Livorno, Italy

Livorno is Italy’s second-largest port after Genoa. It also serves as a gateway to the Tuscany region, and the great cultural centres of Florence, Lucca, Pisa and Siena. Tuscany delights visitors with its picturesque small towns and classic landscapes. The gently-rounded hills, accented by clumps of slender cypresses, have been immortalised in numerous paintings. Lush vineyards are the source of the famous dry, dark-red Chianti wines. From this part of Italy, the national language evolved with Dante and other great Tuscan writers of his day. Even more important is the impact this area had on the culture of the rest of Italy and Europe, adding immense wealth to their architectural and artistic heritage. The Italian Renaissance, with its most active centre in Florence, lasted from the 1400s to the 1700s. Its greatest support came from the all-powerful Medici family, who commissioned Italy’s most talented painters, sculptors and architects to create some of history’s most outstanding works of art. Names such as Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Giotto, Vasari, Botticelli, da Vinci and Donatello come to mind, all of whom worked and lived in Florence at some time in their lives. Other options for visits from Livorno may include Lucca, the provincial capital and perhaps the area’s best-kept secret. The ever-popular Pisa is famed for its great architectural ensemble that includes the 11th-century Cathedral, the Baptistery and the world-renowned Bell Tower, whose pillared galleries have been known for centuries as ‘The Leaning Tower’. Siena, laid out over three steep hills, is considered by many to be Italy’s most enchanting Medieval city. Regardless of the many attractions you choose to visit during the ship’s call at Livorno, it will undoubtedly be a rewarding experience. Please note: While touring popular sites, keep an eye on your wallet and purse at all times. Do not wear valuable jewellery, or carry large amounts of cash. Be especially careful around the main tourist areas, which are a favourite of pickpockets.

Pier Information

The ship is scheduled to dock at Sgarallino Pier. The distance to the centre of Livorno is approximately one mile (about 1.6 kilometres). Florence is a 1.5-2-hour drive in each direction. Taxis for half-day and full-day excursions are generally available at the pier.

Shopping

Leather articles, shoes, silk scarves, ties, and chic fashions for men and women can be found in elegant stores in Florence, and to a limited extent, in Livorno. Main shopping streets in Florence include the Via Tornabuoni, Via d’Calzaiuoli and Via Strozzi. The Ponte Vecchio is lined with stalls selling silver and gold jewellery, as well as leather articles. Many shops close between 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.; department stores are the exception. The local currency is the euro.

Cuisine

Tuscan cooking is hearty and delicious. Enjoy a mouth-watering plate of pasta, followed by a Florentine steak or tender veal. A glass of Chianti Classico will go nicely with your meal. Florence offers endless dining opportunities, from cosy trattorias and fast-food eateries to elegant restaurants.

Other Sites

Private Arrangements For those guests interested in touring at your leisure, we are pleased to offer Silver Shore Privato - both half-day and full-day private arrangements by private car or van. You may book this in advance at silversea.com or it may be purchased on board, subject to availability. Other private arrangements for independent sightseeing may be requested through the Tour Office on board.