Riviera degli Etruschi: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
The Riviera degli Etruschi stretches from Livorno to the promontory near Piombino in Tuscany. The Etruscan Coast leads through macchia and holm oak forests. Where the forests open up, they offer a magnificent view of the sea. The section between Piombino and Populonia is called Via dei Cavalleggeri.
Table of contents
Riviera degli Etruschi - The most beautiful cities
Castiglioncello
Along the coast of Castiglioncello, beach enthusiasts will find many fine pebble beaches with sun loungers and umbrella rentals to relax by the crystal-clear sea. For a change from beach life, there are water sports such as sailing, fishing, or diving. Surfers are drawn to the Rocky Point surf spot, and at the Castiglioncello marina, you can charter luxurious yachts. There is also much to experience on land in Castiglioncello. Well-marked hiking trails open up the hinterland of the seaside resort. Those interested in culture can visit the Archaeological Museum, which provides information about the Etruscan past of the town, or the elegant Castello Pasquini in the town center, where festivals take place in the summer.
Cecina
Cecina is mainly known for its district Cecina Mare. The seaside resort on the Mediterranean, lined with white sandy beaches, attracts many families. The bar strip on the pine-lined coastal promenade provides variety, where there is always something happening during the summer months. Those who prefer less hustle and bustle can also find quieter beach sections. Even the Etruscans and Romans appreciated Cecina's location on the Mediterranean. You can learn more about the traces from this time in the Folklore Museum and the Archaeological Museum. You can marvel at the remains of a Roman-era villa with an underground cistern in the district of San Vincenzino.
Marina di Bibbona
The Marina di Bibbona beach is very wide and therefore family-friendly. The fine round pebbles are great for building sandcastles, and the water is very clean. Here you can rent loungers and umbrellas and enjoy the view of the islands of Elba and Capraia. For history enthusiasts, a day in Bibbona is recommended. The history of the town dates back to the Etruscans who settled here. You can still discover medieval buildings in the winding alleys today. The Castello, a defense tower, and the sandstone church of Sant’Ilario from the 13th century, as well as the church of Santa Maria della Pietà from the 15th century, bear witness to this.
San Vincenzo
In summer, San Vincenzo's golden sandy beach on the Tyrrhenian Sea is a magnet for families and those seeking relaxation. The water is regularly awarded the "Blue Flag" for its cleanliness. In the cafes and restaurants at the harbor, you can enjoy the sunset with a sundowner from the outdoor terraces. But there is also much to discover culturally in San Vincenzo. In the old town, you can admire old frescoes in the Church of San Vincenzo Ferrer or the Monument of the Four Walls, which is a landmark of the city. Families with children like to visit the aquarium.
Piombino
Many parts of the old town of Piombino have remained unchanged since the Middle Ages. Take a walk along the mighty city walls by the sea and be transported back in time. In the heart of the city, the large clock tower and the Cathedral of Piombino from 1377 have been preserved. From the harbor, you have a view of Elba. Several times a day, ferries depart from Piombino to the island, known for its tropical-looking beaches and as the exile of Napoleon. In the hinterland of Piombino, you can discover medieval castles and cave tombs from the Etruscan period on hikes.
Porto Ercole
Porto Ercole is located on a peninsula in the Italian region of Tuscany and can be reached via three promontories. Historical sights and archaeological finds bring the history of the region, which dates back to Etruscan and Roman times, back to life. Numerous small stairways lead through the old town. From the historic center, you can walk to the marina. Along the promenade, boutiques and cafes invite you to stroll. The beaches of Porto Ercole range from golden sandy beaches to rocky coves and are a paradise for sunbathers. The crystal-clear water invites you to dive, swim, and snorkel.
