Elba Island

Tuscany  

Elba Island, the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago, is a hidden gem in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Famous for its crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, lush forests, and charming villages, Elba offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The island gained historical significance as the place of Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile in 1814, and remnants of his stay can still be explored today. With a stunning coastline, diverse landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage, Elba is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience both history and nature in a Mediterranean paradise.

In this travel guide, we reveal all the information on Elba Island in Tuscany. In addition, we show you the best things to do, beautiful pictures, where to eat, how to get there, and where you can find the best places to stay.

PLAN YOUR TUSCANY ADVENTURE

These are our favorite companies we use when planning a trip, they consistently have the best prices, great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors.

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT – SKYSCANNER – we always start here and usually always finish here. They price check over 1,200 travel sites to help you find the best prices. You can also try GOING to search prices across a variety of sites.

TRAVEL OPTIONS

CAR RENTAL – We recommend using Discover Cars or Rental Cars when booking a car rental, they work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs.

TRAINS – TRAINLINE – is our favorite, this site is very reliable and easy to use.

BUS – OMIO – this website allows you to book train or bus tickets to travel from city to city the best and cheapest way. FLIXBUS is another terrific website with routes between 20 European countries.

ACCOMMODATIONS

BOOKING.com – is our go to for hotel searches around the world, we find they always have the cheapest rates and offer different payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.

HOSTELWORLD – is great if you’re traveling on a budget, and if you need a cheap place to stay.

SIGHTSEEING TOURS

GET YOUR GUIDE – is our favorite; they have stacks of tours and excursions available in cities all over the world. VIATOR is another great website for all types of tours.

TAKE WALKS – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

SAFETY WING – is our go to travel medical insurance company, especially for longer trips. You can either purchase a monthly plan or a plan for specific trip dates (i.e. 1-2 week trips). They cover people from all over the world, while outside their home country.

ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.

                   Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.

 

Interesting Information about Elba Island

Elba Island is located about 10 kilometers off the coast of Tuscany, within the province of Livorno. It is the third-largest Italian island after Sicily and Sardinia, covering approximately 224 square kilometers. The island has a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination year-round. The local population is around 30,000, though this number increases significantly during the summer months due to tourism.

Elba’s history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of Etruscan and Roman settlements. In more recent history, the island played a pivotal role as Napoleon Bonaparte’s place of exile before his brief return to power in 1815. Today, Elba is known not only for its historical significance but also for its breathtaking landscapes, outdoor activities, and delicious local cuisine.

 

Best Things to Do on Elba Island 

Visit Portoferraio and Napoleon’s Residences

Portoferraio, the island’s capital, is a charming port town with pastel-colored buildings, lively piazzas, and historic fortifications. History enthusiasts should visit Villa dei Mulini, Napoleon’s official residence, and Villa San Martino, his countryside retreat, both filled with fascinating artifacts from his time on the island.

 

 Relax on Elba’s Stunning Beaches

Elba boasts some of Tuscany’s most beautiful beaches. Cavoli Beach is famous for its golden sand and clear, shallow waters, making it perfect for families. Fetovaia Beach, surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation, offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. For a more secluded experience, Sansone Beach features striking white pebbles and turquoise waters, ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

 

Explore the Underwater World

Elba is a paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The island’s marine life is vibrant, with rich coral reefs, colorful fish, and even shipwrecks to explore. Popular dive sites include the wreck of Pomonte and the Scoglietto di Portoferraio, a marine reserve teeming with aquatic life.    

 

Hike to Monte Capanne

The highest peak on Elba, Monte Capanne, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. Hikers can take scenic trails through lush forests or opt for the cable car that provides a quick and exhilarating ascent to the summit

 

 Discover the Charming Villages

The island is dotted with picturesque villages that showcase Elba’s rich culture and traditions. Marciana, one of the oldest villages, offers narrow stone streets, medieval architecture, and stunning coastal views. Capoliveri, perched on a hilltop, is a vibrant town with artisan shops, local festivals, and lively piazzas.

                                                      

 

Visit the Medici Fortresses

Elba’s strategic position made it an important military outpost. The Medici Fortress in Portoferraio, built in the 16th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history and provides spectacular views over the town and harbor.

