Travel along the Tuscan coast
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The Tuscan coast stretches from the marble mountains near Carrara in the north to the Monte Argentario peninsula in the south – including Elba and the other islands of the Tuscan Archipelago. Those who explore it from north to south by car or campervan will discover well-maintained seaside resorts, rocky coves, pine forests, and nature parks. Here you will find an overview of all the stages of our coastal tour.
The Tuscan coast at a glance
- Absconding: Versilia and the Pisan coast in the north, the Livorno coast and the Etruscan coast in the center, the Maremma and Monte Argentario in the south
- Beaches: In 2026, 20 Tuscan coastal municipalities will wear the Blue Flag – from Marina di Carrara to Orbetello
- Street: A12 to Rosignano/Cecina, then the SS1 Aurelia expressway towards Grosseto and Rome
- Islands: Piombino – Elba (Portoferraio) ferry in about an hour, Giglio from Porto Santo Stefano, Capraia from Livorno
The coastal tour in five stages
| Stage | Highlights | Beaches |
|---|---|---|
| Carrara – Pisa | Marble quarries, Forte dei Marmi, Viareggio, Puccini's Torre del Lago | wide sandy beaches with beach resorts |
| Livorno – Cecina | Port city of Livorno, Castiglioncello, white beaches of Rosignano | Rocky coves, from Vada Sand |
| Bibbona – Follonica | Bolgheri, San Vincenzo, Gulf of Baratti, Piombino | long sandy beaches with pine forest |
| Scarlino – Grosseto | Cala Violina, Punta Ala, Castiglione della Pescaia | Bays and sandy beaches |
| Grosseto – Monte Argentario | Maremma Natural Park, Talamone, Orbetello, Monte Argentario | Natural beaches, rocky coast at Argentario |
The coastal sections of Tuscany
Versilia and Pisan Coast
In the north, the seaside resorts stretch almost seamlessly along one after another: Marina di Carrara, Marina di Massa, Forte dei Marmi , Lido di Camaiore, and Viareggio . The beaches are wide, with fine sand, and mostly have beach clubs; in the background rise the Apuan Alps. More information can be found under Versilia Coastal Landscape.
Livorno and the Etruscan Coast
South of Livorno, the coast becomes rocky, with small coves as far as Castiglioncello. Beyond this begins the Etruscan Coast, stretching to Piombino: long sandy beaches with pine forests near Cecina, Bibbona, Marina di Castagneto, and San Vincenzo , as well as the Gulf of Baratti with the Etruscan city of Populonia. There are plenty of opportunities here for windsurfers, kitesurfers, and snorkelers.
Maremma and Monte Argentario
The south is wilder: pine forests, dunes, natural beaches, and rocky coastlines. Among the most famous coves is Cala Violina near Scarlino, which, from June to September 2026, can only be accessed with an online reservation. Further tips can be found under Sandy Beaches of the Maremma.
Elba and the islands
Ferries from Piombino take about an hour to reach Elba . The gently sloping sandy beaches in the south of the island, such as Spiaggia Grande in Lacona, are family-friendly; Marina di Campo is more lively. In the main town of Portoferraio, the old town and Napoleon's residence are worth a visit. The most beautiful beaches of Elba are featured in the book "The Most Beautiful Beaches of Elba" ; the island of Giglio can be reached from Porto Santo Stefano.
Practical tips for your coastal trip
- toll: The A12 is a toll road, the SS1 Aurelia south of Cecina is not. All tolls are listed below. Toll 2026
- Markets: Almost every coastal town has a weekly market – see overview at Markets in Tuscany
- Stay: Campsites right by the sea, camper pitches or Hotels by the sea
- Beaches compared: Tuscany: Sea and beach
Frequently asked questions about the Tuscan coast
Where is the Tuscan coast at its most beautiful?
For families with sandy beaches, Versilia, Cecina, San Vincenzo and Follonica are suitable. You'll find more natural coves and clear water in the Maremma, on Monte Argentario and on Elba.
How many beaches in Tuscany have been awarded the Blue Flag?
In 2026, 20 coastal municipalities in Tuscany were awarded the Bandiera Blu, including Forte dei Marmi, Viareggio, Marina di Cecina, San Vincenzo, Follonica and Castiglione della Pescaia.
How long does the ferry to Elba take?
The ferry from Piombino to Portoferraio takes about an hour and runs several times a day all year round.
Do you have to pay tolls on the Tuscan coast?
The A12 motorway in the north is subject to tolls. The SS1 Aurelia expressway south of Cecina towards Grosseto is toll-free.
Which coastal tour is suitable for a day trip?
Each of the five stages can be cycled in one day. The sections around Pisa , Livorno, and Cecina are the quickest to reach from Florence or Siena .
