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Planning a trip to Livorno? We guarantee you’re going to love this laid-back Tuscan port city.
Livorno is often overlooked for its more famous neighbors, but it’s full of surprises! When we visited, we were delighted to discover that this coastal gem offers a unique slice of Italian life, from the canals of New Venice to all of the delicious food. It’s also the perfect jumping-off point for day trips to Pisa, Florence, and the rolling hills of Tuscany.
After exploring Livorno (or Leghorn as it’s commonly called!), we’ve decided to share the 7 best things to do here, whether you’re visiting on a cruise stop or staying a few days. Ready to eat, explore, and soak up the seaside vibes? Let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Livorno was this private tour to Pisa and Florence. From snapping photos at the Leaning Tower to strolling Florence’s piazzas with our amazing guide, it packed Tuscany’s top sights into one unforgettable day!
Things to do in Livorno, Italy
1. Discover Livorno on a food and walking tour
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9:30 am (not available Sunday)
- Highlights: Explore Livorno’s bustling market, taste traditional street foods, enjoy a scenic walk, learn about Livorno’s culture and history
- Inclusions: Local guide, food and drink tastings, coffee, small group tour, pickup from port shuttle stop
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We loved this Livorno food and market tour because it gave us such a fun glimpse into real local life. If you want to explore Leghorn itself rather than taking a day trip outside of the city, then this tour is our top pick.
Our guide, Laila, met us near the port and greeted us like old friends. We kicked things off with a proper Italian coffee at a neighborhood café and then walked through the heart of the city, checking out highlights such as the Medici-built fortress.
But of course, the best part was the food! We started by sampling our way through the fruit and veg market, then got to try a freshly fried frate, which is a traditional Tuscan doughnut. Later, we tried bruschetta, and then visited a tucked-away spot to try authentic torta di ceci. These are chickpea pancakes, and while I didn’t think they sounded very appetizing, they were actually really good!
We ended the tour with a shot of ponce alla livornese, which is a local coffee drink we had never ordered before. I expected it to be way too intense, but I was surprised by how much I loved it!
The whole morning felt relaxed, personal, and genuinely connected to Livorno’s culture. If you want more than just a quick photo stop in port, this is the tour to book. And don’t just take my word for it—read over a hundred 5-star reviews here!
Book your spot on this delicious local food tour here!
2. Take a day trip to Florence and Pisa
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: Multiple start times available from 8 am–10:30 am
- Highlights: Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa, explore Florence’s top sights including the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, free time to shop or visit museums, drive through scenic Tuscan countryside
- Inclusions: Private transportation, English-speaking driver-guide, port pickup and drop-off, fuel and parking fees
- Rating: 5 stars (check 120+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This private tour from Livorno to Pisa and Florence is the perfect way to make the most of your cruise stop! Your guide will meet you right at the port, and you’ll hit the road straight away.
The first stop of the day is Pisa! It’s totally surreal to see the iconic Leaning Tower in person! We had just enough time for photos and a walk through the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli before heading off through the Tuscan countryside toward Florence.
Along the way, our guide, Maria, shared stories about the region’s history and culture. We even made a quick scenic stop at Piazzale Michelangelo for a panoramic view of the city! Then, when we arrived in Florence, we explored the Duomo, wandered through the historic center, and walked across the iconic Ponte Vecchio. We even had time for a quick gelato break and a stroll through Piazza della Signoria, which was a real highlight for me.
We never felt rushed, and Maria tailored the tour to our interests. She pointed out details we definitely would have missed on our own, so we’re so glad we had her with us! Then, the drive back through the countryside was such a peaceful way to wrap up the day.
If you only have one day to see Tuscany’s highlights, this tour is the way to do it. It’s efficient, comfortable, and so much more personal than a big group bus tour. And we’re not the only ones who love it—read the glowing reviews here!
Book this top-rated tour here, before it sells out!
3. Have dinner in a local’s home
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 12 pm or 7 pm
- Highlights: Enjoy an authentic Italian dinner in a local’s home, learn to make Capri-style dishes, meet new friends, experience true Italian hospitality
- Inclusions: Home-cooked dinner, cooking demonstration, drinks included, friendly host, small group experience, all ingredients and equipment
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We loved this home dining experience because it showed us the real Livorno beyond the usual tourist spots. After a quick taxi ride from the port, we arrived at our hosts’ charming home, where we were welcomed with genuine warmth and hospitality. They instantly made us feel like part of the family!
As we watched our hosts prepare a traditional four-course meal right in front of us, we picked up authentic Italian cooking tips and learned about recipes that have been passed down through generations. But of course, the best part was getting to eat these delicious dishes that our hosts cooked for us. From freshly baked focaccia to homemade pasta and a seasonal tomato salad, we got to enjoy an authentic Italian feast.
