Portoferraio
The capital and ferry port of Elba, with Medici-era walls and star-shaped forts embracing the old harbour, where many Napoleon sites are concentrated.
Portoferraio was founded in 1548 by Cosimo I de' Medici as a fortress town he named “Cosmopolis.” Its walls, star-shaped forts and the old Darsena harbour remain well preserved. The old town is built into the hillside. Entering through the sea gate from the port, you can climb stepped lanes to the heights, where the Villa dei Mulini (Napoleon's former residence), the Stella Fort and Forte Falcone overlook the entire bay. Near the harbour are the Linguella Tower and the Archaeological Museum. All ferries from Piombino dock here, and the town has a concentration of restaurants and shops, making it a good base or starting point for touring the island. The old town is best explored on foot, with many slopes and steps.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Torre della Linguella & Archaeological Museum
- Villa dei Mulini (Palazzina dei Mulini)
- Forte Stella
- Forte Falcone
- Spiaggia delle Ghiaie
- Spiaggia di Sansone
- Fortezza del Volterraio
- Villa San Martino