Sea: beaches and seaside resorts

For travelers in search of the opportunity to relax by the sea - yet still partake in an active cultural and social scene - a trip to the lovely islands of the Bay of Naples is definitely one for the bucket list: we’re talking about Procida, Ischia and Capri. A long weekend is ideal for enjoying the beauties on display on these three islands and for living both nature and the sea to their fullest.

Enchanting places lapped by the sea, characterised by wild nature and 'shaken' by two active volcanoes, Stromboli and Vulcano. Referred to as the "seven pearls of the Mediterranean", these islands enchant all who visit.

The Sorrento peninsula extends from Castellammare di Stabia to the promontory of Punta Campanella at the far extremity spectacularly overlooking the Gulf of Naples: between sea, nature walks, archaeological sites and astonishing locations, here are 6 masterpieces that reveal all its beauty.

Leave everything behind and move to Sardinia. This is a dream that can be brought to life easily and with the greatest of pleasure if you are retired: sixty-year-old Europeans (or more) looking for a new life. Italy opens its doors to you, not only with the usual welcome, but also with tax benefits reserved specifically for pensioners from EU countries. Perhaps you have already travelled to Sardinia and fallen in love with it to the point of choosing it as your cherished destination, where you can spend serene years after retiring from work. The island is an amazing place: its nature is unspoilt, the land generous and the sea clear, the pace of life slow and the cuisine irresistible. In the charming historic villages, the quality of life is very high, and you can share it with the friendly locals. This is where.

With its historic centre capable of taking us back in time through medieval alleys and Renaissance and Baroque palaces, it is world famous for its imposing Villa Romana del Casale, a supreme example of a late-imperial Roman luxury villa listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In 2013 by the Traveller’s Choice competition on TripAdvisor. After a decade at the top of the charts, it remains in first place within Europe and among the 10 best in the world. There are several reasons why this small bay enclosing an islet is a true paradise on earth.

The beautiful coast of the Province of Trapani is spaced in between enchanting bays and beaches that greet the transparent sea. At turns resounding with tones of green and deep blue, the waters run towards the spectacular panorama of the Egadi Islands. This setting, a dream-come-true, is perfect for every type of vacation, and most of all, it is absolutely magnificent every day of the year. Besides its astounding littoral makeup, the Coast is littered with charming little towns that you should know – Alcamo, Campobello Di Mazara, Castellammare del Golfo, Castelvetrano, Custonaci, Erice, Marsala, Mazara Del Vallo, Petrosino, San Vito lo Capo and Trapani – abuzz with life, sun, the sounds and smells and of the sea, and history and monuments.

If that weren't enough, the boot of Italy is dotted with blue pearls, small and large lakes in the plains areas or high in the mountains that characterize our landscapes. Finding out what's under that delicate line separating water from sky is an impulse that encourages more and more people to have a go at diving. Many courses are available in Italy, even during a short stay, to get closer to this experience in many places where sea-beds are home to wonders. All designed by Mother Nature, of course, with the colours of gorgonian corals home to a rich variety of marine fauna, as well as homo sapiens over the centuries. Under the water, just off the coastlines, evident traces of human evolution emerge which, in Italy as in few other parts of the world, bear witness to an indissoluble bond with our past.

Landing in an environmentally friendly marina is every sea lover's dream. There are two facilities in Sicily that not only offer the necessary services, from electricity to refuelling, but also operate in an environmentally sustainable manner: Capo d'Orlando Marina and Marina del Nettuno, in Messina. Both Blue Flag 2022, they boast the best waters on the entire Messina coast.

From the Roccelletta Archaeological Park in Borgia to Cape Colonna, this journey looks at the history of Calabria by travelling through its tourist destinations and along the charming coasts of the Ionian Sea in the Gulf of Squillace.