To make things even better, each course was paired with local beverages that complemented the flavors beautifully. But what really made the meal special was the connection we built with our hosts. Their stories, laughter, and passion for their city made the experience unforgettable.
If you want to experience Livorno like a local and enjoy fantastic food in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, this tour is a must. It’s a true highlight for anyone looking to dig deeper into Tuscany’s culinary heart. We still talk about the amazing food and wonderful company, and we would love to do it again someday!
Book this authentic private dining experience here and enjoy free 24-hour cancellation!
4. Visit Cinque Terre and Pisa with a private guide
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 7:45 am, 8:15 am, or 9 am
- Highlights: Explore the stunning Cinque Terre villages, visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa, enjoy breathtaking coastal views, experience local culture and cuisine
- Inclusions: Private transportation, English-speaking driver-guide, port pickup and drop-off, train tickets for Cinque Terre, fuel and parking fees
- Rating: 5 stars (check 75+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We had such an amazing day exploring the Cinque Terre and Pisa on this private shore excursion from Livorno! Everything ran super smoothly, so cruise passengers have no need to worry about getting back to the port on time.
Our first stop was the beautiful Cinque Terre National Park. We hopped on ferries to visit three of the charming coastal villages and got to soak in the stunning Mediterranean views as we traveled between them. I should note that we had to pay for the ferry tickets on the day, so budget around €30 per person for this.
Each village had its own unique vibe, and our guide, Ursula, pointed out the best spots to snap photos and where to grab a delicious bite. I was so glad that we had time for a swim, too!
After a few hours by the sea, we headed to Pisa. Parking is tricky there, so we were glad to be dropped off right by Piazza dei Miracoli. We spent about 45 minutes admiring the iconic Leaning Tower, wandering the square, and snapping photos.
The round-trip transport made everything so easy, and the small group size meant we got plenty of attention and insider knowledge from Ursula. This tour is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Cinque Terre and Pisa in just one day! Just be sure to book the option “with tour leader” because having Ursula with us really did make all the difference.
Read the glowing reviews and book this private tour here!
5. Head to Tuscany to see Volterra and San Gimignano
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 8 am, 8:30 am, or 9 am
- Highlights: Wander through medieval Volterra, visit a local alabaster workshop, stroll historic streets, explore San Gimignano’s iconic towers and charming piazze, enjoy scenic countryside drives
- Inclusions: Port or hotel pickup, private transport, on-board WiFi, bottled water, English‑speaking driver-guide, fuel and parking fees
- Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
We absolutely loved this day trip through medieval Tuscany. It allowed us to escape the crowds and step back in time, which made for a pretty enchanting day out.
Our guide, Giuliano, picked us up right on time, and then our first stop was Volterra. This is a striking walled town with Roman ruins, sweeping countryside views, and charming stone alleyways. I was so surprised by how quiet it was—it was almost empty!
I loved just taking in the beauty of Volterra, but we also got to visit the Rossi Alabastri workshop and watch a live alabaster carving demo. It was super unique and a great place to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir!
After a short walk around the main square, we drove through the rolling Chianti countryside to a small, family-run winery for lunch. This is not included in the price of the tour, but trust me, it’s 100% worth it. The homemade pasta, olive oil, and local wines were delicious, and the whole experience just felt like we were guests at someone’s home, which was super special.
Our final stop was San Gimignano, which is like a fairy tale with its towers and cobbled streets. We wandered, took way too many photos, and of course grabbed gelato in the main square—well, they do say that it’s the best in the world!
This tour gave us a rare glimpse into an authentic slice of Tuscany that most tourists never get to see. It was magical from start to finish!
Check availability and snap up this epic Tuscan tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Learn about Livorno on a walking tour
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple options between 8 am—10 am
- Highlights: Explore authentic Livorno neighborhoods, walk along canals and historic streets, visit artisan shops and hidden viewpoints, enjoy a typical local snack and coffee
- Inclusions: English-speaking local guide, small group experience, coffee and snack, city center meeting point
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you want to get to know Livorno itself rather than taking a day trip to a nearby region, then we highly recommend this cultural walking tour. It really surprised us, in the best way!
When we booked this tour, we wanted something slower-paced and more local than the usual Florence or Pisa excursions. We made a good choice because this ended up being one of the most personal and heartwarming experiences of our entire trip.
We met our guide, Claudia, near the port shuttle and right away felt like we were exploring the city with a friend. She’s a proud Livorno native and shared so many stories that brought the city to life, from its Medici origins to its reputation as a city of artists and free spirits. You could feel her love for the place in every step, and she made us realize how underrated this city is among travelers!
