5 Easy Beach Day-Trips from Florence, Italy (2026 Guide)
The Ultimate Guide to Tuscany’s Closest and Most Beautiful Beaches
Many travelers are surprised to learn that some of Italy’s best beaches are just 1 to 2 hours from Florence. I definitely was when I first moved there 3 years ago! Tuscany may be famous for rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns. However, this region also hides a stunning coastline. It includes beautiful beaches and sunny seaside villages.
I lived in Florence for two years. During that time, I guided study abroad students around Italy and other European destinations. I discovered exactly which coastal towns offer the easiest, prettiest, and most worthwhile beach escapes from the city. Whether you want classic beach clubs with colorful umbrellas, a quiet hidden gem, or an active coastal adventure, these are the best beach day trips from Florence. (including travel time, vibe, and insider tips.)
Best Beaches Near Florence, Italy: Quick Overview
If you’re short on time, here are the top beaches closest to Florence:
| Beach | Travel Time (Train) | Best For |
| Viareggio | ~1 hr 15 min | Easiest + classic sandy beach vibes |
| Castiglioncello | ~1 hr 50 min | Hidden coves + crystal-clear water |
| Forte dei Marmi | ~1 hr 45 min | Chic, upscale beach clubs & soft sand |
| Cinque Terre | ~2 hr 30 min | Iconic colorful villages + adventure |
| Livorno & Calafuria | ~1 hr 30 min | Natural rocky coastline + local swimming spots |
1. Viareggio: Closest Beach to Florence & Easiest Day Trip
Distance from Florence: 1 hr 15 min by train
Best For: First-time visitors, simple logistics, sandy beaches, families
If you’re looking for the closest beach to Florence, Viareggio is the clear winner. It’s incredibly easy to reach and delivers that classic Italian beach experience. Think colorful umbrellas, beach clubs, a spritz, and a lively promenade. If you’re visiting in the winter you may even be able to catch Carnival! Viareggio is home to one of the largest celebrations in Italy. It’s absolutely worth the trip from Florence to see the iconic floats and join the party!
Why Visit Viareggio
Viareggio is perfect if you want:
- A no-stress trip (direct trains, short walk, easy setup)
- Wide sandy beaches with loungers for rent
- Beach clubs (bagni) with bars, bathrooms, and food
- A long coastal promenade for sunset strolls
Unlike remote villages, Viareggio is accessible, organized, and ideal for travelers who want a convenient, comfortable beach day.
What to Do in Viareggio
- Rent a chair + umbrella at a bagno (typically €10–15 per day).
- Enjoy seafood lunch at a beachfront trattoria (try fritto misto, aka a fried mix of seafood and veggies).
- Walk or bike the Passeggiata Margherita for palm trees and shops.
Pro Tip
Viareggio is extremely busy in July and August. Visit in May, June, early July, or September for perfect weather and fewer crowds.
How to Get to Viareggio from Florence
Take a direct Trenitalia train from Santa Maria Novella.
Total travel time: ~1 hour 15 minutes.
2. Castiglioncello: Tuscany’s Hidden Gem Beach Town
Distance: 1 hr 50 min by train
Best For: Clear water, coves, fewer tourists
If you want a beach that feels more local and less touristy, visit Castiglioncello. It is one of Tuscany’s most beautiful hidden beaches. Plus, it’s still easy to reach from Florence. It’s a popular spot for Florence locals to own summer houses where they can escape the city during busy months.
With rugged cliffs, coves, and blue water, this spot feels more like a secret getaway than a typical resort town.
Why Visit Castiglioncello
- Turquoise water perfect for swimming
- Rocky coves for sunbathing
- Authentic Italian vibe with fewer tourists
- Great sunset spots and scenic walking paths
What to Do in Castiglioncello
- Swim at Baia del Quercetano, a stunning cliff-backed cove.
- Enjoy aperitivo at Porticciolo Bar (amazing sunset views).
- Walk the Lungomare Alberto Sordi, a scenic coastal path.
Why Travelers Love It
It’s small, walkable, and a perfect slow-travel beach day. Pack a book, grab a spritz, and enjoy the views.
How to Get There
Take the train to Castiglioncello (1 hr 50 min).
The beach is a 10-minute walk from the station.
3. Forte dei Marmi: Tuscany’s Chic Beach Escape
Distance: 1 hr 45 min by train
Best For: Luxury beach clubs, soft sand, upscale atmosphere
If you want a glamorous beach day near Florence, Forte dei Marmi is the place to go. This upscale coastal town is known for designer boutiques and beach clubs. It offers beautiful scenery with the Alps visible behind the coastline.
Why Visit Forte dei Marmi
- High-end beach clubs with full service
- Sandy shoreline ideal for long beach days
- Stylish town center with boutiques and cafés
- Bike-friendly promenade with mountain views
What to Do in Forte dei Marmi
- Book a beach club like Bagno Piero or Bagno Annetta.
- Shop Italian brands or browse the Wednesday market.
- Eat fresh seafood at Fratellini’s or La Barca.
Pro Tip
Rent a bike to explore the coastline! The flat path is scenic and makes the whole day feel like a classic Italian summer experience.
How to Get There
Take the train to Forte dei Marmi–Seravezza–Querceta.
From there, take a 10-minute taxi to the beach.
