Tutti al mare: An Insider’s Guide to a Versilia Beach Holiday
Saturday, June 27, 2026,
From the wild dunes of La Lecciona to the exclusive luxury of Forte dei Marmi: how to experience the Tuscan summer like a true local.
The beaches of Versilia are famous for a reason: a long stretch of golden sand, elegant beach clubs, centuries-old pine forests, and the dramatic peaks of the Apuan Alps framing the landscape.From Viareggio to Forte dei Marmi, passing through Lido di Camaiore and Marina di Pietrasanta, every town offers a different atmosphere. Whether you are looking for luxury, a relaxing family stay, or untamed coastal nature, Versilia has the perfect beach for you.Here is our selection of the best beaches on the coast and practical tips to enjoy them like a local.1. La Lecciona: The Wild and Untamed ParadiseIf you love nature and want to escape the summer crowds, La Lecciona beach is a small paradise. Located between Viareggio and Torre del Lago, it is the last large stretch of completely free coastline in Versilia, protected within the Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli Natural Park.The Vibe: Kilometers of dunes, golden sand, Mediterranean scrub, and the scent of helichrysum. There are no sunbeds, umbrellas, or bars: silence rules here.What to Do: Behind the beach lies a path immersed in maritime pines. It connects Viareggio to the mouth of the Serchio river and is perfect for a morning walk or bike ride.Useful Tips: Being a protected area, it has no facilities. Remember to bring water, food, a beach umbrella (important if you travel with children or pets), and comfortable shoes to walk through the dune path.Good to Know: Right in the middle of the path between Viareggio and Torre del Lago is one of the most famous and historic official naturist beaches in Tuscany.2. Viareggio: Tradition, Liberty Style, and RelaxationViareggio is the historic heart of Versilia, famous for its Art Nouveau (Liberty style) promenade, its Carnival, and its prestigious shipbuilding tradition. It offers wide beaches and clubs ideal for those seeking comfort and excellent seafood.RECOMMENDED BEACH CLUBS:Bagno Sauro Fuori Onda (Città Giardino Area): Combines great professionalism, excellent beach services, and a seafood restaurant that locals absolutely love. [Discover their Instagram profile]Bagno Rossella (Marina di Levante): Located in a quieter area, it is ideal for those seeking relaxation, well-kept cabins, large shaded areas, and a great culinary selection. [Discover their Instagram profile]THE THURSDAY MORNING RITUAL:If you are in the area on a Thursday morning, drop by the large open-air market that spreads along the Promenade and the downtown streets. If you walk as far as Piazza Cavour, stop for a coffee paired with the legendary baked bombolone (custard-filled pastry) at Pasticceria Patalani.AFTERNOON AND APERITIVO:After the beach, cool down with gelato from Laboratorio del Gelato. For an aperitivo, the go-to spots for locals are Enoteca Sergio or Mamo Food & Drinks.3. Lido di Camaiore: Casual Vibe and FamiliesNestled between Viareggio and Marina di Pietrasanta, Lido di Camaiore is a dynamic yet relaxed destination, much loved by families. The seafront promenade and the modern pier, perfect for enjoying a sunset aperitivo, are the focus of town life.RECOMMENDED BEACH CLUBS:Bagno Belmare: Young, fresh, and welcoming. Its main highlight is the panoramic terrace, ideal for a light lunch or a sunset aperitivo suspended between the sea and the mountains. On summer evenings, it is pleasant to stay for some live music. In addition, the club provides free bicycles for guests, perfect for a ride along the promenade. [Discover their Instagram profile]4. Marina di Pietrasanta: Elegance and Premium ComfortThe areas of Tonfano and Marina di Pietrasanta represent the perfect balance between family relaxation and high-level services. The waters are shallow and sandy, ideal for children, and many beach clubs offer pools, play areas, and evening dining.WHERE TO GO TO THE BEACH:Bagno Carlo: A historic beach club in an excellent position in Tonfano, perfect as a base if you want to take a break from the sea on Saturday morning to visit the characteristic local market. [Visit the website]Exclusive Luxury: If you are looking for an elite experience, the Panama Beach Restaurant Versilia by Borsalino offers private tents, a Carrara marble pool, VIP areas, and a refined restaurant open from breakfast until late at night.GOURMET PITSTOPS:If you want to taste the classic local focaccine (thin, savory filled focaccias), you can't go wrong at:Il Bocconcino A Me Mi 5. Forte dei Marmi: The Icon of Italian Luxury LifestyleForte dei Marmi needs no introduction: it is the definitive symbol of beach elegance in the Mediterranean. Here, holidays are spent between exclusive beach clubs with