Piombino
Where is Piombino
Piombino is in Tuscany, in the province of Livorno, at the southern tip of the promontory of the same name. It is the town on the Etruscan Coast closest to Elba Island, separated from it by the Piombino Channel, about 10 km wide. This is why it is the main port for reaching the island.
With around 32,000 inhabitants, Piombino has much more to offer: a historic centre overlooking the sea, medieval and Renaissance fortifications, museums and a coastline that alternates rocky coves with long sandy beaches.
- Livorno: about 100 km, just over an hour
- Florence: about 166 km, 2 hours
- Rome: about 249 km, just over 3 hours
- Villaggio Mare Verde (Riotorto): about 15 km, 20 minutes
Ferries to Elba Island
Ferries and hydrofoils to Elba leave the port of Piombino all year round. The crossing to Portoferraio takes about an hour, the one to Rio Marina about 45 minutes. Hydrofoils are faster. The main operators are Toremar, Moby and Blu Navy. In summer it is best to book ahead, especially if you are travelling by car.
Piombino is worth a stop even if you are not going to Elba: the historic centre is just a few minutes from the port.
The old town and Piazza Bovio
Piombino’s historic centre is compact and looks straight out to sea. Its symbol is Piazza Bovio, a terrace on the tip of the promontory with views of Elba and the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago.
Just below are the Fonti di Marina, fountains dating from 1248 where ships once took on water, and the little harbour of Marina. A walk through the streets of the centre, the square and the harbour is the best way to discover the town, especially at sunset.
Torrione, Rivellino and the Castle
Entering the centre from the landward side, you pass beneath the Torrione, the town gate since 1212, and the Rivellino, the semicircular fortification added in 1447 to defend it with artillery.
The Castle of Piombino is a separate structure: built in the Pisan era and later turned into a Medici fortress, it even had Leonardo da Vinci working on its defences. Today it houses the Museum of the Castle and the Town.
In the Cittadella, the Renaissance complex of the lords of Piombino, you will find the Archaeological Museum of the Territory of Populonia, with more than 2,000 Etruscan and Roman finds: perfect to combine with a visit to Populonia.
Sea and beaches in Piombino
The municipality of Piombino has one of the most varied coastlines in Tuscany, and in 2026 it was awarded the Blue Flag.
- Near the centre: Salivoli beach, next to the marina, and the cove of Calamoresca, rocky and perfect for snorkelling.
- Towards Populonia: the path to Buca delle Fate and the beach of the Gulf of Baratti.
- Towards Follonica: the long sandy beaches of the Parco della Sterpaia, Mortelliccio and Torre Mozza, with shallow water, ideal for families.
For the full picture, read our guide to the beaches of the Etruscan Coast.
Things to see around Piombino
Piombino is an excellent base for exploring the Val di Cornia. Just a few kilometres away are Populonia and the Gulf of Baratti, with the Etruscan archaeological park.
Inland are the villages of Campiglia Marittima and Suvereto, the San Silvestro Archaeological Mining Park and the thermal baths of Venturina. To the south is Follonica.
Where to stay to visit Piombino
To visit Piombino without the port traffic, it is best to stay just outside town. Villaggio Mare Verde is in Riotorto, in the municipality of Piombino, about 15 km from the centre (20 minutes) and 25 minutes from the port. It is also handy for a day trip to Elba.
The village lies in the heart of the Parco della Sterpaia, a few minutes from its beaches, and offers accommodation surrounded by greenery, swimming pools and services for families and guests with dogs.
Frequently asked questions about Piombino
Where is Piombino?
In Tuscany, in the province of Livorno, at the tip of the Piombino promontory, facing Elba Island.
How long is the ferry from Piombino to Elba?
About an hour to Portoferraio and about 45 minutes to Rio Marina. Hydrofoils are faster.
What to see in Piombino in one day?
Piazza Bovio, the old town, the Fonti di Marina, the Castle and the Archaeological Museum in the Cittadella. In the afternoon, a swim at Calamoresca or Salivoli.
What are the best beaches in Piombino?
Calamoresca and Salivoli near the centre, Buca delle Fate and Baratti towards Populonia, the Sterpaia and Torre Mozza towards Follonica.
How far is Piombino from Villaggio Mare Verde?
About 15 km, 20 minutes by car. The port is about 25 minutes away.
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