Abano Terme Beaches

Overview

Visitors often ask if Abano Terme has a beach, and the answer is a unique one. This world-famous spa town is located inland, nestled at the foot of the Euganean Hills, so it does not have a traditional coastline. Instead, its version of a 'beach' is the elegant sunbathing lidos surrounding the luxurious thermal pools at its hotels. However, its location makes it an ideal base for combining a wellness retreat with seaside excursions, as the beautiful Adriatic coast is just a day trip away.

From Abano Terme, you can easily explore some of the most popular beaches on the Venetian Riviera. For a classic and convenient day of sun and sand, Spiaggia di Sottomarina is the closest major beach. If you're looking for vibrant energy, the famous Lido di Jesolo offers miles of sand backed by a lively hub of entertainment and nightlife. For a touch of cinematic glamour, you can visit the chic Lido di Venezia, the iconic beach of Venice itself. Meanwhile, Caorle Beach provides a uniquely picturesque setting where a wide, sandy shore meets a charming and colorful historic fishing village.

Abano Terme offers the perfect holiday for those who don't want to choose between the relaxation of a spa and the fun of the sea. You can spend one day enjoying the healing thermal waters and the next exploring the diverse coastline. Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of a large resort or the quiet charm of a historic seaside town, there is a beach to suit your mood. For more inspiration and to plan your coastal day trips, explore our complete guide to the best beaches in the region.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Does Abano Terme have a beach?

Abano Terme is an inland spa town and does not have traditional sea or lake beaches. The 'beaches' commonly referred to are the sunbathing areas, known as lidos, which are set around the large thermal swimming pools at the hotels. For coastal beaches, you would need to travel to the Adriatic coast.

How far is Abano Terme from the sea?

Abano Terme is located about 45-55 kilometers (around 28-34 miles) from the nearest Adriatic Sea beaches. The closest popular coastal towns are Sottomarina and Chioggia, which are approximately an hour's drive away.

Can you swim in Abano Terme?

Yes, you can swim year-round in Abano Terme, but not in the sea. Swimming is done in the town's famous thermal water pools. Nearly every hotel has its own indoor and outdoor thermal pools, which are naturally heated to temperatures between 27°C and 36°C (80°F to 97°F).

Is Abano Terme a good base for a beach holiday?

Abano Terme is ideal for a wellness and relaxation holiday with the option for beach day trips, rather than a traditional beach-focused holiday. It's perfect for travelers who want to combine spa treatments and thermal pool relaxation with occasional visits to the Adriatic coast, Padua, or Venice.

What are the hotel pools in Abano Terme like?

Most hotels in Abano Terme feature extensive thermal pool complexes. These typically include interconnected indoor and outdoor pools, allowing for year-round use. They are equipped with various hydromassage jets, waterfalls for neck massage, and underwater fitness equipment. The pools are surrounded by gardens and sunbathing areas with loungers and umbrellas, creating a resort-like atmosphere.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Which is the nearest beach to Abano Terme?

The nearest and most popular beaches to Abano Terme are Sottomarina and Chioggia. They are located next to each other, about an hour's drive away. Sottomarina offers a long, wide sandy beach with many beach clubs (stabilimenti), while Chioggia is a historic fishing town often called 'Little Venice'.

How do you get to the beach from Abano Terme?

The easiest way to get to the beaches at Sottomarina or Chioggia is by car, which takes about one hour. Alternatively, you can take a bus or a train to Padua, and from there, connect to a direct bus to Sottomarina. While public transport is available, driving offers more flexibility for a day trip.

Is it better to visit the beach at Sottomarina or Lido di Venezia from Abano Terme?

Sottomarina is generally easier and quicker to reach from Abano Terme by car. It's a classic, family-friendly beach resort. Lido di Venezia requires a longer journey, often involving a train to Venice followed by a vaporetto (water bus), but it offers a more elegant and historic atmosphere, being the beach of Venice itself. The choice depends on whether you prefer convenience and a lively resort feel (Sottomarina) or a more unique, iconic experience (Lido).

Spiaggia di Sottomarina

Lido di Venezia

Are the thermal pools in Abano Terme suitable for families with children?

Yes, many hotels in Abano Terme are family-friendly and their thermal pools are suitable for children. While the primary focus is on wellness, many resorts have specific areas for children, and the warm water is often a hit with younger visitors. However, some specific hydrotherapy areas or treatments may have age restrictions.

Do you need to book a hotel to use the thermal pools in Abano Terme?

While most thermal pools are part of hotels for their guests, many hotels offer a 'Day Spa' package. This allows non-residents to pay for a day pass to use the pools and spa facilities. It is highly recommended to book these packages in advance, especially on weekends.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What is the best time of year for a swimming holiday in Abano Terme?

For swimming in the thermal pools, any time of year is excellent as the water is always warm. Many people particularly enjoy swimming outdoors in the steam during cooler autumn and winter months. If you also want to include day trips to the Adriatic beaches, the best time to visit would be from June to September when the sea is warm and the weather is sunny.

Are there hotels in Abano Terme with private 'beach' areas?

Yes, in the context of Abano Terme, many four and five-star hotels have what could be considered private 'beach' areas. These are expansive, beautifully landscaped gardens and sun terraces surrounding their thermal pools, often reserved exclusively for hotel guests. They are equipped with high-quality sun loungers, umbrellas, and poolside bar service, offering a private and relaxing experience.

See the full list of accommodation options here.