Pope Francis is treating dozens of Rome's homeless this summer to a day at the beach and dinner in a pizzeria on the way back.

The pontiff's almsgiver, Polish monsignor Konrad Krajewski, said he drives a van with 10 people to a beach near Rome for a dip in the sea, sunbathing and then pizza.

The Vatican supplies the swimsuits and beach towels.

The afternoon outings reflect the homeless' "desire for normality" in their lives, said Monsignor Krajewski.

Many of them live near Vatican City, where, at Francis' direction, showers and barbers have been set up on the edge of St Peter's Square for their use.

The almsgiver also distributes hot meals to homeless people at Italian train stations, with the help of Swiss Guards.