La dolce vita is what the best beaches in Rome are all about. Picture the perfect afternoon—a picnic of schiacciata sandwiches supplied by the legendary All’Antico Vinaio, a backdrop of medieval seaside castles that look like their from a time immemorial, and a plush cushion in the form of a chic beach towel you just picked up from Testaccio Market. You can practically hear the slapping beach volleyballs, humming Vespas, and lapping waves. When in Rome during summer, do as the locals do and make your way to the shore.
Big city business is no match for the best beaches in Rome that range from being just a stone’s throw away, such as Ostia, to farther day trips like Sabaudia Beach, located about 90 minutes away—these shorelines are as timeless as the Eternal City itself. Here, we’ve curated a formidable mix of free beaches along with those serviced by attentive butlers, and several picks designated with a Bandiera Blu (or Blue Flag certification) issued by the Foundation for Environmental Education for meeting standards in water quality, safety, and environmental education.
Read our complete Rome travel guide here, which includes:
