Italy’s third largest island, Elba, is located on the Tyrrhenian Sea and is part of the Tuscan Islands National Park. It is known for its mix of beaches, bays and mountaintop villages, making it a hidden gem for travelers seeking natural beauty and history.
For most tourists, getting there, especially the ferry, is the most practical way. I love traveling by ferry. It will bring you more travel when you use merchandise with other tourists and all trucks. This will make you feel more like visiting the island.
This guide covers everything from ferry companies and schedules to prices and personal tips to balance the ups and downs to help you plan a smooth trip.
How do you go to Elba?
Here is a quick overview.
Most travelers travel from Piombino, a small port town in Tuscany, to Elba, about two hours from Florence. This is the closest and most convenient starting point, with the ferry reaching the main ports of Elba: Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Cavo.
Livorno also has some options, slightly further away, but more frequent departures may be suitable for certain itineraries.
Travel times range from 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the route and operator.
Booking is recommended as early as possible, especially during peak seasons (July to August) to avoid crowds and higher prices.
I suggest you compare prices and routes The best way to get to Elba Island.
Ferry Choice and Company
The main ports of Elba are Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Cavo. Depending on where you want to stay and the price, you may prefer one or the other.
Several companies operate these routes, including Blu Navy, Corsica Ferries, Toremar and Moby Lines. Moby Lines is perfect for families to depart frequently and have comfortable seating, while Toremar offers the fastest routes, such as Piombino to Cavo in just 15 minutes.
Prices usually start at €18, but may reach €35 or above during peak hours, especially when carrying a car. More information later. It is wise to compare options online to find the best deals.
Schedule and Tips
The ferry runs every day, and the schedule starts at the earliest from 05:30 until 22:30.
Travel time varies: It takes 40 minutes to an hour to get to Portoferraio, and about 45 minutes to Piombino, while Cavo is 15 minutes faster.
Booking early is key, especially in July and August, where ferries can become crowded. Also, parking in Piombino can be tricky.
Fly to Elba
Yes, you can fly to Elba. The airport in Elba Island in Rapira is just 2 km from Marina di Campo. Fly directly to Pisa, Florence and Milan Latin in Italy, Mannheim and Friedrichschton in Germany and Altenrhein and Bern in Switzerland.
As you can see, most airports are not well-known large airports. So don’t expect large airlines, either. Those flying are a smaller airline with smaller aircraft as it is a short runway and a small airport.
Why Elba? Quick introduction
Elba is not only another Italian island. This is a Tuscany island. Yes, Elba belongs to the Tuscan region and is part of the province of Livorno.
It is a paradise with clear waters, solid coastlines and a long history, including Napoleon’s exile in 1814 for 10 months. Whether you are relaxing on the beach or hiking in the mountains, Elba is OK.
But getting there takes some planning, and that’s where the ferry comes in. The effort is worth it, but let’s talk about logistics and get more details.
Ferry Company: Who is who and what
You have several ferry companies to choose from, each with its advantages. Here is a breakdown based on my research:
- Blue Ocean Army: Known for competitive pricing and reliable service, especially for budget travelers. They operate routes like Pobmino to Portoferraio and Rio Marina.
- Corsica Ferry: Not only for Corsica, they also connect Piombino to Elba, and if you extend your trip, you can choose Island Jump.
- Toremar: My speed. Their piombino to Cavo route is only 15 minutes and is perfect if you don’t have enough time. They also run hydrofoils, although noticed that some cars are not allowed.
- Moby line: More friendly and comfortable sitting and departure often. Great for groups, they often have deals for families, which I noticed when comparing prices.
The price for a foot passenger is 18 euros, but it can climb to 35 euros or above during peak season, especially when carrying a vehicle. It is not recommended to book a summer trip last minute and then sell for €35 instead of €18. Always compare options as prices vary by operator, route and seasonality. For example, you can find $231 for Piombino to Portoferraio, which will then include 4 passengers, a car and rush hour. You should be able to find cheap ones.
Schedule and practical tips
The ferry runs daily, and the schedule usually starts from 05:30 until 22:30, depending on the operator.
Travel time varies by route: Piombino to Portoferraio takes 40 minutes to an hour, Rio Pier is about 45 minutes, and Cavo is fast with Toremar for 15 minutes.
Depending on your route and to the port, take the early morning ferry as the sunrise over the Tyrrhenian Sea is a highlight. Get ready for the sleepy harbor at 5 a.m. Such early departures are usually cheaper, too.
Good to know: Now, most companies offer online check-in, which can save time in the port, so you can take advantage of this.
If you travel without a car, most ferries are allowed to walk passengers and can leave the car in the Piombino parking lot, whether it is free or paid). If you decide to bring a vehicle, check it in advance as some ferries may not have car decks.
Here is a table that summarizes the critical routing and duration based on the latest data:
| route | Average duration | Frequency (Daily/Weekly) | Price range (Euro) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Piombino to Portoferraio | 40 minutes – 1 hour | Up to 29 per day | 18 – 35+ |
| Piombino to Rio Pier | 45 minutes | Up to 4 per day, 27 per week | 18 – 35+ |
| Piombino to Cavo | 15-30 minutes | Up to 10 per day | 18 – 35+ |
| Elba to Corsica | 1.5 hours | 2 per week | Various, online check |
| Elba to piano | 45 minutes – 2 hours | Up to 3 per week | Various, online check |
notes: Prices and schedules may change, especially during high seasons, so always verify your travel date. Booking early can help lock in lower prices and avoid sold ferries.
Beyond Piombino: Other Connections
While Piombino is the main hub, it also has connections with Elba’s Corsica and Pianosa, which can be a bonus if you’re going to jump on the island.
For example, the 1.5-hour route from Portoferraio to Bastia twice a week, which sounds like a scenic journey.
The island jump sounds good, right?
Read also Our Corsica Travel Guide – Lonely Beach, Beautiful Nature and Hikers’ Paradise
Sardinia is also a great Italian island destination. Here is our guide on how to get to Sardinia.
and Here we list the best beaches in Sardiniathis Best Towns in Sadinia and Sardinia residence.
Challenges and how to deal with them
Let’s be a reality – there are shortcomings. You may be a long drive before taking the ferry. Then, during peak season, crowded ferries will feel confusing, and parking in Piombino is not always smooth. Some companies are expected to increase prices as the ferry fills, so booking early is not just about availability, but about saving money.
However, with some plans, these challenges are manageable. Book online, compare prices and arrive early to avoid stress. I like to include 1-2 overnight stops on the way to the ferry so we can explore cities that have not been visited yet. Most operators then issue e-tickets, which makes boarding easier.
Read also Travel Tips on the Benefits of ESIM Cards When We Travel.
Why is it worth it
Elba is worth a visit. I’m sure you won’t regret exploring this Tuscan island whether you’re hanging out on the beach or exploring its history.
I recommend visiting Elba in late May, June or September to avoid crowds in August. It is recommended to rent a car for hilly terrain.
Activities include swimming, hiking and local cuisine such as seafood and field cakes. Elba is not as crowded as other typical Italian destinations, ideal for natural lovers.
Imagine riding a bicycle as soon as possible Panetteria Mara In San Piero Sansone Beachstarfish were found during snorkeling. Hiking faro di capo poro lighthouse Enjoy a convex view or take a cable car Kagan Mountain Used for panoramic vision. Explore like Capoliveri Shopping and enjoy live music La Compagnia scapestrati In the summer venue. At night, at Beach Club in Marina di Campo In the moonlight.
What else do you need?
