VIAREGGIO
TUSCANY
Viareggio, a charming coastal city in Tuscany, is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and grand Liberty-style architecture. Located on the Versilia coast, Viareggio is one of Italy’s most popular seaside destinations, attracting visitors with its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and lively events, including the renowned Viareggio Carnival. With a long sandy coastline, a scenic promenade, and an array of delicious seafood restaurants, Viareggio offers the perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment for travelers of all kinds.
In this travel guide, we reveal all the information on Viareggio in Tuscany. In addition, we show you the best things to do, beautiful pictures, where to eat, how to get there, and where you can find the best places to stay.
PLAN YOUR TUSCANY ADVENTURE
These are our favorite companies we use when planning a trip, they consistently have the best prices, great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT – SKYSCANNER – we always start here and usually always finish here. They price check over 1,200 travel sites to help you find the best prices. You can also try GOING to search prices across a variety of sites.
TRAVEL OPTIONS
CAR RENTAL – We recommend using Discover Cars or Rental Cars when booking a car rental, they work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs.
TRAINS – TRAINLINE – is our favorite, this site is very reliable and easy to use.
BUS – OMIO – this website allows you to book train or bus tickets to travel from city to city the best and cheapest way. FLIXBUS is another terrific website with routes between 20 European countries.
ACCOMMODATIONS
BOOKING.com – is our go to for hotel searches around the world, we find they always have the cheapest rates and offer different payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.
HOSTELWORLD – is great if you’re traveling on a budget, and if you need a cheap place to stay.
SIGHTSEEING TOURS
GET YOUR GUIDE – is our favorite; they have stacks of tours and excursions available in cities all over the world. VIATOR is another great website for all types of tours.
TAKE WALKS – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY WING – is our go to travel medical insurance company, especially for longer trips. You can either purchase a monthly plan or a plan for specific trip dates (i.e. 1-2 week trips). They cover people from all over the world, while outside their home country.
ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.
Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.
Interesting Information about Viareggio
Viareggio is situated in the province of Lucca, about 20 kilometers from the city of Lucca and approximately 100 kilometers from Florence. It has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts year-round. The city has a population of around 60,000 residents, which significantly increases during the summer months due to tourism.
Viareggio has a rich history dating back to the 12th century when it served as a maritime base for Lucca. The town flourished during the 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming a favored seaside retreat for Italian aristocracy and artists. Today, it remains a beloved holiday destination known for its elegant Art Nouveau architecture, seafood cuisine, and cultural events.
Best Things to Do in Viareggio
Relax on the Beaches
Viareggio boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Tuscany, with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. The beachfront is lined with private beach clubs offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and top-notch services. Free public beaches are also available, such as Lecciona Beach, a pristine and unspoiled stretch of coastline within the Migliarino San Rossore Park.
Stroll Along the Promenade (Passeggiata di Viareggio)
The Viareggio promenade is a lively and elegant walkway featuring stylish boutiques, historic cafes, and gelaterias. It is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll, people-watching, and admiring the exquisite Liberty-style buildings that line the seafront.
Experience the Viareggio Carnival
One of the most famous events in Italy, the Viareggio Carnival takes place every year in February and March. It features spectacular parades with enormous papier-mâché floats, vibrant costumes, and festive performances. The carnival attracts visitors from all over the world and offers an unforgettable cultural experience.
THE Pier of Viareggio
Absolutely charming and definitely one of the best things to do is a visit to the large pier in Viareggio. It is located at the southern end, just in front of the big marina. The long pier reaches over 500 meters into the sea and offers a magnificent view of the coast and the port. At the beginning of the pier there are some cozy cafés and small boats selling delicious street food. Further out, you can admire the Monumento L`Attesa, a popular photo spot in Viareggio. A visit in the early morning is recommended because the fishermen bring in their catch and sell freshly caught fish directly from the boat. Also in the evening during sunset the atmosphere here is uniquely beautiful.
Visit Torre del Lago Puccini
Located just a few kilometers from Viareggio, Torre del Lago is the home of the famous opera composer Giacomo Puccini. Visitors can tour his former residence, now the Puccini Museum, and attend performances at the Puccini Festival, an annual summer event dedicated to his operas.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities in Migliarino San Rossore Park
Nature lovers can explore the nearby Migliarino San Rossore Park, a protected natural area offering hiking trails, cycling routes, and birdwatching opportunities. The park extends along the coast and is home to diverse flora and fauna.
Discover the Art Nouveau Architecture
Viareggio is known for its stunning Art Nouveau (Liberty-style) architecture. Key landmarks include the Grand Hotel Royal, the Bagno Balena beach club, and the historic Caffè Margherita, where renowned writers and artists once gathered.
Where to Eat in Viareggio
- Ristorante Romano
- Cuisine: Seafood, Italian
- Highlights: Fresh fish, homemade pasta, and an extensive wine list
- Why Visit: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite seafood dishes in an elegant setting.
- Trattoria Buonamico
- Cuisine: Traditional Tuscan
- Highlights: Cacciucco (Tuscan seafood stew), grilled fish, and local specialties
- Why Visit: A historic trattoria known for its warm atmosphere and authentic Tuscan flavors.
- Ristorante Il Porto
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, seafood
- Highlights: Seafood risotto, lobster pasta, and stunning harbor views
- Why Visit: Perfect for a romantic dinner by the sea with high-quality seafood dishes.
- Osteria l’Imbarco
- Cuisine: Italian, regional
- Highlights: Seasonal dishes, fresh seafood, and local wines
- Why Visit: A cozy and friendly spot offering delicious home-style cooking.
Where to Stay in Viareggio
- Type: Luxury hotel
- Why Stay Here: A five-star hotel with a rooftop pool, elegant rooms, and a spa, located along the promenade with sea views.
- Type: Boutique hotel
- Why Stay Here: A stylish and historic hotel offering luxurious accommodations and fine dining in the heart of Viareggio.
- Type: Mid-range hotel
- Why Stay Here: A comfortable and well-located hotel with modern amenities, perfect for both leisure and business travelers.
- Type: Budget-friendly hotel
- Why Stay Here: A welcoming and affordable option, just a short walk from the beach and promenade.
How to Get to Viareggio
By Air
The nearest major airport is Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei), located about 25 kilometres from Viareggio. From the airport, travellers can take a direct train or taxi to reach the city in approximately 30 minutes.
You can Compare flights here.
By Train
Viareggio is well-connected by train, with frequent services from major Tuscan cities like Florence, Pisa, and Lucca. The Viareggio train station is conveniently located near the city centre and the beach.
By Car
Driving to Viareggio is a great option for those exploring Tuscany. The A12 and A11 highways provide easy access to the city. Parking can be found in designated areas near the promenade and city center.
Compare these car rental prices at Discover cars or Rental cars.com, we use both these companies. Both highly recommended.
By Bus
Buses operate between Viareggio and nearby towns such as Lucca, Pisa, and Florence. This is a cost-effective option for travellers without a car.
Viareggio is a delightful destination that combines seaside charm, cultural heritage, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying its pristine beaches, indulging in fresh seafood, exploring its artistic heritage, or experiencing the world-famous carnival, Viareggio offers a unique and memorable escape in Tuscany. With excellent transportation links, a range of accommodations, and plenty of activities, it is a must-visit for travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
More places to visit in Tuscany
Lucca – The Gem of Tuscany
Montepulciano – A Guide to the wine city