Portoferraio
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 1 January 2024
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The starting point for most people's adventures in Elba, Portoferraio ("Iron Port" in English), is the transport, administrative and cultural capital of the island. which is part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park.
The mention of iron in the town's name gives reference to one of its principle historical functions as it was used to transport iron ore to and from the Italian mainland before the mining industry died out in the 1970's, eventually supplanted by tourism as Elba's main source of economic income. |
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The capital of Elba
Situated in a strategically advantageous location, the town and its port have been much fought over since it was founded by Cosimo Medici in 1548 and one of the town's defining characteristics is its system of fortifications which surround the port area and attest to the importance that was given to protecting it.
World history has regularly touched Elba and Portoferraio in particular, perhaps none more so then when French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled to the island and had his home, the Palazzina dei Mulini built in the town.
Portoferraio was also the setting for an important battle during World War Two; the occupying German troops giving battle to a liberating Free French army in a fight that lasted two days but caused the town significant damage.
World history has regularly touched Elba and Portoferraio in particular, perhaps none more so then when French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled to the island and had his home, the Palazzina dei Mulini built in the town.
Portoferraio was also the setting for an important battle during World War Two; the occupying German troops giving battle to a liberating Free French army in a fight that lasted two days but caused the town significant damage.
Bustling port town
These days Portoferraio is a bustling port town where you'll find an attractive marina with street side cafès, trendy shops and the island's best nightlife, particularly during the busy summer months. The marina and the area just behind it are the main focal points but you can also visit the three forts, Forte Stella, Forte Falcone and Forte Inglese which offer not only a fascinating historical context but also some wonderful views of the port and beyond.
Being the island's transport hub, Portoferraio not only connects Elba to the Tuscan mainland but its also at the centre of the island's road and bus network. You reach the island from the Tuscan port of Piombino either by ferry (1 hour journey time) or hydrofoil/fast ferry (40 minutes) with regular crossings throughout the day offered by Corsica Ferries, Toremar, BLU Navy and Moby with their unmistakable comic book livery.
It's also worth noting that you can sail directly from Piombino to two other ports in Elba: Rio Marina and Cavo. You can find a detailed breakdown of the crossings at the Elba Ferry Tickets and Timetables page.
Being the island's transport hub, Portoferraio not only connects Elba to the Tuscan mainland but its also at the centre of the island's road and bus network. You reach the island from the Tuscan port of Piombino either by ferry (1 hour journey time) or hydrofoil/fast ferry (40 minutes) with regular crossings throughout the day offered by Corsica Ferries, Toremar, BLU Navy and Moby with their unmistakable comic book livery.
It's also worth noting that you can sail directly from Piombino to two other ports in Elba: Rio Marina and Cavo. You can find a detailed breakdown of the crossings at the Elba Ferry Tickets and Timetables page.
Comune di Portoferraio
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Island: Elba
Province: Livorno Region: Tuscany Population: 11,914 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2022) Size: 47 km² Highlights: Napoleon's House, fortifications Ferry links to: Piombino - Tuscan mainland Parking: large car park outside city walls Close by: Palazzina dei Mulini, Padulella Beach, Sansone Beach Places to eat: best restaurants by the marina and just behind Recommended accommodation: Hotel Acquamarina |