A few kilometers from Syracuse, you can immerse yourself in a truly all-Italian earthly paradise: the Plemmirio Marine Park, one of the most pristine protected marine areas in Italy, which extends for 12 kilometers around the Maddalena Peninsula. Between mountain bike excursions, walks and unforgettable snorkeling sessions you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily. Nestled between cliffs overlooking the sea, ready to be immortalized in breathtaking shots. If you are now intrigued, here is everything you should know about the Plemmirio Marine Park, its most beautiful beaches, the Maddalena trail and what to see and eat in the magnificent surroundings of beautiful Syracuse.

Many know it as the Riviera of Fun, given its expansive and well-maintained beaches and innumerable attractions the Adriatic Riviera (in Emilia Romagna) is one of Italy’s best-known beach resort localities, and no doubt that the Riviera of Fun is a definition that suits this coast very well.

A sinuous promontory designed by the winds that Mount Conero (after which this area in the Marches was named) encounters while overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Tens of beaches surrounded by rocks and luxuriant vegetation that can only be reached by boat or on paths, and numerous cities full of history and tradition: This is the Conero Riviera. A surprising green and occasionally wild nature, unforgettable crystal-clear sea and many beaches - some easier to access than others - characterize the Riviera. Among these is Due Sorelle beach (which can only be reached by boat), named this way due to two large stacks (precisely the due sorelle or two sisters), and Mezzavalle beach.

Many know it as the Riviera of Fun, given its expansive and well-maintained beaches and innumerable attractions the Adriatic Riviera (in Emilia Romagna) is one of Italy’s best-known beach resort localities, and no doubt that the Riviera of Fun is a definition that suits this coast very well.

Crystal clear waters and coasts that are still partly wild inviting countryside for those looking for relaxation away from the busy pace of the city villages nestled on ancient castles and a rich cuisine where you can find, unchanged, traditional, local food and wine. These are the things that make the Maremma so dear to Italian and foreign visitors. An ideal place for nature lovers, the Maremma is a place to discover on foot, by bike, or even better, on horseback.

Versilia, a zone both fun and cultured, is known to many for its gossip pages. Yet this stretch of land (in the Province of Lucca), that runs past the slopes of the Apuan Alps and the Park of San Rossore, is famous for its beaches. Lying between the cities of Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio, its long, fine-sand beaches and coastal dunes – particularly from Viareggio to Torre del Lago – are typical traits of the Versiliese littoral. The resort localities that dot the coastline include the exclusive Forte dei Marmi, sunny Viareggio, Marina di Pietrasanta and Lido di Camaiore.

The third largest island in the entire Mediterranean, and with a seemingly-infinite array of assets, Elba requires a generous amount of time to visit and enjoy all of it. It is made up of eight communes, all of them with their own particular attraction. Similarly, each of Elba's other “six sisters” distinguish themselves with their own unique traits and features; nonetheless, their largest common denominator is their fantastically wild nature and landscapes.

People travel to the Costa Smeralda because they are attracted by the high-society lifestyle of its jet-set habitués or because they want to get to know the coves and promontories of one of the most fascinating and characteristic parts of the island. The real discovery of these places goes far beyond simple stereotypes.

It is impossible not to know about Sanremo: the city of the Italian Song Festival, the Tenco Prize, the Giraglia, the Casino and the Milan-Sanremo, but above all, a city known for its colorful flowers, the red shrimps and the enchantment of the sea. The Sanremo sea is to be admired at the slow and relaxed pace of pedaling: its very famous Pista Ciclabile del Ponente Ligure, suspended between the green of the hills and the blue of the waves and the sky, is a true oasis. It offers 24 kilometers to walk, to bike, to roller skate and to skateboard along the coast enjoying the shade of the maritime pines. Sanremo is seaside town, but with a green heart: worth seeing are its beautiful villas with lush gardens, where very special exotic plants stand out. Finally, Sanremo's marine essence, the place where to leave from and arrive to the sea: Portosole. It is the town's marina, where life never stops, where the rhythms are dictated by the tides and the air smells of saltiness. As it always has been, as it probably will always be.

One of the most picturesque villages in Levante Ligure, it is the easternmost district of the municipality of Lérici. The houses in the historic centre are clustered on a rocky spur jutting out towards the sea, at the end of which stands the delightful pastel-pink painted 16th century church of St George. The writer Mario Soldati lived in the village for many decades and dedicated pages full of affection to it. From the small square, a path leads to the so-called Spiaggioni, wild coves where you can swim in an unspoilt setting.

