Giglio
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Latest page update: 18 September 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The island of Giglio is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, off the coast of Tuscany, belonging to the Province of Grosseto.
It has a population of around 1,500 and is most famous for its stunning natural beauty, including rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque beaches. It gained international attention in 2012 when the Costa Concordia cruise ship disaster occurred. Giglio's serene atmosphere and pristine landscapes make it a popular destination for tourists seeking relaxation. |
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Giglio: Tuscany's beautiful lilly
Giglio, a gem in the Tuscan Archipelago, enchants visitors with its pristine beaches, rugged landscapes, and rich maritime history. Explore the island's picturesque villages, where colorful houses cling to steep cliffs overlooking the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Visit the medieval village of Giglio Castello, with its ancient walls, narrow alleys, and panoramic views.
Discover the island's ancient heritage at sites like the Roman Villa di Capo d'Uomo and the ruins of a 17th-century Spanish fortress. Relax on sandy beaches like Campese and Cannelle, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Embark on boat tours to explore hidden coves, sea caves, and marine life. With its natural beauty and fascinating history, Giglio offers an idyllic island escape in the heart of Tuscany.
Discover the island's ancient heritage at sites like the Roman Villa di Capo d'Uomo and the ruins of a 17th-century Spanish fortress. Relax on sandy beaches like Campese and Cannelle, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Embark on boat tours to explore hidden coves, sea caves, and marine life. With its natural beauty and fascinating history, Giglio offers an idyllic island escape in the heart of Tuscany.
Comune di Isola del Giglio
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Province: Grosseto
Region: Tuscany Population: 1,322 (in 2024 - source) Size: 24 km² Highlights: Cala delle Caldane, Cala delle Cannelle, Giglio Porto Recommended accommodation: La Guardia Hotel |
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Arrival port: Giglio Porto
Journey time from mainland: 1 hour Distance from nearest mainland port: 18 km |
Arrive by: ferry
Arrive from: Porto Santo Stefano Best airports: Rome Fiumicino (159 km), Pisa Airport (218 km) |
What are the best things to do in Giglio?
- Giglio Porto: Explore the picturesque harbor of Giglio Porto, known for its colorful buildings, charming cafes, and waterfront promenade. Visitors can stroll along the harbor, watch fishing boats come and go, and enjoy views of the sea and surrounding cliffs.
- Giglio Castello: Visit Giglio Castello, a medieval hilltop village with narrow streets, stone houses, and panoramic views of the island. Explore the ancient walls, historic churches, and quaint squares, and admire the architecture dating back to the Middle Ages.
- Beach Excursions: Discover the island's beautiful beaches, including Campese Beach, Arenella Beach, and Caldane Beach. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on the sandy shores, and snorkel or kayak along the coastline.
- Boat Tours: Take boat tours around the island to explore its rugged coastline, hidden coves, and sea caves. Visitors can enjoy sightseeing cruises, snorkeling excursions, and sunset sails, with opportunities to spot marine life such as dolphins and sea turtles.
- Hiking Trails: Embark on hiking trails that crisscross the island's scenic landscapes, offering breathtaking views and encounters with nature. Popular trails include the Sentiero dell'Imperatore (Emperor's Trail) and the coastal path connecting Giglio Porto to Giglio Castello.
- Watersports: Engage in watersports activities such as diving, windsurfing, and paddleboarding in the pristine waters surrounding Giglio. Rental equipment and guided tours are available for visitors looking to explore the underwater world or enjoy adrenaline-pumping adventures.
- Historic Sites: Explore Giglio's rich history through its archaeological sites and landmarks. Visit the Torre del Saraceno, an ancient watchtower overlooking the sea, and the ruins of the Roman Villa delle Cannelle, which date back to the 1st century AD.
- Local Cuisine: Indulge in traditional Tuscan cuisine at the island's restaurants and trattorias, which serve fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and regional specialties. Visitors can dine alfresco with views of the sea and savor dishes made with local ingredients and flavors.
Where should I eat in Giglio?
- Ristorante Il Castello: Located in Giglio Castello, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the island and the sea. It specializes in seafood dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, as well as traditional Tuscan cuisine.
- Ristorante Osteria del Porto: Situated in Giglio Porto, this cozy osteria serves authentic Italian dishes with a focus on seafood. Visitors can enjoy dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and grilled fish while taking in the bustling atmosphere of the harbor.
- Ristorante Il Pescatore: Overlooking the crystal-clear waters of Giglio Campese beach, this restaurant offers a relaxed setting for enjoying fresh seafood and other Mediterranean specialties. The terrace is perfect for alfresco dining with stunning views of the sunset.
- Ristorante Il Saraceno: Nestled in the charming village of Giglio Castello, this restaurant features a cozy interior adorned with rustic decor. Guests can indulge in a variety of traditional Tuscan dishes, including homemade pasta, grilled meats, and local wines.
- Ristorante La Vecchia Pergola: Located in Giglio Campese, this family-run restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It serves a diverse menu featuring both seafood and meat dishes, as well as vegetarian options. The outdoor terrace is ideal for enjoying a leisurely meal with views of the sea.
Giglio Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Giglio?
- Hotel Castello Monticello: Situated in a historic castle overlooking the sea, Hotel Castello Monticello offers elegant accommodations with panoramic views of the Mediterranean. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a wellness center, and a restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.
- Hotel Giglio: Located in the heart of Giglio Porto, Hotel Giglio is a charming hotel offering cozy accommodations with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a garden terrace, a bar serving drinks and snacks, and easy access to the beach and town center.
- Hotel Arenella: Nestled in a tranquil bay surrounded by lush vegetation, Hotel Arenella offers comfortable accommodations with stunning sea views. The hotel features simple yet clean rooms, a private beach area, a restaurant serving fresh seafood, and easy access to hiking trails.
- Hotel Saraceno: Situated just steps from the beach in Giglio Campese, Hotel Saraceno is a beachfront hotel offering comfortable accommodations with easy access to the sea. The hotel features cozy rooms, a swimming pool, a garden terrace, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
- Hotel Belvedere: Located in the charming village of Giglio Castello, Hotel Belvedere offers panoramic views of the sea and surrounding countryside. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a garden terrace, and easy access to the village's historic sites and hiking trails.
What's the closest airport to Giglio?
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport):
- Located in Pisa, approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) from Porto Santo Stefano, the main ferry port to Giglio.
- This is the closest major airport serving the region.
- From Pisa Airport, you can reach Porto Santo Stefano by car, bus, or train.
How do you reach Giglio by ferry?
Ferry Services from Porto Santo Stefano:
- Porto Santo Stefano is the main ferry port for connections to Giglio.
- Several ferry companies operate services to Giglio Porto, the main port on Giglio island, as well as to Giglio Campese.
- Ferry crossings typically take around 1 hour to reach Giglio Porto.
What's the closest train station to Giglio?
Orbetello-Monte Argentario Train Station:
- Orbetello-Monte Argentario is the nearest train station to the ferry port.
- From here, it's a short taxi ride or bus journey to the ferry terminals at Porto Santo Stefano.
What bus connections are there for Giglio?
Local Bus Services:
- Various bus services operate from nearby towns like Pisa, Grosseto, and Orbetello to Porto Santo Stefano.
How do you reach Giglio by car?
Driving Directions to Porto Santo Stefano:
- From Pisa Airport, you can take the SS1 Aurelia highway southbound towards Grosseto and then continue to Porto Santo Stefano.
- Alternatively, you can take the A12 motorway towards Livorno and then follow signs to Grosseto, from where you can reach Porto Santo Stefano.
- The journey by car takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Cala delle Caldane, Giglio
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