Porto Santo Stefano

Pearl of Argentario

Porto Santo Stefano is the main centre of Argentario, and from here ferries leave to Giglio Island. Before embarking, treat yourself to a tour of the centre and discover its beaches.

Start at the Port del Valle to see fishing boats unloading fresh fish. Continue along the Lungomare dei Navigatori designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro and reach the Pilarella marina for the Aquarium.

Relax on a bench facing the sea or in one of the bars and restaurants on Piazza dei Rioni, at the end of the promenade. Wander through the alleys and stairways of the old town to climb up to the Spanish Fortress. The climb is steep but the view is priceless. The imposing fortress was built under Spanish rule to control the port and today houses two permanent exhibitions, Maestri d'Ascia and Memorie Sommerse.

For a dip in the sea and with some history, head to the Bagni di Domiziano beach. Just opposite are the ruins of the Roman villa Domizi Enobarbi from the 1st century BC. Other must-see beaches are Cala Pozzarello, Cala del Gesso, Cala Grande and the Spiaggia della Bionda, which can also be reached on foot along old railway tunnels.