7 Gorgeous Tuscany Coastal Towns Near Florence (Local Picks)
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Tuscany coastal towns are some of the most underrated places in Italy, especially if you’re staying in Florence and want easy access to the sea.
If you’re staying in Florence and looking at the map thinking, “Okay… but where’s the beach?”, you’re not alone.
Many travelers don’t realize how many beautiful Tuscany seaside towns are within reach — from Viareggio to Porto Ercole — making coastal Tuscany Italy one of the easiest regions for quick beach escapes.
The first time I visited Florence, I had the same question. Tuscany is famous for wine, rolling hills, art, and medieval towns — but no one tells you that the region actually has a really nice coastline too.
And because it’s not talked about as much as the Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre, the beaches here feel more relaxed, more local, and honestly easier to enjoy.
The only thing that’s not obvious at first is which of these places actually fits your trip . Quick day trip, relaxed weekend, or something quieter and more local.
If you want, I can map that out for you so it all fits naturally with your time in Florence.
Over the last few years, I’ve taken multiple day trips and weekend trips from Florence to the coast. Some places felt too busy, some felt too polished, and some felt perfect.
Simple, clean, easy towns where you can show up, walk straight to the beach, eat good seafood, and not deal with chaos.
If you’re planning a summer trip in 2026 and want to mix art, food, and beach time, this guide will make your life a lot easier.
These are the best Tuscany coastal towns I personally recommend — all reachable by train or car, all scenic in their own way, and all offering something different depending on your travel style.
This post also connects with my longer guide, 15 Best Coastal Towns Italy offers, so if you want the full country-wide version, you can check that next.
And don’t forget to open the Italy Coastal Towns Map so you can actually see where each place sits along the coast.
Let’s start with the map so you know what’s realistic from Florence.
Tuscany Coastal Towns Map
Seeing all the Tuscany coastal towns on one map really helps, especially when you’re trying to choose the best beach towns near Florence for a day trip or a quick weekend getaway.
When you’re in Florence, it’s easy to forget the coast even exists because you’re surrounded by hills, rooftops, and Renaissance everything. But the coast is much closer than people think — and this map will help you see that clearly.
When I first started doing day trips to the coast, I made the mistake of choosing based on photos instead of distance.
Tuscany is big — but when you look at the map, things suddenly make sense: the north (Viareggio, Marina di Pietrasanta) is the quickest to reach, while the southern coast (Orbetello, Porto Ercole) feels calmer and more natural but takes a bit longer.
Typical travel times from Florence
- Viareggio: ~1h20 by train
- Marina di Pietrasanta: ~1h40 by train
- Castiglione della Pescaia: ~2h30 by car (no easy train)
- Follonica: ~2h by train
- San Vincenzo: ~2h15 by train
- Porto Ercole: ~2h30 by car
- Orbetello: ~2h by train
If you want to double-check train schedules, coastal access, or official updates, the Tuscany Tourism Board has a really useful overview on their site.
Keep the map open while reading through the list — it helps so much when deciding which towns are realistic day trips and which are better for overnight.
The 7 Best Tuscany Coastal Towns Near Florence (My Local Picks)
1. Castiglione della Pescaia
I always tell people that Castiglione della Pescaia is one of the most balanced Tuscany seaside towns you can visit. It’s clean, it’s safe, and it has long sandy beaches that are actually comfortable — not rocky or crowded like some other regions.
When I first came here, I was shocked by how calm the water was. Families love it for that reason, but it’s just as nice for couples who want something relaxed without giving up good food or nice views.
This is also one of the best beach towns Tuscany has for anyone who wants a place that feels local. It’s not fancy, not chaotic, and not overly “branded.” Just a simple Italian beach town with great seafood restaurants, an old town sitting on a small hill, and really friendly locals.
This is usually where planning gets tricky. Choosing something that looks good vs something that actually works with your time and pace. It’s one of the things I help figure out when I map out trips like this.
Distance from Florence
About 2h30 by car. If you’re planning a day trip, leave early. This one’s better for a weekend.
Best time to visit
June or September. The weather is great, the water is warm, and the beaches are quieter.
Local tip
Rent a bike. The paths along the waterfront are flat and relaxing, and you can explore nearby beaches without needing a car.
Who it’s ideal for
Families, couples, and anyone who just wants an easy, no-stress beach day.
2. Viareggio
Viareggio was actually the first Tuscan beach town I ever visited from Florence — mostly because it’s the easiest to reach by train.
It has a classic Italian resort vibe: long promenades, Art Nouveau buildings, beach clubs with rows of umbrellas, and everything you need within walking distance.
If you’re traveling with kids or you just want something simple and predictable, Viareggio is one of the best coastal towns near Florence Italy.
Some people say Viareggio is “too built up,” but honestly, if you’re coming from Florence and just want to relax for the day, this is perfect. You get space, good food, an easy beach, and no stress.
Distance from Florence
1h20–1h30 by train. Super easy. If you want the exact train routes, travel times, and the other four beaches that are just as easy to reach, I’ve put everything in one place in my guide to the best beaches near Florence.
Best time to visit
Late May to June, early September.
Local tip
If you want a livelier area, walk toward Lido di Camaiore — you’ll find nicer beach clubs and better views.
Who it’s ideal for
Families, groups, casual beach days, and anyone who doesn’t want hills or crowds.
3. Porto Ercole
If you want something quiet, calm, and beautiful, Porto Ercole is the standout in southern Tuscany.
It’s part of Monte Argentario — a peninsula with coves, clear water, pine forests, and beaches that feel natural instead of crowded. When I first came here, I felt like I had found a totally different version of Tuscany — one that no one talks about.
