Viareggio City Guide

Seafood is a big deal here. There are plenty of Italian restaurants, plus a fair share of pizzerias and some international choices along the beach. You can find vegan and vegetarian meals in a handful of places, but expect lots of local, traditional fare.

Nightlife is busy in the summer, with beach bars and clubs along the promenade. It's quieter in the off-season.

People love espresso and the café scene is central to local life. Most coffee is served at the bar, fast and strong. A few places serve specialty coffee, but simple Italian style is the norm.

A service charge is often included at restaurants as ‘coperto.’ Tipping is not required, but small change is appreciated for good service or in taxis.

You can buy SIM cards from TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, or Iliad shops in town or at airports. Bring ID for registration. Coverage is good.

The city is kept clean, especially near tourist spots and beaches. Litter is rare, but occasionally there are crowds.

Some 24-hour minimarts and rotating nightshift pharmacies exist, but most shops and restaurants close at night. Late food is easier to find in summer.

Coop, Conad, and Esselunga are the main supermarkets. There are also fresh markets for produce, fish, and meat. International products are available, but less variety than in big cities.

Cards are accepted at most places, but some small shops and markets still prefer cash.

ATMs are easy to find around the city and along the main shopping streets. Some ATMs may charge fees, so check with your bank first.

There are Italian public and private schools in Viareggio, with most classes in Italian. For international schools, options are limited nearby.

Viareggio is not a big hub for digital nomads. The scene is small and informal, with few organized meetups.

Large pine forests, small parks, and tree-lined beaches provide lots of shade and space to relax or exercise.

The promenade and pine parks are good for running. Air is fresh by the sea.

There are several gyms and fitness clubs. Most offer day passes or short-term memberships.

There are several tennis clubs in the city and nearby. Courts can be booked by visitors.

Padel clubs have opened up recently in Viareggio and around Versilia. Booking is often needed.

Several yoga studios and gyms offer classes, and drop-in sessions are usually available.

You can find classes in judo, karate, or boxing. Some gyms offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or MMA. CrossFit is also available. English-speaking instruction may vary.

Skiing is not available in town. The nearest slopes are in Abetone, 1.5–2 hours away.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are common on the coast. Rentals are offered on the main beach.

Surfing is possible in autumn and winter, when the waves are bigger. Surf schools rent boards and offer lessons.

Diving is possible, but the area is better for beach time than for top dive sites. Some schools and tours are available.

Ospedale Versilia is the closest main hospital. English is spoken by some staff, especially at reception and in larger clinics. Pharmacies with green crosses are found throughout town.

Tap water is safe to drink all over town.

Families are welcome in Viareggio. There are playgrounds, parks, and the beach is very easy to access. Most restaurants are kid-friendly.

Viareggio is accepting, and nearby Torre del Lago has popular LGBTQ+ events and bars. Open attitudes are common, especially in summer.

Many places in Viareggio welcome pets, especially on the seafront and in parks. Beaches may have some restrictions for dogs during peak season.