Giglio Island
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Giglio Island

4.7
·836 reviews·, Italy

A Tuscan gem with crystal-clear waters, medieval villages, and breathtaking coastal views. Your perfect Italian island escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May-June & September-October

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Giglio Island

Giglio Island

Best Time

May-June & September-October

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A Tuscan gem with crystal-clear waters, medieval villages, and breathtaking coastal views. Your perfect Italian island escape.

4.7
(836 reviews)

"Giglio Island is amazing, the water is clean, there are lots of things to do. Visit it if you have a chance."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Ferries in Advance

:ferry: Secure your spot on the ferry, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.

Explore Giglio Castello

:castle: Get lost in the medieval streets of Giglio Castello for stunning views and authentic charm.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giglio Castello's Ancient Charm

Giglio Castello's Ancient Charm

Giglio Castello

Wander through medieval alleys, soak in panoramic views, and feel the island's authentic heart. A true step back in time.

Campese Bay's Coastal Beauty

Campese Bay's Coastal Beauty

Campese Bay

Enjoy the island's largest beach, framed by the historic Campese Tower. Perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.

Crystal-Clear Waters & Coves

Crystal-Clear Waters & Coves

Various coves and beaches

Discover hidden coves and swim in the incredibly clear, turquoise waters surrounding the island. Ideal for snorkeling.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Giglio Island Escape

Giglio Island offers a serene Tuscan escape, but timing is key to avoid peak season crowds. Consider visiting in late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer visitors. This allows for a more intimate experience of its crystal-clear waters and charming villages.

Getting to Giglio Island

Reaching Giglio Island involves a ferry from mainland Tuscany. The most common departure points are Porto Santo Stefano and, less frequently, Civitavecchia. Booking ferry tickets in advance, especially during summer, is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid last-minute rushes.

Best Times

When
May-June & September-October
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
July-August
Why
Peak summer, lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Giglio is the quintessential Italian island. It has crystal-clear waters, coves hidden behind rocky cliffs, and the iconic ancient landscape of the Mediterranean. It is also a hidden gem that many may not have on their travel list, but they should. Giglio Island is in Tuscany and only 2 hours from Rome, while offering reduced crowds and more intimate settings than many, more famous, Italian isla...
lifebeyondtheroom
12 likes • 432 views

Book Ferries in Advance

:ferry: Secure your spot on the ferry, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Explore Giglio Castello

:castle: Get lost in the medieval streets of Giglio Castello for stunning views and authentic charm. Instagram

If you love the sea and nature, you cannot miss a stay on the beautiful Giglio Island, one of the pearls of the Tuscan Archipelago. You will experience a unique holiday among marvellous landscapes and ancient history. One of the main spots on the island lies in a beautiful bay framed by the imposing Faraglione on one side and the Campese Tower on the other. . Reel by @droneitalia_simon Also follow...
visittuscany
601 likes • 17.2K views
🇮🇹 Mura antiche, panorami infiniti e silenzi che raccontano storie... Vi portiamo a Giglio Castello, il cuore autentico dell’Isola del Giglio❤ • 🇬🇧 Ancient walls, endless views, and silences that tell stories... We take you to Giglio Castello, the authentic heart of Giglio Island❤ • Video di @piccinaccia • #viaggiainitalia con #eborghi! • #borghi #borgomedievale #gigliocastello #isoladelgiglio #gr...
eborghicom
87 likes • 2.3K views

Embrace Island Life

:island: Rent a boat to discover secluded coves and enjoy the turquoise waters at your own pace. Instagram

Savor Local Flavors

:forkandknife: Indulge in fresh seafood and local wines; the island's culinary scene is a delight. Instagram

🐠 Ever dreamed of a villa perched on a cliff on an island? This waterfront paradise on Giglio Island is calling! 🌅 The estate features a 400 sqm villa plus annexes and outbuildings, panoramic terraces, 3 private sea access points, and a Mediterranean garden spread over 3.5 hectares — a rare treasure on the Tuscan coastline! 💬 Comment “Giglio” if you want more info on this island gem! 🗝️ Link in ...
lionard
1K likes • 168.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Ferries in Advance

:ferry: Secure your spot on the ferry, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Explore Giglio Castello

:castle: Get lost in the medieval streets of Giglio Castello for stunning views and authentic charm. Instagram

Embrace Island Life

:island: Rent a boat to discover secluded coves and enjoy the turquoise waters at your own pace. Instagram

Savor Local Flavors

:forkandknife: Indulge in fresh seafood and local wines; the island's culinary scene is a delight. Instagram

Pack Comfortable Shoes

:athletic_shoe: Cobblestone streets and hilly terrain mean comfy footwear is a must for exploring. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(836 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Giglio Island is consistently praised for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and charming medieval villages. Visitors love the relaxed atmosphere, delicious local cuisine, and the opportunity to escape the crowds. Some find the island can get busy during peak summer months, and navigating its hilly terrain requires comfortable footwear.

