Best Tuscan Beaches from Florence by Train: A Local's Guide

July has arrived, and in Florence the heat is making itself felt. What do Florentines do when the temperatures rise? Simple: they escape to the coast! If you're in Florence to study Italian or for a vacation, you absolutely must do as the locals do.

You don't need a car: the Tuscan coast is nearby and perfectly connected. Pack your swimsuit, sunglasses, and a good book in Italian: today we're going to the sea by train!

How to get to the Tuscan coast from Santa Maria Novella

The starting point is Florence's Santa Maria Novella (SMN) central station. From here, numerous regional trains depart daily for the western coast.

The main train line is the one heading towards Pisa, Livorno, or Viareggio. Many trains are direct, while in other cases, a simple transfer at Pisa Centrale or Livorno Centrale is all it takes to continue south on the Tyrrhenian line. In between an hour and a half and two and a half, you'll find yourself breathing in the sea air.

Here are the favorite destinations on the Etruscan Coast

Castiglioncello: cliffs, culture, and crystal-clear sea

It's one of the most elegant and beloved towns in Tuscany, nicknamed the "pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea." Famous since the 1960s, when it became the summer retreat of great actors like Marcello Mastroianni and the setting for Dino Risi's famous film "Il Sorpasso."

The view: Forget large, fine-sand beaches. Castiglioncello is characterized by red cliffs, cool pine forests that reach the sea, and charming hidden coves, such as the beautiful Quercetano Bay.
Why it's so popular: The sea is deep and transparent, perfect for those who love snorkeling and swimming among the rocks. The train station is strategically located, practically above the town: just get off the train and walk for 5 minutes to find yourself on the seafront.
Extra tip: If the sun gets too hot, take refuge in the park of Castello Pasquini, a beautiful 19th-century castle surrounded by greenery that often hosts cultural events and summer festivals.

San Vincenzo: golden sand, natural parks, and relaxation

If you prefer a more traditional beach, continue your journey south to San Vincenzo, a destination that combines the comfort of services with the beauty of pristine nature.

The view: Here, kilometers of golden sandy beach await, bordered by dense Mediterranean scrub. The seabed slopes gently, making the water ideal for a relaxing swim.
Why you love it: It's perfect for a long stroll along the shore. The train station is very close to the town center and the urban beach, making it very convenient for those traveling by train.
Extra tip: Just a few kilometers from the center is the Rimigliano Natural Park. If you love wild nature, you can take a local bus or rent a bike in town to reach this oasis of dunes and ancient trees, where the beach is completely free.

New destinations to explore: The Gulf of Follonica and the Maremma

If you want to venture a little further south to discover wilder and more fascinating landscapes, the Maremma Grossetana and its coasts will leave you breathless.

3. Follonica: calm waters and the magic of Cala Violina

It lies in the center of a large gulf, right in front of the Island of Elba.

The view: Light, fine sand with a sea that is almost always calm and clear, like a swimming pool.
Why you love it: The beach is less than a 10-minute walk from the station. The trails to the famous Cala Violina beach also start from here (so called because the sand "sounds" when you walk on it!).

4. Castiglione della Pescaia: medieval village and the Maremma

An ancient village perched on a hill overlooking a sea that has won multiple awards for its cleanliness.

The view: Wide beaches and wild coastlines surrounded by the splendid pine forests of the Maremma.
How to get there: Take the train to Grosseto, then a local bus (about 25 minutes) to the city center.
Tip: At sunset, walk up to the medieval village for a breathtaking view of the Tuscan archipelago.

Strategic Prices and Schedules

To enjoy your day to the fullest without stress, here are some tips from true travel experts:

Costs (approximate per route) Regional and Regionali Veloci trains in Tuscany are operated by Trenitalia and are very affordable:

Florence – Castiglioncello: approximately €12.60
Florence – San Vincenzo: approximately €15.00
Florence – Follonica: approximately €16.30
Florence – Grosseto (for Castiglione della Pescaia): approximately €17.50 (+ approximately €3.00 for the bus)

Avoid the weekend peaks

On Saturday and Sunday mornings, trains to the sea are often very crowded.

On the outward journey: If you're traveling on the weekend, try to catch trains very early (departing before 7:30 a.m.) or opt for a weekday (Monday to Friday), when the weather is nice. The atmosphere is definitely more relaxed, and you'll easily find a seat.

On the way back: On Sunday evenings, return trains between 5:30 and 7:30 pm are packed. A good idea? Stay for dinner at a small restaurant on the coast to try the famous Cacciucco (a traditional fish soup) or a plate of Maremma tortelli, and take a later train, around 9:00 or 9:30 pm. You'll travel refreshed and relaxed!

A little Italian challenge: During the train ride, try not to use your phone. Look out the window at the changing landscape (from the Chianti hills to the Maremma fields) and listen to the passengers' conversations: you'll hear the typical aspirated "C" and the charming accent of Tuscans going to the beach!

Have a good trip and... enjoy the swim!