Travel Guide: Florence to Isola del Giglio

porto isola del giglio

Isola del Giglio, a picturesque island in the Tuscan Archipelago, is an ideal getaway for travelers seeking stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful, rustic atmosphere. Located about 16 kilometers (10 miles) off the coast of Tuscany, Giglio Island is a haven for beach lovers, hikers, and anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the serene charm of an Italian island. Traveling from Florence to Isola del Giglio is an adventure in itself, involving a combination of train, bus, or car followed by a ferry ride. This guide will walk you through the best ways to get there and what to do once you arrive on this enchanting island.


1. Best Ways to Travel from Florence to Isola del Giglio

The journey from Florence to Isola del Giglio is a multi-step trip that involves getting to the port town of Porto Santo Stefano on the mainland, where ferries depart for the island.

Step 1: Travel from Florence to Porto Santo Stefano

There are a few options to get from Florence to Porto Santo Stefano, the port town where ferries leave for Giglio.

By Train and Bus

Traveling by train and bus is one of the most convenient options if you don’t have a car.

  • Train from Florence to Orbetello: Take a train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) to Orbetello-Monte Argentario station. The journey takes about 2-2.5 hours, depending on the train service.
  • Cost: Train tickets cost between €10-€20.
  • Bus from Orbetello to Porto Santo Stefano: From Orbetello station, take a local bus (line Tiemme 39 or 42) to Porto Santo Stefano. The bus ride takes about 20-30 minutes.
  • Cost: Bus tickets are typically around €2-€5.

By Car

If you prefer driving, you can take a car from Florence to Porto Santo Stefano.

  • Duration: The drive takes approximately 2.5-3 hours.
  • Route: The most common route is via the A1/E80 highway, passing through Grosseto and continuing on to Porto Santo Stefano.
  • Cost: Expect to pay for fuel and highway tolls, which will cost around €30-€40.

Driving gives you flexibility and allows you to stop at other scenic towns in Tuscany along the way, such as Grosseto or Orbetello, which are both worth exploring.

Step 2: Ferry from Porto Santo Stefano to Isola del Giglio

Once you arrive in Porto Santo Stefano, you’ll need to take a ferry to reach Isola del Giglio.

  • Ferry Companies: Two main ferry companies operate routes to Giglio Island:
  • Toremar and Maregiglio.
  • Duration: The ferry ride takes approximately 1 hour.
  • Cost: Ferry tickets cost between €15-€20 for a one-way ticket. If you’re bringing a car, expect to pay an additional fee (around €40-€50 for vehicles).
  • Ferry Frequency: Ferries operate regularly throughout the day, especially in summer. During peak season, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance.

2. What to Do on Isola del Giglio

Once you arrive on Isola del Giglio, you’ll be greeted by its charming harbors, breathtaking beaches, and scenic trails. The island is small, covering only 21 square kilometers, but it offers plenty of activities and sights to enjoy.

Giglio Porto

Your first stop on the island will likely be Giglio Porto, the picturesque harbor where the ferries arrive. This small port town is the commercial heart of the island, with colorful buildings, shops, and restaurants lining the waterfront.

  • What to See:
  • Torre del Saraceno: A historic tower built in the 16th century to defend the island from pirate attacks.
  • Walk the Waterfront: Stroll along the harbor, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, fishing boats, and views of the sea.
  • Where to Eat: Giglio Porto has several excellent seafood restaurants. Try local specialties such as grigliata di pesce (grilled fish) or spaghetti con le arselle (spaghetti with clams).

Beaches on Isola del Giglio

Isola del Giglio is renowned for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a top destination for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

  1. Cala delle Cannelle:
  • One of the island’s most popular beaches, known for its soft, white sand and turquoise waters. It’s located about 10-15 minutes by foot from Giglio Porto and is ideal for families.
  1. Cala dell’Arenella:
  • Located on the eastern side of the island, Cala dell’Arenella offers stunning views of the Tuscan mainland and Porto Santo Stefano. Its sandy shores and clear waters make it perfect for swimming.
  1. Cala del Saraceno:
  • For those who love snorkeling, Cala del Saraceno is a rocky beach with great underwater life, making it a perfect spot for exploring marine biodiversity.
  1. Cala del Corvo:
  • A more secluded beach, Cala del Corvo is harder to reach but rewards visitors with tranquility and stunning views. It’s accessible via a short hike.

Giglio Castello

After exploring the port and beaches, make your way to Giglio Castello, a medieval village perched on a hilltop. This is one of the most charming parts of the island, with narrow cobbled streets, ancient fortifications, and panoramic views of the surrounding sea.

  • What to See:
  • Rocca Aldobrandesca: A massive fortress that dominates the village, offering incredible views of the island and the surrounding Tyrrhenian Sea.
  • The Medieval Streets: Wander through the atmospheric alleys of Giglio Castello, which have retained their medieval character. You’ll find small shops selling local crafts, wines, and foods.
  • San Pietro Apostolo Church: This historic church houses relics of San Mamiliano, the island’s patron saint, and features beautiful medieval architecture.

Hiking and Nature Trails

Isola del Giglio is a paradise for hikers, with numerous trails that crisscross the island, offering stunning views of the sea and coastline.

  1. Punta di Capel Rosso Hike:
  • This scenic hike takes you to the southernmost point of the island, where you’ll find the Capel Rosso Lighthouse. The walk offers breathtaking views of the cliffs and sea.
  1. Giglio Castello to Campese:
  • A scenic trail that connects Giglio Castello to the beach town of Campese on the island’s western side. Along the way, you’ll pass through forests, vineyards, and ancient ruins.

Diving and Snorkeling

The clear waters around Isola del Giglio are perfect for diving and snorkeling. Several diving schools on the island offer excursions to explore the rich underwater environment, including shipwrecks and colorful marine life.

  • Top Dive Sites:
  • Secca della Croce: A popular dive site known for its dramatic underwater cliffs and diverse marine life.
  • Le Scole: Located near Giglio Porto, this site is home to fascinating rock formations and a variety of fish species.

3. Where to Stay on Isola del Giglio

Despite its small size, Isola del Giglio offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to more luxurious stays.

  • Giglio Porto: If you prefer staying near the action, Giglio Porto has several hotels and guesthouses with easy access to restaurants, shops, and ferry services.
  • Giglio Castello: For a more tranquil and atmospheric experience, staying in the medieval village of Giglio Castello is a great option. Many accommodations here offer stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands.
  • Campese: If you’re looking for a beach holiday, Campese has several beachfront hotels and holiday rentals, ideal for families or those seeking proximity to the sea.

4. Practical Tips for Visiting Isola del Giglio

  • When to Visit: The best time to visit Isola del Giglio is during the late spring and summer months (May to September), when the weather is warm and ideal for swimming and outdoor activities. However, summer can be busy, so booking accommodations and ferry tickets in advance is recommended.
  • Currency: Italy uses the Euro (€).
  • Language: Italian is the official language, but English is spoken in most tourist areas. However, learning a few basic Italian phrases will enhance your experience.
  • Getting Around: The island is small, and many areas are easily accessible by foot or local bus. Renting a scooter or bike is a fun way to explore the island.

Conclusion

Isola del Giglio is a true hidden gem in Tuscany, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and tranquil island life. Whether you’re looking to relax on stunning beaches, hike along scenic trails, or explore medieval villages, the island provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of mainland Italy. Easily reachable from Florence, it’s an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a longer stay to soak in the serene charm of this beautiful Tuscan island.

Author

  • A Filipino living in Italy for many years, hobbyist blogger passionate about sharing cultural experiences, tech, travel, and food adventures.

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