What to see on Giglio Island (Italy): the 10 must-see attractions

Giglio Island (Italy), a gem of the Tuscan Archipelago, is a fascinating and unique destination. With a perfect combination of history, culture, nature, and outdoor activities, it is the ideal destination for those looking for a vacation filled with adventure and relaxation. Here are the 10 must-see sights and activities on Giglio Island (Italy) to discover every hidden corner and make it an unforgettable stop.

Index:

• Giglio Porto: the heart of the island
• Giglio Castello: a journey back to the middle ages
• Spiaggia delle Caldane: a hidden paradise
• Spiaggia di Campese: a dream at sunset
• Cala dell’Arenella: untamed nature
• Capel Rosso Lighthouse: an incredible view
• Excursion to Monte Poggio della Pagana
• Diving and Snorkeling with Argentario Divers
• San Mamiliano Festival: tradition and culture
• Explore the Tuscan Archipelago National Park

1. Giglio Porto: the heart of the island

Your journey to Giglio Island likely begins at Giglio Porto, the lively fishing village where ferries from the mainland dock. This charming village is characterized by colorful houses, narrow alleys, and an authentic atmosphere. Don’t miss a stroll along the waterfront and a visit to the Church of Saints Lorenzo and Mamiliano, which houses important historical relics.

What to do:

• Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the seaside restaurants.
• Admire the view from Capel Rosso lighthouse, just a short distance from the port.

2. Giglio Castello: a journey back to the middle ages

At about 400 meters in height lies Giglio Castello, a fortified village with a medieval atmosphere that seems suspended in time. Walking through its walls and alleys, you can discover the Aldobrandesca Fortress, a castle that overlooks the entire island, and immerse yourself in a millennia-old history.

What to do:

• Visit the Fortress for a breathtaking view of the island.
• Discover the Church of Saint Peter Apostle, which houses the relics of Saint Mamiliano.

3. Spiaggia delle Caldane: a hidden paradise

Among the best beaches on Giglio Island (Italy), Spiaggia delle Caldane is a small piece of paradise that can only be reached by sea or via a scenic path from Giglio Porto. Here, you’ll find fine sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a relaxing swim or snorkeling.

What to do:

• Snorkeling in the clear waters.
• Relax in the sun and enjoy the tranquility of this intimate beach.

4. Spiaggia di Campese: a dream at sunset

Spiaggia di Campese is the largest beach on the island and is famous for its spectacular sunsets. With golden sand and blue waters, it’s an ideal spot for families, couples, and water sports enthusiasts.

What to do:

• Go windsurfing or kayaking in the calm waters.
• Admire the Campese Faraglione and its colors at sunset.

5. Cala dell’Arenella: untamed nature

If you love peaceful, natural spots, Cala dell’Arenella is the perfect choice. This hidden beach, surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, offers a more intimate experience immersed in unspoiled nature.

What to do:

• Explore the surroundings on foot, along trails through the Mediterranean scrub.
• Swim and dive in the clear waters.

6. Capel Rosso Lighthouse: an incredible view

Located in the southernmost part of the island, Capel Rosso Lighthouse offers a spectacular view of the open sea. The path to reach it crosses breathtaking landscapes, with opportunities to spot seagulls and other marine bird species.

What to do:

• Reach the lighthouse on foot along a scenic trekking route.
• Take unforgettable photographs of the spectacular views.

7. Excursion to Monte Poggio della Pagana

Trekking enthusiasts shouldn’t miss an excursion to Monte Poggio della Pagana, the highest point on the island. From its peak, you can enjoy a 360° view of the archipelago and the Tuscan coast.

What to do:

• Hike to the top for an unforgettable experience.
• Photograph the local wildlife and surrounding landscapes.

8. Diving and Snorkeling with Argentario Divers

Giglio Island (Italy) and its surroundings are renowned for their rich biodiversity and underwater wonders. If you love the sea and want to explore what lies beneath the surface, don’t miss the chance to experience an unforgettable underwater adventure with Argentario Divers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are activities for all skill levels and for the whole family.

Here’s what you can do:

• Snorkeling: if you’ve never tried snorkeling, the crystal-clear waters of the Argentario and Giglio Island offer the perfect setting to begin. With Argentario Divers, you’ll have all the necessary equipment (mask, fins, and snorkel) to live this exciting adventure.
  The experience is perfect for children too! The guides at Argentario Divers ensure everyone feels comfortable before exploring the beautiful coves and spectacular marine life. Often, kids enjoy it even more than adults, making this activity one of the most memorable moments of the vacation.
  It doesn’t matter if you’re not a strong swimmer: you can still participate thanks to the floating aids provided by the center. Exploring the marine wildlife from the surface will be both exciting and relaxing at the same time.

BOOK YOUR SNORKELING SESSION!

• Discover Scuba Diving: if you want to go beyond snorkeling and dive deeper into the underwater world, Discover Scuba Diving – full day is the perfect opportunity. Designed for beginners who have never dived before, this program is ideal for those wanting to experience an unforgettable adventure in total safety, accompanied by qualified instructors.
  With the experts at Argentario Divers by your side, you can make your first dive in a simple and safe way, exploring the wonders hidden beneath the surface of the sea without any worries. Whether you choose a half-day or a full-day experience, this adventure will allow you to discover a fascinating underwater world, offering unique and unforgettable emotions.

• Become a certified diver with the Open Water Diver course: for those who want to become certified divers, Argentario Divers offers the Open Water Diver Course, the first step to diving independently up to a depth of 18 meters. During the course, you’ll be guided by experienced instructors and have the chance to dive in some of the most beautiful locations around Giglio Island (Italy) and nearby areas. The course includes 4 dives, educational materials, certification, and full equipment rental. It’s open to anyone aged 10 or older, who can swim and is in good health, with no prior diving experience required.

I WANT TO BECOME A CERTIFIED DIVER!

9. 9. 9. San Mamiliano Festival: tradition and culture

If you visit Giglio Island in September, you can witness the San Mamiliano Festival, the patron saint of the island. This celebration features religious processions, fireworks displays, and other popular events that bring ancient Giglio traditions to life.

What to do:

9. 9. • Participate in the procession in honor of the patron saint.
      • Savor the traditional local dishes during the festivities.

9. 9. 10. Explore the Tuscan Archipelago National Park

Giglio Island (Italy) is part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, a protected area offering incredible opportunities for nature excursions. Whether you choose to hike the trails that cross the island or explore its coast by boat, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of this unspoiled destination.

What to do:

9. 9. • Take boat trips to explore hidden coves.
      • Walk along paths that cross Mediterranean flora.

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Giglio Island (Italy) is a destination that offers much more than expected: from its paradisiacal beaches to nature-filled trails, all the way to its ancient traditions. Whether you want to relax, explore history, or engage in underwater activities, you’ll find everything you need for an unforgettable vacation here. All that’s left is to plan your trip and discover all the wonders this enchanting island has to offer!