Livorno is the city of cacciucco (a traditional fish recipe), of artist Amedeo Modigliani and a kaleidoscopic port teeming with different cultures. Drenched in history, the city strong sense of pride has shaped the thoughts of famous personalities such as Giovanni Fattori and Pietro Mascagni; who’s name and legacy will be ever present on a city terrace overlooking the Tyrrhenian waters. Livorno is definitely unique also because its removed from the main Tuscan tourist routes and cannot even be considered an entertainment capital, where nearby Versilia is the master. At the same times, Livorno is also making itself known, albeit some difficulties, for its characteristic canals in the centre (called Fossi by the locals), for the precious vineyards from Bolgheri where some excellent Super Tuscans are born and for some pleasurable seaside destinations. Some of them can awake glories from the past and if the name Castiglioncello doesn’t tell you anything, it would be wise to look it up before visiting.

All of this said, there is one thing that makes Livorno world famous: the Amerigo Vespucci. This vessel belonging to the local Naval Academy, is often referred to as "the most beautiful ship in the world". The Vespucci, with its characteristic two-tone hull with white and blue stripes, is of course Livorno’s pride and the city celebrates its every return to port. Vespucci represents Italian excellence beyond its appearance: It is an example of the mastery from Italian shipyards encompassing aesthetic taste, technical excellence and Italy’s century old maritime traditions. 

For most months of the year, the Amerigo Vespucci is far from Livorno as its role is still that of a training ship for the Academy's official students. It does return home every winter for maintenance and when the vessel is docked at Livorno’s port, it is indeed possible to hop on board as visits are open to the public.