Things to do in Elba Island
Places you must visit during your holiday on Elba Island.
The Mediterranean Sea contains some of the most beautiful islands in the world. We have Elba Island, a small gem located 10 kilometers away from the Tuscan coast. Together with the other islands (Pianosa, Capraia, Gorgona, Montecristo, Giglio, and Giannutri) is part of the National Park of the Tuscan archipelago. Arriving at Portoferraio by ferry, you will have the opportunity to visit breathtaking places that will remain in your heart forever. We gathered a compilation of scenes and things not-to-be-missed on Elba Island.
Portoferraio: The capital of the island of Elba, Portoferraio, owes its name to the iron mines on the island in the late 19th century. The city is also known as the "Pink City", referring to the pink pavement of the historic center that changes color with light throughout the day. The city preserves visible traces in its urban planning after the stay of Napoleon Bonaparte, who was forced to remain on Elba after his last defeats. It is still possible to see Napoleonic period villas and defense structures, as well as evidence of an even older past with Etruscan and Roman archaeological settlements.
The Volterraio Castle: One of Elba Island's mandatory stops is located at an altitude of 400 meters. We are talking about the Volterraio fortress in Rio, the oldest fortification on the island perched on the Cima del Monte. The castle was renovated in 2016, dates back to Etruscan times, and was expanded in the late 1200s by the Pisans, who used it to defend themselves against Turkish attacks. The beauty of this place lies not only in its history but also in the wonderful panorama that can be enjoyed from above.
Capoliveri: Capoliveri, one of the eight municipalities on the island of Elba, located on the southeast coast, is the perfect place that combines nature, culture, and relaxation. In the historic center, you will find Our Lady of Grace Sanctuary (Santuario Madonna Delle Grazie) and the Parish Church of San Michele. To enjoy an exceptional panorama, without a doubt you have to see the "Forte Focardo" that dominates the entire coast. Finally, you should not miss the beaches, among the most beautiful on the island we have: Innamorata, Lacona, Naregno, Margidore, Barabarca, Calanova, Felciaio, Ferrato, Lido, Madonna delle Grazie, Morcone, Norsi, Pareti, Remaiolo, Straccoligno and Zuccale.
Mineral Park of Elba Island: The Mineral Park of Elba Island is intimately linked to the history of the island. Since Etruscan times, the inhabitants of Elba have dedicated themselves to the extraction of iron. You can learn more at the mining museum, located at the historic center of Rio Marina. You can see the main minerals extracted in the Elba quarries, and numerous vintage photographs that tell the work of the miners and the machinery used in the mining activities that ended in the 80s of the last century. Apart from the museum, you can walk and take the train to photograph the wonderful colors and reflections of the minerals.
Elba's local cuisine: You cannot leave Elba island without having tried its typical dishes. So before taking the ferry, we recommend trying its culinary delicacies and delights. Among those that stand out are the "caldo alla riese", the "sburrita" (dish based on cod), the "gurguglione" (vegetable stew) as well as the rice with squid ink, the stuffed squid, the famous "cacciucco" or fish soup, main dishes based on boiled octopus, fried or stuffed sardines. To conclude, you can treat yourself to the most delicious desserts like the "schiaccia briaca" and the "schiacciunta" which together with a good glass of Aleatico dell’Elba, are the perfect way to end a meal!
Enjoy your trip to Elba Island with Corsica Ferries and Seafy Wi-Fi!