5 Best Beaches Near Florence: Easy Day Trips for 2026

Looking for the best beaches near Florence? These five coastal towns offer the closest sandy beaches and easy day trips by train in under 90 minutes.

The beaches near Florence aren’t as close as people expect, but reaching the coast is actually very easy once you know which towns work and which ones don’t.

When I planned my first beach day from Florence, I made every classic mistake: I picked a random spot, didn’t check the beach type, and ended up standing on hot concrete wondering where the actual sand was.

After that, I started treating this like real research. I tested routes, compared beaches, timed transfers, and paid attention to the vibe of each town.

Patterns showed up quickly.

Some beaches near Florence offer effortless, no-stress day trips: direct trains, easy walks, sandy coastlines, cafés everywhere.
Others only seem close on Google Maps but are rocky in the wrong way, industrial, or awkward to access.

This guide is the shortcut I wish I had the first time. You’ll find:

• The closest and most realistic beaches near Florence
• Exact train times and transfer tips
• Sandy vs rocky beaches (and which ones are best for swimming)
• A simple map of Florence-to-coast options
• The best beach towns to actually stay in
• Easy, no-car day-trip recommendations

Everything below is based on beaches I’ve actually visited—some many times—while using Florence as my base.

What counts as “beaches near Florence”?

When travelers search for beaches near Florence, they’re usually looking for the closest sandy or swimmable spots reachable by train within 60–90 minutes — not remote coves or towns requiring long transfers.

Map of the Closest Beaches to Florence

Tuscan Riviera (long sandy beaches) Rocky coves & pine coastline

If you draw a 30–90 minute radius west of Florence, five beach areas fall neatly into the “easy day-trip” zone:

• Viareggio
• Forte dei Marmi
• Marina di Pisa
• Livorno / Calafuria
• Castiglioncello

North of Pisa and Livorno, you’ll find classic Tuscan Riviera beach towns with long sandy stretches and a lively promenade culture.
South of Livorno, the coastline becomes more rugged—pine trees, cliffs, and clear turquoise water.

Once I plotted my trips on a map, the question became simple:

“Where can I realistically be sitting on a beach by lunchtime… without feeling exhausted?”

These five places are the repeat winners.

And if you want a bigger picture of how Tuscany fits into the rest of the country, my Italy Coastline guide breaks down every coast in a simple, visual way.

How Far Is Florence From the Beach? (Quick Overview)

Florence is inland, but the coast is closer than most people expect. Here are the real travel times I recorded on multiple trips:

• Viareggio → ~1h 20m (direct train)
• Forte dei Marmi → ~1h 40m (train + short bus/taxi/bike)
• Marina di Pisa → ~1h 20m total (Florence → Pisa → bus)
• Livorno / Calafuria → ~1h 30m (train + short local bus)
• Castiglioncello → ~1h 40m (direct coastal train)
• Train cost: €9–€14 each way depending on destination and timing.

Once I accepted that 1–1.5 hours is normal for Florence-to-beach trips, planning became much easier.

If you’re wondering what counts as the closest beaches to Florence Italy, think of any coastline you can realistically reach within 1–1.5 hours — the sweet spot for a smooth Florence to beach day trip that doesn’t feel rushed.

If you would like checking sea conditions before choosing a beach, the Italian Coast Guard provides official coastal advisories and swimming safety updates.

Beaches Near Florence – Quick Comparison Table (2026)

🏖️ Viareggio

~1h 20m • direct train + 10-min walk

Beach type: Long sandy beach

Best for: First-timers, easy day trips

• Pros: Simple route, lots of food options, wide promenade
• Cons: Can be crowded in summer, very organized feel

Sunbed range: €20–€40

🌴 Forte dei Marmi

~1h 40m • train + short bus/taxi/bike

Beach type: Soft sandy beach

Best for: Stylish beach clubs, cleaner water

• Pros: Polished clubs, calm atmosphere, upscale town
• Cons: Higher prices, not walkable from station

