Collect Italy, because you can visit it endlessly. And every time a new combination of exquisite beach holidays and the centuries-old history of these places make the traveler come back here for a good rest. On the world map, the Apennine Peninsula, on which Italy is located, resembles the shape of a boot. It is located in the south of Europe and is washed by five seas. On the west coast, the waves of the Ligurian and Tyrrhenian seas splash. The Adriatic and Ionian seas caress the eastern shores of Italy. The toe of the Italian “boot” in the south is buried in the Mediterranean Sea. Thanks to the sea air, the climate in Italy is favorable for recreation almost all year round.
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Genoa
It is not by chance that the capital of Liguria, Genoa, bears its name. In the Middle Ages, this city was called Janua, which in Latin means a door. In ancient times, this city was the key and the door to the cities of the Mediterranean. Columbus and Paganini were born in this ancient city. At every step, works of architectural and fine art await here, history comes to life. Despite the fact that Genoa is primarily a port, it is possible to combine spiritual relaxation and the sea here thanks to the purest sea water and well-groomed pebble beaches. Local beaches have been awarded the blue flag – an international award given for the high quality of water and the surrounding area.
Portofino
Mention among the necklace of beautiful cities of the Ligurian coast is worthy of a small but very beautiful town of Portofino. Emerald-clear blue-flagged sea water, small cozy beaches and a unique Mediterranean leisurely atmosphere make for a relaxing holiday. Portofino is located on the territory of the National Park, which was created in 1935. The flora and fauna of the Mediterranean, the diversity of which will delight any connoisseur of wildlife, feels completely protected here.
The surrounding rocks, on which the churches of San Martino and San Giorgio were built back in the 12th century, keep medieval secrets. The fortress “Castle Brown”, which served as a defensive structure, and the abbey, located on the western outskirts of the city near Mount Portofino, were built during the Roman era. In 259, the ashes of Saint Fruttuoso, bishop of Tarragona, were placed in the abbey.
Portovenere
The romantic town of Portovenere in the province of La Spezia in Liguria has been included in the UNESCO list. The history of this provincial town dates back to the 6th century BC. The ruins of Villa Varignano, built in the 2nd century BC, attract history buffs. Slow walking along the streets of the town, contemplation of ancient buildings, the surrounding peaceful landscape, combined with peace and quiet, attracts creative people and lovers of secluded relaxation. The attractive side of a holiday in Liguria is considered to be local cuisine based on simple products.
In a separate form, aromatic herbs, walnuts or pine nuts, mushrooms are nothing special, but local chefs skillfully combine these ingredients when preparing sauces for fish, meat and seafood. The result is a work of art that attracts gourmets from all over the world.
Further south is the Tyrrhenian Sea, washing the shores of the Neapolitan Riviera.
Naples
Naples, the capital of Campania, excites the senses. This is a holiday city. Temperamental Neapolitans enjoy life and know how to have fun. A variety of street performances and bustling bazaars distinguish this city. Neapolitans consider their language special and are proud of their mentality. Emotions are overflowing here, perhaps because just a few kilometers from here, Vesuvius rises above the bustling world, which covered Pompeii with its ashes. On the site of this dead city is now an open-air museum. The streets and squares of the resort are decorated with many beautiful churches, temples and palaces.
The southern Italian sea and the gentle sun do not leave the traveler indifferent, and after spiritual food in temples and squares, it is time to relax in the warm waves of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The landscapes captured in the pictures from this celebration of life and the sea are more reminiscent of Van Gogh paintings. Tired but happy travelers will definitely try the local cuisine, because Naples is the birthplace of pizza.
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Ischia
The islet of Ischia basks in the waters of the Gulf of Naples. The beaches stretching along the coast are privately or municipally owned. Most of them are located at the edge of the bays, over which rocky shores rise. The seaside is covered with pebbles and sand. The most extensive beach in the territory – Moronti, is distinguished by the dark shade of the underlying surface, which gives it a spectacular appearance. The most popular resort area has formed around the Gulf of Sorgeto. This place has a unique set of natural components: thermal springs come to the surface on the seabed.
