We stayed at the Astoria this October, and we found the location convenient - walked from the train station and were reasonable close to the shore. The staff was helpful, and the room was very nice for 80 euros with breakfast and private bath. The breakfast was at a bar just down the street and only a basic continental breakfast. I think the room had a heated marble floor, which was quite nice. All in all, a pleasant base from which we traveled to Pisa and Lucca by train.

Hotel very clean and staff generally helpful. However, there were one or two things that spoilt our holiday. First of all, It was bad enough that there was no outdoor pool or gardens, but the indoor pool certainly didn't make up for this as it was most uninviting. We also had to pay to use a pool at another hotel's beach facilities, and it was only by chance that we found out we could obtain a voucher which enabled us to use their chairs and umbrellas free. The shower fitting over our bath was half way along the bath and the screen was not adequate to stop the water going all over the floor. Our biggest complaint was regarding the food. For instance, one evening the menu said 'roast turkey - oven roasted'. Yes, this conjured up a beautifully carved turkey, but in fact turned out to be COLD wafer thin slices of turkey (like we would buy to put in sandwiches) with gravy. The view from our room and balcony was lovely, especially the fantastic sunsets.

My wife and I had a very nice stay at the Astor. If you're an American and never heard of Viareggio, you are missing a treat. It's a great beach town. You do have to get used to the idea that you pay to go to the beach, but it's really nice there.

The Astor is a very nice, modern hotel across from the beach. We got upgraded from a Superior room to a Suite, which gave us a huge terrace (every room has a balcony and I think all have some kind of ocean view) with chaise lounges and a panoramic view. I'd have to say that the hotel puts a bit more emphasis on appearance than the nuts and bolts. The air conditioner needed some extensive work when we arrived, and the showerhead sprayed water up and out of the shower until I wrapped a towel around the top of it. The pool and exercise room are not worth using.

Beyond that, I have nothing bad to say. The staff was very pleasant and accomodating. Breakfast was excellent and served in a beautiful, bright room. The room was very comfortable and well equipped. The location was perfect. If the cost was 2/3 of what it was this would be a 5 star review.

Review below of Topkoppite pretty much sums it up perfectly. Booked direct with the hotel and they provided a cot in the room for our 20month old son. Room was very spacious with a balcony and was at side of hotel but still a great view of the seafront.
Used the pool on one day, water was cold but it did have toys and floats available. Didn't use the gym but it was small with 1 treadmill and a few other machines.
Breakfast was continental with cold meat, cheese, cereals and fruit which was ideal.
The hotel was just opposite the promonade and the beach. The hotel provided towels and a discount on one of the private beaches opposite for Euro15 for 2 chairs and an umberella for the day.
Behind the hotel is a small pine forest with childrens play areas, bike hire, a cafe and restaurant and makes a great alternative to the beach.
Staff were friendly and helpful, such as printing off train times and they had a high chair ready at breakfast.
Overall very good.