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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Giglio Island
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Tuscan gem with crystal-clear waters, medieval villages, and breathtaking coastal views. Your perfect Italian island escape.
"Giglio Island is amazing, the water is clean, there are lots of things to do. Visit it if you have a chance."

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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Giglio Island Escape
Getting to Giglio Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Embrace Island Life
:island: Rent a boat to discover secluded coves and enjoy the turquoise waters at your own pace.
Savor Local Flavors
:forkandknife: Indulge in fresh seafood and local wines; the island's culinary scene is a delight.
Tips
from all over the internet
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.
Embrace Island Life
:island: Rent a boat to discover secluded coves and enjoy the turquoise waters at your own pace.
Savor Local Flavors
:forkandknife: Indulge in fresh seafood and local wines; the island's culinary scene is a delight.
Pack Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Cobblestone streets and hilly terrain mean comfy footwear is a must for exploring.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Must-see attractions include the medieval village of Giglio Castello with its panoramic views, the sandy beach of Campese Bay with its iconic tower, and the charming Giglio Porto. Don't miss exploring the island's numerous coves and swimming in its crystal-clear waters.
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.
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.
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).
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Giglio Castello: A Medieval Gem
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.
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.
The Waters of Giglio: Beaches and Boat Trips
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.
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
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.
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.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit