TRAVEL
The perfect vacation on Giglio Island
04/08/2026
From Giglio Porto to Giglio Castello, all the way to Giglio Campese: an itinerary through unspoilt beaches, hiking trails, and places to stop for a bite to eat

Measuring 21 square kilometres, Giglio Island is the second largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago after Elba. An island dotted with turquoise coves, authentic villages, and scenic trails. What’s the best way to explore it? On an e-bike or on foot, exploring its three souls: Giglio Porto, Giglio Castello, and Giglio Campese.

ARRIVAL AT GIGLIO PORTO
Ferries arriving from Porto Santo Stefano (a town on Monte Argentario, two hours from The Mall Florence) dock in Giglio Porto, a fishing village with multi-coloured houses. Make the most of a stop at Pasticceria Fausto, where you can sample traditional bread or, on warmer days, a refreshing lemon gelato. At lunchtime, head to Vecchia Pergola for traditional dishes prepared with creativity, or to L’Archetto for pizza by the sea. From here, you can easily reach some of the island’s most beautiful beaches: Cannelle, Arenella, and Caldane, or you can take a short cruise to the picturesque Giannutri Island.

A DAY IN GIGLIO CASTELLO
Perched at the highest point on the island, Giglio Castello is one of the best-preserved fortified villages in Tuscany. Stroll among the Medici walls, towers, and medieval fortress before stopping for lunch at Da Maria.

In the afternoon, choose one of the many trails that crisscross the island or indulge in an Ansonica tasting at the Castellari Isola del Giglio winery. In the evening, return to the village for dinner with a view at Ristorante Da Santi.

GIGLIO CAMPESE AND THE WEST COAST
Another charming seaside village, overlooking Giglio’s largest beach, where you can enjoy lunch on the beach at Scoglio on the Beach. As the sun begins to set, head to the famous sea stacks for the most beautiful sunset on the island. Finally, return to town for dinner at the excellent Trattoria del golfo.

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