Porto Ercole Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Nestled along the picturesque coast of the Tuscany region in Italy, Porto Ercole is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and Mediterranean allure. With its idyllic location overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Porto Ercole is a hidden gem that attracts visitors seeking a peaceful and authentic Italian experience.

Steeped in history, Porto Ercole is rich in architectural treasures that reflect its past as a strategic fortress town. The imposing Forte Stella, perched atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding coastline. Built in the 16th century, this fortress served as a defense against pirate attacks and is a testament to the town's maritime heritage. History enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the Forte Filippo, another fortress that played a crucial role in protecting Porto Ercole.

Beyond its historical landmarks, Porto Ercole is renowned for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. The nearby Feniglia Beach, a long stretch of golden sand backed by a lush pine forest, is a paradise for sun-seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you prefer to soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea, or explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area, Porto Ercole offers something for everyone.

In addition to its natural beauty, Porto Ercole boasts a vibrant culinary scene that showcases the region's delectable Tuscan cuisine. Visitors can indulge in fresh seafood dishes, homemade pasta, and world-renowned Tuscan wines at the town's charming restaurants and trattorias. For a truly authentic experience, be sure to sample the local specialty, the "cacciucco" seafood stew, which is bursting with flavors of the sea.

For those seeking a taste of adventure, Porto Ercole offers a range of outdoor activities. Sailing enthusiasts can explore the coastline and nearby islands, while hikers can embark on scenic trails that wind through the surrounding hills. The town also offers opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and fishing, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking underwater world of the Mediterranean.

Alternative names: Population: 2.7 thous.Elevation: 23 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 42°23'38"N, 11°12'17"E

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TuscanyItaly

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Porto Ercole Top Attractions

Porto Ercole Attractions - What to See and Explore

Porto Ercole offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Le Viste, Forte Filippo, La Rocca, Faro di Porto Ercole. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

42°23'12"N • 11°12'31"E
Le Viste
Beach • Beach and pool clubs • Park
View point • Forts and castles
Forte Filippo
Fort Filippo is a coastal fortification located in the municipality of Monte Argentario, on the summit of a promontory overlooking from the northeast the hamlet of Porto Ercole and the entire bay of the old port.
City wall
La Rocca
The Rocca aldobrandesca, also known as Rocca Spagnola, is a coastal fortification located near Porto Ercole, a locality on Monte Argentario; it constituted in past centuries one of the bulwarks of the promontory's defense system.

Lighthouse • Vernacular architecture
Faro di Porto Ercole
Forte La Rocca Lighthouse is an active lighthouse located next to the tip of the promontory of the Argentario on the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Sailing • Marina
Marina Cala Galera
The port of Cala Galera was one of the first private ports built in Italy. It is located in the eponymous eastern inlet of Monte Argentario, about 3 km northeast of Porto Ercole.
Specialty museum • Museum • View point
Forte Stella
Fort Stella is a characteristic coastal fortification located in the municipality of Monte Argentario. Its location is near Porto Ercole, on a promontory rising to the west of the town, not far from the Sbarcatello Beach.

Day trips

Porto Ercole – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Porto Ercole, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Tarquinia National Museum (Tarquinia), Abbey of Sant'Antimo (Montalcino), Palace of the Popes (Viterbo).

30 milesE
History museum, Museum, Archaeological museum
Tarquinia National Museum, Tarquinia
Nestled in the heart of the ancient city of Tarquinia, Italy, the Tarquinia National Museum is a treasure trove of Etruscan history and art. Housed in the impressive Palazzo Vitelleschi, a 15th-century Renaissance palace, the museum is renowned for its extensive...
45 milesN
Historic abbey with prayer
Abbey of Sant'Antimo, Montalcino
Nestled in the serene Tuscan countryside near the town of Montalcino, the Abbey of Sant'Antimo stands as a testament to Italy's rich monastic history. This former Benedictine monastery, characterized by its striking Romanesque architecture, invites visitors to step...
46 milesE
Vernacular architecture, Architecture, Historical place
Palace of the Popes, Viterbo
Nestled in the heart of the medieval city of Viterbo, Italy, the Palace of the Popes stands as a testament to the town's significant historical role during the 13th century. This majestic palace, with its imposing stone walls and Gothic architecture, was once the papal...
34 milesE
Historical place, Church
San Pietro Church, Tuscania
Nestled in the heart of the enchanting medieval town of Tuscania, Italy, the San Pietro Church stands as a testament to the rich religious and architectural history of the region. This ancient basilica, dating back to the 8th century, is a captivating destination for...
48 milesE
Vernacular architecture, Garden, Historical place
Villa Lante, Viterbo
Villa Lante is a Mannerist garden of surprise in Bagnaia, Viterbo, central Italy, attributed to Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola. Villa Lante did not become so known until it passed to Ippolito Lante Montefeltro della Rovere, Duke of Bomarzo, in the 17th century, when it was already 100 years old.