La DoubleJ’s Italian summer tour continues! This time, we popped up in the secret jewel Tuscan town of Pietrasanta, just a short hop from the region’s glittering aquamarine coastline and the overly crowded (and much better known) Forte dei Marmi. Pietrasanta is a total hidden gem. Built up in moody medieval stonework and totally locked in time, it’s a haven of artists and sculptors who have come in search of the incredible marble that has been mined in nearby Carrara for centuries. It’s also an awesome day trip from the busy summer resort cities of Forte de Marmi and Viareggio, where tons of tony Milanese have their holiday homes. They’ll often drive over in the evenings to dine al fresco on the cobblestone streets for a slightly more homey experience than the beach clubs on steroids nearby. We, on the other hand, were drawn here by the infinitely fabulous Zoe Boutique — aka Le Zie di Zoe (Zoe’s Aunts) — the chicest little shop in all of Tuscany. For one steamy summer night, we gathered all of our friends vacationing on the Tuscan coastline for a crazy fun pop-up in Zoe’s amazing store. We then followed it up with a dinner at Enoteca Marcucci — complete with LaDoubleJ x Kartell furniture and table settings — for a completely unforgettable Italian summer evening.
Here’s a little Pietrasanta guide with all our favorite spots, just for you!
Zoe Boutique aka Le Zie Di Zoe — Our awesome hosts! Everyone who summers in Tuscany is a huge fan of this chic little shop, which stocks the best edit of big and small brands alike. If you want to remake your wardrobe in the style of a dreamy Italian summer, this is where you need to go.
Address : Via G. Garibaldi, 29, 55045 Pietrasanta (LU)
Zoe Back — Just around the corner from the main boutique, Zoe has just opened up a little shop dedicated to swimwear made by niche resortwear names. It has absolutely everything you’ll ever need for a day lounging poolside or at the beach.
Get a pair of handmade clogs made — There are tons of little artisans specializing in handmade clogs in Pietrasanta. Check out a few shops and customize the shape and materials you want — they’re all great! (JJ picked large wooden platforms with navy blue velvet straps.)
Duomo of Pietrasanta — Made in stunning local marble, this grand church dates to the 13th century. Take a turn right in the center of Pietrasanta’s tiny town and stop here!
Sant’Agostino, Pietrasanta — A former Catholic church, this gorgeous medieval building now hosts cultural events and concerts. Check a local listing to see what’s on while you’re there.
Bagni Americano — If the town gets too hot, do as the locals do and head to Forte dei Marmi, which is filled with private beach clubs that also welcome day visitors. We feel right at home at Bagni Americano, which has a great restaurant in the sand for an al fresco lunch.
Take a bike tour – We are big fans of an all-girl bike gang — and it’s a great way to get around this little town.
Get around by scooter — If leg pedaling isn’t quick enough, hop on a scooter. Having one is also great for visiting nearby towns of Forte de Marmi and Carrara.
Enoteca Marcucci
Our gracious hosts for our pop-up event in Pietrasanta. All of the region’s chicest residents swear by this little spot for their excellent wine picks and amazing food. Be sure to reserve a table outside on the cobblestones.
Sementi’s vegan
Can you believe it? A vegan place in Italy! They do cruelty-free health food, yoga classes and even have a few rooms to stay in, too.
La Brocca
A cozy trattoria with top quality ingredients and a truly talented chef, where everyone is welcomed like a local.
Il Marzocco
A modern trattoria with Sicilian-inspired cuisine and lots of creative twists.
Trattoria Betty
Great seasonal food. A family-owned business for over 20 years, it’s set right in the center of the city’s main square with tons of outdoor seating.
Albergo Pietrasanta
A lovely little boutique hotel right across the street from Zoe Boutique.
Locanda al Colle
A 15-minute drive from Pietrasanta, it has super chic design, amazing food and an amazing location in the Tuscan hillside.
