10 Amazing Sun & Sea Destinations In Italy: La Dolce Vita On The Coast

Forget gondolas and misty canals for a moment. Italy’s true crown jewel lies in the sparkling turquoise waters and sun-drenched shores of its coastline. From the dramatic cliffs of Liguria to the glamorous shores of Sardinia, here’s your guide to experiencing la dolce vita the Italian way, with a healthy dose of sun and sea.

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Campania: Where History Meets High Fashion

Campania is a region steeped in history, from the ancient ruins of Pompeii to the Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, this stretch of coastline is also a magnet for famous people. Don your most stylish beachwear and explore:

Amalfi Coast

Think Positano’s technicolor houses cascading down cliffsides, or the quaint charm of Atrani, a local favorite. Be prepared for charming narrow streets and vertiginous climbs – not ideal for those with mobility issues! Consider hiring a private boat for a day trip to explore hidden coves and enjoy the dazzling coastline from the water.

How to get there: It’s easy to fly into Naples International Airport or take a scenic train ride to the nearby city of Salerno, followed by a picturesque drive along the coastal road.

Our recommendation: Book a local photographer in Positano to beautifully capture the magic of your Amalfi Coast trip. It’s the best way to take home memories as stunning as the views themselves.

Capri: The jet-set favorite

Capri offers designer shopping, world-class restaurants, and the stunning Blue Grotto, a sea cave known for its mesmerizing water color. 

How to get there: Capri is car-free, so be prepared to walk, take taxis, or hop on the funicular railway. Ferries run regularly from Naples and Sorrento.

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Liguria: A Riviera Escape for the Discerning Traveler

Liguria offers a quieter alternative to the Amalfi Coast, with a string of charming fishing villages, hidden coves, and a slower pace of life. Foodies will be in heaven with the abundance of fresh seafood and pesto, a local specialty.

Finale Ligure

This seaside town offers a mix of sandy beaches and rocky inlets, perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling, or exploring hidden coves by kayak. 

How to get there: Fly into Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport or take a train to Finale Ligure Marina railway station, located just a stone’s throw away from the town center.

Bergeggi & Varigotti

These neighboring villages boast pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for families. Varigotti’s colorful houses lining the beach have become an Instagram sensation. 

How to get there: Both are reachable by train to Finale Ligure followed by a local bus.

Camogli

A picturesque harbor town with a relaxed atmosphere, Camogli is known for its colorful houses and the annual “Sagra del Pesce” (fish festival) held in May. The town is quite hilly, so keep that in mind if you have mobility limitations. 

How to get there: Camogli is accessible by train from Genoa.

Sardinia: A Beachcomber’s Paradise

Sardinia is all about pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and rugged coastlines. The island boasts some of the most exclusive resorts in the Mediterranean, but there are also plenty of options for budget-conscious travelers.

Cala Mariolu

This secluded cove with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear water is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, but be prepared for a bit of a hike to get there.

How to get there: Fly into Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport or take a ferry to the port of Arbatax, followed by a scenic drive or boat excursion to Cala Mariolu.

Spiaggia del Principe, Costa Smeralda

Rub shoulders with celebrities at this luxurious stretch of coastline. The Costa Smeralda offers designer boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, and stunning beaches. 

How to get there: Olbia Airport (OLB) is the main gateway to the region.

Capo Malfatano

For a more low-key experience, head to Capo Malfatano on the western coast. Here you’ll find long stretches of undeveloped coastline, perfect for those seeking tranquility. 

How to get there: Alghero Airport (AHO) is the closest airport.

Sicily: Where Baroque Beauty Meets Beach Bliss

Sicily offers a unique blend of Greek, Roman, and Arab influences, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and culture. Beyond the cultural treasures, Sicily boasts stunning beaches and charming coastal towns.

Ragusa

This UNESCO-listed town is a feast for the eyes with its baroque architecture. Combine your cultural exploration with a day trip to Marina di Ragusa, a beach resort town offering beautiful beaches and water sports. 

How to get there: Fly into Catania Fontanarossa Airport or take a train to Ragusa railway station, located in the heart of the city’s historic center.

Palermo

Sicily’s vibrant capital offers historical sites, bustling markets, and delicious street food. While Palermo itself doesn’t have beaches, Mondello, a seaside resort town with a beautiful sandy beach, is just a short drive away.

How to get there: Palermo is well-connected by air, with flights arriving at Falcone-Borsellino Airport from major cities across Europe and beyond. Alternatively, take a train to Palermo Centrale railway station, conveniently located near the city center.

Cefalu

History meets beach bliss in this Sicilian gem. Climb the UNESCO-listed Norman Cathedral for epic views, then get lost (charmingly!) in the car-free, medieval alleys. Beach bums and foodies rejoice – golden sands and waterfront trattorias await.

How to get there: Fly into Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport and take a scenic drive along the coast to Cefalù, or hop on a train from Palermo to Cefalù railway station, located within walking distance of the town center.

As you embark on your journey along the Italian Riviera, remember that every destination has its own rhythm and charm, waiting to be discovered. Embrace the unexpected, savor the flavors, and immerse yourself in the beauty of la Dolce vita. Buon viaggio!

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