The Best Beach Day Trips From Florence

Day Trips from Florence

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If there’s one thing you should know about Florence it’s that it gets HOT in the summer— and thanks to it being in a valley sometimes there’s not much of a breeze to save you from the heat and humidity. If you’re visiting during the summer it won’t be long till you’re asking yourself, “Where are the beaches in Tuscany?”

While there’s no real beach in Florence (there is the “beach bar” along the river) There are Numerous Beach Day Trips from Florence that are possible— so you can escape the city and head to the coast for a day pretty easily, even without a car.

From the iconic towns of Cinque Terre to the lesser-known towns the locals flock to in the summer. We’re outlining them all so you can live la dolce vita on the Italian coast rather than melting in the city crowds.

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The Best Beach Day Trips From Florence

Forte dei Marmi:

Nestled along the Tuscan coast, Forte dei Marmi boasts a pristine beach characterized by soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters. This glamorous seaside destination offers a blend of natural beauty and sophisticated charm.

Sunbathe on luxurious beach clubs, indulge in delectable seafood at waterfront restaurants, or explore the vibrant town center with its designer boutiques and lively markets.

  • By Train: Take a train from Florence to Viareggio, and then transfer to a local train or bus to Forte dei Marmi.

  • By Car: Drive west on the A11 highway from Florence, and then take the A12 highway towards Viareggio. From Viareggio, follow the signs to Forte dei Marmi.

Viareggio:

Known as the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea,” Viareggio is a lively beach town that has a vibrant atmosphere and beautiful coastline, and just happens to be the easiest beach to travel to by train from Florence.

The expansive sandy beach is lined with stylish beach clubs, restaurants, and bars, offering a perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment. Take a stroll along the elegant promenade, admire the colorful Liberty-style buildings, and witness the elaborate floats during the famous Carnival of Viareggio.

  • By Train: Take a train directly from Florence to Viareggio. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

  • By Car: Drive west on the A11 highway from Florence, and then take the A12 highway towards Viareggio.

Castiglioncello:

One of the absolute best beach day trips from Florence is Castglioncello. Tucked away on the Etruscan Coast, Castiglioncello is a hidden gem that enchants beach lovers with its rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and picturesque beaches.

With its crystal-clear waters, it’s paradise. When you’re done swimming, you can explore the charming town center with its quaint streets, art galleries, and delightful seafood restaurants.

  • By Train: Take a train from Florence to Castiglioncello. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

  • By Car: Drive southwest on the SGC Firenze-Pisa-Livorno highway (FI-PI-LI) from Florence, and then take the SS1 road towards Castiglioncello.

Marina di Pisa:

Just a short drive from Florence, Marina di Pisa offers a serene escape along the coast of the Ligurian Sea. The long sandy beach is perfect for leisurely walks and sunbathing, while the promenade is dotted with inviting cafes and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. Marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa in the nearby city or explore the charming marina and its colorful fishing boats.

Marina di Pisa:

  • By Train: Take a train from Florence to Pisa Centrale, and then transfer to a local train or bus to Marina di Pisa.

  • By Car: Drive west on the A11 highway from Florence, and then take the A12 highway towards Pisa. From Pisa, follow the signs to Marina di Pisa.

Marina di Castagneto Carducci:

Nestled in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma, Marina di Castagneto Carducci is a charming coastal village known for its pristine beaches and lush pine forests. Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, rent a bike to explore the surrounding natural beauty, or visit the nearby medieval village of Castagneto Carducci with its historic charm and panoramic views. Marina di Castagneto Carducci is easily accessible by car from Florence via the A12 highway.

  • By Car: Drive south on the A1 highway from Florence, and then take the SS1 Aurelia road towards Marina di Castagneto Carducci.

Torre Mozza:

Situated on the stunning Costa degli Etruschi, Torre Mozza is a hidden gem known for its unspoiled natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. The beach features soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming. Explore the nearby Torre Mozza, an ancient tower that stands as a testament to the region’s history. To get to Torre Mozza from Florence, drive south along the A1 highway and then take the SS1 Aurelia road.

  • By Train: Take the train from Florence to Pisa Centrale. Once at Pisa Centrale, transfer to a local train or bus that goes to Follonica. From Follonica, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach Torre Mozza.