wide spaces between the tents, high-fashion boutiques, and historic cafes.THE MOST RENOWNED BEACH CLUBS:International guests choose Forte dei Marmi for its total discretion. Among the best-known spots are the historic Bagno Piero, Alpemare, Bagno Alcione, and the private Bagno Santamaria, which features only 30 tents and 20 umbrellas to guarantee maximum privacy.THE "EASY CHIC" ALTERNATIVE:Levante del Forte (formerly Bagno alle Boe): A great newcomer accessible to everyone that recovers the authentic spirit of Forte dei Marmi from the '60s and '70s, reinterpreted in a contemporary and relaxed key. [Discover their Instagram profile]THE PERFECT DAY AT THE FORTE:A perfect day includes a quick focaccina at Da Valé, an aperitivo at the iconic Caffè Principe, and an evening stroll among the lights of the town center. On Wednesday and Sunday mornings, the appointment is in Piazza Marconi with the famous Mercato del Forte, where you can find iconic clothing and unique items.Find Your Perfect Home in VersiliaWhether you are looking for a holiday filled with luxury, wild nature, or family relaxation, the best way to experience Versilia is from a private, exclusive, and comfortable base.Explore our selection of villas and exclusive properties close to the sea to live the Tuscan summer like a true insider: • Villa Tomeoni • Villa Maestrale • Villa Le Poiane • La Costa • La Collina • Villa Fedora • La Casa nel bosco • Bianca Dimora • Il Castagno al Grillo • Il Pino al Grillo • Casa Tania-> Discover all our properties in Versilia and book your stay for the summer
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Vicopisano & Buti Festivals 2026: Authentic Tuscan Food, Traditions and Medieval Charm
Saturday, June 20, 2026,
Vicopisano & Buti Festivals 2026: Authentic Tuscan Food, Traditions and Medieval Charm
If you are looking for a quieter, more authentic side of Tuscany, the area between Vicopisano, Buti, Cascine di Buti, Santa Maria a Monte and the Valdera offers a wonderful surprise.Away from the busiest tourist destinations, these villages still celebrate the seasons with traditional festivals organised by local communities. Homemade food, live music, regional wines and recipes passed down through generations create an atmosphere that feels genuinely Tuscan.This is where you discover the Tuscany that locals know and love.To learn more about the tradition of Tuscan village festivals, we also recommend reading our complete guide:Tuscany Village Festivals 2026: The Tuscanhouses Guide to Experiencing Tuscany Like a LocalJune 2026Farmers' FestivalLocation: Cascine di ButiDates: June 12–14, 2026Celebrate the flavours of rural Tuscany with homemade soups, salt cod, traditional country cooking and genuine village hospitality.Fried Dough FestivalLocation: Quattro Strade di PerignanoDates: June 13–21, 2026A local favourite dedicated to freshly fried dough, one of Tuscany's simplest and most delicious traditional street foods.Tripe FestivalLocation: Cerretti, Santa Maria a MonteDates: June 19–28, 2026One of Tuscany's oldest culinary traditions comes to life during this festival, where tripe is prepared according to recipes preserved by local families for generations.Chicken & Tuscan Soup FestivalLocation: ButiDates: June 12–21, 2026A classic village festival combining grilled chicken with the famous Tuscan bread soup in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.July 2026Stringozzi with Cinta Senese FestivalLocation: ButiDates: Late June – Early JulyFresh handmade pasta meets the renowned Cinta Senese pork, creating one of the area's most authentic culinary experiences.Frog FestivalLocation: Cascine di ButiOne of the oldest food festivals in the area, celebrating a unique local speciality that has long been part of the rural culinary tradition.Porchetta, Pork Knuckle & Craft Beer FestivalLocation: ButiDates: July 10–19, 2026Slow-roasted pork, craft beer, live entertainment and summer evenings full of local atmosphere make this one of the liveliest festivals of the season.Paella & Sangria FestivalLocation: Cascine di ButiDates: July 10–19, 2026Although inspired by Spanish flavours, this cheerful celebration has become a favourite summer event among local residents and visitors alike.Maccheroni FestivalLocation: ButiDates: July 24–26, 2026Fresh homemade pasta takes centre stage during one of Buti's longest-running and most popular food festivals.Porcini Mushroom FestivalLocation: Cascine di ButiFrom: 25 July - 3 Aug 2026One of Tuscany's favourite seasonal ingredients is celebrated through a wide variety of traditional recipes, from handmade pasta to grilled specialities.August 2026August is the perfect month to discover the rich flavours of Tuscan country cooking. Wild mushrooms, handmade pasta, game meat and local traditions take centre stage throughout the area.Pappardelle & Fried Rabbit FestivalLocation: ButiHomemade pappardelle and crispy fried rabbit are among the traditional dishes that make this festival a favourite with local families.Wild Boar FestivalLocation: ButiDates: August 21–30, 2026Wild boar has always been one of the defining flavours of Tuscan country cooking. This festival offers generous portions, traditional recipes and a wonderfully authentic atmosphere.Fish & Sports FestivalLocation: Uliveto TermeThroughout AugustFresh seafood, outdoor dining, live entertainment and community celebrations make this one of the area's most enjoyable summer events.September 2026Maccheroni FestivalLocation: ButiDates: September 4–6, 2026The final weekend of the Maccheroni Festival closes the summer with another celebration of homemade pasta and Tuscan hospitality.Vicopisano Medieval FestivalLocation: VicopisanoDates: September 5–6, 2026The beautiful medieval village of Vicopisano becomes an open-air journey through history.Knights, musicians, artisans, medieval markets and historical reenactments fill the streets, while the impressive Brunelleschi Fortress overlooks the celebrations.Visitors can enjoy traditional taverns, historical performances and the famous Medieval Dinner, making this one of Tuscany's most atmospheric historical festivals.If you choose just one event in this area, make it this one.Where to Stay to Explore Vicopisano and the ValderaMany of these events are located just a short drive from Tuscanhouses properties.
These properties are perfectly located for exploring Vicopisano, Buti, the Valdera and the surrounding countryside. We particularly recommend:
Casa Di DanteCasa degli Olivi di Dante Casa Dei Gigli di DanteOur team will be delighted to help you discover the most authentic corners of Tuscany.Because the best travel memories are often created far from the busiest tourist routes.
Have You Found Your Tuscan Retreat Yet?The music fades.The village squares become quiet once again.The scent of wood-fired cooking slowly disappears into the evening air.But the memories of these authentic Tuscan celebrations remain forever.Discover our carefully selected villas and holiday homes and experience Tuscany through the eyes of those who call it home.Explore Tuscanhouses Properties.Your next Tuscan adventure begins here.
These properties are perfectly located for exploring Vicopisano, Buti, the Valdera and the surrounding countryside. We particularly recommend:
Casa Di DanteCasa degli Olivi di Dante Casa Dei Gigli di DanteOur team will be delighted to help you discover the most authentic corners of Tuscany.Because the best travel memories are often created far from the busiest tourist routes.
Have You Found Your Tuscan Retreat Yet?The music fades.The village squares become quiet once again.The scent of wood-fired cooking slowly disappears into the evening air.But the memories of these authentic Tuscan celebrations remain forever.Discover our carefully selected villas and holiday homes and experience Tuscany through the eyes of those who call it home.Explore Tuscanhouses Properties.Your next Tuscan adventure begins here.
Vicopisano & Buti Festivals 2026: Authentic Tuscan Food, Traditions and Medieval Charm: Read More
Pistoia Events 2026: Festivals, Traditions and Summer Experiences
Monday, June 15, 2026,
Music festivals, medieval celebrations, wine events and authentic Tuscan traditions in the heart of Tuscany
Events and Traditions between Pistoia and Montalbano 2026
Music festivals, medieval celebrations, local traditions and unforgettable summer events in the heart of Tuscany
If you are spending your holiday in the area between Pistoia, Lamporecchio, Vinci, Serravalle Pistoiese and the rolling hills of Montalbano, summer offers far more than beautiful landscapes and charming villages.
From international music festivals and medieval reenactments to local food celebrations and wine events, this corner of Tuscany hosts some of the region's most fascinating summer experiences.
To discover why local festivals play such an important role in Tuscan culture, we also recommend reading our complete guide:
Tuscany Village Festivals 2026: The Tuscanhouses Guide to Experiencing Tuscany Like a LocalJune 2026Cerbaia in Festa
Cerbaia, Lamporecchio
June 11 – 21, 2026
One of the most popular community festivals in the Montalbano area.
Each evening features live music, theatre performances, dancing and traditional Tuscan dishes. Visitors can enjoy local specialties such as tripe, wild boar stew, cacciucco fish soup and many other regional recipes.
A wonderful opportunity to experience authentic village life.Bavarian Festival of PorcianoPorciano, Lamporecchio
June 19 – 21, 2026
A unique blend of Tuscany and Bavaria.
Expect beer, music, dumplings, roasted pork knuckle and lively summer evenings in the beautiful countryside near Lamporecchio.