Sunbed range: €40–€80+

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Marina di Pisa

~1h 20m • train to Pisa + short bus

Beach type: Small sandy/pebble coves

Best for: Families, calm water

• Pros: Protected bays, local vibe, gentle swimming
• Cons: Smaller beach areas, mix of rock + sand

Sunbed range: €15–€30

🌊 Livorno / Calafuria

~1h 30m • train + short bus

Beach type: Rocky platforms + deep water

Best for: Strong swimmers, snorkeling

• Pros: Extremely clear water, dramatic landscape, natural coves
• Cons: No sand, limited space, not ideal for kids

Sunbed range: Free (€0)

🌲 Castiglioncello

~1h 40m • direct coastal train

Beach type: Rocky-sandy coves below pine cliffs

Best for: Scenic views, relaxed travelers

• Pros: Turquoise water, pretty coves, charming town
• Cons: Not a long sandy beach, smaller swimming spots

Sunbed range: €25–€45

How to Choose the Right Beach Near Florence

Want soft sand → Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi
Want clear water → Castiglioncello, Calafuria
Want easiest logistics → Viareggio
Want calm swimming → Marina di Pisa
Want rocky coves → Calafuria
Want stylish clubs → Forte dei Marmi

Best Beaches Near Florence (Ranked & Explained)

This is the section I wish I had before my first summer in Florence. These are the best beaches near Florence Italy, based on actual visits, not just photos online.

I’ll tell you who each beach is good for, how I got there, and what surprised me when I arrived.

If you’re already thinking about staying a night or exploring more than just the beach, I’ve also covered the best Tuscany coastal towns near Florence where evenings feel just as good as the swim.

1. Viareggio — Easiest & Quickest Beach From Florence

If you only have time for one beach near Florence, choose Viareggio.

Best for: first-timers, sandy beaches, simple logistics
Travel time: ~1h 20m direct
Train cost: ~€10–€12
Sunbed cost: €20–€40
Walk from station: 10 minutes
Beach type: wide sandy beach + lots of beach clubs + small free sections

Viareggio is also one of the most sandy beaches near Florence, which is why so many locals treat it as their go-to escape when the city heats up — simple route, soft sand, familiar rhythm.

The first time I went to Viareggio beach, I remember how simple it felt. I got off the train, walked straight down the main road, and ten minutes later I was on the promenade looking at a long line of umbrellas and the sea.

The sand is soft enough, the water is usually calm, and you can choose between paid “bagni” with sunbeds and services, or free stretches where you just put a towel down. It’s not wild or remote, but it works extremely well.

I found it perfect for:

• last-minute beach days when Florence feels too hot
• travelers who don’t want to deal with buses, transfers, or complicated directions
• anyone who just wants an easy, predictable Florence day trip by train

Pros:
Simple route, sandy coastline, lots of food options, very family-friendly.

Cons:
Very organized and built-up, not a “hidden gem”, can feel crowded in peak season.

2. Forte dei Marmi — Best for Clean Water & Upscale Beach Clubs

When people in Florence mentioned “nicer” Tuscany beaches near Florence, Forte dei Marmi came up again and again. So I tried it.

Best for: stylish beach clubs, soft sand, cleaner water
Travel time: ~1h 40m
Train cost: ~€11–€14
Sunbed cost: €40–€80+ (premium area)
Walk: requires bus/taxi/bike from Querceta station
Beach type: long sandy beach with upscale “bagni” clubs

The Forte dei Marmi beach feels more polished than Viareggio. The sand is clean, the clubs are well-kept, and the town behind the beach has a more upscale, resort feel.

I found it perfect for:

• a slightly “nicer” beach day where you don’t mind paying more for a good sunbed
• people who care about cleaner water and a more curated experience
• travelers who prefer structured Tuscany beach towns with good facilities

I stayed a full day here, and what I liked most was the combination of soft sand and a calmer atmosphere, even when it was busy. It felt less chaotic than some cheaper stretches.

Pros:
Good water quality near Florence, comfortable clubs, soft sand.

Cons:
Extra step from the station, higher prices, less casual than Viareggio.

It’s the Tuscany spot I recommend when someone asks for Italy beaches near Tuscany region that feel a bit more polished but still doable as a single-day trip from Florence.

