Elba, the third largest island in Italy, is located in the Sea Tirarenio and is part of the National Park of the Tuscan archipelago. It is famous for its combination of beaches, coves and towns of the hill, which makes it a hidden jewel for travelers looking for natural beauty and history.
Getting there, especially in Ferry, is the most practical way for most visitors. And I love to travel in Ferry. He gives his trip somewhat extra when you go up to Ferry with other visitors and all trucks with their property. And it makes you feel even more as if you are visiting an island.
This guide covers everything, from ferry companies and schedules to prices and personal advice, balancing ups and downs to help plan a trip without problems.
How do you get to Elba?
Here is a quick general description.
Most travelers go to Elba through Ferry from Piombino, a port city in Toscana about two hours from Florence. It is the closest and most convenient output point, with ferries that reach the main ports of Elba: Portoferraio, Río Marina and Cavo.
There are also Livorno options, a little further, but with more frequent outings, which could adapt to some itineraries.
The travel times vary from 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the route and the operator.
It is recommended to reserve early, especially in the high season (Julio-August), to avoid crowds and higher prices.
I recommend that you compare prices and routes to The best way to get to Elba Island.
Ferry and Companies options
The main ports in Elba are Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Cavo. Depending on where you want to stay and prices may prefer one or the other.
Several companies operate these routes, including the Blu Navy, Corsica Ferries, Toremar and Moby lines. Moby Lines is ideal for families, with frequent outputs and comfortable seats, while Torembar offers the fastest route, such as Piombino A Cavo in just 15 minutes.
Prices usually start in € 18, but can climb to € 35 or more during peak hours, especially if it brings a car. More information about that later. It is wise Compare online options to find the best offer.
Schedules and tips
Ferries work daily, with the schedules that begin as soon as 05:30 and go until 22:30.
Travel times vary: Piombino to Portoferraio takes 40 minutes, Río Marina for about 45 minutes and cave up to 15 minutes.
The early reserve is key, especially in July and August, when ferries can be full of people. In addition, piombino parking can be complicated and expensive.
Flying to Elba
Yes, you could fly to Elba. The airport of Elba Island, located in the battery, is only 2 km by Marina Di Campo. And there are direct flights to Pisa, Florencia and Milan in Italy, Mannheim and Friedrichshafen in Germany and Altenrhein and Bern in Switzerland.
As you can see, most of those airports are not well known and large. So neither do the large airlines. Those who fly there are smaller airlines with small airplanes, since it is a short track and a small airport.
Why Elba? A rapid introduction
Elba is not just another Italian island. It is Tuscany on an island. Yes, Elba belongs to the Tuscan region and is part of the Livorno province.
It is a paradise with crystalline waters, resistant coasts and a rich history, including the exile of 10 months of Napoleon in 1814. Whether looking for relaxations on sandy beaches or walking through its hills, Elba delivery.
But getting there requires a little planning, and that is where the ferries enter. The effort is worth, but let’s talk about logistics and get more in the details.
Ferry companies: who and what is what
You have several ferry companies to choose from, each with their strengths. Here is a breakdown based on my research:
- Navy blue: Known for competitive prices and reliable service, especially for budget travelers. They operate routes like Piombino to Portoferraio and Río Marina.
- Transicted from Cócidos: Not only for Corsica, they also connect Piombino to Elba, with island jump options if you extend your trip.
- Bullfighter: My option for speed. His Piombino to Cavo route has only 15 minutes, perfect if he has little time. They also execute Hidrofoers, although it notes that some do not allow cars.
- Moby lines: A little more friendly for the family, with comfortable seats and frequent outputs. Ideal for groups, they often have offers for families, which I noticed when comparing prices.
Prices start at € 18 for a standing passenger, but can climb to € 35 or more during the high season, especially if it brings a vehicle. It is not recommended to book at the last minute for a summer trip, which can then cost € 35 instead of € 18. Always compare the options, since prices vary according to the operator, the route and seasonality. For example, you can find prices such as $ 231 for Piombino to Portoferraio, which then includes 4 passengers, a car and in peak hours. You should be able to find the cheapest.