One of the most original events of the season.Tuscan DOP Bread FestivalBorgo a Buggiano
June 11 – July 5, 2026
For nearly a month, the Colombai Park hosts evenings dedicated to traditional Tuscan cuisine, local products and live entertainment.
Grilled meats, local bread, music and outdoor dining create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages.July 2026Pistoia Blues Festival
Pistoia
July 2 – 10, 2026
One of Italy's most prestigious music festivals.
For more than forty years, the Pistoia Blues Festival has welcomed internationally renowned artists and thousands of music lovers to the historic centre of Pistoia.
A must for anyone visiting Tuscany in early July.Unicorn FestivalVinci
July 10 – 12, 2026
Often described as Italy's largest fantasy festival, the Unicorn Festival transforms Vinci into a magical world of knights, elves, fantasy characters, costumes and live performances.
A fantastic event for families, fantasy enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. Jacopean CelebrationsPistoia
Throughout July 2026
The city of Pistoia dedicates the month of July to its patron saint, Saint James (San Jacopo).
Historical parades, flag throwers, religious ceremonies and traditional events fill the streets and squares, bringing centuries of local history to life.Giostra dell'OrsoPiazza del Duomo, Pistoia
July 25, 2026
The most important historical event of the Pistoia summer.
On the feast day of Saint James, the city's four historic districts compete in an exciting horse-riding tournament held in the magnificent Piazza del Duomo.
Armed with lances, riders aim at a wooden bear-shaped target known as the "Micco", the heraldic symbol of Pistoia.
An extraordinary spectacle that attracts thousands of spectators every year and offers visitors a unique glimpse into Pistoia's medieval heritage.August 2026Brigidino Festival
Lamporecchio
July 31 – August 5, 2026
Dedicated to the famous Brigidini of Lamporecchio, one of Tuscany's best-loved traditional sweets.
These delicate anise-flavoured wafers have become a symbol of the area and are enjoyed by visitors from across the region. Calici di StelleVinci
August 10, 2026
A magical evening dedicated to wine, local culture and the summer stars.
Wine tastings, special events and late openings of attractions linked to Leonardo da Vinci make this one of the most romantic nights of the Tuscan summer, making the event even more memorable. Serravalle in the Middle AgesSerravalle Pistoiese
August 17 – 19, 2026
For a few days every summer, Serravalle Pistoiese travels back in time.
The village fills with medieval merchants, knights, musicians, craftsmen and performers, creating one of Tuscany's most fascinating historical reenactments.
Highlights include the Mercenaries' Palio and the Archers' Palio. Feast of Saint BartholomewPistoia
August 24, 2026
One of Pistoia's most cherished traditions.
The celebration is particularly associated with children and families and attracts thousands of visitors every year for its religious ceremonies and community events. Worth the Trip: The Palio of SienaDatesJuly 2, 2026
August 16, 2026
If you happen to be in Tuscany on either of these dates, the Palio of Siena is an experience not to be missed.
This world-famous horse race transforms Piazza del Campo into one of the most spectacular historical events in Italy.Where to Stay to Explore Pistoia and MontalbanoMany of the events featured in this guide are located just a short drive from Tuscanhouses properties.
Some of our most convenient villas and holiday homes for exploring the area include:
Villa Alessandra
Villa De FioriCasa al VentoBecause the most memorable experiences are often the ones that locals recommend.Have You Found Your Tuscan Retreat Yet?The music fades.The medieval banners are folded away.The village squares slowly return to their peaceful rhythm.But the memories of these summer celebrations stay with you forever.Discover our carefully selected villas and holiday homes near Pistoia and experience Tuscany beyond the guidebooks.For updated recommendations and local tips during your stay, feel free to contact our team.Many of the events featured in this guide are known mainly by locals, and we are always happy to share our favourite recommendations.Explore Tuscanhouses PropertiesYour next Tuscan story could begin right here.
Music festivals, medieval celebrations, local traditions and unforgettable summer events in the heart of Tuscany
If you are spending your holiday in the area between Pistoia, Lamporecchio, Vinci, Serravalle Pistoiese and the rolling hills of Montalbano, summer offers far more than beautiful landscapes and charming villages.
From international music festivals and medieval reenactments to local food celebrations and wine events, this corner of Tuscany hosts some of the region's most fascinating summer experiences.
To discover why local festivals play such an important role in Tuscan culture, we also recommend reading our complete guide:
Tuscany Village Festivals 2026: The Tuscanhouses Guide to Experiencing Tuscany Like a LocalJune 2026Cerbaia in Festa
Cerbaia, Lamporecchio
June 11 – 21, 2026
One of the most popular community festivals in the Montalbano area.
