This coastal town on Monte Argentario peninsula has a Spanish fortress from 1557 and an active fishing port. Local restaurants serve fresh seafood along the waterfront promenade.
Porto Santo Stefano stretches along the northern edge of Monte Argentario peninsula in Tuscany. Stone staircases connect the upper town to two working harbors below, while the 16th-century Spanish Fortress overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. You'll find fresh seafood restaurants near the port, rocky beaches like Cala del Gesso, and ancient Roman baths at Bagni di Domiziano. From the harbor, you can take ferries to explore the islands of Giglio and Giannutri.
Getting to Porto Santo Stefano
The town lies 40 kilometers southeast of Grosseto and 150 kilometers north of Rome. Drive via the SS1 Aurelia highway, then take the road across the artificial dam connecting Monte Argentario to mainland Italy. If you're traveling by train, stop at Orbetello station (10 kilometers away) and catch one of the regular buses to Porto Santo Stefano.
Two Harbors of Porto Santo Stefano
Porto Vecchio holds private boats and yachts, while Porto del Valle accommodates the fishing fleet and ferry traffic. Between the harbors, you'll find the town center with its fish market, boat repair yards, and restaurants serving the morning's catch. Walk along the waterfront, designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, to see fishing boats returning and ferries departing for the Tuscan islands.
Swimming and Beaches Around Town
The coastline near Porto Santo Stefano includes several rocky coves and beaches. A 15-minute steep walk leads down to Cala del Gesso, where you'll find clear water and white pebbles. Next to 1st-century BC Roman ruins, you can swim at Bagni di Domiziano beach. Walk through former railway tunnels to reach Spiaggia della Bionda, or drive to the quiet Cala Grande.
The Spanish Fortress and Maritime History
The 16th-century Spanish Fortress houses two exhibitions: "Underwater Memories" shows archaeological items found in local waters, while "Masters of the Axe" explains traditional shipbuilding methods. Take walking paths to reach two Spanish watchtowers, Lividonia and dell'Argentiera, which stand along the coastline with views of the Mediterranean.
Annual Palio Marinaro Competition
On August 15th, four districts of Porto Santo Stefano - Croce, Fortezza, Pilarella, and Valle - compete in a 4,000-meter rowing race using traditional wooden boats called gozzi. This tradition began in 1937, with each district carrying its own banner and colors. The days before include district dinners and historical parades through town.
Day Trips to Tuscan Islands
Ferries leave regularly from Porto del Valle to Giglio Island (12 miles, one hour journey) and Giannutri. On Giglio, visit the medieval Giglio Castello or swim at its granite-framed beaches. Giannutri has well-preserved Roman ruins and clear waters for snorkeling.
