This Stunning Italian Beach Town Is The Perfect Spot For A Fabulously High-End Vacation

We all need a luxurious vacation once in a while. Whether it's a luxury beach resort in St. Lucia, glamping at a luxurious cave resort, or splurging on a memorable Valentine's Day getaway with your sweetheart, a high-end vacation is the perfect opportunity to relax in a beautiful setting and treat ourselves. And Italy happens to have a stunning beach town that's known for being extravagant.

Nestled along the coastline of Tuscany, Italy, Forte dei Marmi is full of charm, relaxation, and (of course) luxury. An idyllic seaside town, it's the perfect destination for travelers seeking a perfect blend of beach time, high-end shopping, and incredible culinary experiences. From its gorgeous beaches to elegant boutiques and gourmet restaurants, Forte dei Marmi will undoubtedly be one of your most memorable travel experiences. So, when you're ready for a well-deserved vacation splurge, head to this charming town on the Italian Riviera. After all, we only live once.

The sandy beaches that stretch along the Lugarian Sea in Forte dei Marmi are the perfect spot to set up a colorful umbrella, relax with a good book, work on your tan, and, of course, take a refreshing swim in the beautiful waters. There's no shortage of beaches in Forte dei Marmi, and you can't go wrong, but we've narrowed it down to some of the most popular among reviewers on Tripadvisor.

Bagno Le Dune del Forte is one of the most popular. The beach is located within a WWF Natural Oasis (a protected territory), surrounded by lush greenery. It offers 140 umbrellas, 12 tents, and family-friendly amenities. The beach appeals to families, and it's easy to see why. "Staff are very friendly and accommodating ... the beach is very clean, as are the 2 "spoliatoi" (dressing cabins). The restaurant was decent, and the atmosphere in general is very friendly, unpretentious, and familial [sic]," wrote one reviewer on Tripadvisor. 

Bagno la Fenice is also a must-visit. It has a welcoming atmosphere and thrives particularly well in the summer; guests love it for its luxurious relaxation offerings. Bagno la Fenice takes a beach day to another level, delivering all the amenities you could ask for. These include a vast beach, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving delicious fish dishes unique to the region. Sign us up!

Some retail therapy and delicious meals are key to a luxurious vacation. And, no surprise, Forte dei Marmi has plenty of great options for both. The town offers a shopping extravaganza, a paradise for fashionistas who love luxury brands.

The Forte de Marmi Street Market, which is open every Wednesday morning from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Piazza Marconi, is the best place to find discounted prices on designer clothes and household items. During the summer months, it's also open on Sundays. You'll also find boutiques of luxury designers, including Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, Valentino, and Louis Vuitton. All these stores are located close together, making for a convenient shopping experience.

You're sure to build up an appetite shopping 'til you drop, and fortunately, the cuisine is just as incredible as the beaches and the shops. Forte dei Marmi is known for its fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients, which can be found in the dishes offered by the town's gourmet restaurants and trattorias. Even the delicatessens are exclusive and high-end! Forte dei Marmi is home to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, including La Magnolia, Henri Restaurant, Lunasia, and MaMe Restaurant. Are you already packing your bags and Googling flights to Forte dei Marmi? We are, too!