San Vincenzo, beyond its sandy beaches and the pine forests of the Rimigliano Coastal Park, is also a strategic gateway to the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. From the Fratelli Magnani Pier, boats and mini-cruises depart to reach several nearby islands, making them perfect day trips from San Vincenzo. Below you’ll find a practical guide to the best islands near San Vincenzo, with clear reasons to visit each one and tips to help you choose the right destination for your holiday.
Elba Island
Elba Island is the largest and most famous island of the Tuscan Archipelago. According to Italian travel portals, mini-cruises and excursions to Elba depart directly from San Vincenzo, allowing visitors to reach the island quickly and easily. Elba is renowned for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, charming villages, and Napoleon’s historical residences.
What Elba Island Offers
Beaches and bays: over 150 beaches, from lively spots like Cavoli and Fetovaia to quieter bays such as Biodola and Lacona.
History and culture: Napoleon’s residences in Portoferraio and San Martino, abandoned mines, and historic villages like Marciana and Capoliveri.
Hiking and nature: trails leading up to Mount Capanne (1,019 m), offering panoramic views over the archipelago.
Aquavision organizza da San Vincenzo varie gite: ad esempio, una partenza settimanale per Porto Azzurro con sosta di 9 ore e un’altra per Portoferraio e Marciana Marina, con tempo libero per visitare le cittadine.
Le tariffe (estate 2023) indicavano circa 39–45 € a/r
Why Choose Elba Island
Elba combines sea, hiking, culture, and gastronomy. Day trips allow you to explore different beaches, stroll through historic villages, and taste local products such as schiaccia briaca and Elba wines — all within a single day from San Vincenzo.
Capraia Island
Capraia is the wildest island reachable from San Vincenzo.
Aquavision boats run up to three times a week during summer. The journey takes about two hours, with approximately 7 hours on the island.
Main Features:
Unspoiled landscape: dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and rocky coasts. The only inhabited area is Capraia Porto, a colorful village with a small marina.
Trekking and nature: marked trails lead to panoramic viewpoints such as Cala Rossa and Monte Arpagna. Many coves are accessible only by sea.
A hidden lake: a rare freshwater lake located in the heart of the island.
Why choose Capraia Island
Capraia is ideal for travelers seeking peace and unspoiled nature. Few Italian islands offer secluded coves that can be reached by kayak or on foot, along with a small village that has preserved its authentic, timeless atmosphere. The day trip from San Vincenzo lasts the entire day, typically from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm, making Capraia a perfect choice for a full-day island escape.
Pianosa Island
Pianosa is part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, and access is strictly regulated to protect its fragile ecosystem. According to the official park website, visits include around 6 hours on the island, with a 2.5-hour guided tour of the historic village, museum, and catacombs. Ferries normally depart from Piombino, but some agencies offer organized transfers from San Vincenzo.
What Makes Pianosa Unique
- Lunar landscapes: the island is almost completely flat (maximum elevation 29 metres) and features a unique scenery where Mediterranean vegetation blends with the remains of the former penal colony.
Crystal-clear seabed: the Marine Protected Area allows snorkeling among fish and Posidonia seagrass meadows, making Pianosa one of the most pristine marine environments in Tuscany.
Archaeology: early Christian catacombs and the remains of Roman villas make Pianosa a truly unique island from both a historical and cultural perspective.
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Why choose Pianosa Island
Pianosa is ideal for travelers who love history and untouched nature. Visits are only allowed with authorized guides, making the experience exclusive and perfect for those seeking a truly “off-the-grid” day trip.
Other Islands of the Tuscan Archipelago
In addition to Elba, Capraia, and Pianosa, the archipelago also includes Giglio, Giannutri, Gorgona, and Montecristo. Some islands are strict nature reserves and can only be visited with special permits. Giglio and Giannutri are accessible from other ports such as Piombino or Porto Santo Stefano. From San Vincenzo, there are no regular ferry connections to these islands, but private transfers and organized excursions may be arranged.