PianosaTuscan Archipelago · Italy

All About Pianosa

Pianosa is one of the most unusual islands not only in the Tuscan Archipelago but anywhere in Italy. A resting stop for birds migrating between Europe and Africa, it’s of major interest to birders. Meanwhile, literary fans might be interested to know that the island is the main setting for Joseph Heller’s famed anti-novel Catch-22. Both the island and its surrounding waters are also included by the protected status of the Arcipelago Tuscano National Park. What makes the island truly special though, is the fact it was home to a prison for Italy’s worst criminals for around 150 years, right up until the late 1990s. Even today, tourist numbers to the island are limited, which is something to consider when looking to purchase ferry tickets to Pianosa.

The island is located 14 kilometers southwest of Elba and has a natural landscape quite unlike Capraia or other islands in the group. Formed from sedimentary rock rather than volcanic activity, its highest point is just 29m above sea level. This perhaps explains the island’s name, which is thought to come from the Latin word ‘planasia’, or plain. If all this has convinced you to explore ferry tickets to Pianosa, don’t forget that with Ferryscanner you can easily compare ferry routes, companies, and prices.
 

Routes and Ferries to Pianosa

Ferries remain the way by which the majority of tourists visit Pianosa. The island currently has just one link with the Italian mainland, with Toremar operating a ferry between the port town of Piombino and Pianosa. One of the region’s leading ferry companies, this Toremar ferry also calls at the port of Rio Marina on Elba, which is just a short distance away from the towns of Cavo and Portoferraio. From these other ports on Elba, Pianosa can be considered linked to other islands in the Tuscan Archipelago as well as alternative ports on the Italian mainland.

There is one service per week throughout the year connecting Piombino, Rio Marina, and Pianosa. The ferry takes just under two hours to complete the one-way journey. Tickets are available to both foot passengers and those with vehicles including family cars and motorbikes.
 

Ports of Pianosa

The ports of Pianosa are situated on the island’s east coast, putting it in close proximity to many of the island’s best beaches and major tourist attractions. Ferries to the island dock on a concrete mole facing north, which stands beside the Teglia Fort and the old port. Today, the old port is an evocative place filled with moored fishing vessels taking advantage of its sheltered position. It provides an excellent introduction to the sights and sounds of the island for anyone with ferry tickets to Pianosa.
 

Best Beaches

Small and perfectly formed, Pianosa has some excellent options when it comes to beach getaways. Offering a fine blend of soft sands, clear waters, and warm temperatures, there can be few destinations that are able to rival the best beaches on Pianosa. Here’s a look at our favorites.

Cala Giovanna

Located immediately north of the ferry terminal and ports of Pianosa, Cala Giovanna has light golden sands that stretch for several hundred meters. The only beach on the island from which it is permitted to swim provides a stunning combination of sun, sea, and sand as all the best beach escapes should.

Porto Romano

Close to the island’s northernmost tip, Porto Romano lies behind the Marchese ruins. As this beach is west facing, it is a favorite spot for those in the know about the island’s stunning sunsets. Situated within a small bay surrounded by natural limestone walls, it is also an excellent choice for a picnic or gentle stroll at any time of day.
 

Things to Do

Pianosa has tourist attractions to rival a destination much larger in size. Many of them date back to the era of ancient Rome when the island was a celebrated escape from the stresses of the city. However, this island is also making a name for itself as a destination for adventure travelers.

Explore Pianosa Town

The town which formed around the port of Pianosa over centuries is an intriguing place to begin any exploration of the island. Its sometimes-crumbling buildings are as atmospheric today as they were decades ago. There can be nothing better than to relax on a shady street with a coffee or something a little stronger from the island’s only bar/restaurant.

Visit the Villa of Agrippa

A short distance from Cala Giovanna Beach, the Villa of Agrippa was the main home of the nephew of Emperor Augustus after he was exiled from Rome. It consists of several ruined buildings, including a Roman bathhouse and a small theater. No expense seems to have been spared, with the walls thought to have been lined in marble, and the floors with intricate mosaics.

Participate in Geological and Paleontology Tours

Being unique among the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago, Pianosa is ripe for discovery by anyone with an interest in either geology or paleontology. Tours dedicated to both natural sciences are easy to arrange, and can take in Stone Age catacombs thought to represent the earliest human habitation on the island, alongside fossil beds, flora, and fauna.

Check out Teglia Fort

Welcoming those with ferry tickets to Pianosa from its prime location next to the ferry terminal is Teglia Fort (Forte Teglia). It was built by the emperor Napoleon in 1814 when he visited the island. His force of personality led to the creation of a fort that takes on a fairytale appearance of medieval and renaissance themes despite being much later in date.
 

Transportation Around Pianosa

Tourists aiming to visit Pianosa can only do so as part of a guided tour. Whatever you choose to do, you will be escorted by expertly-trained guides. They are there to ensure you have a great time while maintaining the island’s unspoiled nature. Guides will happily take you on foot, by horse and carriage, by bus, or even by bicycle, dependent on your exact interests. Keep in mind that they must be organized before arrival on the island.