livorno’s culture, you’ll also find a variety of cultural tours in Livorno that include stops at museums like this one along with historic sites.

7. Enjoy Wine Tasting in Bolgheri

If you enjoy good wine and beautiful views, one of the most memorable things to do in Livorno is to venture just south along the Tuscan coast to Bolgheri.  Just a 50-minute drive away, this charming village is perfect for road trips in Italy and is known for its world-class wines.

Bolgheri may be small, but it has a big reputation for its bold, elegant reds made from Bordeaux grape varieties like Cabernet and Merlot. As you walk through the vineyards and taste different wines, you’ll understand why Bolgheri is one of the top Livorno attractions for wine lovers.

Wineries are usually open all year, but it’s best to book in advance, especially during harvest season in August and September. Joining a Bolgheri wine tasting with a winery tour is a great way to enjoy the experience without worrying about the details. 

Bring your camera because the landscape is dotted with vineyards, olive trees, and wide-open views. And don’t forget to snack while tasting! A little local bread and olive oil go a long way.

6. Relax on Elba Island

For a refreshing change of pace, consider a day trip to Elba Island, one of the most scenic and peaceful places to visit from Livorno. Known as the place of Napoleon’s exile in 1814, Elba is also beloved for its golden beaches, quiet coves, and peaceful hilltop towns.

As Tuscany’s largest island, Elba stretches across 91 miles (147 kilometers) of coastline, with a mix of sandy shores, black-pebble beaches, and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Inland, hiking trails wind through chestnut forests and lead to panoramic viewpoints. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy both cultural sights and outdoor activities.

Most visitors arrive by ferry from Piombino, a port town about two hours from Livorno by car or train. Booking a guided excursion to Elba Island is a convenient way to explore the island’s highlights without having to organize transport or routes yourself.

Plan your visit during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) for fewer crowds and comfortable weather. Bring beach gear and walking shoes. You’ll want to enjoy both the coastline and the inland trails. 

5. Take a Day Trip to Florence and Pisa From Livorno

If you're looking to explore beyond the coast, visiting Florence and Pisa from Livorno is one of the most rewarding ways to spend a day. These two iconic Tuscan cities are packed with art, architecture, and history, and both are within easy reach of the port.

Pisa is the closer of the two, just about 12 miles (20 kilometers) by car. It’s home to the world-famous Leaning Tower, the grand Pisa Cathedral, and the beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli. 

From there, you can head inland to Florence, about 54 miles (88 kilometers) from Livorno and often called the birthplace of the Renaissance. With landmarks such as the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery, Florence is full of unforgettable sights.

You can explore these cities independently by car or train. But if you'd prefer a hassle-free experience—especially if you're visiting Livorno by cruise—consider booking a shore excursion to Florence and Pisa from Livorno. These tours are timed to fit cruise schedules and include transportation and guided sightseeing.

If you have extra time or prefer a slower pace, road trips from Livorno also open the door to nearby destinations like Lucca or San Gimignano, both known for their medieval charm. 

4. Visit the Central Market of Livorno

One of the best ways to truly understand a city is to visit its market—and in Livorno, the Central Market is a must. Often overlooked by tourists, this lively indoor space is where locals shop for their daily ingredients, exchange stories, and enjoy the rhythm of everyday life. Visiting this market is one of the best things to do in Livorno for anyone curious about local food culture.

Housed in a grand 19th-century building along Buontalenti Street, the market is one of the largest indoor markets in Europe, second only to the Boqueria in Barcelona. Step inside and you’ll find more than just produce: rows of fresh seafood, butchers offering regional cuts, and vendors selling everything from cheeses to spices.

Food lovers will especially enjoy this experience, as it’s one of the top Livorno attractions for authentic local cuisine. Try a slice of cecina (a thin chickpea pancake) from a torteria stand, or sample cacciucco, a traditional seafood stew made with locally caught fish and shellfish. Another favorite is polpo ubriaco—“drunken octopus” cooked in red wine. These simple, flavorful dishes are what make Livornese cuisine stand out.

Visit in the morning when the market is busiest, and don’t forget to bring cash, as not all stalls accept cards. If you can't get enough of the local food, consider joining one of the best culinary tours in Livorno. It’s a great way to explore more of the best places to visit in Livorno—one bite at a time.

