Travel

12 Breathtaking Seaside Towns in Italy

From Capri to Cinque Terra, we've surveyed the best coastal spots to enjoy along The Boot

July 19, 2017

Sweltering heat and humidity, buzzing swarms of mosquitos, and mobs of tourists often characterize summertime in Italy’s major metropolitan cities. It’s no wonder, then, that many locals beat the heat—and the crowds—by skipping town and heading to the beach. For travelers seeking to do as the Romans, Florentines, and Milanese do, AD has rounded up the country’s most breathtaking seaside towns ideal for a summer sojourn.

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Portofino
This photogenic fishing village is known for its historic charm, candy-colored houses, and panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea. It’s also home to luxury resorts and high-end shopping.
Photo: Getty Images/Renate Wefers
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Ponza
A popular vacation destination among Romans, this Italian island is located between Rome and Naples and is best explored by boat.

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Vernazza
This centuries-old Ligurian coast village—part of Cinque Terra—offers visitors a history lesson with a view. In addition to swimming and hiking, visitors can experience Santa Margherita d'Antiochia, a waterfront church built in 1318, and the medieval Doria Castle.
Photo: Getty Images/Francesco Riccardo Iacomino
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Manarola
The second Cinque Terra village to make our list, Manarola is known for its colorful homes, fresh-seafood restaurants, and light-filled nativity scene that’s on view during the month of December.

Photo: Getty Images/Michele Falzone
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Positano
This cliff-side village on the Amalfi Coast is famous for its magnificent views, charming cafes, and small boutiques.
Photo: Getty Images/Eleonora Galli
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Lido di Camaiore
Many travelers venture to Lido di Camaiore with one goal in mind: to relax at the beach. The city is home to a number of beaches, beach clubs, and water parks, and its most recognizable landmark is its lengthy pier Pontile Bellavista Vittoria.

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Ravello
Also located along the Amalfi Coast, this resort town is best known for its lush, impeccably maintained gardens and historic villas.
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Capri
A photographer’s paradise, Capri is famous for its sunsets, which accentuate the island’s dramatic and craggy coastline.

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Sperlonga
Equidistant from Naples and Rome, this tiny, history-rich oasis on the Tyrrhenian Sea is often referred to as one of Italy’s best-kept secrets.
Photo: Getty Images/Hubert Stadler
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Castiglione della Pescaia
A Tuscan town with ancient roots and famously clean stretches of sandy beaches, Castiglione is a favorite vacation destination for travelers from all across Europe.

Photo: Getty Images/Eliana Guida
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Polignano a Mare
This small town with major charm is located just south of Bari on the Adriatic Sea and is characterized by its dazzling ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and friendly locals.
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Lampedusa
Rich in coves and grottos, Lampedusa is a nature-lover’s delight. Visitors to this Pelagian Island, which neighbors the African coast, often spot dolphins and sea turtles.