Things To Do
in Follonica
Follonica is a sun-soaked coastal town in southern Tuscany on the Tyrrhenian Sea. It blends a long sandy beach with a lively marina and a compact historic center. The town serves as a gateway to the Maremma coast, offering seafood-focused dining, family-friendly beaches, and easy access to nature preserves.
In summer it buzzes with markets, outdoor concerts, and water sports, while off-season reveals a slower pace and timeless Tuscan charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Follonica and check into your charming seaside accommodation. Take a leisurely walk along the pristine beaches, soaking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean. Enjoy a delicious Italian breakfast at a local café to kickstart your adventure.
Explore the town's vibrant shops and boutiques, picking up unique souvenirs and local crafts. Visit the historic Church of San Martino and learn about the rich heritage of Follonica. Relish a leisurely lunch at a beachfront trattoria, sampling fresh seafood and authentic pasta dishes.
Stroll along the promenade as the sun sets over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Find a cozy restaurant to indulge in a romantic dinner, complete with traditional Tuscan wine. Wrap up your evening with a gelato, savoring the sweet taste while enjoying the evening sea breeze.
After breakfast, visit the Piombino Fortress for a glimpse into the past and panoramic views of the coastline. Catch a ferry to the nearby island of Elba, famous for its natural beauty and historical significance. Explore the charming town of Portoferraio, dotted with colorful buildings and quaint cafes.
Dine at a local eatery, sampling Elba's specialty dishes, and then spend time at the beaches like Capo Bianco, known for its crystal-clear waters. Engage in some water activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding to soak up the sun and enjoy the stunning landscapes. Return to Follonica and unwind at your accommodation.
Choose a bustling piazza to enjoy an aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink that channels the local spirit. Experience live music or street performances in the evening, immersing yourself in the energetic atmosphere of the town. Conclude the night with dessert at a patisserie, delighting in local pastries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $4-6 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a bar | $4-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
| 🚇Taxi ride (short trip) | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and beaches
- Relaxed Tuscan atmosphere
- Good value relative to northern Tuscany
- Compact town center with easy navigation
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds in peak summer
- Some services may have shorter hours in off-season
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Dove si trova..." - Where is...
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Posso avere il conto?" - Can I have the bill?
Places to Visit in Follonica
Visit one of these nice places.
Long seaside promenade with morning light on the water and colorful boats.
Historic square with the cathedral, fountain, and lively street life—great for golden-hour shots.
Harbor at sunset, with moored boats and reflections.
Hidden cove within Scarlino area; forest trail leads to a pristine beach, ideal for nature photography.
Food in Follonica
Follonica Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty seafood stew with fish, shrimp, mussels, tomatoes, garlic, and chili, typically served with grilled bread.
Must-Try!
A rustic vegetable soup enhanced with olive oil and sometimes poached eggs, reflecting the Maremma countryside.
Baked or grilled local fish (branzino, orata) with lemon, herbs, and olive oil.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market where you can buy fresh seafood, produce, bread, and regional specialties.
Casual seaside spots offering grilled fish sandwiches and fried seafood to go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite buongiorno/buonasera is customary; address people with formal titles in shops.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; shoulders and knees covered.
Phones should be kept discreet in public spaces and during meals; dining is a social, unhurried activity.
Safety
Tipping in Follonica
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are not mandatory; rounding up the bill or small tips (1–2 EUR) for good service are appreciated.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is still common; contactless payments preferred. ATMs available around the town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days (often 28-34°C); peak beach season; expect crowds, long sunsets, and vibrant outdoor events.
Milder temperatures; sea still warm for swimming early autumn; fewer crowds; great for coastal hikes.
Mild to cool; occasional rain; shops and restaurants may have shorter hours; serene seafront views.
Gentle temperatures; blooming landscapes; good for walking trails and markets reopening.
Follonica at Night
Hiking in Follonica
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest path leading to the secluded Cala Violina beach with soft sands and clear water.
Coastal dunes and pine forests with flat, scenic routes suitable for all levels.
Airports
How to reach Follonica by plane.
Major gateway for international and domestic flights; about 100-150 km from Follonica, accessible by road and rail.
Another option with domestic and international flights; roughly 170-190 km away.
Possible for some international connections; longer transfer to Follonica but feasible with rail or car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local families and retirees form the core year-round population; a steady stream of workers in services and fishing.
Seasonal visitors peak in summer, drawn to beaches and nearby nature reserves.
Some Italian and international residents own holiday homes here, especially near the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular along the coastal winds; local clubs offer courses and rentals.
Beach facilities host friendly games on summer weekends.
Both road and mountain biking near the coast and into inland Tuscan countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Follonica.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetarian dishes like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and grilled vegetables; inform staff for fish-free options and cheese.