Day Trip to Elba Island in Southern Tuscany, Pienza

Elba is the largest island of the Tuscan Archipelago and is easily reachable from the coast by ferry. The 1.5-hour drive from Porto Ecole is worth the time, as you’ll explore an incredible coastline, amazing scenery, beautiful seafront towns, and perhaps enjoy some watersports. You’ll arrive in Portoferraio, the impressive port-town, but we recommend also visiting Porto Azzuro, possibly the most scenic of Elba's quaint villages.

The inland is your best bet to avoid the crowds. Capoliveri is definitely worth a visit, while Marciana Alta is the perfect place to discover incredible views. Dominated by the Pisan Fortress and full of narrow winding pedestrian streets, this village is where you’ll take the cable car to Monte Capanne.

If you’d like to spend some time at the beach, consider a boat ride to one of the secluded beaches. You’ll see more of the famed archipelago and avoid the crowds! Then, on your way back to Porto Ercole, stay as close to the coast as you can to enjoy the late afternoon sun as it starts to melt into the sea.

Read more about unique and interesting activities in Tuscany and other beach excursions in Italy.