Places
Viewpoint·Easy·Relaxing·Popular
Portoferraio, Isola d'Elba
Tuscany
Cosimo I de' Medici laid out Portoferraio's old town within a star-shaped fortification system in 1548, and Napoleon later governed his miniature empire from the Palazzina dei Mulini here during his 1814 exile. The fortress walls give a full loop above the harbour, distinct from Elba's beach and Monte Capanne entries covered elsewhere in this guide.
Duration
1–2 hours
Distance
3 km
Elevation
+40 m
Best season
April – October
Parking · Paid
Paid parking near the old town; ferry terminal nearby.
Water
Fountains in the old town.
Highlights
- Star-shaped 16th-century Medicean fortifications
- Napoleon's residence during his 1814 exile
- Full walking loop above the harbour
With your dog
Leashed dogs welcome on the fortress walls and old-town lanes.
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