Practical schedules and tips
Ferries work daily, with the schedules that generally begin at 05:30 and go until 22:30, depending on the operator.
Travel times vary according to the route: Piombino to Portoferraio has been about 45 minutes for 40 minutes and cavo as fast as 15 minutes with Toremar.
Depending on its route and arrival at the port, take an early ferry in the morning, since dawn on the pulling sea is the most prominent. Prepare for a sleep port at 5 am. An early way out is also more cheaper.
It is good to know: Most companies now offer check-in online, which saves time in the port, so take advantage of that.
If you travel without a car, most ferries allow your feet passengers, and can leave your car in Piombino parking lots, both free and paid. If you decide to bring a vehicle, check in advance, since some ferries could not have car forms.
Here is a table that summarizes key routes and durations, based on recent data:
| Route | Average duration | Frequency (daily/weekly) | Price range (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Piombino to Portoferraio | 40 min – 1 hour | Up to 29 daily | 18 – 35+ |
| Piombino to Río Marina | 45 minutes | Up to 4 daily, 27 weekly | 18 – 35+ |
| Piombino to Cavo | 15-30 minutes | Up to 10 daily | 18 – 35+ |
| Elba to Corsa | 1.5 hours | 2 weekly | Varies, see online |
| Elba to the piana | 45 min – 2 hours | Up to 3 weekly | Varies, see online |
Note: Prices and schedules can change, especially in the high season, so always verify closer to your travel date. The early reserve helps block lowest rates and avoid transfers with exhausted inputs.
Beyond Piombino: Other connections
While Piombino is the main center, there are also connections with Corsica and Pianosa de Elba, which could be an advantage if you have island jump.
For example, Córica Ferries executes a 1.5 -hour route from Portoferraio to Bastia, twice a week, which sounds like a scenic trip. For a detailed comparison of all options, see this guide on Ferryhopper.
The jump from the island sounds good, right?
Read too Our Córica Travel Guide: Lonely Beaches, Beautiful Nature and A Paradise for Hikers
Sardinia is also a great destination of Italian island. Here is our guide on how to get to Sardinia.
AND Here we have listed the best beaches in Sardiniahe The best cities to visit in Sardinia and Places to stay in Sardinia.
Challenges and how to handle them
Let’s be realistic, there are inconveniences. You may have a long trip before watching your ferry. Then, Ferries crowded in the high season can feel chaotic, and Piombino parking is not always soft. Wait that some companies increase prices as Ferries fill, so reserving early is not only about availability, it is about saving money.
But with a little planning, these challenges are manageable. Reserve online, compare prices and arrive early to avoid stress. I like to include 1-2 stops during the night on the way to Ferry so that we can explore cities that we have not yet visited. Then, most operators broadcast electronic tickets, which facilitates check-in.
Read too Our travel advice on the benefits of an ESIM card when traveling.
Why is it worth
It is worth visiting Elba. I am sure that you will not regret having explored this Tuscan island, whether you are resting on the beach or exploring its history.
I recommend visiting Elba at the end of May, June or September to avoid the crowds of August. And the mountain land suggests renting a car.
Activities include swimming, hiking and local cuisine, such as seafood and focaccia. Elba is less busy than other alternative and ideal typical Italian destinations for nature lovers.
Imagine to ride a bike early to Panetteria Mara In San Piero for Sweet Focaccia before it runs out, then swimming in SESSONE BEACHdetecting sea stars while snorkeling. Walk Faro di capo pore lighthouse For views of the bay or take the cable car to Monte Capanne For panoramic views. Explore hill towns as CAPOLIVERI To buy and enjoy live music for The Scapestrati Compagnia In summer places. At night, take a blackness in a Beach Club in Marina Di Campo Under the moonlight.
What else do you need?