Of course, if you have a car or a bit more time to explore beyond a quick day trip, the northern resorts feel entirely different from the wilder, rugged southern Maremma coast.

If you’re planning a longer road trip or looking to spend a few nights by the sea, I’ve broken down my favorite local coastal towns along the Tuscan coast to help you choose the right base for your vacation style.

3. Marina di Pisa — Closest Rock-Sand Mix, Good for Short Trips

If you prefer calmer water and a slower pace, Marina di Pisa quietly ranks among the most family-friendly beaches near Florence, especially for travelers who want an easy swim without long transfers.

Marina di Pisa became my go-to when I wanted something quieter and smaller than the big resort-style towns.

Best for: families, calm swimming, Pisa + beach combo
Travel time: ~1h 20m total
Train cost: €10–€12 + €2–€3 bus
Sunbed cost: €15–€30
Route: train to Pisa → bus to the coast
Beach type: mix of small sandy-pebble coves protected by breakwaters

The coastline here is broken into little crescents of sea, thanks to breakwaters. That means the water stays calm, which I noticed immediately compared to other spots. Families with small kids seemed very relaxed, and I understood why.

I found it perfect for:

• combining a quick Pisa stop (if you haven’t seen the tower) with a half-day at the sea.
• It’s not the ‘classic’ big sandy Italian beach near Florence, but if I wanted an easy, not-too-touristy day with gentle water, I often ended up here. If you are specifically staying in the city of the Leaning Tower, I’ve also broken down the logistics for reaching the closest beach to Pisa Italy, including the exact bus routes you’ll need.
• people who like calm water and don’t need a huge sandy strip
• travelers who prefer a more local, small-town feel

It’s not the “classic” big sandy Italian beach near Florence, but if I wanted an easy, not-too-touristy day with gentle water, I often ended up here.

Pros:
Calm bays, simple town, good for families and relaxed swims.

Cons:
Smaller beach area, mix of rock and sand, requires a bus from Pisa.

4. Calafuria / Livorno — Rocky Coves & Clear Water

If you enjoy deep water, rocky platforms, and a more natural coastline, the Livorno beaches around Calafuria might be your favorite.

Best for: strong swimmers, cliff views, snorkeling
Travel time: ~1h 30m
Train cost: €9–€11 + €2–€3 bus
Sunbed cost: €0 (rocks only)
Beach type: rocky cliffs, platforms, deep clear water
Route: Florence → Livorno → coastal bus

The first time I came here, I realized quickly that this is not a lay-on-the-sand-all-day kind of place. Locals spread towels on rocks, jump from small ledges, and use ladders or steps to get in and out of the sea.

I found it perfect for:

• strong swimmers who like clear, deeper water
• people who get bored just lying on a flat sandy beach
• travelers who want a different side of the Italy coastline, not just classic resort towns

I brought water shoes and was glad I did. The water was some of the clearest I saw on any Florence to coast trip, but you need to be comfortable with rocks.

Pros:
Very clear water, great for snorkeling and swimming, more “wild” atmosphere.

Cons:
Not ideal for young kids, no soft sand, a bit more logistics from Livorno.

5. Castiglioncello — Turquoise Water & Pine Cliffs

Castiglioncello felt like the reward for going just a bit further. It’s one of those Tuscan coastal towns that many people skip because it doesn’t have a huge famous landmark, but that’s exactly why it’s enjoyable.

Best for: scenic views, swimming, relaxed vibe
Travel time: ~1h 40m
Train cost: €10–€13
Sunbed cost: €25–€45
Walk: 10–15 minutes from station
Beach type: small sandy-rocky bays with pine cliffs behind

When I arrived, I liked how green it felt. The sea sits below cliffs with pine trees, and the coastline is cut into small coves and walking paths. It’s not a single long beach; it’s a sequence of spots where you can swim, sit, and watch the water.

I found it perfect for:

• people who want clearer water than Viareggio but still reachable in a day
• anyone who likes a mix of short walks, views, and swimming
• travelers who might stay a night and use it as a base on the Tuscany coastline

This is where I started to feel the quieter rhythm of coastal Italy towns further away from the bigger resorts.