Although struggling with problems of overcrowding and traffic restrictions, and not immune to large-scale and not always high-quality construction, the resort retains some of the atmosphere that once made it a destination for romantic tourism. Particularly fascinating are the alleys and the stairways that characterise the layout of the oldest district and the imposing castle. There are two main religious buildings. The Oratory of San Rocco, in Largo Marconi - beside Piazza Garibaldi, accessible from the marina - with a 14th-century bell tower with two bas-reliefs from the 16th century and, inside, on the high altar, a beautiful 16th-century panel of Saints Martin bishop, Christopher, Sebastian and Rocco; in the left aisle, Our Lady Health of the Sick, an original painting on slate (16th century). The 17th-century church of San Francesco, in Via Cavour, has remarkable altarpieces, almost all by the Genoese school; the sacristy leads to the oratory of San Bernardino, where, according to tradition, Bernardino of Siena preached from the small black slate pulpit. Along the road that leads to Tellaro, a stretch of coastline of considerable environmental value is bordered, with a clear seabed rich in vegetation. Located between the points of Maramozza and Maralunga, the Caletta Underwater Archaeological Park is an ideal place for diving to discover the remains of a Roman merchant ship. On the stretch of craggy coastline between the headland of Maralunga and Fiascherino, there are enchanting little beaches with a steep descent.

The Pearl of Tigullio on the Ligurian Riviera Nicknamed the Pearl of Tigullio, after the gulf it overlooks, Santa Margherita Ligure is among the most popular resorts on the Ligurian Riviera, framed between the sea and mountains. At the heart of the city is its Castle, built by the Genoese in 1550 to defend the coast. The church of San Giacomo di Corte dates back to the 17th century. In a park boasting an Italian garden and an English-style grove stands Villa Durazzo-Centurione, with 17th-century frescoes and the prince’s flats on the first floor. The residence slowly reveals itself as you walk up the park avenue leading to the entrance. The most beautiful beaches near the centre are in the Ghiaia area. Nearby is the beautiful Paraggi Bay. Submerged at the bottom of the sea, opposite San Fruttuoso bay, lies the Christ of the Abyss, which on calm sea days you can view without having to go diving. The Abbey of San Fruttuoso, near Santa Margherita Ligure, is accessible by boat or on foot by hiking along a steep but beautiful trail. In just a few minutes by car or train, you can reach the famous Portofino. Santa Margherita Ligure is also the perfect base for visiting Camogli and Rapallo.

Porto Recanati is a fishing village nestled in the beauty of Monte Conero. With 9 kilometres of beaches and a pedestrian promenade, it is popular with tourists in all seasons. Porto Recanati has been awarded the Blue Flag several times for its beaches thanks to its environmental sustainability policies. The medieval Swabian Castle stands in the central square and had the main function of defence against pirate attacks. Summer shows and cultural events take place in the large courtyard, which houses the Gigli Arena named after the tenor from Recanati Beniamino Gigli. Leaving the centre, you come across an interesting archaeological site, which has brought the ancient Roman city of Potentia back to life. An all-natural bike tour One of the features of Porto Recanati is that it is surrounded by numerous cycle paths. From the seafront to the surrounding countryside, those who love cycling will not be disappointed, and will be able to organise countless routes on two wheels. From the city centre to more secluded places as far as Loreto, cycling of all kinds and levels can be organised. Porto Recanati: a small town with a seaside tradition In Porto Recanati, traditions are important and besides the sea, events are in the hearts of the citizens. One of these is the Palio di San Giovanni, a distinctive historical re-enactment footrace. On this occasion, those present take to the streets and cheer on the athletes from their own districts. Another long-awaited event is the Pink Night, with the streets of the city centre animated until late at night and open shops, live concerts, street performers and street food trucks. A brodetto to be enjoyed One of the jewels of traditional gastronomy is the brodetto portorecanatese, composed of a soup enriched with various types of lower-grade fish. All the ingredients are then cooked in a pan with tomato. Every year it is remembered in June with a festival called “Brodetto Week”. On days dedicated to the dish, participating restaurants offer it at a discounted price. Tips for a tour of Porto Recanati Porto Recanati is easily reached thanks to its central location on the Marche coast, at the foot of the Conero Park. In the fishing village, an after-dinner stroll along the central Corso Matteotti is very pleasant. In summer, antique and handicraft markets are set up, which are worth exploring.