Hot waters create a natural spa complex. The water temperature during the year does not fall below +28+36 C. Bathing in the Gulf of Sorgeto is compared to the baths of “youth”. Thermal waters contribute to the rejuvenation of the body, help to cope with skin and gynecological diseases. However, during water procedures, care must be taken not to burn yourself. The beach is equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas. There is a rescue service. There are cafes and restaurants on the terrace.
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Rimini
Moving along the coast further along the course, in the region of Emilia-Romagna is the popular resort of Rimini – a wonderful pearl of the Adriatic Sea. The mild subtropical climate is conducive to summer holidays, as there is no sizzling heat here. A comfortable temperature of 27-28°C and a warm sea attract a large number of tourists here. The advantage is a well-developed infrastructure, clean well-groomed sandy beaches, a gentle entrance to the sea and the pride of all of Italy – the crystal clear emerald sea. The sights of this ancient city are not limited to the famous Rubicon River.
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Apulia
“Heel” of the Apennine Peninsula occupies the region of Apulia. It has all the prerequisites for the development of marine recreation: a coastline with a maximum length, a long beach season (May – September), a clean warm sea. The ruggedness of the coast has led to the presence of many small isolated beaches. Among the popular ones is the “Green Grotto”. Tourists are attracted by the opportunity to visit an amazingly beautiful cave and swim in clear sea water.
Diving enthusiasts have chosen Porto Cesaro. For those who are trying to combine beach relaxation with outdoor activities, the Gargano peninsula (the “spur” of the Apennine boot) is of interest. On its territory there is a national reserve with rare flora and fauna. A narrow strip along the shore separates the sea area from salt water bodies – lakes Varano and Lezina. At the height of the season, the flow of voyagers rushes to the town of Monopoli, where there are 25 beaches.
San Vito Lo Capo
The honorary title of “The Best Resort in Sicily” is the place of San Vito – Lo – Capo on the Tyrrhenian coast. The small town, first of all, is focused on receiving local tourists from different parts of Italy. However, foreigners also come here to relax. They are attracted by a well-equipped sandy beach, which is among the best on the continent. The beach area has all the amenities for a comfortable stay: sun umbrellas, sun loungers, showers, left-luggage offices, changing rooms, toilets, sun loungers, first-aid post.
Many services are on a paid basis 0.5 -3 €. Cleanliness on the beach is closely monitored. Garbage is removed daily, and the sand is leveled. The water in the sea is clear. The bottom is sandy with a gradual decrease. The peak season is July-August. Minimum occupancy in May and end of September. The beach area is bordered by the city embankment, on which there are numerous cafes and stalls with souvenirs.
Amalfi
The name Amalfi is assigned to the coastal zone in southern Italy, between Naples and Salerno. Most of the picturesque beaches belong to hotels, and third-party people cannot get to them. The most fashionable is Santa Caterina. It is equipped with sun loungers, parasols, deck chairs. There is a swimming pool and a cafe on site. Aurora, Excelsior, Miramalfi hotels have cozy areas for sea recreation. For voyagers – “savages” the city beach of Amalfi is available. Near the city of Atrani there is another municipal beach. Its distinguishing feature is black volcanic sand. Sun loungers and umbrellas are issued after payment. A similar system operates in the city of Santa Croce.
Viareggio
Along the coastline of the province of Tuscany there is a whole chain of cozy resort towns: Viareggio, Marina di Pietrasanta, Lido di Camaiore, Torre del Lago Puccini. They form the so-called. “Coast of Versilia”. The recreation area is designed primarily for wealthy people. Since the beginning of the 20th century, the Italian elite has chosen it. Representatives of creative bohemia liked to relax on the Tuscan coast: the poets Byron and Shelley, the composer Puccini and others. The town of Viareggio is famous for its clean sandy beaches with crystal clear sea water.
The landscaping of the coastal zone was highly appreciated and awarded a special sign of the European Union – the Blue Flag. Beaches are divided into private and public. They differ in the price range of payment for the services provided: from 3 to 20 euros per day. In addition, the service set includes various options: playgrounds, bars, swimming pools, showers and more. The beach area is fenced and closed at night. The end of the work of all recreational areas at 18:00.
