Pianosa Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the island in Tuscany
Table of Contents
Pianosa
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Latest page update: 7 September 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where is
Where is Pianosa?
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The quirky island of Pianosa belongs to the Tuscan Archipelago (Arcipelago Toscano) and is situated in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
To its north lies the fellow Tuscan island of Elba and to its west, the larger and French-owned Corsica.It measures just a touch over ten square kilometres, making it the fifth largest of the island group. The quirkiness comes from the fact that, pretty though the island is with its vibrant and protected marine life, it was once, in its entirety, a maximum security prison. |
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Isola di Pianosa
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Province: Livorno
Region: Tuscany Population: 10 Size: 10.25 km² Highlights: Spiaggia di Cala Giovanna, old prison Recommended accommodation: Marina Garden Hotel (Elba) |
What People Ask About Pianosa, Tuscany
Is Pianosa worth visiting?
How do you get to Pianosa Island?
What is Pianosa known for?
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What can you do on Pianosa?
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Discover
Discover Pianosa
Among its reluctant guests over the years have been Mafia lords, political activists and well, the type of prisoners that require maximum security. When you arrive at Pianosa's tiny port you're instantly imbued with a feeling that you're somewhere very different and furthermore, very remote. This is an island with a population of something around 10 inhabitants in total with a notably flat landscape that partially accounts for its name.
As you walk from the jetty to the mainland the first sight you catch hold of is the Forte Teglia, part of the fortified complex that was built to control the prisoners, along with the adjoining Palazzo della Specola, all part of the same complex. It's interesting to explore these areas that were abandoned when the prison closed in 2011. From there you can wander across to the prison courtyard and its high walls although beyond this is a no-go area unless you're with an official guide to take you around.
Aside from the prison buildings, the main purpose of a visit to Pianosa is to enjoy its beach: Cala Giovanna. Up until this point you've mainly read about incarceration but the colour of the water at the beach is spectacular. This, along with curiosity is the main purpose for a visit to Pianosa as you'll find a lot more space on this beach than you will in some of the more famous locations in Elba, particularly during the summer months.
I wandered around as much of the rest of the island as I could without straying into the restricted zone and came across the residential area with the few houses therein a curious sight. Back towards the port there's a tourist office and also a bar restaurant where meals are served on a set menu basis.
As you walk from the jetty to the mainland the first sight you catch hold of is the Forte Teglia, part of the fortified complex that was built to control the prisoners, along with the adjoining Palazzo della Specola, all part of the same complex. It's interesting to explore these areas that were abandoned when the prison closed in 2011. From there you can wander across to the prison courtyard and its high walls although beyond this is a no-go area unless you're with an official guide to take you around.
Aside from the prison buildings, the main purpose of a visit to Pianosa is to enjoy its beach: Cala Giovanna. Up until this point you've mainly read about incarceration but the colour of the water at the beach is spectacular. This, along with curiosity is the main purpose for a visit to Pianosa as you'll find a lot more space on this beach than you will in some of the more famous locations in Elba, particularly during the summer months.
I wandered around as much of the rest of the island as I could without straying into the restricted zone and came across the residential area with the few houses therein a curious sight. Back towards the port there's a tourist office and also a bar restaurant where meals are served on a set menu basis.
Getting there
The shortest sea route to Pianosa is via the island of Elba with ferries leaving from the port of Rio Marina and private excursions from various ports including Marina di Campo. Journey times from Elba vary from an hour to an hour and a half depending on the departure port and type of boat. There are further crossings available directly from the Tuscan mainland; from the port of Piombino it's a three hour ferry journey directly to Pianosa.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Pianosa
- Ancient Roman Ruins on Pianosa include the remains of villas, baths, and aqueducts that reveal the island’s historical significance as a Roman retreat. Visitors can explore these archaeological sites to gain insight into the island’s past and its role within the Roman Empire.
- The Penal Colony Buildings are remnants of the island’s more recent history as a former prison site. Though now abandoned, these structures offer a glimpse into a different chapter of Pianosa’s story and its transformation into a protected natural reserve.
- The Natural Landscape of Pianosa is characterised by flat terrain, sandy beaches, and clear turquoise waters. The island’s natural environment supports diverse flora and fauna, making it a tranquil spot for nature walks and birdwatching.