Pros:
Very scenic, good water, relaxed feel, nice town to walk in.

Cons:
More rocky than sandy, slightly longer train ride, fewer big “stretch out” beach areas.

Best Beach Towns Near Florence (If You Want to Stay Overnight)

Sometimes you don’t just want a dip in the sea. You want a place where you can wander in the evening, find a good restaurant, and maybe stay the night. Here’s how I felt about the main coastal towns in Italy near Florence.

Viareggio

Classic promenade, lively in summer, lots of food choices. Great for day trips or a night away.

Forte dei Marmi

Refined, stylish, perfect for bikes and upscale beach clubs.

Castiglioncello

Small, scenic, slower pace—ideal for a quiet 2–3 night stay.

Cecina Mare

Further south but great for longer stays, families, pine forests, and long beaches.

Marina di Pisa

Good for slow evenings and gentle swims but smaller than the others.

And if you want to see how these Tuscany towns compare to the rest of the country, my guide to the best coastal towns in Italy gives you a full, country-wide view.

How to Get to the Beach from Florence (Trains vs Car)

Every time I used Florence as a base, I started at Firenze Santa Maria Novella. From there, the pattern for Florence to coast trips is simple:

• For Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi, Livorno, Castiglioncello: direct regional trains toward the Tuscan coast
• For Marina di Pisa: Florence → Pisa by train, then local bus to the seaside

I tried both peak-season weekends and quieter weekdays. Trains were busier in summer, especially Saturdays, but still manageable if I booked or arrived early.

I found it perfect for most travelers to:

• choose one or two beaches and learn those routes well, instead of trying something new every day
• leave Florence in the morning, arrive late morning at the coast, stay all afternoon, have dinner, then take an evening train back

If you rent a car, you’ll get more freedom to explore smaller stretches of the Italy coastline, especially further south. But for the beaches covered in this guide, the train is enough.

Best Beaches Near Florence Without a Car (Easiest Picks)

No-Stress Winners

• Viareggio — easiest overall
• Castiglioncello — scenic, clear water
• Forte dei Marmi — one easy transfer
• Calafuria — unforgettable rocky coastline

Match Your Beach Mood

🏖️ I want easy and sandy → Viareggio

🌴 I want nice beach clubs → Forte dei Marmi

🌊 I want clear water & views → Castiglioncello

🪨 I want rocks & deep water → Calafuria

Best Time to Visit Beaches Near Florence

The most relaxed beach days from Florence are in late May, June and September to early October — warm air, swimmable water, and fewer crowds on the sand. July and August are still great for the sea, but hotter and much busier, especially on weekends and around Ferragosto.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Best months (late May, June, September) Quiet but possible (late April, early October) Busiest & hottest (July–August) Mild / off-season

💡 My favorite rhythm: leave Florence around 8–9 am, be on the coast by lunchtime, swim through the afternoon heat, have an early or normal dinner by the sea, and ride back once the worst heat and crowds are gone — it feels like a mini holiday, not a rushed day trip.

FAQs — Beaches Near Florence

Before You Go..

After using Florence as a base for several summer trips, here’s what I’d tell you if we were planning your beach day over coffee:

• Don’t try to “optimize” too much. Pick one or two best beaches near Florence that match your style and stick to them.
• Accept that you’ll spend a bit of time on the train. Treat it as part of the day, not a problem.
• Decide what matters most: sand and services (Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi) or clearer water and smaller coves (Castiglioncello, Calafuria).
• If you end up loving the Italy coastline near Tuscany, consider adding a night or two in one of these Italy coast towns instead of only doing day trips.

These beaches and towns are places where I stayed long enough to understand their rhythm: when they’re quiet, when they fill up, where people actually go to swim and eat.

My goal with this guide is simple — to help you skip the guesswork and go straight to a beach day that feels easy, enjoyable, and realistic from Florence.

And if you want to explore the rest of the country’s shoreline the same way — slowly, region by region — my Coastal Italy hub brings all the guides together in one place.