Rio Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the municipality on the island of Elba
Table of Contents
Rio
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Latest page update: 3 August 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where is
Where is Rio?
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The Comune of Rio occupies the north-eastern section of the island of Elba in the Tuscan Archipelago. This area of Elba is characterised by a hilly interior which looks down on to some beautiful coastal landscapes of acquamarine seas.
The main towns within the comune are its capital, Rio Marina, the hill town of Rio nell'Elba and the town of Cavo with its ferry port. |
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Comune di Rio
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Island: Elba
Province: Livorno Region: Tuscany Population: 3,404 (in 2025 - source) Size: 37 km² Highlights: Rio Marina, Rio nell'Elba, Cavo, Bagnaia Beach Recommended accommodation: B&B Aloe Ranch Elba |
What People Ask About Rio, Elba
Is Rio worth visiting on Elba?
What is the difference between Rio Marina and Rio nell’Elba?
How do I get to Rio on Elba?
What are the main attractions in Rio?
Are there beaches near Rio?
Related links
Discover
Discover Rio
Rio, located is a quaint village known for its rich mining history and stunning views of the island’s rugged coastline. Set in the island’s hills, Rio offers visitors a chance to explore its charming streets, traditional stone houses, and ancient mining tunnels that once played a key role in the island's economy. The village provides a peaceful atmosphere, with narrow pathways leading to panoramic viewpoints over the sea.
In addition to its historical sites, Rio is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves and hiking trails that offer stunning vistas of the island's varied landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the nearby beaches, as well as the area’s rich flora and fauna. The village is easily accessible by car from Portoferraio, offering a perfect blend of culture, nature, and history in one scenic location.
In addition to its historical sites, Rio is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves and hiking trails that offer stunning vistas of the island's varied landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the nearby beaches, as well as the area’s rich flora and fauna. The village is easily accessible by car from Portoferraio, offering a perfect blend of culture, nature, and history in one scenic location.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Rio
- Rio nell’Elba Historic Centre is a quaint village characterised by narrow cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and small piazzas. Visitors can wander through the historic centre to experience authentic island life and discover local artisan shops and cafés.
- Orto dei Semplici Elbano is a botanical garden dedicated to the study and preservation of Elba’s native plants. Set on a hillside with panoramic views, it offers peaceful paths through collections of medicinal and fruit-bearing plants, attracting nature enthusiasts.
- Monte Capannello rises near Rio and is a popular destination for hikers and birdwatchers. Trails lead through Mediterranean scrub and woodland, culminating at the summit with sweeping views over the island and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
- Beaches near Rio such as Spiaggia di Topinetti and Cala Seregola offer clear waters and quiet coves. These spots are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the unspoiled coastal scenery away from busier tourist areas.
- Guided walking tours and boat excursions explore Rio’s natural landscapes, historic sites, and coastline. Local guides share stories about the area’s geology, mining heritage, and traditions. Tours often include stops for swimming and tastings of regional food and wine, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.
Rio Tours and Activities
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Rio
Photo Gallery
Rio Photo Gallery
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How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Rio
By Rail: Rio does not have a train station, but it can be reached via the port of Rio Marina or nearby Cavo, both located on the eastern coast of Elba. The nearest mainland rail connection is Piombino Marittima, served by regional Trenitalia services. From Florence or Pisa, travel to Piombino involves a change at Campiglia Marittima, with a total journey time of about 2 hours 30 minutes. The train station is within walking distance of the ferry terminal.
By Road: Ferries to Rio Marina and Cavo depart from Piombino, approximately 100 kilometres south-west of Florence. The drive from Florence takes about 1 hour 45 minutes, while from Pisa it takes around 1 hour 30 minutes via the SS1 and SR398 roads. Vehicles are allowed on Elba, and Rio is accessible by car once on the island, with parking available in the town and near the ports.
Nearest International Airports:
Ferry Connections:
Piombino to Rio Marina: Regular car and passenger ferries link Piombino with Rio Marina. The crossing takes around 45 minutes, with more frequent services during the summer months.
Piombino to Cavo: Hydrofoils also operate between Piombino and Cavo, taking just 20 to 30 minutes. These services are typically limited to foot passengers and are more frequent in high season.
Other Elba towns: Once on Elba, Rio is connected by road to Portoferraio, Capoliveri and other towns on the island, with travel times ranging from 20 to 40 minutes depending on location.
By Road: Ferries to Rio Marina and Cavo depart from Piombino, approximately 100 kilometres south-west of Florence. The drive from Florence takes about 1 hour 45 minutes, while from Pisa it takes around 1 hour 30 minutes via the SS1 and SR398 roads. Vehicles are allowed on Elba, and Rio is accessible by car once on the island, with parking available in the town and near the ports.
Nearest International Airports:
- Pisa International Airport: Located around 110 kilometres from the port of Piombino. The drive takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, and the airport offers regular domestic and international flights.
- Florence Airport: Approximately 150 kilometres from Piombino, with a driving time of about 2 hours. It provides flights to several European destinations.
Ferry Connections:
Piombino to Rio Marina: Regular car and passenger ferries link Piombino with Rio Marina. The crossing takes around 45 minutes, with more frequent services during the summer months.
Piombino to Cavo: Hydrofoils also operate between Piombino and Cavo, taking just 20 to 30 minutes. These services are typically limited to foot passengers and are more frequent in high season.
Other Elba towns: Once on Elba, Rio is connected by road to Portoferraio, Capoliveri and other towns on the island, with travel times ranging from 20 to 40 minutes depending on location.