"A beautiful small island close to Grosseto and Porto Santo Stefano. A must visit! Especially if you have a 3 day or a weekend."

Giulio Aprin

"Amazing, wonderful, still calm off season, happy people, great food, hidden beaches, nice small hotels, nice walking ways and hikes, sweet shops with great groceries and sandwiches, talkative locals and the best smells with lavender and olive in may"

Felix

"This island is amazing, the water is clean, there are lots of things to do. Visit it if you have a chance."

Alexandra Torres

What People Like

Beautiful clear waters
Charming medieval villages
Delicious seafood

What People Dislike

Crowded in summer
Hilly terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach Giglio Island from Rome, you'll first need to travel to Porto Santo Stefano by train or bus. The train journey takes approximately 2-3 hours. From Porto Santo Stefano, frequent ferries depart for Giglio Island, with the crossing taking about 1 hour. Booking ferry tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. TikTok

The primary ferry operators to Giglio Island are Toremar and Maregiglio, departing from Porto Santo Stefano. Some services may also depart from Civitavecchia. It's advisable to check schedules and book tickets online in advance, particularly for weekend trips or during the summer months. Instagram

Yes, traveling to Giglio Island is relatively straightforward. The journey involves a ferry ride from the Tuscan coast, which is well-connected by public transport. The island itself is best explored on foot or by local bus, as car access is limited. TikTok

From Florence, take a train to Orbetello-Monte Argentario station, then a bus or taxi to Porto Santo Stefano. From Porto Santo Stefano, catch a ferry to Giglio Island. The entire journey typically takes around 3-4 hours. TikTok

While it's possible to take your car on the ferry to Giglio Island, it's generally not recommended. Parking is very limited and expensive, and the island is best explored on foot, by scooter, or by local bus. Many visitors leave their cars at the port in Porto Santo Stefano. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It's highly recommended to buy ferry tickets for Giglio Island in advance, especially if you're traveling during the summer months or on weekends. This ensures you get a spot on your desired sailing and can avoid long queues at the ticket office. Instagram

Ferry prices to Giglio Island can vary depending on the season and operator, but generally range from €15-€25 for a one-way adult ticket. Round-trip tickets are often available and can offer a slight discount. Instagram

There are no specific entrance fees to visit Giglio Island itself. However, you will need to purchase ferry tickets to reach the island. Some attractions or private beaches might have their own access fees. TikTok

Ferry operating hours to Giglio Island vary by season. During the summer, there are more frequent departures, often starting early in the morning and running until late evening. It's best to check the specific schedules of ferry companies like Toremar or Maregiglio for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

Yes, you can often buy ferry tickets on the day of travel, but it's not always guaranteed, especially during busy periods. Purchasing in advance is the safest bet to avoid disappointment and ensure you can travel when you want. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Must-see attractions include the medieval village of Giglio Castello with its panoramic views,Instagram the sandy beach of Campese Bay with its iconic tower,Instagram and the charming Giglio Porto. Don't miss exploring the island's numerous coves and swimming in its crystal-clear waters. TikTok

Absolutely! Giglio Island offers a network of scenic hiking trails that wind through its Mediterranean vegetation, offering breathtaking views of the sea and coastline. The trails are well-marked and cater to various fitness levels. Reddit

Activities include swimming, sunbathing on its beautiful beaches, snorkeling and diving in the clear waters, hiking scenic trails, exploring charming villages like Giglio Castello, and enjoying boat trips around the island. Instagram

Giglio Island can get quite crowded during the peak summer months (July and August) as it's a popular destination for Italians and tourists. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October). TikTok

The best ways to get around Giglio Island are on foot, by local bus services that connect the main villages, or by renting a scooter. Many visitors also opt for boat tours to explore the coastline and access more secluded spots. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The local cuisine on Giglio Island is heavily influenced by fresh seafood and Tuscan traditions. Expect delicious dishes featuring freshly caught fish, pasta with seafood, and local specialties. Don't forget to try the island's own white wine, Ansonica. Instagram

Yes, Giglio Porto has a lovely promenade lined with restaurants offering fresh seafood and traditional Italian dishes. It's a great place to enjoy a meal with a view of the harbor. Instagram

Must-try dishes include 'Cacciucco' (a rich fish stew), spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), grilled fresh fish, and local pastries. The island's Ansonica wine is also a perfect accompaniment. Instagram

While Giglio Island offers a range of dining experiences, you can find more budget-friendly options by looking for 'trattorias' or 'pizzerias' away from the main waterfront. Picnics with local produce from small shops are also a great option. Reddit

While seafood is prominent, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests, often with pasta dishes or vegetable-based antipasti. Vegan options might be more limited but are becoming more available. It's always best to inform your server of dietary needs. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Giglio Castello offers incredible panoramic views, especially at sunset. The harbor in Giglio Porto with its colorful boats and the rugged coastline near Campese Bay are also prime photography locations. Don't forget to capture the clear blue waters and hidden coves. Instagram

