Livorno, a charming coastal city in Tuscany, is known for its bustling port, vibrant seafood scene, and a rich maritime history. It’s often overlooked in favor of more famous Tuscan destinations like Florence, Pisa, and Siena, but Livorno offers a unique blend of culture, history, and seaside beauty. Traveling from Florence to Livorno is easy and straightforward, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway for those looking to explore Tuscany’s coastline.

This guide will provide an overview of the best ways to travel from Florence to Livorno, what to do once you’re there, and tips to make the most of your visit.

1. Best Ways to Travel from Florence to Livorno

Livorno is located about 90 kilometers (56 miles) from Florence, and there are several convenient ways to travel between the two cities.

By Train

The train is the most popular and convenient way to travel from Florence to Livorno.

• Duration: The train journey takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on the train service.
• Cost: Tickets typically range from €9 to €16 for a one-way ticket.
• Departure and Arrival: Trains depart from Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), Florence’s main train station, and arrive at Livorno Centrale.
• Frequency: Trains run frequently throughout the day, making it easy to find a time that suits your schedule.

By Car

Driving from Florence to Livorno offers flexibility, especially if you plan to explore more of the Tuscan coastline.

• Duration: The drive takes about 1 hour 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Route: The most direct route is via the A11 and SS67 highways, followed by the A12 motorway toward Livorno.
• Cost: In addition to fuel costs, expect to pay tolls of approximately €5-€8.
• Parking in Livorno: Livorno has several parking lots near the city center and port area, but be mindful that finding a spot in peak tourist season can sometimes be challenging.

By Bus

Buses from Florence to Livorno are another option, though they tend to be less frequent than trains.

• Duration: The journey by bus takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.
• Cost: Tickets typically cost around €10-€15.
• Departure and Arrival: Buses depart from Firenze Autostazione, near Piazzale Montelungo, and arrive at Livorno’s bus station, located close to the city center.

2. What to See and Do in Livorno

While Livorno may not have the Renaissance splendor of Florence or the leaning tower of Pisa, it boasts a unique atmosphere, a rich maritime history, and delicious seafood. Here’s a breakdown of the top things to see and do in Livorno:

Terrazza Mascagni

One of Livorno’s most iconic landmarks is Terrazza Mascagni, a beautiful seafront promenade that offers stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The terrace is famous for its checkerboard pavement and elegant balustrades, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors to take a leisurely stroll, watch the sunset, or simply enjoy the sea breeze.

• Things to Do:
• Take a walk along the promenade and enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline.
• Visit the Acquario di Livorno, located nearby, which houses a variety of marine life from the Mediterranean.

Fortezza Vecchia (Old Fortress)

Livorno’s Fortezza Vecchia, a massive fortress located near the port, is a testament to the city’s strategic importance in the past. Built in the 16th century by the Medici family, the fortress offers a glimpse into Livorno’s military history and provides excellent views of the city and the sea.

• What to See:
• Explore the fortress walls and towers.
• Visit the inner courtyard and discover historical exhibits about Livorno’s maritime history.

Nuova Venezia (New Venice District)

One of Livorno’s most interesting neighborhoods is the Nuova Venezia, also known as the Venice District. This part of the city is characterized by its network of canals, bridges, and historic buildings, earning it the nickname “New Venice.”

• Things to Do:
• Take a canal boat tour to explore the waterways and learn about Livorno’s trading history.
• Stroll through the neighborhood and admire the beautiful architecture.
• Stop at one of the local restaurants or bars along the canals for a drink or a bite to eat.

Mercato Centrale (Central Market)

Livorno’s Mercato Centrale is one of the largest covered markets in Italy and is a must-visit for food lovers. Housed in a stunning 19th-century building, the market offers a lively atmosphere with stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and local produce to cheese, meats, and baked goods.

• Things to Do:
• Sample local delicacies such as cacciucco (a traditional Tuscan seafood stew) and freshly baked bread.
• Pick up some local olive oil, wine, or other regional specialties to take home.

Cacciucco: Livorno’s Signature Dish

When in Livorno, trying the local dish cacciucco is a must. This hearty fish stew is made with a variety of fish and seafood, simmered in a rich tomato broth, and served with toasted bread rubbed with garlic.

• Where to Eat:
• Visit one of the local trattorias or seafood restaurants in Livorno’s city center or near the port. Some of the most famous places to try cacciucco include Ristorante Cacciucco Blue and Trattoria Da Galileo.

Sanctuary of Montenero

Perched on a hill overlooking Livorno, the Sanctuary of Montenero is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Tuscany. The sanctuary is dedicated to the Madonna of Montenero, the patron saint of Tuscany, and offers breathtaking views of the city and coastline.

• Things to Do:
• Visit the sanctuary and admire its beautiful interior, filled with votive offerings from pilgrims.
• Take the Montenero funicular railway from the base of the hill to the sanctuary for a scenic ride.
• Enjoy a picnic in the surrounding parklands or take in the panoramic views from the top of the hill.

3. Livorno’s Beaches

Although Livorno is more known for its port, the city is also a gateway to some lovely beaches along the Tuscan coast. For those looking to relax by the sea, there are several options just a short distance from the city center.

Spiaggia di Calafuria

Located a few kilometers south of Livorno, Spiaggia di Calafuria is a beautiful rocky beach known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning coastal views. This spot is particularly popular with divers and snorkelers due to the rich marine life in the area.

• What to Do:
• Swim in the clear waters and explore the nearby coves.
• Visit the Torre di Calafuria, a historic watchtower overlooking the beach.

Spiaggia del Gabbiano

Another popular beach is Spiaggia del Gabbiano, located along the Romito Coast, a picturesque stretch of coastline south of Livorno. This rocky beach offers peaceful surroundings, ideal for sunbathing and snorkeling.

Bagni Fiume

For a more traditional beach experience, head to Bagni Fiume, a beach club just outside Livorno. Here, you can rent a sunbed and umbrella for the day and enjoy facilities such as restaurants and bars.

4. Practical Tips for Visiting Livorno

• Language: Italian is the official language in Livorno, though English is spoken in most tourist areas.
• Currency: Italy uses the Euro (€).
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Livorno is during the late spring and summer months (May to September), when the weather is warm and ideal for exploring the city and enjoying the beach.
• Getting Around: Livorno is a relatively small city, and most of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Local buses are available for traveling to beaches or the Montenero Sanctuary.
• Ferries to Other Islands: Livorno is also a gateway to the Tuscan Archipelago, with ferries departing to Elba Island and other smaller islands, making it a great base for further exploration.

5. Day Trips from Livorno

If you have more time to explore the region, Livorno is well-positioned for day trips to other Tuscan cities and coastal areas.

• Pisa: Only a 20-minute train ride from Livorno, Pisa is famous for its Leaning Tower, the Piazza dei Miracoli, and the Cathedral of Pisa.
• Elba Island: Ferries from Livorno can take you to Elba Island, where you can explore its pristine beaches, beautiful hiking trails, and Napoleon’s historic residence.
• Bolgheri: Located about 45 minutes south of Livorno, Bolgheri is a charming village famous for its wines, especially Super Tuscan wines. Visit for a wine-tasting tour or explore the scenic Cypress Avenue.

Conclusion

Livorno may not be as famous as some of its Tuscan neighbors, but it offers a wealth of experiences for visitors looking for something different. Whether you’re interested in history, food, beaches, or just soaking in the laid-back coastal vibe, Livorno has plenty to offer. Easily accessible from Florence, it’s an excellent destination for a day trip or a longer stay to experience the beauty of Tuscany’s coast.