Are you ready to embark on a vacation that will leave your family with unforgettable memories? Look no further than Italy, where rich history, stunning coastline, and vibrant culture await. As the summer months approach, we’re excited to share our latest ranking from Evvai.com, an online travel operator, which has considered the most popular Italian destinations for family-friendly beach villages.
Puglia: The Southern Beauty
Located in the heel of Italy, Puglia is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its extensive Mediterranean coastline, white hilltop towns, and historic countryside, it’s an ideal destination for families seeking a relaxing yet adventurous vacation. Within Puglia, three top areas worth exploring are Salento, Gargano, and Valle d’Itria – all excellent choices for family-friendly beach villages.
Salento: The Southern Charm
Salento is the southernmost part of Puglia, bordered by both the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea. The beaches are pristine, with crystal-clear water that’s perfect for swimming. You can also take a leisurely stroll through olive groves, immerse yourself in local festivals and traditions, and explore historic sites like Gallipoli and Otranto.
- How to get to Salento: Fly into Brindisi Papola Casale airport, then rent a car and drive to the popular destinations in about an hour or less. For example, Santa Maria di Leuca is just over 2 hours away by car.
- What to do in Salento:
- Enjoy the beautiful beaches with white sand and crystal-clear water.
- Try traditional Pugliese cuisine, such as seafood dishes and pasta alla norma.
- Explore the historic center of Gallipoli, with its famous fish market and colorful streets.
- Take a hike through the stunning natural park of Porto Selvaggio.
Gargano: The Natural Wonder
Another great idea for finding a family-friendly beach village is the Gargano region. It includes the famous promontory, beautiful litoral landscapes, and the National Park and Forest Umbra. The combination of sand and rocks makes this place even more breathtaking. Some must-visit towns are Rodi Garganico, Peschici, Vieste, Mattinata, and Apricena.
- How to get to Gargano: Fly into Bari or Naples airport, then drive to the top destinations in about 2-3 hours.
- What to do in Gargano:
- Explore the historic center of Rodi Garganico.
- Visit the beautiful beaches of Ponente and Levante in Rodi Garganico.
- Enjoy water sports at Peschici.
- Hike through the stunning natural park of Pollino National Park.
Valle d’Itria: The Trulli Treasure
The Valley d’Itria is another highly-regarded destination for family-friendly beach villages. It’s known as the “Valley of Trullis” due to its characteristic white limestone structures. Alberobello, Castellana Grotte, Carovigno, Locorotondo, and Cisternino are just a few of the many charming towns in this region.
- How to get to Valle d’Itria: Fly into Bari or Brindisi airport, then drive to the Valley d’Itria in about an hour.
- What to do in Valle d’Itria:
- Visit Alberobello and explore its famous trulli.
- Try traditional Apulian cuisine at Cisternino.
- Explore the historic center of Ostuni, known as “La Città Bianca”.
- Hike through the stunning natural park of Castellana Grotte.
Calabria: The Hidden Gem
The southernmost region in Italy is also a must-see destination for beach lovers. With its beautiful Mediterranean coastline and white sand beaches, Calabria has plenty to offer. From Soverato to Cirò, there are many charming towns along the coast that are perfect for families.
Calabria Ionica: The Coastal Treasure
Sicily’s neighbor to the south, Calabria Ionica is a region with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque coastal towns. Some must-visit destinations include Soverato, Capo Rizzuto, Marina di Cariati, Sibari, and Cirò.
- How to get to Calabria Ionica: Fly into Lamezia Terme airport, then drive to the top destinations in about an hour or less.
- What to do in Calabria Ionica:
- Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Soverato.
- Visit the historic center of Capo Rizzuto.
- Explore the charming town of Marina di Cariati.
- Hike through the stunning natural park of Pollino National Park.
Calabria Tirrenica: The Southern Charm
Calabria Tirrenica is another great destination for beach lovers, with its beautiful coastline and stunning beaches. Some must-visit destinations include Tropea, Praia a Mare, Pizzo Calabro, and Capo Vaticano.
- How to get to Calabria Tirrenica: Fly into Lamezia Terme airport, then drive to the top destinations in about an hour or less.
- What to do in Calabria Tirrenica:
- Visit the historic center of Tropea.
- Enjoy water sports at Praia a Mare.
- Explore the charming town of Pizzo Calabro.
- Hike through the stunning natural park of Pollino National Park.
Sicilia: The Island Paradise
The southernmost region of Italy is also a must-see destination for beach lovers. With its beautiful Mediterranean coastline and stunning beaches, Sicily has plenty to offer. From Palermo to Catania, there are many charming towns along the coast that are perfect for families.
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Sicilia Occidentale: The Western Wonder
Palermo, Agrigento, Mazara del Vallo, Sciacca, and Selinunte are just a few of the many charming towns in this region. Some must-visit attractions include the historic center of Palermo, the Duomo, Monreale Cathedral, and the bustling fish market.
- How to get to Sicilia Occidentale: Fly into Palermo airport, then drive to the top destinations in about an hour or less.
- What to do in Sicilia Occidentale:
- Explore the historic center of Palermo.
- Visit the Duomo.
- See Monreale Cathedral.
- Try traditional Sicilian cuisine at Sciacca.
Sicilia Orientale: The Eastern Gem
Catania is a must-visit destination for any traveler, with its stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife. Some other must-see attractions include Ragusa, Taormina, and Kamarina.
- How to get to Sicilia Orientale: Fly into Catania airport, then drive to the top destinations in about an hour or less.
- What to do in Sicilia Orientale:
- Explore the historic center of Catania.
- Visit the stunning Etna volcano.
- See Ragusa Cathedral and explore its historic center.
- Hike through the beautiful natural landscapes around Taormina.
Sardegna: The Island Delight
The island of Sardinia is a must-see destination for beach lovers. With its stunning Mediterranean coastline, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque coastal towns, Sardinia has plenty to offer. Olbia and the Costa Smeralda are just a few of the many charming towns along the coast that are perfect for families.
Olbia: The Northern Charm
From Budoni to Golfo degli Aranci, from Orosei to San Teodoro, passing through Cala Gonone and other nearby towns, finding a family-friendly beach village in this area is easier than ever. In addition to nuraghi, you’ll also find beautiful beaches like those in Olbia.
- How to get to Olbia: Fly into Olbia Costa Smeralda airport, then drive to the top destinations in about an hour or less.
- What to do in Olbia:
- Explore the historic center of Olbia.
- Visit the Basilica di San Semplicio.
- Enjoy water sports on the beach.
- Hike through the stunning natural park of the Costa Smeralda.
Costa Smeralda: The Luxury Destination
The most popular destination for luxury travelers, the Costa Smeralda is also a great choice for families. With its beautiful beaches, picturesque towns, and stunning natural landscapes, this area has something for everyone. Some must-visit attractions include La Maddalena, Porto Rotondo, Santa Teresa di Gallura, Arzachena, and Baia Sardinia.
- How to get to Costa Smeralda: Fly into Olbia Costa Smeralda airport, then drive to the top destinations in about an hour or less.
- What to do in Costa Smeralda:
- Explore the stunning beaches of Capriccioli and Piccolo Pevero.
- Visit the charming town of Porto Rotondo.
- Enjoy water sports on the beach.
- Hike through the beautiful natural landscapes around Arzachena.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Italy has something for everyone. With its rich history, stunning coastline, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder why Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Tips and Recommendations
- Research, research, research: Before booking your trip, research the various regions and destinations to ensure you find the best fit for your family.
- Plan ahead: Book your accommodations and activities well in advance to avoid peak season crowds and high prices.
- Be flexible: Be prepared for changes in the weather or unexpected events that may impact your plans.
- Don’t forget the locals: Take the time to learn about the local culture and traditions, and don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations.
We hope this guide has helped you discover the hidden gems of Italy’s family-friendly beach villages. Buon viaggio!
Additional Tips
- Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) when prices are lower and crowds are smaller.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to try local seafood, which is often served fresh and deliciously prepared.
- Take a boat tour of the coast to explore hidden coves and secluded beaches.
- Learn some basic Italian phrases to help you communicate with locals and enhance your overall experience.
- Pack comfortable shoes and clothing for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for protection from the sun.
Conclusion
Italy is a country that offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences. With its stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder why Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. By following this guide and taking some additional tips into consideration, you’ll be well on your way to creating unforgettable memories with your family in Italy’s hidden gems of beach villages. Buon viaggio!
