Viareggio is one of Tuscany’s most famous seaside resorts, known for its long sandy shore and elegant promenade lined with cafés and Liberty-style buildings. It’s perfect for those who want a classic Italian beach day with plenty of dining options.
Where: 1.5 hours by train from Florence
Facilities: Private lidos with sunbeds, restaurants, showers
Best For: Classic seaside atmosphere and easy access
A glamorous stretch of coast with chic beach clubs, high-end boutiques, and pristine sand. Popular with celebrities and style-conscious travelers.
Where: Northern Tuscan coast, 2 hours from Florence
Facilities: Exclusive lidos, fine dining, boutique shopping nearby
Best For: Luxury and people-watching
A picturesque seaside town with rocky coves and clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and relaxed swimming. The surrounding pine groves add a tranquil, natural touch.
Where: Etruscan Coast, 2 hours from Florence by train and bus
Facilities: Mixed free beaches and paid lidos, bars, rental umbrellas
Best For: Scenic swims and nature lovers
A charming coastal town with small pebble and sand beaches, calmer waters, and a relaxed pace compared to the more famous Tuscan resorts.
Where: Near Pisa, ~1 hour 45 min from Florence
Facilities: Family-friendly beaches, restaurants, promenade
Best For: Low-key beach day and combining with a Pisa visit
A beautiful cove with fine, quartz-rich sand that produces a “violin-like” sound when walked on. Surrounded by unspoiled nature and turquoise waters, it’s one of Tuscany’s most famous wild beaches.
Where: Maremma region, 3 hours from Florence (requires a walk from parking area)
Facilities: None—bring your own supplies
Best For: Wild beauty and hiking-beach combo
Located in a scenic gulf near Populonia, Baratti offers golden sands, shallow waters, and a peaceful, undeveloped atmosphere. History buffs will love the nearby Etruscan ruins.
Where: Etruscan Coast, 3 hours from Florence
Facilities: Minimal—small bars and parking nearby
Best For: History lovers and tranquil swims
A long sandy beach backed by pine forests, ideal for families and water sports. The town has a lively summer atmosphere with plenty of dining options.
Where: Etruscan Coast, 2.5 hours from Florence
Facilities: Sunbeds, restaurants, water sports rentals
Best For: Families and active beach days
While Florence itself isn’t coastal, its location makes it easy to add a Tuscan beach escape to your itinerary. Whether you’re after luxury beach clubs, wild coves, or family-friendly stretches of sand, the shores of Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi, and the Etruscan Coast are all within reach—perfect for pairing with the city’s art-filled days.