Italy in blue: from major tourist destinations to coastal villages, quality tourism is growing.
The Belpaese confirms, even in 2026, among the most virtuous beach destinations in Europe, thanks to the recognition of the Blue Flags, the prestigious award given by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) to coastal and lakeside locations that stand out for water quality, environmental management, and tourist services.
An increasingly important indication for travelers, who each year choose their summer vacations also based on this quality mark, synonymous with clean sea, hospitality, and sustainability.
This year, 257 Italian municipalities have been awarded, for a total of 525 beaches and 87 recognized tourist ports. A growing result compared to the previous year, confirming the strengthening of sustainable beach tourism in our country.
The recognition highlights not only environmental quality but also the ability of destinations to offer efficient services and careful management of the territory, increasingly central in national and local tourism strategies.
Leading the ranking remains Liguria, with 35 awarded locations, followed by Puglia and Calabria, both at 27. Immediately after are historically strong regions in beach tourism such as Campania, Marche, and Tuscany, all with 20 recognitions.
A picture that highlights not only the most established destinations but also the growth of emerging territories in the Italian tourism landscape.
This year's edition records 14 new entries and 3 exits. Among the new entries stand out locations very different from each other, confirming the variety of the Italian coastal heritage: from Rimini to Lipari, up to Monte Argentario, along with new entries in Calabria, Puglia, Sardinia, and Liguria. A sign that tells of an Italy increasingly widespread and competitive in the field of beach tourism.
The Blue Flags are not just an award, but also a real guide for travelers. More and more tourists, both Italian and foreign, use this recognition as a criterion for choosing their summer destinations.
The reason is simple: awarded locations must meet strict standards regarding water quality, waste management, safety, services, and environmental sustainability.
The value of the Blue Flags today goes beyond the environmental dimension. It represents a model of tourism development based on balance, planning, and attention to the territory.
In a context where tourism is increasingly linked to themes such as sustainability, accessibility, and quality of experience, this recognition becomes a key indicator for understanding the future directions of the sector.