- Spiaggia di Cala Giovanna is one of the island’s main beaches, known for its white sand and calm, shallow waters. It is ideal for swimming and relaxing in a quiet, unspoiled setting away from crowds.
- Guided tours on Pianosa focus on its unique blend of archaeological heritage and protected natural areas. Local guides share stories about the island’s history, geology, and wildlife. These tours often include opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the surrounding marine reserve, offering visitors a comprehensive cultural and natural experience.
Tours and Activities
Pianosa Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Pianosa Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Pianosa
- Marina di Campo (approx. 40 km northeast of Pianosa): A popular seaside town on Elba Island, Marina di Campo is known for its long sandy beach and clear waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, or explore the local shops and restaurants along the promenade. The town is a great base for those looking to relax by the sea or explore the surrounding natural beauty.
- Porto Azzurro (approx. 60 km northeast of Pianosa): A picturesque coastal town on Elba Island, Porto Azzurro offers a charming harbour, beautiful beaches, and a historic town centre. Visitors can stroll along the seafront, enjoy local seafood at restaurants, or explore nearby hiking trails. The town is also home to the Forte San Giacomo, which offers panoramic views of the island.
- Piombino (approx. 70 km southwest of Pianosa): A historic town located on the mainland of Tuscany, Piombino is the departure point for ferries to Elba Island. Visitors can explore the Castello di Piombino, wander through the old town, or relax at nearby beaches. Piombino offers a mix of cultural and coastal experiences, making it a great base for island explorations.
- Follonica (approx. 80 km north of Pianosa): Known for its beautiful beaches, Follonica is a lively town on the southern coast of Tuscany. Visitors can enjoy the beach, stroll along the seafront, or explore the town’s parks and local markets. Follonica is also home to a variety of restaurants, making it a great place for those seeking relaxation by the sea.
- Grosseto (approx. 100 km northeast of Pianosa): A historic town with well-preserved medieval walls, Grosseto offers visitors a chance to explore its charming centre, including the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the Museo Archeologico. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, ideal for hiking and cycling, and provides a great starting point for exploring the Tuscan coast.
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How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Pianosa
By Rail: Pianosa does not have a train station. The nearest rail connections are on the mainland at Piombino Marittima, which is served by Trenitalia regional trains. Trains from Pisa and Florence connect to Piombino with journey times of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. The station is located near the ferry terminal, allowing easy access for foot passengers heading to the island.
By Road: Travellers can reach Pianosa by first driving to the port of Piombino on the Tuscan coast. The drive from Pisa takes about 1 hour 30 minutes (around 100 kilometres), while from Florence it takes approximately 2 hours. Parking facilities are available near the port, though visitors cannot bring vehicles to Pianosa, as motor traffic is not permitted on the island.
Nearest International Airports:
Ferry Connections:
Piombino and Marina di Campo (Elba): Ferries to Pianosa are limited and typically operate on a seasonal basis. The most regular sailings depart from Marina di Campo on Elba Island, taking about 1 hour. Occasional direct services also run from Piombino. Due to environmental restrictions, visitor numbers are limited and access is generally permitted only as part of guided excursions. Advance booking is required.
By Road: Travellers can reach Pianosa by first driving to the port of Piombino on the Tuscan coast. The drive from Pisa takes about 1 hour 30 minutes (around 100 kilometres), while from Florence it takes approximately 2 hours. Parking facilities are available near the port, though visitors cannot bring vehicles to Pianosa, as motor traffic is not permitted on the island.
Nearest International Airports:
- Pisa International Airport: Located around 110 kilometres from Piombino, with a drive time of about 1 hour 30 minutes. This is the most convenient airport for accessing Pianosa, with regular domestic and European flight services.
- Florence Peretola Airport: Situated approximately 160 kilometres from Piombino, the drive takes around 2 hours. It offers additional options for travellers coming from central Tuscany.
Ferry Connections:
Piombino and Marina di Campo (Elba): Ferries to Pianosa are limited and typically operate on a seasonal basis. The most regular sailings depart from Marina di Campo on Elba Island, taking about 1 hour. Occasional direct services also run from Piombino. Due to environmental restrictions, visitor numbers are limited and access is generally permitted only as part of guided excursions. Advance booking is required.
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Arrival port: Pianosa
Journey time from Elba: 1 hour 30 minutes Distance from nearest mainland port: 68 km |
