Elba is the largest island of the Tuscan Archipelago, a short ferry ride from Piombino on the Tuscan coast. Most visitors come for the beaches, but the island also has a remarkable history: Etruscan iron mines, Medici fortresses and, most famously, the ten months Napoleon spent here in exile. This guide covers the best way to explore Elba’s history on foot and the tour options available.
Is there a free walking tour on Elba?
Elba does not have a regular tip-based free walking tour like the ones in big cities. The island is best explored with a self-guided walk around Portoferraio, the main town, combined with paid guided visits, boat trips or hiking excursions. Use our tour matcher to compare the experiences available for your dates.
Self-guided walk: Portoferraio and Napoleon
Portoferraio’s historic centre is enclosed by Medici walls, and its name recalls the island’s iron (ferro), mined here since Etruscan times. A walk through the old town connects its main sights:
- The Medici fortifications: the Stella and Falcone forts on the high ground above town, the octagonal Linguella tower at the harbour entrance, and a walkable bastion built by Bernardo Buontalenti in 1558
- Villa dei Mulini: Napoleon’s official residence in Portoferraio, now part of the museum of Napoleonic residences
- The old harbour, where Napoleon landed on the evening of 3 May 1814
Allow two to three hours, including a visit inside Villa dei Mulini.
Napoleon on Elba
Napoleon lived on Elba from 3 May 1814 to 26 February 1815, when he left the island to return to France. Besides Villa dei Mulini in town, he used Villa di San Martino, a quieter summer residence in the green countryside outside Portoferraio, which can also be visited.
Beyond Portoferraio
- Rio Marina: the mining town, with a Mineral Park and Museum telling the story of Elba’s iron
- Porto Azzurro and Capoliveri: harbour town and hilltop village in the east of the island
- Marina di Campo: the long sandy bay in the south
- Roman villas: the remains of Villa Romana alle Grotte and Villa Romana di Capo Castello, both from the 1st century BC
Getting there
Ferries to Portoferraio leave from Piombino, on the Tuscan coast; the crossing takes about an hour. In summer, book car spaces in advance.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need on Elba?
A day trip is enough for Portoferraio and the Napoleonic sites. Plan at least three days if you also want beaches, hiking or a tour of the island.
Can I visit Elba without a car?
Yes. Portoferraio is walkable from the ferry port, and buses connect the main towns, although a car or scooter gives you more freedom.