6 top beaches in Italy
White, loose sand, turquoise-blue, clear water and a dream backdrop: get inspired!
Cala Goloritzè: Best beach in the world in Sardinia
Once you've been to Sardinia, you'll understand why the beaches on the Mediterranean island are often compared to those in the Caribbean. One in particular stands out: Cala Goloritzè, a beautiful bay on the east coast of the island.
This beautiful beach in Italy is known for its white pebble beach, picturesque limestone surroundings and crystal-clear water. In 2025, Cala Goloritzè even made it to number one in the "World's 50 Best Beaches 2025" ranking.
Interesting fact: The bay can only be reached on foot or by boat and daily access to this nature reserve is restricted.
Spiaggia dei Conigli: Beauty on Lampedusa
The finest white sand awaits you at the Spiaggia dei Conigli, the rabbit beach. The small bay is hardly developed for tourism as it can only be reached by boat or on foot. Pure idyll awaits you on the small island of Lampedusa between Malta and Tunisia. The aquamarine-colored water slopes gently and the backdrop for sunbathing is beautiful.
Interesting fact: The Spiaggia dei Conigli came 11th in the ranking of the world's most beautiful beaches in the "Travelers' Choice Awards 2025".
Capo Vaticano in Calabria: Family-friendly dream beach
In the region of Calabria, at the tip of Italy's boot, you will find some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. For example, you should visit the Capo Vaticano stretch of beach: There, steep rocky slopes tower over crystal-clear sea water, while the white sand glows in the sun.
The region's beaches are particularly recommended for families. They are equipped with sun loungers, parasols and the necessary infrastructure.
Interesting fact: Many beach hotels in Italy are upscale - some of these hotels are part of the American Express hotel programs - where Platinum Card holders can enjoy numerous extras.
Spiaggia di Pizzomunno: Puglia's most beautiful beach
In Apulia on Italy's east coast, near the town of Gargano, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy: at the Spiaggia di Pizzomunno, a chalk cliff around 25 meters high rises up. According to legend, the monolith is a young man who was turned to stone by jealous sirens because of his love for a girl.
Apart from this special feature, you will find a fine sandy, gently sloping beach, family-friendly and beautifully situated. The old town of Vieste is located on the surrounding cliff.
Interesting fact: Dogs and other pets are allowed at the Spiaggia di Pizzomunno.
Spiaggia San Fruttuoso: insider tip in Liguria
The Spiaggia San Fruttoso near Portofino in the northern Italian region of Liguria is characterized neither by its white sandy beach nor by its spaciousness - but above all by the overall picture, which looks like a painting.
Surrounded by a medieval Benedictine monastery, a picturesque hilly landscape and dense vegetation, the small bay with its crystal-clear, turquoise waters looks like something out of paradise. The tiny bay can only be reached on foot or by boat - a secret beach tip.
Interesting fact: The water at Spiaggia San Fruttuoso is perfect for diving. There are a few diving schools where you can take lessons or hire equipment.
San Vito Lo Capo: The Caribbean of Sicily
There are inviting beaches on almost every coast of Sicily, but San Vito Lo Capo in the far north-west of the island stands out: this beautiful Italian beach will transport you to the Caribbean. You'll see a glistening white, expansive sandy beach, bright blue sea, palm-fringed vegetation and imposing mountains in the background.
Sometimes the surf on the beach even shimmers slightly pink, colored by the many coral fragments. And there are plenty of water sports on offer at San Vito Lo Capo.
Must-do: Also visit the neighboring village with its small white houses and excellent restaurants.
Italy's beaches: perfect places for sunbathing
If you want to spend your vacation on the beach, Italy is the perfect destination. You are guaranteed sun from May to October and will find the finest beaches of all kinds in almost every coastal region of the country. Sardinia probably has the largest number of dreamy stretches of coastline, but the mainland is also blessed with numerous small bays and extensive sandy and pebble beaches.
You will also find beautiful stretches of beach on the lakes in the north of Italy. These areas are also scenic, such as the villages around Lake Como.
And another tip: If you are traveling to Italy with the rental car , remember your Platinum Card, which gives you attractive benefits such as special conditions and vehicle upgrades at the car rental company SIXT, for example, and preferential treatment.
Frequently asked questions and answers
It's a matter of taste, but Cala Goloritzè, a beautiful bay on the east coast of Sardinia, was named the most beautiful beach in the world in 2025.
Italy has beautiful sandy beaches on almost all stretches of coastline. Especially on islands such as Sardinia, Sicily and Lampedusa you will find fantastic beaches.
Yes, the Italian Riviera is located around Genoa, where there are some beautiful stretches of beach. And you will also find bathing spots with small beaches on Lake Garda.
