Viareggio Holiday
Viareggio is one of the most famous and traditional seaside resorts in Tuscany. The wide, endless beaches, excellent cuisine and exciting nightlife with some of the best nightclubs in Italy make it a favourite destination for Italians and foreigners alike. Founded as a fishing village in the 12th century, it is now an important port where prestigious yachts are built in its dockyards. Sheltered by dense pine forests to the north, it is as popular in winter as it is in summer and offers miles of beautiful clean beaches, bars, restaurants and shops along its coastline.
Surrounded by rolling hills, green countryside, the Apuan Alps and the lake of Massaciuccoli, Viareggio is scenic as well as exciting. Its 3km promenade offers superb shops, bars, restaurants, nightclubs, art galleries and a theatre, while the beach beyond it stretches far into the distance. The jetty from the colourful harbour extends into the sea for almost a kilometre and is especially beautiful. Two lovely pine-forests on either side of the town offer the chance for long relaxing walks. And close by is the small lake of Torre del Lago where a sailing schools offers lessons. Hire a mountain bike and you can explore the medieval villages and the mountains beyond.
Beaches
The sandy beach of Viareggio falls gently into the sea and is ideal for children. Spacious, clean and expansive, it goes on for over 20km so finding a quiet spot will never be a problem. All along its length are nature parks, pine forests, natural lakes and splendid countryside.
Shopping
Shopping is a delight in Viareggio. Not just because of the mix of fashionable stores, boutiques and local shops selling traditional handicrafts, but because of the experience itself. Shops are open until late at night along the promenade which has a wonderfully eclectic mix of architectural styles, from art nouveau to neo-classical. Look out for the opening times, however - the shops are open at odd hours during the day and evening.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Viareggio is exciting and enjoyable. Although it is one of the oldest resorts in Italy, it remains chic and lively and its nightclubs are famous up and down the coast. For a quieter time, you can also try the local bars along the promenade and in the town.
Local Specialities
Viareggio is famous for its fish restaurants serving local delights like reef mullet simmered in red wine, risotto with fresh shrimp and filets of fresh sole. It is also, however, an international resort with hotels serving the finest cuisine as well as the smaller local restaurants along the promenade. So whatever your taste you will find something to delight you.