Going to Elba Island by car: info and useful tips

If you're thinking about a weekend getaway during the upcoming holiday or a relaxing vacation, Elba is the perfect destination! But how do you get there with your car or a rental vehicle, and why is this mobility solution the best choice? Let’s find out together!

How to get to Elba Island by car

Getting to Elba Island by car is easier than you might think: the main ferry ports are located along the Tuscan coast, particularly in Piombino Marittima. From there, several ferry companies—such as Toremar, Moby Lines, and Blu Navy—offer multiple daily crossings to the island’s ports: Portoferraio, Cavo, and Rio Marina.

The ferry ride usually takes about an hour, a very manageable journey even for those traveling with small children. During the trip, you can enjoy various onboard services: bars, restaurants (depending on the company and trip duration), open decks for admiring the view, and in some cases, play areas for kids.

We recommend checking departure times in advance and booking your ticket online, especially during high season or on weekends, to ensure a spot for you and your car. At boarding, you'll need to follow the staff's instructions to properly position your vehicle in the hold.

Do you need a car to get around Elba Island?

If you're planning a holiday on Elba Island, having your own car (whether owned or rented) is absolutely essential. Reaching the island’s hidden coves and hilltop villages by public transportation alone is simply not feasible, and relying on taxis isn't a financially viable option for most.

With your own car, you can create a personalized itinerary and stop wherever and whenever you like, traveling from one end of the island to the other: from the beaches of Fetovaia or Cavoli on the western coast, known for their white sand and crystal-clear waters, to the charming inland towns of Marciana and Poggio, with their winding streets and breathtaking views.

Driving around Elba Island gives you flexibility and convenience to carry beach gear, shop at local markets, reach hiking trailheads, and generally make the most of your weekend or longer vacation.

Elba Island by car: tips to plan your trip at best

To fully enjoy your road trip weekend on Elba Island, the best times for excursions and quieter beaches are spring and early autumn. Summer, of course, is ideal for beach life, but expect more tourists and higher prices. Especially during high season, it’s essential to book your ferry well in advance—sometimes even several months ahead, depending on the period.

Among the areas we recommend exploring by car on Elba Island is the western coast, a string of spectacular coves like Fetovaia, Cavoli, Seccheto, and Pomonte—perfect for relaxing and snorkeling. As for specific towns, we suggest visiting Portoferraio, the island’s lively capital with the Medici Fortress and Napoleon’s Villa dei Mulini; Porto Azzurro and Capoliveri, picturesque villages with lively harbors and scenic views; and finally, inland, the towns of Marciana and Poggio, surrounded by greenery and rich in history.

If you need a rental car, you can visit our rental office in Grosseto or check out one of our other branches in Tuscany.