Vasto
The “highlight” of the Adriatic coast of Italy is the city of Vasto in the region of Abruzzo. The settlement occupies a hill (height 144 m), located near a semicircular bay. The resort coastal zone is called Vasto – Marina. It includes children‘s camps, campsites, hotels, private apartments. The beaches have sand and pebbles. The bay warms up well in summer. The rich history of the region creates the prerequisites for combining educational tourism with beach relaxation. In addition, active types of recreation are developed in Vasto. Vasto Marina is suitable for people of all ages to have a great time.
Porto-Worm
Part of the coast of the island of Sardinia was dubbed the “Emerald Coast”. It owes its name to the unusual shade of the sea area. The combination of emerald green water with white sand on the beach leaves no one indifferent. A string of small resort settlements stretches along the coastline: Porto Cervo, Cala Granu, Mortorio, Dolce Sposa, Piccolo Romazzino and others. The area around the town of Porto – Cervo is surrounded by giant boulders, creating a unique landscape. The shores of miniature bays are overgrown with juniper and coniferous trees. They saturate the air with phytoncides and create a microclimate favorable for human health.
The undoubted advantage of a holiday in Porto Cervo is the lack of payment for using the beach. Despite its modest size, the town has the necessary infrastructure for a good rest. Boutiques, restaurants, clubs and hotels are concentrated along the main pedestrian artery of Porto – Cervo. Among other things, the resort attracts outdoor enthusiasts – divers and golfers.
Bellaria-Igea Marina
An ideal place for a family holiday is the town of Bellaria-Igea Marina. It is easily accessible from Rimini. The main advantages of the resort: long coastline (7 km), sandy coverage of the beach area, gentle descent into the sea, shallow water area. The shallow depth allows the water to warm up quickly, so the swimming season opens in May and lasts until the end of September. The conditions of the local coast are favorable for families with children, including toddlers. However, Bellaria-Igea Marina is suitable for surfing, yachting and other water sports. The beach area is in excellent condition and equipped with everything necessary for relaxation. For cleanliness and comfort, she received the honorary “Blue Flag” of the EU.
Lido di Jesolo
Recreation is rapidly developing in Lido di Jesolo. This is facilitated by the favorable geographical position of the resort. It lies not far from the major centers of Italy – Venice, Verona, Ravenna, Padua.
The swimming season lasts 5 months, from late spring to early autumn. In summer, the sea water temperature reaches +30 C. The water area is characterized by shallow water and a sandy bottom, which makes the resort attractive for families with children. There are practically no storms and high waves.
Aqualandia Water Park and Luna Park offer tourists many interesting attractions. Numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, hotel complexes, etc. stretched along the entire length of the coastline (14 km). There are no large industrial facilities near the town, which has a positive impact on the cleanliness of the environment. The environmental friendliness of Lido di Jesolo has become another weighty argument in favor of a holiday in the Adriatic resort.
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Minori
Many Italians, as well as foreign tourists, choose Minori on the Amalfi Coast for a short summer holiday. It is easy to get into it on a boat or a small boat cruising along the coast. Minoria beach is 200 m long. Umbrellas and sunbeds are provided after payment of 25 €. The coastal zone is covered with sand and pebbles. The water area with a shallow depth can warm up to +28 C.
The recreational complex is represented by hotels and apartments. Rooms must be booked in advance. The price range depends on the category of the hotel. After enjoying a beach holiday, tourists have the opportunity to visit a mini-factory for the production of limoncello. Watch the process of making a drink from lemon peels, and at the end of the tour, taste it.
Sardinia
Many tourists choose the island of Sardinia as their summer holiday destination. Here, 25% of all Italian beaches are concentrated in a limited space. The total length of the coastline of the island is 1.85 thousand km. Bays and bays in different parts of the island differ from each other. Several resort areas are distinguished along the coast: Capriccioli, Spiaggia del Principe, Costa Smeralda, etc.