A village overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea Amantea is one of the most renowned seaside resorts in Calabria. Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, with a medieval village perched on a hill, it offers visitors beautiful coastal beaches and seaside villas. The old town is carved into the rock. A flight of steps and winding streets lead to the medieval area, where you can find the 15th-century church of San Bernardino da Siena. A path running along the sides of the hill offers stunning views of the labyrinth of alleyways. Be sure not to miss the 13th-century Church of St Francis of Assisi, the towers of the Byzantine fortress and the Cathedral of St Biagio, built on an earlier Greek church of St Pantaleo. The modern city stretches along the coastline, where you can stroll or cycle among fish restaurants, cafés with outdoor seating and 19th-century bourgeois villas. The small square of Calavecchia connects the new part of the town with the medieval village. We highly recommend strolling through the streets of Chianura, the old fishermen's quarter, to Catocastro, where you can find a large, natural cave. The most beautiful beaches are those of Coreca and Tonnara, while diving enthusiasts will be in paradise around the Isca rocks.

If that weren't enough, the boot of Italy is dotted with blue pearls, small and large lakes in the plains areas or high in the mountains that characterize our landscapes. Finding out what's under that delicate line separating water from sky is an impulse that encourages more and more people to have a go at diving. Many courses are available in Italy, even during a short stay, to get closer to this experience in many places where sea-beds are home to wonders. All designed by Mother Nature, of course, with the colours of gorgonian corals home to a rich variety of marine fauna, as well as homo sapiens over the centuries. Under the water, just off the coastlines, evident traces of human evolution emerge which, in Italy as in few other parts of the world, bear witness to an indissoluble bond with our past.

Lake Maggiore is one of the most beautiful Italian lakes and has enchanted the great Italian and foreign artists who have stayed here. It is believed to be the largest of the pre-Alpine lakes, hence the name "Maggiore", it is of glacial origin and its banks are in Lombardy, Piedmont and Switzerland. Surrounded by mountains and hills that shelter it from the cold northern winds, the lake has the Ticino River among its tributaries, a historic water route connecting the Po Valley to Central Europe.

The historic international regatta, the Barcolana in Trieste, is back for its 54th edition. As tradition dictates, it is held on the second Sunday in October, but spans an entire week with a rich calendar of events, including those specially tailored for children. Here is what to do in Trieste with children from 29th September to 8th October 2023, to enjoy the beauty of the Gulf of Trieste and feel like the real stars of the Barcolana.

With over 8,000 kilometres of coastline, Italy is a favourite destination for surfers from all over the world. From the coasts of Sardinia to the varied shoreline of Liguria via the Tyrrhenian ridge, there are many incredible places that provide waves and dream locations, and are more or less suitable depending on the time of year. If you're planning a surfing holiday in Italy, here are the unmissable surf spots in summer and winter, home to the most famous surf schools in Italy. Are you ready to go?

Standing on a board and holding a paddle in your hands: if you too are a Stand Up Paddle enthusiast, which has been sweeping the beaches in recent years along with the more traditional surfing, check this out. Have you ever thought that this water sport can also be enjoyed with great satisfaction in a lake? The crystal clear waters of Trentino, surrounded by forests, are perfect. Here is a map to help you find your way around.

In the Monti Sibillini National Park, the natural scenery for this sport is practically perfect, and this is thanks to the meeting of the Velino and Nera rivers, which myth has it were two lovers, from whose tormented and endless love the Marmore Falls, among the highest in Europe, would be created. Fun is guaranteed by the natural springboards that invite you to dive in.