Viareggio is one of the most visited coastal resorts in Tuscany with its ideal climate, secluded pine tree forest and collection of colourful houses of Liberty design.
Make the most of the hot summers by sunbathing on the beach before taking a cool dip in the Mediterranean Sea. Take a break from the sun and sea to amble through the historic halls of Villa Paolina, designed for Napoleon’s sister. Explore the civic museums and modern art gallery.
Nearby, you will find Piazza Shelley, the fascinating plaza dedicated to the English poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, who lost his life in a shipwreck in the vicinity. Take a look at the statue, made by Italian artist Urbano Lucchesi, of the Romantic-era poet in the middle of the square.
Down the road you will find La Passeggiata di Viareggio, which is the city’s main promenade. Its name evokes the Italian tradition of taking leisurely strolls with your family. Join the locals for a walk down the picturesque avenue on a warm summer’s day. Sip an Italian espresso or try specialties like pizza and pasta. Relax in the shade and contemplate like Giacomo Puccini would do before composing operas.
Make sure to see the city’s comical icon, the Statue of Burlamacco. The large clown is a symbol of the Carnival of Viareggio, which has taken place annually since 1873. Large crowds from across the globe are attracted to the flamboyant annual spectacle of street parades and cabaret in February.
If you need a change of scenery, enter the Pineta Viareggio, the town’s pine forest. The Western Forest, where you can take pony-drawn carriage rides, is nearer the centre of town. Explore historic mansion Villa Borbone on the outskirts of the Eastern Forest, 12 kilometres (7 miles) from town.
Viareggio is just 22 kilometres (14 miles) from Pisa, where the nearest international airport can be found. By car, you may want to take a short drive to the Torre del Lago, where Puccini is buried. Make sure to see the open-air theatre performances at Festival Puccini if you visit in the summer.
