Seaside cities have their obvious appeal—the attractive open ocean and sunny beaches—yet many of the most beautiful coastal cities around the world also carry long legacies of historical change and growth, with architectural monuments and styles that reflect them. Some have been centers of trade for hundreds—or even thousands—of years; others have become recent hubs for artists and designers.
Whether it’s the colorful façades decorating the coast of Camogli, Italy; the modernist escapes now nestled in Puerto Escondido, Mexico; or the historic, ancient charm of Split, Croatia; these cities invite travelers to discover their unique, storied allure. Here, AD brings you inside the history and design of the 11 most beautiful coastal cities around the world.