  • By Car: Drive southwest on the SGC Firenze-Pisa-Livorno highway (FI-PI-LI) from Florence. Continue on the A12 highway towards Livorno. Take the exit for Rosignano Marittimo and follow the signs to Castiglioncello. From there, follow the coastal road (SS1 Aurelia) southwards until you reach Torre Mozza.

Cinque Terre:

Cinque Terre, a collection of five quaint coastal villages, offers a paradise for beach lovers. Nestled along the rugged cliffs of the Italian Riviera, each village boasts its own unique beach with crystal-clear waters and stunning surroundings.

Whether it’s the sandy shores of Monterosso, the charming coves of Vernazza, or the rocky coastline of Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre’s beaches are a haven for relaxation and seaside enjoyment. Take in the breathtaking coastal views, bask in the Mediterranean sun, and immerse yourself in the vibrant coastal culture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • By Train: Take the train from Florence to Pisa Centrale. Once at Pisa Centrale, transfer to a regional train that goes to La Spezia Centrale, which serves as the gateway to Cinque Terre. From La Spezia Centrale, you can continue your journey to each of the five villages of Cinque Terre (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore) by taking the local train or ferry.

  • By Car: Drive west on the A11 highway from Florence, and then take the A12 highway towards Pisa. From Pisa, follow the signs to La Spezia. Once in La Spezia, you can park your car and explore Cinque Terre by taking the local train, ferry, or hiking trails that connect the villages. Driving directly into the villages of Cinque Terre is restricted to residents only, so parking in La Spezia is recommended.

San Vincenzo Beach:

Located on the Etruscan Coast, San Vincenzo Beach is a beautiful stretch of sandy shoreline that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation. The beach is known for its clear blue waters, gentle waves, and soft golden sand.

Bask in the sun, take a refreshing swim, or indulge in various water sports such as windsurfing and sailing. The nearby town of San Vincenzo provides a charming atmosphere with its waterfront promenade, lively restaurants, and shops.

  • By Train: Take the train from Florence to Pisa Centrale. Once at Pisa Centrale, transfer to a local train or bus that goes to San Vincenzo. From San Vincenzo station, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach San Vincenzo Beach.

  • By Car: Drive west on the A11 highway from Florence, and then take the A12 highway towards Pisa. Continue on the A12 highway until you reach the Rosignano Marittimo exit. Follow the signs to San Vincenzo. From San Vincenzo, follow the signs to San Vincenzo Beach, which is located along the coastline.

Baratti Beach:

Situated on the Etruscan Coast, Baratti Beach is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, making it one of the best day trips from Florence for sun and culture. The beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, fine white sand, and picturesque surroundings.

Relax under the shade of umbrella pines, swim in the inviting sea, or explore the nearby archaeological park of Baratti and Populonia, which showcases ancient Etruscan ruins and breathtaking views.

  • By Train: Start at the Santa Maria Novella (SMN) train station in Florence. Take a train heading towards Pisa Centrale. Once at Pisa Centrale, transfer to a local train or bus that goes to San Vincenzo. From San Vincenzo, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach Baratti Beach.

  • By Car: Drive west on the A11 highway from Florence, and then take the A12 highway towards Livorno. Continue on the A12 highway until you reach the Rosignano Marittimo exit. Follow the signs to Castiglioncello. From Castiglioncello, follow the coastal road (SS1 Aurelia) southwards until you reach Baratti.

Cala Violina:

Tucked away in the Maremma region, Cala Violina is a hidden paradise known for its pristine beauty and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This stunning beach, named after the musical sound the sand makes when walked upon, offers a serene escape from the crowds. 

Surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation, Cala Violina boasts a crescent-shaped shoreline with soft, powdery sand, an ideal day trip from Florence. To reach Cala Violina from Florence, drive south on the A1 highway and then take the SS1 Aurelia road. From there, follow the signs and hike through the scenic trail from the designated parking area to the beach, embracing the natural wonders along the way.

  • By Train: Take the train in Florence towards Pisa Centrale. Upon arrival at Pisa Centrale, transfer to a regional train or bus that goes to Follonica. From Follonica, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach Cala Violina.

  • By Car: Drive southwest on the SGC Firenze-Pisa-Livorno highway (FI-PI-LI) from Florence. Continue on the A12 highway towards Livorno. Take the Rosignano Marittimo exit and follow the signs to Castiglione della Pescaia. From there, follow the coastal road (SP158) southwards until you reach Cala Violina.

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