Viareggio Yacht Charter, Italian Riviera

Home to some of Italy's greatest luxury yacht builders, Viareggio is a spectacular cultural destination famed for its city-wide Carnevale, yet often overlooked by the majority of tourists because of more famous Italian Riviera destinations such as the Cinque Terre UNESCO World Heritage Site or the Tuscan Archipelago farther south. See it all on your own week-long luxury yacht charter as you cruise to the best natural and man-made attractions Tuscany and the Italian Riviera have to offer.

Viareggio will appeal to all ages and a range of interests: Shoppers have high-end galleries and jewellers to choose from as well as a great selection of locally made perfumes, chocolates and souvenirs.

The hours will slip by in the galleries, museums and historic villas before an evening partying in the local bars or back on board your impressive motor yacht or sailing yacht.

For water sports, it's possible to find a quiet beach away from the city for paying on the jet skis and towable toys without distractions, and snorkelers and Scuba divers have a good selection of rocky lagoons and islands to swim with the region's marine life.

When you want some peace and quiet all to yourselves, your Captain can simply sail away to a quiet cove for sunbathing and alfresco dining in complete privacy.

Five quick reasons to visit Viareggio

Famous annual carnival, Scenic coasts, Cultural hotspot, Large choice of vineyards, Authentic Italian lifestyle

More about this part of Italy

Viareggio is situated in an excellent position in the northern part of scenic Tuscany and in the southern part of the Italian Riviera, which is home to the Cinque Terre UNESCO World Heritage site as well as Forte Dei Marmi, the Italian equivalent of Monaco. Elba and the rest of the Tuscan archipelago is just a short cruise away, as are the marvellous beaches of Corsica for when you want to escape the crowds completely.

This region could easily be included into a week-long Western Mediterranean luxury charter or extended to two weeks or more, taking in the sights of the French Riviera, Italian Riviera, Corsica and even Sardinia.

Viareggio yacht Charter Experiences

Holidaymakers visiting Viareggio are never at a loss for a beach as the coastline is one sweeping sandy curve all the way from Carrara in the north to Livorno in the south.

As might be expected of a city with so many prestigious luxury yacht builders, there is a museum (Museo della Marineria) dedicated to the equipment used by 'Palombari' and has displays for such names as Benetti, Perini Navi, Sanlorenzo and many more.

Across the river, Torre Matilde is one of Viareggio's most ancient structures and dates back to medieval times. Another excellent attraction is the Museo Carnevale Viareggio, which well worth a visit for family groups and those interested in the artistry of this annual event.

Recently restored Villa Argentina is more than 160 years old and features frescoes in the Art Noveau style as well as temporary photography exhibitions, so even if you have visited with a different group years ago, there is always something new to see.

Villa Borbone and chapel close to the beach borders the forest park beside the beach and is the location of concerts throughout the summer months. Spend a peaceful morning wandering the grounds before lunch and games on the beach.

In between shopping and waiting for happy hour, go on a wander through Sentiero della Lecciona, a forest park where it's possible to spot wild pigs living in the forest and there are many trails for hiking or biking. Alternatively, join in the Italian tradition of la passeggiata, an evening stroll through the pedestrianised city streets where you might pick up a gelato, glass of wine or a dinner en route.

Whether you fancy the finest dining in the land or indulgent chocolates, coffee and gelato, the city is a treat for the taste buds and you're sure to leave for home with a couple new recipes. Travel north to Carrara to sample the region's finest red and white wines with your lunch or dinner, and you can purchase some of your favourites to accompany you on the rest of your cruise.

After sunset, there is an abundance of choice in town or along the seafront for intimate drinks and dining, including bard such as Bagno Roma and Bagno Milano, and Michelin-quality restaurants Il Piccolo Principe and Romano ready to make a special occasion truly unforgettable.

Things to Consider:

Yachting Seasons & Climate

The summer average climbs from a comfortable high of 22°C/72°F in May to a peak of 30°C/86°F in August. The warm summer weather stay right through September and into October, when the change of rainfall steadily increases with the approach of the winter months.

However, the coastal location in the heart of the Mediterranean produces relatively cloudless days and chance of rainfall throughout the year is low when compared with many other Western Mediterranean destinations.

The sea temperature warms up from May to reach a comfortable average of 25°C/77°F - perfect for tempting younger family members into the sea and for beginner Scuba divers.

Clothing to Pack For Your Charter

Few layers are required for the warm summer months, however smart-casual dress is worn in town, and when visiting religious sites shoulders and thighs should be covered to below the knee for men, women and children.

A warmer outer layer is always recommended for cooler evenings, blustery days and air conditioned interiors, and in winter a coat and umbrella are recommended.

Main Ports and Marinas

Viareggio Port, Marina di Torre del Lago Puccini, Marina di Pisa, Livorno Port, Marina di Pietrasanta, Forte dei Marmi

Famous Restaurants & Clubs

Il Piccolo Principe restaurant, Romano restaurant, La Magnolia restaurant (Forte dei Marmi), Lux Lucis restaurant (Forte dei Marmi), Bagno Roma, Bagno Milano

A Must See Attraction

Cittadella del Carnevale, Museo Carnevale Viareggio, Museo della Marineria, Villa Argentina, Villa Borbone

Best beaches to visit in your yacht

Spiaggia della Zezziggiolam Spiaggia libera Le Dune, Lido di Camaiore, Spiaggia della Lecciona, Bagno Oasi Zero Marina di Vecchiano, Penisola dei Gabbiani, Spiaggia Il Paguro

Local Yacht Events

Viareggio Classic Regatta, The Cetaceans’ Regatta

Best time to go

The summer months are the best time to visit, when services are fully operational and the weather is at its best. However if visitors want to avoid the crowds and visit some of the more popular landmarks, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn will provide excellent weather conditions and emptier beaches.

Catch Carnevale on Shrove Tuesday and the parade floats on the three Sundays before and the Sunday after the event.

Further Charter Information

Yacht Rentals Available: Go here for the current list of yacht rentals in Viareggio.

Full Italy Yacht Charter Guide: Go here for the essential Italy yacht charter guide.

Italy Itineraries: Here is a selection of broker itineraries for Italy.

News: Read the latest superyacht news about Viareggio.