The walk itself was easy and relaxed. We strolled through charming neighborhoods, visited artisan workshops, and got to see parts of Livorno most tourists completely miss. We even stopped midway through for a local snack and coffee at one of Claudia’s favorite spots, which was a really nice touch.
By the end of this tour, we felt so much more connected to Livorno and its people. If you’re looking for something real, off the beaten path, and full of heart, don’t skip this one!
Book this private walking tour here and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!
7. Go wine tasting at Bolgheri Winery
- Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Time: Multiple start times available from 10 am – 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Tour a family-run winery in Bolgheri, walk through vineyards and cellars, guided tasting of award-winning wines, enjoy bruschetta with local olive oil
- Inclusions: Winery tour, English-speaking guide, wine tasting, bruschetta
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 290+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re into your vino, this wine tasting experience in Bolgheri is a must! To be honest, it would even be worth doing for the scenery alone, as it takes place in a beautiful winery tucked beneath a mountain. It’s an ideal spot for snapping some envy-stirring Instagram photos, that’s for sure!
We drove out to the family-owned winery since we were staying in Livorno, but you could also get a taxi from the port. When we arrived, we were greeted by our guide Serena, who was very knowledgeable about the winemaking process, not to mention a lot of fun. She walked us through the vineyard and shared the family’s story, dating back to the 1950s, which made the experience feel even more personal.
The cellar tour was brief but really interesting, and then came our favorite part: the tasting! We sampled three different Bolgheri wines. The flavors were rich and memorable, and I loved that the wines were all very different from one another. Best of all, the tasting was paired with bruschetta drizzled in local olive oil, which was the perfect touch.
The whole experience felt very personal and authentic, far removed from the more commercial tastings we’ve done elsewhere in Tuscany. It’s a must for wine lovers who want to see the real Tuscany, away from the typical tourist track. Honestly, I’m not surprised that it has hundreds of 5-star reviews.
Read the rave reviews and book this unique winery tour here!
Where to Stay in Livorno, Italy
Now you know what to get up to in Livorno, you just need a great place to stay—unless you’re here on a shore excursion, of course! But if you are here for a few nights, finding the right place to stay is key, which is why we’ve listed our favorite Livorno hotel for every budget below. If any of these places are still available for your travel dates, book them early—they fill up fast!
Luxury – $$$
GH Palazzo Suite & Spa is Livorno’s standout luxury stay! It’s set in a grand historic building right on the seafront. The rooms are spacious and elegant, and don’t even get me started on that beautiful infinity pool. In fact, you might struggle to tear yourself away from it!
What we love about this hotel is that it feels like staying in a Tuscan palace, even though you’re just a short drive from the port and have all of Livorno’s cultural spots and beaches within easy reach. The on-site spa is incredible, too, with all of the latest and greatest treatments on offer.
Prices typically start around €200 per night and can go up to €500+ for one of the sumptuous suites. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Modi Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel located near Livorno Centrale station. The rooms feel very homey and have lots of natural light, and the whole palace is sparkling clean. Plus, you can enjoy a continental breakfast each morning for just €3!
The location is excellent if you want to be close to Livorno’s main hub of bars and restaurants, and the beaches are just a few miles away. It’s not beachfront, but for the price, you really can’t beat this stay!
Expect to pay between €120 and €180 per night, depending on the room category you choose. See all of the options and book your stay here!
Budget – $
L’Iris is a simple and affordable guesthouse that offers a warm welcome and great value for money. The rooms are simple but clean and well-equipped, and the property is close to the train station and well-connected to the port and city center. The staff are absolutely lovely and will help you with whatever you need, and there’s a shared kitchen on site for those who prefer to self-cater.
We think that L’Iris is ideal if you’re traveling on a budget but still want a private room. All bathrooms are shared, but they’re spacious and spotlessly clean, so that’s no issue for us!
Double and twin rooms here typically cost €70 per night. Check availability and book your stay here!
For more options, you can check out all of Livorno’s listed hotels on Booking.com here.
Renting a Car in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Italy
- Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
- Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
- Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
- Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
- Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
Livorno might not be Italy’s most famous destination, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. Whether you’re sampling torta di ceci in the local market, cruising through Tuscany on a private tour, or soaking up the charm of New Venice, this laid-back port city delivers a truly authentic slice of Italian life.
We hope this guide inspires a visit to Leghorn that’s every bit as flavorful, scenic, and memorable as it should be. Having explored Italy from top to toe, we’ve uncovered plenty of gems beyond the usual highlights—so if your travels take you elsewhere in the country, be sure to check out our other Italy blogs here for travel tips, tour reviews, and hidden gems that go beyond the usual highlights. Or here are a few of our most popular blogs to help you get started!
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