Forte dei Marmi

Forte dei Marmi is not just a destination—it’s a state of mind.
There’s a unique scent you’ll only find here: a mix of sea salt, sun-warmed pine needles, and the gentle breeze flowing down from the Apuan Alps.

For those who choose this area, a holiday is not just about “going to the beach”—it’s about living the place like a local, away from the crowds and close to authenticity.

We’ve reopened our blog with a guide for our guests: here’s how to experience the perfect day in Forte, from signature shopping to relaxation and excellent cuisine.

Morning: The Market Ritual (or a Walk on the Pier)

If it’s Wednesday or Sunday, start your day in Piazza Marconi. The Forte dei Marmi Market is a world-famous institution.

Forget chaotic markets: here, stroll among stalls that feel like open-air boutiques. It’s the perfect place to shop for artisanal cashmere, high-quality home linens, and Florentine leather goods.

Insider Tip: Arrive early, around 8:30 or 9:00 am, to enjoy a calm browse before the crowds arrive.

If it’s not a market day, take a walk on the Pier instead. Walking above the water with the mountains at your back is the perfect way to reconnect with nature.

Lunch: Feet in the Sand

Lunch in Forte dei Marmi is serious—but relaxed. Many beach clubs serve exceptional seafood, with the classic spaghettino allo scoglio (spaghetti with seafood) often stealing the show.

Eating a good meal, with your toes in the sand, under the shade of beach tents, is the real luxury of Versilia: slow pace, fresh food, a good glass of wine, the sea view, and the sound of the waves.

Afternoon: Shopping and Art in the Town Center

After some hotel relaxation—perhaps in our garden or the quiet of your room—late afternoon is ideal for exploring the center.

Via Roma, Via Carducci, and Piazza Garibaldi form the heart of luxury shopping. Beyond international brands, seek out historic workshops selling handcrafted wooden clogs, a true symbol of a Fortemarmina summer since the 1960s.

Art lovers, keep your eyes open: Forte hosts open-air installations and temporary exhibitions at the Fortino, the 18th-century fortress that gives the town its name.

Evening: Aperitivo and Dinner

No day at the Forte is complete without the aperitivo ritual. Whether a glass of bubbles or a cocktail, enjoy it while watching the elegant evening stroll in the town center.

Dinner options are vast: from Michelin-starred restaurants for a gourmet experience to historic trattorias in the hinterland serving local specialties.

Planning your next escape to Versilia?
At La Pineta al Mare, we welcome you with the attention to detail only a boutique hotel can offer. We’re happy to book the best restaurants and guide you to the most exclusive beaches.