Porto Azzurro

Italy, Italy

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Porto Azzurro is a charming coastal town on the eastern side of Elba Island in Tuscany, Italy, formerly known as Porto Longone until 1947 when it was renamed to attract more tourists.

This picturesque fishing village sits in the Gulf of Mola along the Canal of Piombino and features a sheltered marina filled with yachts and fishing boats, which is considered one of the most famous and safest on the coast. The town’s colorful buildings line the waterfront around the lively Piazza Matteotti, where locals and visitors gather at cafés and seafood restaurants.

Porto Azzurro’s history dates back to the 1600s when Spain built the San Giacomo Fortress on a promontory to defend against pirates and control military fleet passages, and this 17th-century fortress still overlooks the town from 100 meters above sea level. The resort has around 3,500 permanent residents but swells with Italian and foreign tourists, especially Germans, English, and French, from spring through October.

Visitors can swim at beautiful beaches like Terranera (with sand sparkling from hematite minerals), La Pianotta, and La Rossa, explore the hilltop Sanctuary of Madonna di Montserrat, or use the town as a perfect starting point for exploring Elba Island’s coastline. The town beautifully blends natural beauty, Mediterranean culture, and historical significance, making it a beloved destination for relaxation and adventure.