Best Beaches in Northern Italy

Italy is one of the world’s most visited countries and it isn’t hard to see why. From the canals of Venice to the rolling hills of Tuscany, the endless charm of this country is evident at every turn. The food and wine are some of the biggest tourist draws but an often-overlooked perk is the many and varied beaches no Northern Italy vacation should do without. Here are some of the best beaches in Northern Italy you should visit on your next trip.

6 Best beaches in Northern Italy

Lignano Sabbiadoro – The Beach of Lignano

The beach in Lignano Sabbiadoro is one of the best beaches in Northern Italy, which is probably why the town is one of the most popular tourist spots in the region. With its fine, shimmering golden sand and clear blue waters, this is an excellent kid-friendly beach where the whole family can relax while enjoying the sun and sea.

Lounge on the beach under a spacious sun canopy while the little ones can enjoy their own kiddie beach club complete with games, snacks, and supervised swimming. There are many restaurants and bars around where you can grab something to eat and drink, moreover bathrooms and showers are also available at several spots.

SeaSpiration Tip: Make sure to check out our Italy beach vacation tips too!

Playa del Sol – Riccione

The Playa del Sol beach is more like a full-day adventure spot than just a beach. Suitable for the whole family, this beach offers swimming and sunbathing, but also dancing, sports, spa services, a garden, and plenty of delicious authentic Italian foods.

Send the kids to the mini-club where they can have the time of their life playing games and activities while you enjoy the pool and hydromassage. There are many major hotels just a stone’s throw away and also several special events planned throughout the year, so you’ll always have a blast no matter when you visit.

Lido delle Sirene – Bergeggi

What could be more enchanting than a place named Beach of the Sirens? Just as charming as the name implies, Lido delle Sirene has everything a wannabe beachcomber could want.

A craggy rock staircase makes just getting to the beach an adventure. With a protected marine park nearby, majestic mountains surrounding and the turquoise sea, the beauty of this place is incomparable. Be prepared for a world of underwater thrills. Lido delle Sirene has a vibrant marine life perfect for snorkeling, diving, and sea-bottom exploring. This is definitely one of the very best Northern Italy beaches!

SeaSpiration Tip: If you prefer visiting the southern part of the country, read our best Southern Italy beaches post too!

Levanto Beach – Levanto

Known as one of the best Italian beaches on the northern coast, it has both paid and public sections. It is one of the longest beaches in the area, making it perfect for long walks and short strolls along the shore.

There are several spots to just relax and have a cocktail while enjoying the sun. The Levanto Beach is close to the city of Levanto, so it’s easy to walk to the shops and hotels from, or even catch a ferry to Cinque Terre.

Bau Bau – Santa Margherita Ligure

This popular beach has more rock than sand and is perfect for hiking and climbing. The water is usually very calm, perfect novice swimmers to enjoy the sea. However, the rocks and pebbles can be troublesome for kids and the elderly.

A great perk to this beach is that is pet-friendly, so you’ll be sure to see plenty of pooches enjoying the water as well. A rare find among Northern Italy beaches! Being free to the public is another benefit.

Bau Bau is close to the city where there are many restaurants and shops to enjoy after your swim. Parking is minimal, so be prepared to walk up to a mile or more if you have to leave your car in the town.

Spiaggia La Calandre – Ventimiglia

Le Calandre Beach is a public beach just outside Ventimiglia. It is just a thirty-minute walk if you are staying in the city. You can rent a lounger and umbrella for a full day of sunbathing and seaside fun. With a short span of sandy shore, there are plenty of opportunities for surfing and wave riding in the clear, clean water.

Moreover, Le Calandre is close enough to Ventimiglia for a leisurely stroll among the shops and markets. Go on a weekend to check out the amazing street market!

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