Viareggio
Among the abundance of sights in Viareggio, the villa of the composer Giacomo Puccini stands out. Puccini lived in the current museum on the shore of Lake Massaciuccoli until his death. An opera festival takes place annually on the nearby open-air stage. Villa Paolina houses interesting archaeological collections, musical instruments, and contemporary paintings. An impressive structure is the Torre Matilde from the 16th century. The landmark hosts interesting art exhibitions. The Church of San Paolino, with its statues and colorful frescoes, is also worth a visit. Not least, the wide sandy beach in front of the deep blue sea and the chic promenade contribute to the special charm of the seaside resort.
Camaiore
Camaiore exudes medieval charm. On a tour, you can marvel at the mighty city wall with defensive towers that have been preserved from this time. The Teatro dell'Olivo dates back to the 17th century. In the center, the Church of Maria Assunta, built in 1278, stands out with its asymmetrical facade. Art lovers should visit the Museo di Arte Sacra, which presents regional church art. In the hinterland of Camaiore, the Grotta all'Onda is a worthwhile excursion destination. During guided tours, you can learn about the prehistoric cave. After sightseeing, the wide sandy beach of Lido di Camaiore invites you to relax.
Riviera degli Etruschi - 5 most beautiful natural sights
Tuscan Archipelago National Park
Elba, Giglio, Pianosa, Montecristo, Capraia, Giannutri, and Gorgona are seven islands that form the Italian National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago. The world's largest marine protected area covers a water area of more than 56,000 hectares and a land area of 17,800 hectares. Each of the islands has its own charm. The most famous is the largest island, Elba. The nature park is a paradise for divers. Underwater, there are vast seagrass fields and corals to see. Sunfish, giant groupers, and dolphins live here. The islands also have unique flora and fauna. You often discover Audouin's gulls, the symbol of the national park. Many islands are covered with juniper and heather.
Montioni Natural Park
In Montioni Nature Park, you walk through holm oak and pine forests. The gently rolling landscape provides a natural habitat for numerous wild animals such as deer and wild boars. Rare birds can also be found in the nature park. The region was once a popular coal mining area. If you look closely, you can still discover remnants of it. Some traces in Montioni Nature Park tell the story of the park. For example, you discover the remains of the alum quarries. The natural material was once used for tanning leather and preserving colors on fabrics. Elisa Bonaparte Baciocchi, the sister of the famous general Napoleon, once lived in a mining village.
Rimigliano Nature Park
Rimigliano Nature Park is a paradise for wildlife. Foxes, weasels, rabbits, and many bird species make their home here. Hiking trails lead through dunes covered with macchia and oak and pine forests. A fitness trail near the main entrance on Via del Lago invites you to train at 18 stations. The 6 km long sandy beach in Rimigliano Nature Park attracts visitors to relax. If you drive from San Vincenzo towards Piombino, there are various access points and some parking spaces. Sanitary facilities are available on the beach. Enjoy a meal at picnic tables in the magnificent nature.
Populonia and Baratti Golf
Populonia on the Gulf of Baratti is perfect for a cultural and beach holiday. The townscape is dominated by a mighty fortress from the 15th century. Climb through the alleys to the fortress tower and enjoy a breathtaking view of the sea. On a clear day, the island of Elba can be seen. The Baratti beach near Populonia is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. The sandy beach is framed by an impressive cliff. There are lounging areas on the sand or on the large lawn area, which locals call Pratone. Here you can relax in the shade of large maritime pines. There is also a dog beach.
Sterpaia Coastal Park
On the 8 km long sandy beach of the Sterpaia Coastal Park, you are guaranteed to find a quiet spot. The fine, gently sloping sandy beach is bordered by a strip of dunes. For many years, the Blue Flag, which stands for environmental protection, has been flying on this coastal section. You will find sanitary facilities and public showers on the beach. Behind the golden-yellow beach are forests with centuries-old trees. You walk past mighty holm oaks, ashes, cork oaks, and tamarisks. Some have a trunk circumference of several meters. Take provisions with you on hikes: there are some picnic areas in the Sterpaia Coastal Park. You can buy cool drinks and snacks at kiosks.
Riviera degli Etruschi - Climate
The following graph shows the average weather conditions for the country. Historical weather conditions may vary by region.