This is one of the best quiet coastal towns Italy has if you want a slower pace. There are no giant resorts, no loud nightlife, and no chaos. Just a small harbor, great seafood, and hiking paths with amazing views.
Distance from Florence
About 2h30 by car. Best as a weekend trip.
Best time to visit
May, June, September. July and August are still pleasant but warmer.
Local tip
Go to Feniglia Beach — a long, clean, natural stretch of sand with shallow water. It’s great for couples and families.
Who it’s ideal for
Couples, slow travelers, and anyone who wants peace.
4. Follonica
Follonica is one of the budget-friendly beach towns Tuscany travelers love once they actually find it.
It’s cheaper than Viareggio, less polished than Marina di Pietrasanta, and more local than Castiglione della Pescaia. I’ve stayed here a couple of times because it’s an easy spot to relax without spending too much.
The beach is wide, sandy, and ideal for long walks. The town isn’t fancy, but it’s comfortable — cafés, bakeries, seafood spots, supermarkets, and everything you need for a cheap beach weekend.
Distance from Florence
About 2 hours by train.
Best time to visit
Late May or June if you want the best prices.
Local tip
Take a short trip to Cala Violina nearby — one of Tuscany’s prettiest natural beaches (but go early, it fills up).
Who it’s ideal for
Budget travelers, families, and digital nomads.
5. Marina di Pietrasanta
Marina di Pietrasanta is for people who want a mix of beach time and a bit of style — without spending Portofino levels of money.
It’s popular with younger couples and groups because the nightlife is better, the restaurants are more modern, and the beaches are clean and organized.
Out of all the beach towns near Florence, this one has the best balance between calm beach days and fun evenings. And the mountains behind the town give the coastline a really unique look.
Distance from Florence
About 1h40 by train + a short bus/taxi.
Best time to visit
June or early September if you want warm weather without crowds.
Local tip
Walk in the direction of Forte dei Marmi. It’s more upscale, but the beaches are beautiful and the promenade is great for an evening stroll.
Who it’s ideal for
Young couples, groups, foodies, beach club lovers.
6. San Vincenzo
San Vincenzo surprised me the first time I visited because it felt bigger and more active than most coastal towns in Tuscany — but not chaotic. It has a long sandy coastline, a big marina, and a very open, breezy feel that makes it great for families.
If you’re looking for classic coastal Tuscany Italy with lots of space, warm water, and good food, San Vincenzo is a safe pick. It’s also really good for sailing and watersports if you want more than just beach time.
Distance from Florence
Around 2h15 by train.
Best time to visit
June or early July.
Local tip
Go south of the marina for quieter beaches. The water is clearer there.
Who it’s ideal for
Families, sailors, people who like long beach walks.
7. Orbetello
Orbetello is completely different from the other towns on this list because it sits in the middle of a lagoon — connected to Monte Argentario by long thin strips of land. When you drive in, it feels unreal. You’ve got water on both sides and mountains ahead.
This is one of the best tuscany hidden towns if you love nature. The views are incredible, the town is peaceful, and you can access some of the best beaches in southern Tuscany. It’s also close to Rome, which makes it a great stop if you’re traveling between regions.
Distance from Florence
2 hours by train.
Best time to visit
May, June, September.
Local tip
Rent a bike and ride along the lagoon. It’s one of the calmest rides in Tuscany.
Who it’s ideal for
Nature lovers, birdwatchers, cyclists, photographers.
FAQs About Coastal Towns Near Florence Italy
What is the closest beach town to Florence Italy?
Viareggio is the most practical choice at around 1h20 by train. However, if you’re traveling from other parts of the region, you might find that the closest beach to Pisa is actually even faster to reach, depending on your starting point.
Are there any seaside towns in Tuscany?
Yes. Tuscany has a long coast with multiple beach towns, including Castiglione della Pescaia, Viareggio, Follonica, San Vincenzo, and Marina di Pietrasanta.
Can you do a day trip from Florence to the beach?
Absolutely. The quickest options are Viareggio and Marina di Pietrasanta.
Which coastal town in Tuscany is best for couples?
For quiet romance: Porto Ercole.
For style and good food: Marina di Pietrasanta.
Is Viareggio a good beach town for families?
Yes — it’s one of the best beach towns Tuscany offers for families. Flat, clean, organized, and easy.
Before You Go..
Whether you’re looking for Tuscany seaside towns for a summer break or coastal towns near Florence Italy for quick day trips, this region genuinely has something for every traveler.
Tuscany’s coastline is underrated, and that’s honestly a good thing. It means fewer crowds, better prices, and beach towns that still feel local instead of designed for tourism.
Whether you want a simple day trip from Florence or a quiet weekend away, the towns on this list give you a mix of everything: sandy beaches, clean water, good seafood, and that easy-going Tuscan rhythm that makes life slower in the best way.
If you want help planning a route from Florence that includes a bit of wine country, some seaside towns, and a bigger city, check the Coastal Italy hub as well.
Before You Book: The Tools I Actually Use
I only link to tools and platforms I’ve personally used and would use again. If you book through my links I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — which helps me keep writing these guides.
Search flights to Pisa or Florence and compare airline prices.
Boat trips, coastal tours, and day excursions around Tuscany.
The easiest way to explore beaches like Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi.
Reliable coverage for trips, digital nomads, and longer stays abroad.
Find hotels and apartments in Pisa, Viareggio and along the Tuscan coast.
Private transfers from Pisa Airport to coastal towns and beach resorts.
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