Located between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Apuan Alps, the Versilia coastline in northern Tuscany is one of Italy’s most sophisticated seaside destinations. Here, you will find Forte dei Marmi, a resort town known for its elegance, nature, and relaxation. Forte dei Marmi Italy, has been a favourite for European travellers, artists, and celebrities for decades.
In this guide, we’ll share the best things to do in and around Forte dei Marmi. We’ll explore the areas’ chic boutiques and historic centre, its Michelin-starred dining, exclusive beach clubs, and cultural attractions. It doesn’t matter if it’s summer or winter, Forte dei Marmi is a high-end holiday destination for anyone looking for a luxurious getaway.
The local history of Forte dei Marmi
The name Forte dei Marmi literally means “Fort of the Marbles”. The town got its name as a nod to the nearby marble quarries of Carrara. The Grand Duke of Tuscany built the central fortress, Il Fortino, in 1788 to protect the coastline. Today, it is the Museum of Satire and Caricature.
With around 7,500 permanent residents, the town is much more lively in summer, when its population multiplies as visitors arrive from Milan, London, Paris, and beyond. However, if you’re looking for a quiet escape, the winter season is the ideal time to plan a visit.
What sets Forte dei Marmi Italy, apart is its luxury. The streets are tree-lined, full of boutique hotels, private beach clubs and home to world-class restaurants.
Must-do activities in Forte dei Marmi
- A morning walk through Piazza Garibaldi
- The weekly market (Wednesdays), famous for designer discounts
- A scenic bike ride along the Versilia promenade
- A sunset stop at Il Pontile, the pier offering views of both the sea and the Alps
What to see in the city and its historic centre
Forte dei Marmi is perhaps more well-known for its ambience rather than its monuments; however, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of things to see and do.
The Piazza Marconi and Piazza Garibaldi areas are lined with elegant shops, gelaterias, and open-air cafés surrounded by pine trees. At the heart of town, Il Fortino is the town’s namesake and symbol. From there, it’s an easy walk to Via Carducci, the main shopping street that is full of high-end Italian designers like Gucci, Prada, and Versace, as well as small artisan boutiques.
If you want to expereince the local culture, then a visit to Villa Bertelli is a must. This 19th-century villa hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and open-air performances throughout the summer, including the popular Forte Festival, celebrating Italian cinema.
Cultural tip: Filmmakers have shot many films all around Tuscany. If you’re a cinema lover, why not take part in a Tuscan film tour?
The best beaches and relaxation areas in Forte dei Marmi
Versilia’s beaches are some of the most famous in Tuscany. In Forte dei Marmi, the coastline stretches almost 20 kilometres, with a mix of private and public beach options.
Types of beaches
- Private Beach Clubs (Bagni): Offering rows of white cabanas, sunbeds, and full-service dining. These are ideal for travellers seeking comfort and exclusivity.
- Public Beaches: Spiaggia Libera di Forte dei Marmi provides free access with a relaxed local atmosphere.
Tip: In the height of summer, make sure to reserve your sunbed weeks in advance, because they book up by early summer.
Apart from swimming, the seaside is great for other outdoor activities. The beach promenade is ideal for cycling, as you can hire a bike for the day to explore the coast between Forte dei Marmi, Viareggio, and Marina di Pietrasanta.
Restaurants and local gastronomy
Gastronomy in Forte dei Marmi is described as simple, yet elegant and focused on quality ingredients. The emphasis is on fresh seafood, local olive oil, and Tuscan wines.
One of the region’s signature meals is Cacciucco alla Viareggina. This rustic dish began as a simple fishermen’s meal, made with whatever fish and shellfish were left over from the day’s catch. It’s typically prepared with a mix of fish such as red mullet, monkfish, and scorpionfish, along with mussels, clams, and prawns, all simmered in a tomato sauce flavoured with garlic, chilli, and red wine.
Equally popular is Spaghetti alle arselle, a simple yet delicious pasta dish made with local clams. We suggest pairing it with a glass of chilled Vermentino wine.
Finally, no visit to the Versilia area is complete without tasting Focaccia di Versilia, a light, crisp bread that’s ideal for breakfast or a quick snack.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for an elevated expereince, Forte dei Marmi is home to a few Michelin-star restaurants.
One standout eatery is Bistrot. Here, you can expect a celebration of Mediterranean seafood and modern creativity. With one Michelin star recognising its high-quality cooking, the restaurant specialises in dishes rooted in local tradition.
Tip: Food lovers can also visit the weekly farmer’s market for olive oil, pecorino cheese, and artisan products from Lucca and Garfagnana.
Travel tips for visiting Forte dei Marmi
When is the best time to visit?
From May to September, you can enjoy warm weather, full services, and lively beach life, while April and October to December have a quieter atmosphere with fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation prices.
How to get to Forte di Marmi
Air: Pisa International Airport (35 km away).
Train: Nearest stations are Viareggio or Pietrasanta (15 minutes by taxi).
Car: Easy access via the A12 motorway; about 1 hour from Florence or Pisa.
Remember
- Rent a bicycle: it’s the best way to explore the flat, coastal area.
- Book early: restaurants and beach clubs fill up quickly in high season.
Discover Forte dei Marmi with Lucca Apartments and Villas
Forte dei Marmi Italy is elegant yet natural, lively yet peaceful.
If you’re planning your stay along the Versilia coast, Lucca Apartments and Villas offers a selection of villas, beachside apartments, and luxury retreats close to Forte dei Marmi.
Discover the beauty of Tuscany’s coast in comfort, and make your next Italian getaway unforgettable.
