The Tuscany Coast has been a favoured Italian beach retreat since Roman times. But it really flourished in the early 20th century, when cities like Viareggio decorated the promenade with art deco beach clubs and art nouveau hotels.
Travel north from Viareggio, and you’ll come across Marina di Pietrasanta and its panoramic pier. Forte dei Marmi is right next door – a stylish beach town with sculpture parks and a summer fireworks festival.
Fancy exploring further afield? Fast trains zip from the Tuscany Coast to Pisa and Florence via the rolling Tuscan countryside.