 

 Indulge in Wine Tasting

Elba is home to excellent local wines, including the renowned Aleatico Passito, a sweet red wine with a unique flavor. Visit local wineries like Azienda Agricola Arrighi and La Chiusa to sample a variety of wines while enjoying stunning vineyard landscapes.

 

Enjoy Water Sports and Sailing

Elba is a great destination for water sports, offering opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and sailing. Rent a boat or join a guided tour to explore the hidden coves, sea caves, and pristine beaches along the coastline.

 

 Where to Eat on Elba Island

  1. Ristorante da Giacomino (Sant’Andrea)
  • Cuisine: Seafood, Italian
  • Highlights: Fresh fish, homemade pasta, and an incredible sea view
  • Why Visit: A perfect spot for a romantic sunset dinner with delicious local seafood dishes.
  1. Osteria del Noce (Marciana)
  • Cuisine: Tuscan and Elban specialties
  • Highlights: Wild boar pasta, fresh octopus, and Elba wine
  • Why Visit: Cozy and charming, offering an authentic taste of island cuisine.
  1. Trattoria di Mare La Barca (Porto Azzurro)
  • Cuisine: Seafood, Mediterranean
  • Highlights: Grilled fish, seafood risotto, and excellent local wines
  • Why Visit: A great choice for fresh, high-quality seafood in a welcoming atmosphere.
  1. Ristorante Il Chiasso (Capoliveri)
  • Cuisine: Italian, Tuscan
  • Highlights: Handmade pasta, local cheeses, and traditional Tuscan meats

Why Visit: Hidden in a charming alley, perfect for a quiet and delightful meal

 

Where to Stay on Elba Island

Elba offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels and cozy bed-and-breakfasts. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  1. Hotel Hermitage (Biodola Bay)
  • Type: Luxury resort
  • Why Stay Here: This five-star resort offers direct beach access, elegant rooms, fine dining, and excellent spa and wellness facilities. Ideal for a relaxing, high-end retreat.
  1. Hotel Airone (Portoferraio)
  • Type: Family-friendly hotel
  • Why Stay Here: Located near the harbor, this hotel features a large pool, a private beach, and spacious rooms, making it an excellent choice for families and couples alike.
  1. Hotel Villa Ottone (Portoferraio)
  • Type: Historic luxury hotel
  • Why Stay Here: Set in a historic villa, this elegant hotel provides breathtaking sea views, lush gardens, and an exclusive private beach.
  1. Boutique Hotel Ilio (Sant’Andrea)
  • Type: Small boutique hotel
  • Why Stay Here: A unique and stylish accommodation option, perfect for couples looking for a romantic escape in a quiet and scenic part of the island.
  1. Hotel Plaza (Porto Azzurro)
  • Type: Modern seaside hotel
  • Why Stay Here: Overlooking the bay, this hotel offers contemporary rooms, a wellness center, and a stunning panoramic terrace for sunset views.

 

How to Get to Elba Island

By Ferry

The most common way to reach Elba is by ferry from Piombino on the mainland. Ferries operate frequently, with crossings taking about 40-60 minutes. The main ferry companies are:

  • Toremar
  • Moby Lines
  • Blu Navy
  • Corsica Ferries

Ferries arrive at Portoferraio, Rio Marina, or Cavo, depending on the route chosen.

By Air

Elba has a small airport near Marina di Campo, with seasonal flights from major Italian cities like Florence, Pisa, and Milan. International travellers typically fly into Pisa or Florence and take a train or car to Piombino before boarding a ferry.

You can book your flight here.

By Car and Train

If traveling by car, drive to Piombino and take the ferry. For those using public transportation, take a train to Piombino Marittima, which is conveniently located at the ferry terminal.

Compare these car rental prices at Discover cars or Rental cars.com, we use both these   companies. Both highly recommended.

Elba Island is a stunning destination that combines history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring Napoleon’s legacy, hiking through scenic landscapes, relaxing on pristine beaches, or indulging in fresh seafood and fine wines, Elba offers a perfect escape for every traveler. Its unspoiled charm and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit gem in the heart of Tuscany.

More places to visit in Tuscany

CORTONA – Stunning Hillside Town

MONTEPULCIANO – A Guide to the Wine City

SAN GIMIGNANO – The Manhatten of Tuscany

MONTALCINO – The Charming Wine Town of Tuscany

LUCCA – The Gem of Tuscany