A day at the beach can be just what the doctor ordered to cure ailments like sluggishness, boredom and even a pale complexion. Fortunately, Italy is not lacking in beaches, you just have to know where to look. An easy way to start is to pick a sea; Italy is bordered on the left side by the Tyrrhenian and Ligurian Seas. The right side offers the Adriatic and Ionic Seas and of course the Mediterranean Sea surrounding Sicily and Sardegna.

Now that you know some geography it’s only a matter of finding the right mode of transportation and you’ll be staking out your spot in the sun in no time.
A popular choice for residents in Florence is Viareggio, a beach on the Tyrrhenian Sea that can be reached by train for less than 15 euros. Although it takes a couple hours to get there, it is an easy walk to the beach upon arrival. The tricky thing is to find a spot, since reserved portions of the beach are abundant and even more recognizable when someone comes to kick you off. Walk further down past these sections to the public beach to enjoy the cool water and sun.
Anyone planning to make this trip should be aware that there are pesky vendors combing the beach selling the usual spread of sunglasses and fake purses, a problem that is easily deterred by bringing headphones to drown out their offers. There is also a strip of stores parallel to the beach that will satisfy any food cravings you have.
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