A Guide to Giglio Island in Tuscany

Why Giglio Island Deserves a Spot on Your Itinerary

Giglio Island is located in the heart of the Tyrrhenian Sea, off the coast of Tuscany, and is part of the province of Grosseto. 

With just over 1,400 residents, Giglio offers the charm of a secluded destination without sacrificing accessibility or experience. The island, a cherished member of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, is often praised as one of the most beautiful beach destinations in Tuscany, offering a unique mix of rocky coves and sandy stretches with crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach.

The island is home to three main villages: Giglio Porto, a picturesque harbor town; Giglio Castello, a medieval fortress perched high on a hill; and Giglio Campese, a serene coastal area with a stunning beach. 

Getting to Giglio Island

Reaching the island is straightforward. Ferries run daily from Porto Santo Stefano, with crossings taking about one hour. Trains from Florence connect to Orbetello station, where buses or taxis can bring you to the port. For those driving from Florence to Giglio Island, expect a 2.5 to 3-hour trip, depending on traffic.

The ferry itself is scenic, often skimming past other islands in the Tuscan Archipelago. During the high season, it's best to book your ferry in advance, especially if you’re bringing a car.

What to Do on Giglio Island

Once you arrive, the island’s compact size makes it easy to explore. There are three main villages: Giglio Porto, Giglio Castello, and Giglio Campese. A local bus loops between them, and taxis or scooters are available to rent. For those seeking a slower pace, walking is not only possible but encouraged—especially between the more rugged stretches of coastline.

Giglio’s main draw is its natural beauty. The island is a haven for beach lovers, hikers, and divers. Here are some standout experiences:

Discover the Coastal Villages

Each of Giglio’s three towns has its own character. Giglio Porto welcomes visitors with its pastel buildings and waterfront cafés. Giglio Castello, perched on a hill, is a medieval walled village with stone alleyways and panoramic views. Giglio Campese, on the western coast, is home to the island’s largest beach and offers some of the best sunsets on the island.

Swim and Relax at the Best Beaches

Giglio boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Tuscany. Caldane and Cannelle are reachable by foot or boat and offer a secluded feel, while Campese Beach is ideal for families, with its calm waters and nearby amenities.

Take a Boat Tour Around the Island

One of the best ways to experience Giglio is from the water. Boat tours in Tuscany often include a loop around the island, stopping at hidden coves for a swim or snorkel. Some tours even combine Giglio with nearby Giannutri Island, another gem in the Tuscan Archipelago.

Dive Into Giglio’s Food Scene

Seafood is the focus here. Local specialties include calamari ripieni, fresh ricci di mare (sea urchins), and grilled catch-of-the-day paired with crisp Ansonica wine. There are a handful of standout Giglio Island restaurants in Giglio Porto, where you can dine dockside and watch fishing boats drift in.

LA ROQQA: Your Base for Giglio and Beyond

If you're planning to explore Giglio Island but prefer to stay on the mainland, LA ROQQA Hotel in Porto Ercole offers the perfect base. Located in the heart of the Argentario coast, the hotel blends refined design with direct access to Tuscany’s lesser-known coastline. 

Guests can book curated excursions to Giglio and other islands, enjoy tours of the Tuscan coast aboard LA ROQQA’s private boat, or simply unwind with a view over the Tyrrhenian Sea.