By law, Italian beaches are public land, but that doesn't necessarily mean people can freely access them. The government has long given over the management of much of its 5,000-mile coastline to businesses that plant umbrellas and chairs in the sand almost up to the water and charge beachgoers to use them.
Most of the beaches are not free but are divided into private beach areas called stabilimenti that can be used for a day fee. Your fee usually gets you a clean beach, a dressing room where you can leave your things, an outdoor shower for rinsing off, a good swimming area, toilets, and a bar and sometimes a restaurant.
Marina Grande Beach – AmalfiIt's a pebble beach divided into three sections, of which the middle one is run by a beach club, and the two ends are free. If you're after sunbeds and umbrellas, you'll have to access the paid area.
As beaches go the Amalfi Coast has a lot of them, and most are very safe to use, as well as being beautiful. If you're still not sure, then look out for blue flags. Beaches which have been designated a blue flag mean they are exceptionally clean.
Situated in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea in Southern Europe, Italy is a place where one visit is not enough. You will come back for sure. One of the top 10 most beautiful countries in the world, Italy is home to many striking destinations, such as Venice, Rome, Milan, and Florence.
Where is the friendliest city in the world? Polignano a Mare has been voted the most welcoming tourist destination in the world by Booking's Traveller Review Award. The coastal city in the southern region of Puglia has long been a favorite summer vacation spot.
Is Italy cheap or expensive? Italy is generally considered to be an expensive destination for travelers. Bigger cities, such as Rome and Milan, can be especially costly in comparison to other areas of Europe. Staying in budget hotels can be costly, with nightly rates often starting at €60 or more.
Wild camping is generally prohibited in Italy. However, the implementation of this regulation in detail is the responsibility of the councils, which does not make it any easier. As a general rule, however, you should remember that in areas with good tourist connections and on beaches, great attention is paid to this.
Italy has more (easily accessible) history, a richer range of cuisine, better cooking and food tours, and more sightseeing opportunities. Greece has better beaches, a more relaxing atmosphere (especially on the islands), and cheaper food and hotels. Top Tip: To see both Greece and Italy you need 2 weeks minimum.
Best for Beaches: GreeceThis is a tough one, but when it comes to beaches, Greece has a much greater variety of sandy beaches. With hundreds of islands to choose from, it's hard to deny the classic white sandy shores and epic beach view points like on Zakynthos or trendy beach clubs of Mykonos or Paros.
Italy vs Spain: CostSpain is a bit cheaper than Italy when it comes to accommodation and food. Overall both countries make affordable holiday destinations, allowing you to see many of the highlights Europe has to offer.
Certain parts are Spain are undeniably hotter than Italy during the summer making it very uncomfortable to visit during the day. It was over 47 C (116 F) in Seville in June last year! Italy, especially the northern region of the country has harsh cold winters and good hiking and skiing opportunities.
On the south coast of Sardinia, not far from Cagliari, Chia Beach is regarded by many as the best beach in Italy. Backed by sand dunes and juniper trees, the beach is sheltered from wind and popular with locals and surfers alike. The waters here are an incredible shade of turquoise and the sand is golden.