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ELBA ISLAND
Province of Livorno
Region Tuscany
Capital Livorno
Total Population 316,757
Males 151,677
Females 165,080
Elba islan ItalyLivorno Maps
Elba islan ItalyOfficial Site
Elba islan ItalyMuseums
Abbr. LI

Elba Island

Elba Island Italy Tuscany

Elba Island has been a big part of historical significance in the Mediterranean for thousands of years. Because of it's strategic position in the sea and its wonderful source of raw materials that were so important to empires, it has constantly been getting occupied and reoccupied. The Etruscans used the island for it's wealth of iron ore, which was extremely valuable to the empire. After the Romans took over, however, they started to use the islands medicinal mud as well. Even today you can see Roman ruins under what are now day spas, using the same mud. During the Middle Ages, Pisa had control over the island. Archaeologists have found many interesting structures that indicate that it was a very important island that was heavily fortified. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the control of the island continually changed power. Almost every European power has roots of influence on the island. The Spanish ended up building Port Azzurro, as well as Ft. Giacomo to protect their territory. The English, Germans, and French also had their mark put on the island. When Napoleon was banished from France the first time, he was sent to Elba. However, he was named the sovereign of the island. After 10 months, however, he escaped to make his 100 day return to power in France.

Travel to Elba Island
Just to let you know that tickets for the regular ferry services connecting Elba's capital, Portoferraio, with Piombino on the Italian mainland can now be booked on-line at the Visit Elba web site (www.visitelba.com). There's also the option of arranging car hire on-line. You can either collect a vehicle from Pisa Airport and then drive down to Piombino; or arrange to collect a car immediately on arrival in Elba. It's important to have a car if you're really going to discover the island.
Elba actually remains remarkably unexplored and it's ideal for those looking for a quiet escape where they can enjoy some of the simple pleasures of life including bird-watching, horse-riding, snorkeling and horse riding.

You shouldn't really have a problem getting around on the island. To start, you would most likely be taking a ferry to get to the island. If you fly in, you can get a taxi from the airport. Once you are on the island itself, you can either get around with taxis or you can use the very affordable public transportation system of buses. Though the bus system isn't too large and doesn't go to all parts of the island, you can still get around with it. One thing you need to keep in mind is that many of the services on the island work mainly during the tourist season. In the off season, you won't be able to get around as easily. It's not a bad idea to rent a car or a mo-ped if you want to explore the island on your own, but it is not completely necessary. If you do go off on your own, make sure you have a map and good directions. When you get out in the country and away from the built up areas, it can seem like you are the only one on the island. This can be good, but it can also be bad, especially if you are lost or have a flat tire. The roads on the island are better towards the built up areas, but not as good further out in the country.

General Aspects

Elba Island, in general, is a pretty safe location to visit. Far away from all of the hype and hysteria of larger cities, there is a more laid back attitude that forms when you get to the island. Though it is an island, there is also the sense of traditional Italian customs, so you shouldn't expect to just absolutely let loose. The people on the island who work and live there year-round are there to serve you and make your visit enjoyable, so you should feel in good hands. Still, when visiting a popular tourist destination, you need to watch out for certain characters. There might be people who try to swindle you or pick your pockets if you aren't paying attention. You should never, under any circumstance, leave your wallet out on a table. Even if it is only for one minute, an experienced pick pockets can come up and snatch it. Never leave your passport behind in the room, and don't leave your camera slung around your neck. Con artists love to attack those travelers who look lost or don't know what they are doing, so don't just take out a map and stand still. If you ever do get in trouble contact the police or the United States Embassy. Still, even though you need to watch out for some bad eggs, you shouldn't suspect everyone one the island.

For more informations please contact our Travel agency or call +39.333.4501258

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