Portoferraio

Latest page update: 18 September 2024
By Dion Protani
Starting point for most people's adventures in Elba, Portoferraio ("Iron Port" in English), is the transport, administrative and cultural capital of the island. which is part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. 

The mention of iron in the town's name gives reference to one of its principle historical functions as it was used to transport iron ore to and from the Italian mainland before the mining industry died out in the 1970's, eventually supplanted by tourism as Elba's main source of economic income.
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Comune di Portoferraio
Island: Elba

Province: Livorno

Region: Tuscany

​Population: 11,821 ​(in 2024 - source)

Size: 47 km²

Highlights: Napoleon's House, fortifications

Recommended accommodation: Hotel Acquamarina
​Ferry links to: ​​Piombino - Tuscan mainland

Parking: ​​large car park outside city walls 
Close by: Palazzina dei Mulini, Padulella Beach, Sansone Beach

Places to eat: ​​​​​​best restaurants by the marina and just behind
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