Italian vacationers voice discontent over expensive beach lounger rentals, with a study revealing cheaper alternatives in certain locations
Italy, known for its stunning coastline and picturesque beaches, is a popular summer destination for tourists. However, beach chair prices can be steep, especially in the more touristy areas. A recent survey by Altroconsumo shows a trend of less popular beaches in southern Italy being cheaper than in the north.
In the north, the cities of Milan, Bolzano, and Monza and Brianza top the list for the highest disposable income, with an average of €34,995, €31,160, and €29,452 respectively. Conversely, families in Southern Italy, such as those in Agrigento in Sicily and the province of Caserta in Campania, have significantly less disposable income, at €14,802 and €14,683 respectively. This income disparity is reflected in the cost of beach chairs, with Alassio in Liguria being the most expensive beach resort in Italy, with an average weekly price of 340 euros for a beach chair.
However, there are affordable options for beachgoers. Rimini on the Adriatic coast offers a relatively affordable beach visit, with a price of €21.43 for a lounger. Calabria and Basilicata, regions where locals have little money, offer the cheapest beach chair prices nationwide, with an average daily price of €21.50. Lignano Sabbiadoro in Friuli, near the border with Veneto, is also affordable at €22 per day for a beach lounger.
For those seeking affordable accommodation with private and accessible beaches, the following resorts are noted for good affordability and beach access:
- Hotel & Residence Il Teatro in Italy ranks #1 in best value cheap beach hotels, praised for its private beach and included beach towels.
- Hotel Pupetto is recognized as the #1 best value among Italy beach resorts and features direct beach access.
- Cala Sinzias Resort is noted for its immaculate presentation and stunning beaches with direct access, suitable for budget-conscious travelers.
- Orchidea Blu Hotel offers very good service and is close to the beach, often with all-inclusive options that usually cover beach chair usage.
Luxury resorts like Verdura Resort and La Posta Vecchia Hotel provide upscale beach facilities but at significantly higher prices and thus are not among the most affordable. Explicit prices for beach chairs are typically not disclosed in these listings, but resorts with private beaches and all-inclusive deals often include beach chair usage in their rates, making them more affordable overall for beachgoers.
In summary, for affordable beach chair prices in 2025, focus on Hotel & Residence Il Teatro, Hotel Pupetto, Cala Sinzias Resort, and Orchidea Blu Hotel, as these combine good value accommodation with private and accessible beaches. For exact beach chair prices, it is recommended to check each resort’s booking details or contact them directly, since chair rentals can vary by location and season.
[1] Source: Hotel & Residence Il Teatro [2] Source: Hotel Pupetto [3] Source: Cala Sinzias Resort [4] Source: Orchidea Blu Hotel
In the affordable home-and-garden category, Rimini on the Adriatic coast offers a relaxing spot with relatively affordable loungers, while Calabria and Basilicata, regions with lower disposable income, offer the cheapest beach chair prices nationwide.
For travelers seeking an affordable beach experience in Italy, Hotel & Residence Il Teatro, Hotel Pupetto, Cala Sinzias Resort, and Orchidea Blu Hotel are recommended as they provide good value accommodation with private and accessible beaches.
