Destinations - Mediterranean - Livorno, Florence(Pisa)

Livorno is Italy’s second largest port after Genoa; it also serves as a gateway to the Tuscany region and the great art centers of Florence, Siena, Lucca and Pisa.Tuscany delights visitors with its picturesque small towns and classic landscapes.The gently rounded hills, accented by clumps of slender cypresses, have been immortalized in numerous paintings.The 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 period. Even more important is the impact this area had on the culture of the rest of Italy and Europe, adding vast wealth to the architectural and artistic heritage. The Italian Renaissance, with its most active center in Florence, lasted from the 1400s to the 1700s. Its greatest support came from the all-powerful Medici as well as from the multitudes of religious bodies and the guilds, whose merchants laid the foundation to the city’s prosperity. They commissioned Italy’s most talented painters, sculptors and architects to create some of the 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.

In addition to Florence, other worthwhile places of interest may include: Lucca, the provincial capital and birthplace of composer Giacomo Puccini that is perhaps one of the area’s best-kept secrets. Pisa attracts scores of tourists each year for its great architectural ensemble, comprising the 11th-century Cathedral, the Baptistery and, most famous of all, the Bell Tower with its pillared galleries known for centuries as The Leaning Tower. Galileo, born in Pisa, made use of the tower’s inclination in his experiments on the law of gravity.

Siena, laid out over three steep hills, has changed little since medieval times and is considered by many to be one of Italy’s most enchanting medieval cities.

Whichever of the many attractions you choose to visit during the ship’s call at Livorno, it will be a rewarding experience.

Caution: While visiting Florence, keep an eye on your wallet and purse at all times. Do not wear valuable jewelry or carry large amounts of cash. Be especially careful around the Accademia, a favorite hangout for pickpockets.
There are few bargains to be found, which is not surprising given the exclusivity
of Portofino.Yet it’s fun to browse in designer boutiques and upscale gift shops.Art
galleries feature works of renowned artists who make Portofino their home. Most
shops stay open all day during the summer season.The local currency is the euro.
Cuisine
Overlooking the harbor are several trendy restaurants. Deluxe hotels offer a dining
experience which will be remembered for impeccable service and excellent
cuisine (reservations are recommended). Among the best known is the luxury
Hotel Splendido, located in a private park above Portofino, and Il Pitosforo
Restaurant, close to the harbor.
Other Sights
Fortress and Church of San Giorgio
Portofino’s two prime historical sites are the church and the fortress built as
fortification against Turkish attacks. San Giorgio church can be reached by walking
up a flight of steps, a rewarding experience for the magnificent views.The fortress
can be visited on a walking tour of the promontory.
Resorts

View all the cruises that call at Livorno, Florence(Pisa), Mediterranean cruise destination

Companies: Hapag Lloyd Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Cunard Line, Hebridean Island Cruises, Peter Deilmann Cruises , Regent Seven Seas Cruises, P & O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Swan Hellenic, Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Fred.Olsen Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Orient Lines, Royal Caribbean International, Voyages of Discovery, Windstar Cruises,

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