In the east of Sardinia is the beach “Cala Luna”. It is included in the “top ten” of the best island vacation spots. The shore, covered with fine sand, gradually goes under water. The shallow water area is well warmed up and is popular with families with children. An interesting feature of Cala Luna is the presence of underwater caves and grottoes. A lake with fresh water adjoins the beach on the south side. The rocks around are densely covered with typical Mediterranean vegetation. The beach can be reached by sea from Cala Gonone.
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Near the town of Alghero, in the northwestern part of Sardinia, the coast was called the “Coral Riviera”. The nickname is given in honor of the rare purple corals that are found in the local waters. The beach area stretches for 90 km. A corner called “Sliaggia della Speranza” is used by “savages” as a territory for relaxation. The area is remote from roads and settlements, therefore it is not crowded. Burantin Bay is similar in shape to a heart. Couples in love often come to this romantic place.
The most comfortable in Alghero is the beach of Slage del Lido. It is located in the city and is equipped with the necessary equipment. Lovers of everything unusual choose the so-called for relaxation. “rice beaches” of Sardinia. Their uniqueness is that the land surface is covered with quartz crystals resembling rice grains. Lying and walking barefoot on the beach is not very comfortable, but the snow-white surface attracts the sun's rays and the body becomes tanned faster. However, you should not forget about precautions so as not to burn yourself and not get sunstroke.
Sicily
The largest Italian island of Sicily is washed by the waters of three seas – Ionian, Tyrrhenian, Mediterranean. In the old days, they had the common name “African Sea”, because. Sicily is only 135 km from the Black Continent. On the island itself and the surrounding areas there are recreational areas for every taste and budget. Elite vacation offers Naxos beach near the city of Taormina. Luxury hotels, restaurants, nightclubs are built next to it.
A massive influx of tourists during the holiday season is observed in Palermo. Its beaches are overloaded with vacationers. For those who seek solitude, it is better to travel to the Aeolian Islands. They are sparsely populated and less frequented by travelers. At the foot of the active volcano Etna, La Playa beach stretches for 18 km. Eruptions, which periodically occur, add extreme sports to a measured beach exercise.
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Terracina
In the west of the Apennine Peninsula there is a recreational area bearing the historical name “Odysseus Coast” (Riviera di Ulisse). In the north it reaches Rome, in the south it rests on Naples. The central position is occupied by the resort town of Terracina. It is considered a kind of “capital” of the coast. Terracina is famous for its golden sandy beaches. They stretched for almost 15 km. Fine-grained sand, smooth descent into the water, mild climate create optimal conditions for a comfortable stay.
In addition to the usual relaxing relaxation, vacationers receive an improvement in the body. The air in Terracina is saturated with iodine vapor (2nd place in the world in terms of concentration), as well as phytoncides produced by coniferous plants. Bathing in sea water is carried out from May until almost October. The average air temperature at the peak of the season (July) is +23 C. Rooms in hotels of different categories are available to potential customers. The fee includes the use of the beach with sun loungers and umbrellas. The high level of service, the cleanliness of the beach area made it possible to obtain a kind of quality mark – the “blue” flag of the European Union.
Capri
The limited territory (10 sq. km) did not prevent the island of Capri from becoming one of the world famous resorts. The history of the development of sea recreation on it is rooted in the ancient period. A small piece of land in the Gulf of Naples was chosen for his permanent residence by the Roman emperor Tiberius. It was under him that the “Azure Grotto” was first discovered, which has an outlandish light effect. The sun's rays, refracting in the water, create the illusion of a bluish glow. The cave was rediscovered at the beginning of the 19th century. Tourists visit it with pleasure to admire the beauty of this amazing place.
Today, Capri has become a luxury holiday zone. Elite hotels with swimming pools and solariums are designed to receive tourists with significant financial resources. There are 7 specially designated points for swimming. Many of them represent a descent into the water, and do not have a place for sunbathing. Experienced tourists are advised to pay attention to the beaches of da Luigi ai Faraglioni, Lido del Faro and Bagni di Tiberio. They are equipped with the necessary equipment, have a pebble coating. Descent into the water in the form of a ladder. Entrance to the baths is free.