Nestled on the northwest coast of Italy, the city of Livorno is the main gateway to Tuscany and its iconic cities of Pisa, Florence, and Lucca. Read about 7 perfect day trips from Livorno port below:
1. Pisa
Thanks to its legendary Leaning Tower, Pisa is one of the most famous cities in Italy known all over the world. Located in the Field of Miracles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the spectacular Leaning Tower is surrounded by the Pisa Cathedral, the cemetery, and the Baptistery – considered the most beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. The tower was originally built as a bell tower for the Cathedral but never fulfilled its purpose. Today, climbing 300 steps to the top of the most famous Tower in Italy is among the main experiences of your trip in Italy!
The Field of Miracles
2. Florence
Known as the cradle of the Renaissance thanks to its remarkable architecture, Tuscany's capital is a must-see place if you are visiting Tuscany for the first time. If you are an art lover, make sure you visit Uffizi Gallery, Galleria dell'Accademia, Palazzo Vecchio, and Palazzo Pitti. Stroll through a beautiful Piazza della Signoria, admire the remarkable 13th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), and browse for the jewelry at Ponte Vecchio, the old bridge.
Piazza della Signoria
3. Lucca
If you are already familiar with Pisa and Florence then head over to Lucca, a very well preserved medieval city known for a large number of historic churches and towers. Stroll through the beautiful elliptical-shaped square, Piazza Anfiteatro, see the magnificent church of San Michele in Foro with its 13th-century façade and admire the spectacular panoramic views of the city from Guinigi Tower and Torre delle Ore.
San Michele in Foro
4. San Gimignano
Nestled in the heart of the Tuscan countryside in the province of Siena, San Gimignano is another hidden gem of Tuscany boasting stunning medieval architecture. San Gimignano is a small walled hilltop town known as the Town of Fine Towers due to a dozen preserved tower houses. Make sure you visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta - the main landmark of the city; the Communal Palace (the Town Hall); and Torre Grossa - the city's tallest tower (54 meters). The whole region is known for its delicious wines - so don't forget to grab a glass to top off your day!
San Gimignano
5. Siena
Siena is the capital city of the province of Siena known for its historic center protected by UNESCO, medieval architecture, a great number of museums, galleries, and a long history of banking/commercial activities. While you are there, don't miss out to visit the large main square of the city - Campo Square; the Tower of Mangia, and the 12th-century Siena Cathedral dating from the early 13th century.
Siena - Campo Square and the Tower of Mangia
6. Volterra
Volterra is a mountaintop town known for its rich history and the ruins dating from the Etruscan, Roman, and Medieval periods. While there, don't miss out to visit some of the main Volterra highlights: the Roman Theater of Volterra, Piazza dei Priori (the main square) dominated by Palazzo dei Priori, the 13th-century Town Hall building, and the Volterra Cathedral with its magnificent marble entrance.
Volterra
7. Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre (“five villages”) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park that consists of five fishing villages perched high up on the cliffs of the Italian Riviera: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Monterosso al Mare. The villages boast rich history and traditions as they date from the Middle Age, and they are interconnected by trails so you can explore them on foot, or by hiking. Another wonderful place to visit is Portovenere, a medieval coastal village located south of Cinque Terre.
Portovenere
Final Words
If you are on a cruise to Livorno, or simply visiting Livorno, you should consider visiting one of these hidden gems of Tuscany. For insider, detailed info on Livorno port, destination highlights, things to do in Livorno, and how to get to Pisa, Lucca, Florence, Cinque Terre, San Gimignano, Volterra, and Siena from Livorno, check out my website. Until then, stay tuned for my next Mediterranean adventure!