Each evening features live music, theatre performances, dancing and traditional Tuscan dishes. Visitors can enjoy local specialties such as tripe, wild boar stew, cacciucco fish soup and many other regional recipes.
A wonderful opportunity to experience authentic village life.Bavarian Festival of PorcianoPorciano, Lamporecchio
June 19 – 21, 2026
A unique blend of Tuscany and Bavaria.
Expect beer, music, dumplings, roasted pork knuckle and lively summer evenings in the beautiful countryside near Lamporecchio.
One of the most original events of the season.Tuscan DOP Bread FestivalBorgo a Buggiano
June 11 – July 5, 2026
For nearly a month, the Colombai Park hosts evenings dedicated to traditional Tuscan cuisine, local products and live entertainment.
Grilled meats, local bread, music and outdoor dining create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages.July 2026Pistoia Blues Festival
Pistoia
July 2 – 10, 2026
One of Italy's most prestigious music festivals.
For more than forty years, the Pistoia Blues Festival has welcomed internationally renowned artists and thousands of music lovers to the historic centre of Pistoia.
A must for anyone visiting Tuscany in early July.Unicorn FestivalVinci
July 10 – 12, 2026
Often described as Italy's largest fantasy festival, the Unicorn Festival transforms Vinci into a magical world of knights, elves, fantasy characters, costumes and live performances.
A fantastic event for families, fantasy enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. Jacopean CelebrationsPistoia
Throughout July 2026
The city of Pistoia dedicates the month of July to its patron saint, Saint James (San Jacopo).
Historical parades, flag throwers, religious ceremonies and traditional events fill the streets and squares, bringing centuries of local history to life.Giostra dell'OrsoPiazza del Duomo, Pistoia
July 25, 2026
The most important historical event of the Pistoia summer.
On the feast day of Saint James, the city's four historic districts compete in an exciting horse-riding tournament held in the magnificent Piazza del Duomo.
Armed with lances, riders aim at a wooden bear-shaped target known as the "Micco", the heraldic symbol of Pistoia.
An extraordinary spectacle that attracts thousands of spectators every year and offers visitors a unique glimpse into Pistoia's medieval heritage.August 2026Brigidino Festival
Lamporecchio
July 31 – August 5, 2026
Dedicated to the famous Brigidini of Lamporecchio, one of Tuscany's best-loved traditional sweets.
These delicate anise-flavoured wafers have become a symbol of the area and are enjoyed by visitors from across the region. Calici di StelleVinci
August 10, 2026
A magical evening dedicated to wine, local culture and the summer stars.
Wine tastings, special events and late openings of attractions linked to Leonardo da Vinci make this one of the most romantic nights of the Tuscan summer, making the event even more memorable. Serravalle in the Middle AgesSerravalle Pistoiese
August 17 – 19, 2026
For a few days every summer, Serravalle Pistoiese travels back in time.
The village fills with medieval merchants, knights, musicians, craftsmen and performers, creating one of Tuscany's most fascinating historical reenactments.
Highlights include the Mercenaries' Palio and the Archers' Palio. Feast of Saint BartholomewPistoia
August 24, 2026
One of Pistoia's most cherished traditions.
The celebration is particularly associated with children and families and attracts thousands of visitors every year for its religious ceremonies and community events. Worth the Trip: The Palio of SienaDatesJuly 2, 2026
August 16, 2026
If you happen to be in Tuscany on either of these dates, the Palio of Siena is an experience not to be missed.
This world-famous horse race transforms Piazza del Campo into one of the most spectacular historical events in Italy.Where to Stay to Explore Pistoia and MontalbanoMany of the events featured in this guide are located just a short drive from Tuscanhouses properties.
Some of our most convenient villas and holiday homes for exploring the area include:
Villa Alessandra
Villa De FioriCasa al VentoBecause the most memorable experiences are often the ones that locals recommend.Have You Found Your Tuscan Retreat Yet?The music fades.The medieval banners are folded away.The village squares slowly return to their peaceful rhythm.But the memories of these summer celebrations stay with you forever.Discover our carefully selected villas and holiday homes near Pistoia and experience Tuscany beyond the guidebooks.For updated recommendations and local tips during your stay, feel free to contact our team.Many of the events featured in this guide are known mainly by locals, and we are always happy to share our favourite recommendations.Explore Tuscanhouses PropertiesYour next Tuscan story could begin right here.
Pistoia Events 2026: Festivals, Traditions and Summer Experiences: Read More