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for photography on Giglio Island. Midday sun can be harsh, but it's perfect for capturing the vibrant blues of the sea. Instagram

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is great for sweeping vistas from Giglio Castello, while a waterproof camera or phone case is useful for underwater shots in the clear waters. Instagram

Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use on Giglio Island. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals when taking photos. Instagram

Focus on the interplay of the island's natural beauty (sea, cliffs, vegetation) with its charming architecture (Giglio Castello, harbor). Capture the vibrant colors, the local life, and the feeling of tranquility. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Giglio Island offers a wonderful family-friendly experience with its safe, clear waters and relaxed atmosphere. Campese Bay is ideal for families, as it's the island's largest sandy beach and offers shallow areas for children to play safely. The local buses make it easy to navigate between villages without the hassle of a car. Instagram

Consider packing beach toys and snorkeling gear to keep the little ones entertained. Many restaurants are accommodating to families, and the slower pace of island life allows for a more relaxed vacation. Exploring the charming streets of Giglio Castello can also be an adventure for curious kids, sparking their imagination with tales of knights and castles. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Giglio Island can be enjoyed on a budget by focusing on its natural beauty and local experiences. Instead of expensive restaurants, opt for picnics with fresh bread, cheese, and local produce from the island's small shops. Reddit Many of the most beautiful beaches and coves are free to access and perfect for a day of relaxation. Instagram

Look for accommodation outside of peak season or consider apartments with kitchenettes to save on dining costs. Utilizing the local bus service instead of taxis or private transfers will also help keep expenses down. The ferry ticket is a fixed cost, so once you're on the island, focus on free activities like hiking and swimming. Instagram

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Giglio Island is a dream destination for couples seeking a romantic escape. Imagine sunset strolls through the medieval alleys of Giglio Castello, followed by a candlelit dinner overlooking the sea. Instagram The island's intimate atmosphere and stunning natural beauty create the perfect backdrop for romance. Instagram

Consider a private boat trip to discover secluded coves for a romantic swim, or enjoy a wine tasting featuring the local Ansonica. Staying in a charming boutique hotel or a villa with a sea view can further enhance the romantic experience. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Giglio Castello: A Medieval Gem

Perched high above the sea, Giglio Castello is the island's historic heart and a must-visit for any traveler. This ancient fortified village, with its narrow cobblestone alleys, stone houses, and medieval walls, transports you back in time. The panoramic views from its ramparts are simply breathtaking, offering sweeping vistas of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the surrounding Tuscan Archipelago. Instagram

Walking through Giglio Castello feels like stepping into a living museum. You can explore the Rocca Aldobrandesca, a formidable fortress, and the Pieve di San Pietro Apostolo, the island's oldest church. The atmosphere here is one of profound peace and quiet, a stark contrast to the bustling harbor below. It’s the perfect place to wander, get lost, and soak in the authentic Tuscan island charm. Instagram

Pro-tip: Visit during the late afternoon to catch the magical golden hour light, which bathes the ancient stones in a warm glow, making for unforgettable photos and a truly romantic experience. Instagram

The Waters of Giglio: Beaches and Boat Trips

Giglio Island is renowned for its stunningly clear, turquoise waters, making it a paradise for beach lovers and water enthusiasts. The island boasts a variety of beaches, from the expansive sandy stretch of Campese Bay with its iconic tower Instagram to smaller, more secluded coves accessible only by boat. These pristine waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, revealing a vibrant underwater world. Instagram

To truly experience the magic of Giglio's coastline, a boat trip is highly recommended. You can rent a small boat or join a guided tour to discover hidden grottos, swim in secluded bays, and enjoy the island from a unique perspective. Many boat excursions also offer opportunities to visit the nearby island of Giannutri. Instagram+1

Key Beaches to Explore:
* Campese Bay: The largest and most popular beach, offering amenities and water sports.
* Spiaggia delle Cannelle: A beautiful cove with fine sand and clear waters.
* Spiaggia di Caldane: A picturesque, more remote beach accessible by a scenic walk or boat.

Culinary Delights of Giglio Island

The culinary scene on Giglio Island is a delightful reflection of its maritime location and Tuscan heritage. Fresh seafood is the star of the show, with restaurants serving up the catch of the day prepared in traditional Italian styles. Dishes like 'Cacciucco' (a rich fish stew) and spaghetti with clams are local favorites, offering a true taste of the sea. Instagram

Beyond seafood, Giglio Island is also known for its excellent local wines, particularly the Ansonica grape. This crisp white wine is the perfect accompaniment to the island's cuisine. You'll also find charming bakeries and small shops selling local produce, cheeses, and cured meats, perfect for a picnic lunch. Instagram

Dining Tips:
* Explore the restaurants in Giglio Porto for a lively atmosphere and harbor views.
* Venture into Giglio Castello for more intimate, traditional trattorias.
* Don't hesitate to ask locals for their recommendations – they often know the best hidden gems. Reddit

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