Livorno has been a major port city in Italy since the 1500s enabling the city to be a major trade center in the Mediterranean area and the Ligurian Sea. The architecture of the town is quite stunning with fortified walls, towers overlooking the town center, canals similar to Venice and well-planned neighborhoods. Livorno was deemed an "ideal town" during the Italian Renaissance.
Each part of Livorno is a living history book. As you walk along the cobblestone streets, you feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Renaissance. The Museo Mascagnano is a tribute to the composer Pietro Mascagni, who created many beautiful operas. For the faithful, the Sanctuary of Montenero is not to be missed. A gallery featuring votive offerings is located directly next to the sacred monument.
The Old English Cemetery is one of the oldest non-Roman Catholic cemeteries in Italy. The Orto Botanico del Mediterraneo is a botanical garden with many indigenous plants. There are a series of neo-classical structures including the Acquedotto Leopoldino, which is a long aqueduct built in 1792. Monuments can be found all over Livorno, including the Monument of the Four Moors and a Medici fortress.
The islands of Montecristo and Elba are a short boat ride away near the National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago. This park is a wonderful way to observe wildlife, including birds and monk seals, in their natural habitat. Enjoy the Mediterranean beaches perfect for sunbathing, boating, fishing and water activities.
There are a number ways to reach Livorno. Tuscany's main airport, Galileo Galilei, is about 12 miles away. The train station services Livorno from Rome, Pisa and Florence. If you are coming from Sardinia or Corsica, a ferry is also available. Bus transportation is also an option since Livorno is a popular destination.
Livorno offers a wide range of hotels from the budget to the luxurious. Depending on your needs, a hotel is best chosen depending on where in the city you would like to be. Most hotels are near the sea and offer wonderful sea views. Livorno is pedestrian friendly, so getting around is not difficult. Also, taxis are available readily in Livorno.