4. Cinque Terre: Most Beautiful (and most popular) Coastal Day Trip from Florence
Distance: ~2 hr 30 min by train
Best For: Iconic views, hiking, adventure, village-hopping
Though technically in Liguria, Cinque Terre is close enough to make a full-day beach trip from Florence. It has some of the most breathtaking coastal views in Italy, you’ve probably seen it on a postcard.
The five villages (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore) sit above the sea and offer beaches, hikes, and perfect photo spots.
Why Visit Cinque Terre
- Monterosso al Mare has the largest sandy beach.
- Hike the Sentiero Azzurro with sea views.
- Cliff jump in Manarola.
- Eat the best focaccia and pesto in Italy, or even take a pesto making class!
What to Do in Cinque Terre
- Start in Monterosso for a classic beach day.
- Take the train between villages (cheap and easy)
- Enjoy sunset at Manarola’s iconic viewpoint.
Pro Tips
Take the 7:00 or 8:00 a.m. train to maximize your time and avoid crowds and go on a weekday if you can.
Also, not to freak you out… but at certain times of year jellyfish like to hang out in this area. Make sure to keep an eye out in the water!
Easiest Option
If you’re a student, book a Bus2alps day trip! I guided this trip a bunch of times and you can use my code TAITE when booking for a discount. It’ll be your cheapest and easiest option for exploring the 5 towns and you can meet others studying abroad. For groups or solo travelers, check out the GetYourGuide day trip from Florence (transportation, guides, and boat rides included). It’s great for anyone who doesn’t want to manage complicated train connections.
5. Livorno & Calafuria: Best Local Swimming Spot Near Florence
Distance: 1 hr 30 min by train
Best For: Natural cliffs, clear water, scenic views, adventurous swimmers
South of Livorno lies Calafuria, one of Tuscany’s most dramatic coastlines. Instead of sand, you’ll find rocks, cliffs, and some of the clearest water in the region.
This is where locals go when they want sun, nature, and perfect swimming conditions.
Why Visit Calafuria
- Deep turquoise water perfect for snorkeling
- Rocky platforms for sunbathing
- Cliff side scenery and fewer tourists
- Loved by Italians for its natural feel
What to Do in Calafuria
- Swim or cliff-jump near Torre di Calafuria.
- Visit Terrazza Mascagni in Livorno for sunset.
- Have dinner at Il Romito, overlooking the sea.
Pro Tip
Learn from my mistakes and bring water shoes! Rocky beaches are stunning but they aren’t easy on your feet…
How to Get There
Train from Florence → Livorno Centrale (~1 hr 30 min)
Then bus or taxi south toward Calafuria.
How to Get to the Beach from Florence: Best Transportation Options
If you don’t want to rent a car, the easiest way to reach Tuscany’s beaches is by train. I use the Omio app to book all of my trains, it’s simple and keeps all of your tickets in one place.
Why Use Omio
You can compare:
- Train, bus, and plane times
- Ticket prices and transfer options
- Fastest and best routes
- Regional vs. high-speed options
All in English… no navigating Trenitalia’s confusing website.
Prefer a Group Tour? GetYourGuide Makes It Easy
Some travelers prefer not to deal with train connections, especially for Cinque Terre or remote beaches.
Why Choose GetYourGuide
- Round-trip transport from Florence
- Local guides
- Scenic boat rides
- Free time built into the itinerary
- No logistics stress
Perfect for solo travelers and short trips.
Are You a Student?
Check out Bus2alps for all of your day trips, weekend trips, and spring/winter breaks while you’re in Florence! I was a Bus2alps guide for 2 years. I assure you it’s the most bang for your buck, and a great way to meet other students in Florence. You can use my code TAITE when booking any Bus2alps trip for discounts!
What to Pack for a Beach Day from Florence
A few essentials make your beach day much easier:
- Foldable tote bag (fits towel, sunscreen, snacks)
- Quick-dry travel towel
- Portable fan & sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle! There’s nothing worse than paying an arm and a leg for a plastic water bottle. Especially when it just get hot sitting in your bag.
- Travel-size first aid kit (I can say from experience that the rocks are sharp)
These items keep your day comfortable, especially if you’re hopping between trains and beaches.
FAQ: Beach Day Trips from Florence
1. What is the closest beach to Florence, Italy?
Viareggio is the closest, just 1 hour 15 minutes by direct train.
2. Are there sandy beaches near Florence?
Yes! Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi both offer wide sandy coastlines.
3. Can you do a day trip from Florence to Cinque Terre?
Absolutely, it’s one of the most popular coastal day trips. Check out Bus2alps and Get Your Guide for the best options.
4. What is the best month to visit Tuscany’s beaches?
Late May, June, and September offer great weather and fewer crowds. July and August get insanely crowded.
5. Do I need to book beach clubs in advance?
Not usually, except in August or weekends during high season.
Final Thoughts: Best Beaches Near Florence
You don’t have to go far to find the perfect beach day from Florence. Whether you’re dreaming of:
- Classic sandy beaches (Viareggio)
- Hidden coves (Castiglioncello)
- Upscale clubs (Forte dei Marmi)
- Iconic coastal villages (Cinque Terre)
- Natural cliffs (Calafuria)
…there’s a seaside escape that fits your style.