3. Take a Boat Ride Around the Venezia Nuova (New Venice) Canal

One of the most memorable Livorno attractions is tucked within the charming quarter of La Venezia Nuova, a historic canal district modeled after Venice in the 17th century. A boat ride through these quiet waterways lets you see the city from a quieter, more intimate angle. It’s one of the best places to visit in Livorno if you want a mix of history and architecture.

As you glide under the grand arch of Piazza della Repubblica—the widest bridge in Europe—you’ll spot the Central Market, a beautiful Art Nouveau-style market. The journey continues past 19th-century palaces once owned by prominent foreign families who helped shape Livorno’s cosmopolitan character.

Near the port, look for the Monumento dei Quattro Mori, the city’s iconic symbol. You’ll also catch glimpses of the Fortezza Vecchia, the 16th-century fortress built by the Medici family. Along the way, you’ll pass centuries-old warehouses, ancient cellars, and underground prisons. The journey culminates in the heart of Venezia Nuova, a district designed in the 1600s with canals and bridges that still define its charm today.

If you want to experience the city from other angles, consider taking one of the many tours by vehicle available in Livorno. These tours cover various neighborhoods and attractions, giving you a fuller picture of the city’s rich culture and vibrant life.

2. Watch the Sunset at Terrazza Mascagni

Of all the most scenic things to do in Livorno, watching the sunset from Terrazza Mascagni is hard to beat. This elegant seafront promenade, famous for its sweeping sea views and distinctive checkerboard floor, is one of the top Livorno attractions.

Dedicated to composer Pietro Mascagni, who was born in Livorno in 1863, the terrace is a masterpiece of design. It features over 34,000 black and white tiles stretching across 28,543 square feet (8,700 square meters) and a balustrade of more than 4,000 columns. The space offers a dramatic yet graceful setting to pause and enjoy the sea breeze. 

The terrace is open 24 hours a day, so you can stop by anytime. But it’s especially magical at sunset, when the sky turns golden and the calm waters reflect the fading light. For a deeper dive into the area’s history and landmarks, consider joining a private historic walking tour of Livorno with Terrazza Mascagni as a highlight.

1. Spend an Afternoon in the Livorno Port

If you're arriving by cruise, chances are your first look at Livorno will be its bustling port, and it’s well worth taking time to explore. 

As one of the busiest ports in Italy, this area is a fascinating mix of industrial energy and local character. Watching massive cruise ships dock alongside fishing boats and cargo vessels gives you a sense of just how important Livorno is to the country’s maritime life.

The port stretches from the quiet harbor near the Livorno Aquarium to the canal that connects to the Arno River, with plenty of movement and services in between. Be sure to stop by the aquarium as it’s one of the city’s top attractions. It’s a great option if you’re traveling with kids or just want a relaxing activity near the water.

You’ll also find transportation links, information centers, and currency exchange booths nearby. And if you're feeling hungry, try one of the seafood spots near the port to sample local dishes like cacciucco, a rich Tuscan fish stew, or a platter of fresh oysters.

It’s easy to spend a few hours walking along the waterfront, especially with several top Livorno attractions nearby—like the Fortezza Vecchia, Venezia Nuova, and, of course, the aquarium itself. This is one of the best places to start your city adventure, especially for those planning short getaways or city breaks in Livorno. 

What can I expect during a Livorno holiday?

Livorno holidays offer a relaxed mix of seaside views, cultural stops, and easy day trips to nearby cities. You can explore Livorno attractions like the Venezia Nuova canals, sample delicious seafood dishes like cacciucco, or unwind along the waterfront at Terrazza Mascagni. It’s a great destination if you want to enjoy Tuscany without the heavy crowds.

How do I get from Livorno to Florence?

Traveling from Livorno to Florence is simple. By car or private transfer, the drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. There are also direct trains from Livorno Centrale to the Florence Santa Maria Novella station, usually taking between 1.5 and 2 hours. This makes Florence an easy and popular day trip for anyone staying in Livorno or arriving by cruise.

Is it easy to travel from Livorno to Pisa?

Yes, getting from Livorno to Pisa is quick and convenient. The train journey only takes 12 to 20 minutes. Pisa is one of the top day trips from Livorno, especially for those wanting to see the famous Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli. It’s a great option if you’re short on time or arriving by cruise, since you can experience one of Tuscany’s iconic cities in just a few hours.