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Porto  Santo  Stefano​

Latest page update: 24 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
​The seaside town of Porto Santo Stefano is situated on the Ligurian Sea in the Province of Grosseto.

It has a population of around 8,000 residents while the main highlights include the port area from which you can take a ferry to the islands of Giglio and Giannutri. Places of interest nearby include Monte Argentario, Orbetello, Porto Ercole and Ansedonia.

What People Ask About Porto Santo Stefano, Tuscany

Is Porto Santo Stefano worth visiting?
Yes, Porto Santo Stefano is worth visiting for its seafront setting, picturesque harbour, and ferry connections to Giglio Island. It’s the largest town on Monte Argentario and a popular destination for seafood, boat trips, and coastal scenery.
What are the main attractions in Porto Santo Stefano?
Main attractions include the Spanish Fortress, the promenade along the port, and the beaches at Cala del Gesso and Cala Grande. The town is also known for boat tours, sailing opportunities, and panoramic drives around the Argentario coast.
How do I get to Porto Santo Stefano?
Porto Santo Stefano is about 12 km from Orbetello and can be reached by car or local bus. The nearest train station is Orbetello-Monte Argentario, with connections to Rome and Pisa. Ferries to Giglio Island depart directly from the harbour.
What is Porto Santo Stefano known for?
Porto Santo Stefano is known for its port, ferry terminal, and seafaring history. It’s also recognised for fresh seafood, panoramic coastal roads, and as a starting point for exploring Monte Argentario and nearby islands.
When is the best time to visit Porto Santo Stefano?
The best time to visit Porto Santo Stefano is from May to September, especially for enjoying boat trips and beach days. July and August are the busiest months, while May, June, and early September offer warm weather with fewer crowds.
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Discover

Discover Porto Santo Stefano
Ferry Port for Giglio and Giannutri
Porto Santo Stefano is a picturesque seaside town located on the Monte Argentario peninsula in southern Tuscany, part of the province of Grosseto. Nestled along the Tyrrhenian Sea, the town offers stunning views of the crystal-clear waters, rugged coastline, and the surrounding hills. Porto Santo Stefano is one of the two main towns on the peninsula, known for its vibrant port, which is a hub for both fishing and leisure boating. The town has a relaxed, Mediterranean atmosphere, with its colourful buildings lining the harbour and narrow streets filled with local shops, restaurants, and cafes.

The town's port is a focal point for visitors, offering boat tours around the peninsula and to the nearby islands of the Tuscan Archipelago, such as the island of Giglio. Porto Santo Stefano also offers a number of beaches, where visitors can enjoy the sun, swim in the clear waters, and take part in water sports. The town is a great starting point for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area, with scenic hiking and walking trails that wind through the hills, offering panoramic views of the coast and the islands.

Nearby, the town of Orbetello is just a short drive away, known for its lagoon and natural reserve, which is ideal for birdwatching. The historic village of Capalbio, with its medieval streets and nearby vineyards, is also within reach. For those interested in exploring more coastal beauty, the nearby beaches of Giannella and Feniglia are perfect for a day by the sea. Porto Santo Stefano’s location on the Monte Argentario peninsula makes it an ideal base for enjoying both the beauty of the Tuscan coast and the rich history and culture of the surrounding region.​

Things to Do

Things to Do in Porto Santo Stefano
  • Fortezza Spagnola is a 17th-century Spanish fortress built to defend the harbour from pirate attacks, set on a hill above the port. It includes towers, bastions, and panoramic terraces overlooking the town and sea. The interior hosts a small museum with exhibitions on maritime history and traditional shipbuilding.
  • Passeggiata lungo il Porto is the waterfront promenade lined with cafés, shops, and fishing boats, running along the curved harbour. It is a popular spot for evening walks and summer events. The promenade connects the ferry terminal with beaches and offers views of the surrounding hills and coastline.
  • Acquario Mediterraneo dell’Argentario is a small but informative aquarium focused on marine species from the Tyrrhenian Sea. Exhibits include tanks with fish, crustaceans, and sea urchins, alongside educational panels. It’s located near the harbour and suitable for families with young children.
  • Pozzarello and Cala del Gesso beaches offer two contrasting experiences—Pozzarello is accessible and partially equipped, while Cala del Gesso requires a walk and offers a more secluded setting. Both feature clear water and rocky surroundings. Snorkelling is popular thanks to the rich underwater life.
  • Boat tour of the Argentario coast and Giglio Island departs from Porto Santo Stefano and explores coves, cliffs, and the clear waters around Monte Argentario. Full-day tours often include a stop on Giglio Island, with time for swimming and exploration. Guides provide insights into local history and marine environments.
Porto Santo Stefano Tours and Activities
Porto Santo Stefano - frazione di Monte Argentario
Comune: Monte Argentario

Province: Grosseto

Region: Tuscany

Highlights: port, ferries to islands of Giglio and Giannutri

Close by: ​Monte Argentario, Orbetello, Porto Ercole, Ansedonia

Recommended accommodation: Bike & Boat Argentario Hotel​​​

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Porto Santo Stefano
  • Hotel Sant'Andrea (Located in Porto Santo Stefano centre, 1 km from the beach.) Set in a central location, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The property features a restaurant serving traditional Italian cuisine, a bar, and a wellness centre. Guests appreciate the excellent service, the central location, and proximity to local attractions. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
  • B&B Il Giardino di Niki (Located 2 km from Porto Santo Stefano centre.) This charming B&B offers a relaxing stay with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and the sea. The property includes well-appointed rooms, a garden, and a terrace where guests can unwind. Visitors often highlight the warm hospitality, peaceful setting, and the delicious homemade breakfast. Price Guide: €€ (affordable)
  • Hotel Villa Domizia (Located 3 km from Porto Santo Stefano centre.) Set in a peaceful location, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with panoramic views of the sea. The property features a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, a bar, and a garden. Guests enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, excellent service, and the close proximity to the beach. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
  • Agriturismo Le Macchie (Located 5 km from Porto Santo Stefano centre.) Located in the countryside, this agriturismo offers an authentic rural experience with stunning views of the surrounding hills and the sea. The property features rustic rooms, a restaurant serving farm-to-table dishes, and a large garden. Guests appreciate the tranquil environment, fresh produce, and the welcoming hosts. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
  • Residenza Il Faro (Located 4 km from Porto Santo Stefano centre.) This residence offers self-catering apartments with spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the surrounding area. The property features a garden, an outdoor pool, and a terrace for guests to relax. Visitors enjoy the privacy and comfort of the apartments, the peaceful setting, and the ideal location for exploring the region. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)

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