Introduction
Elba is far more than beaches and sea: from May to October the island becomes an open‑air theatre of weekly markets, food festivals, music events, historical re‑enactments and sports competitions . As the staff of Hotel Giardino in Lacona, we have prepared this detailed guide to help you discover where and when the island’s main events take place. Our aim is to suggest itineraries and opportunities so you can make the most of your holiday, using Hotel Giardino as an ideal base from which to explore .
Why a guide to markets, sagras and festivals?
Every municipality on Elba holds a weekly market, and during summer there are also evening craft markets. These are joined by food festivals celebrating local products (wine, fish, chestnuts, honey), internationally renowned music festivals, historical re‑enactments and sporting competitions. With so many events, planning a holiday can be complicated. This guide gathers up‑to‑date information on dates, times and themes, integrating our knowledge of the area .
Hotel Giardino as a base
Immersed in a 30 000 m² shaded park, Hotel Giardino is a welcoming, family‑run hotel in the centre of the Gulf of Lacona . Less than 100 m from Lacona beach, it offers rooms with private bathrooms, satellite TV, telephone and safe . The family management guarantees a genuine atmosphere, buffet breakfasts with fresh products, lunches and dinners cooked with care and adapted to dietary requirements . Amenities include free Wi‑Fi in common areas, a bicycle storage room, agreements with diving centres, discounted ferry tickets, pet‑friendly policy and shaded parking . Thanks to its strategic location, within 10–15 minutes by car you can reach Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio; the hotel also serves as a base for trekking and mountain bike outings .
In the following sections we describe each type of event and provide ideas on what to see nearby. The tone is that of a host offering personal recommendations. When accommodation is mentioned, we refer only to Hotel Giardino except where context requires another starting point (e.g., for a trek). Should you have any questions, you will find clear and practical answers.
Weekly markets on Elba
Which weekly markets take place and on what days?
Each Elban municipality organises an outdoor market where you can buy fruit and vegetables, flowers, plants, clothing, household items and typical Tuscan products . The table below summarises the weekly markets; descriptions are short phrases rather than full sentences:
| Day | Location | Brief characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Rio Marina | Market along the port with clothing, household goods and local specialities |
| Tuesday | Rio nell’Elba & Marciana Marina | Rio nell’Elba combines antiques and crafts; Marciana Marina offers fruit, vegetables and handicrafts |
| Wednesday | Marina di Campo | Large market in the centre with local products, clothing and a relaxed atmosphere |
| Thursday | Capoliveri & Procchio | Capoliveri hosts one of the largest markets with clothes, souvenirs and food; Procchio focuses on agricultural products and crafts |
| Friday | Portoferraio | Stroll through the historic centre with stalls and harbour views |
| Saturday | Porto Azzurro | Colourful stalls selling local produce, fish and crafts |
| Sunday (summer) | Lacona & Bagnaia | Smaller summer markets aimed at tourists and campers |
What can you find at the markets?
Markets are perfect places to experience authentic island atmosphere. In addition to fruit and vegetables, you will find Elban specialities such as durum‑wheat bread, schiaccia briaca (nut cake), honey, sheep’s cheese, extra‑virgin olive oil, local wines, as well as clothing, shoes, household tools and crafts . Some markets are more tourist‑oriented (Capoliveri, Portoferraio), while others retain a more “country” feel (Rio nell’Elba, Procchio) . We recommend arriving early in the morning to find parking and shop calmly, and always bring cash because many stallholders do not accept cards .
Are the markets only for residents or also for tourists? – They are ideal for visitors who want to breathe in the local atmosphere and buy traditional products .
Can I buy organic products? – Yes, almost all markets include farmers selling their own produce. Ask about the origin of products; some growers farm without chemicals and will be happy to tell you their story .
Which market is closest to Hotel Giardino? – On Sunday mornings in summer, the Lacona market takes place a few hundred metres from the hotel under the pines . In other seasons the nearest is Capoliveri’s Thursday market, about ten minutes by car .
Evening craft markets
Besides daytime markets, many towns host evening craft markets during the summer. From 19:00 onward, Marciana Marina, Capoliveri, Portoferraio and Porto Azzurro open their squares and streets to stalls selling watercolours, shells, minerals, ceramics and small jewellery . It is an ideal opportunity to stroll after dinner, enjoy ice cream and take home a handmade souvenir. The table below summarises the main evening markets:
| Location | Approximate period | Typical products |
|---|---|---|
| Marciana Marina | July–August, almost every evening | Paintings, wood sculptures, jewellery, hand‑painted ceramics |
| Capoliveri | June–September, Piazza Matteotti | Artistic crafts, jewellery, souvenirs, tastings |
| Portoferraio | July and August, waterfront and historic centre | Craft stalls with shells, minerals and ceramics |
| Porto Azzurro | June–September from 19:30 | Stalls along the centre’s streets with artistic and food products |
| Lacona | July–August | Small evening market near the beach offering souvenirs and tourist goods |
Tip: For the Porto Azzurro market, arrive before sunset to find parking easily and enjoy an aperitif on the seafront. Afterwards you can dine in Piazza Matteotti where street musicians often perform .
Food festivals and gastronomic celebrations
Why take part in a sagra?
Elban sagras are popular festivals dedicated to local products. They offer the chance to taste dishes prepared by locals and to learn about traditions passed down through generations . These events often feature concerts, dancing, games for children and fireworks. Because Elba’s microclimates produce diverse foods (wine on the hills, fish on the coast, chestnuts in the mountain villages), the sagras are numerous and varied .
Main summer and autumn sagras
| Approx. date | Event | Location | Brief description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 August | Sagra delle specialità riesi | Rio Marina | Tasting of typical dishes in Piazza G. Mazzini – cacciucco, boiled octopus, stockfish and schiaccia briaca – accompanied by live music and dancing . Arrive in the late afternoon to find parking and explore the mining centre before the feast . |
| 16 August | Pesce in festa | Coastal towns (often Porto Azzurro) | Celebration of fresh fish from the Tyrrhenian Sea; fishermen cook fried fish, stuffed mussels, seafood spaghetti and other specialities, with music and children’s games . |
| 21 August | Festa della Birra | Variable location | Informal evening where Elban brewers offer tastings of craft beers with street food and live rock or folk music . |
| 17–19 October | Festa dell’Uva | Capoliveri | The island’s most famous festival: the four neighbourhoods (Buranaccio, Fosso, Fortezza, Torre) compete in medieval‑style games, set up cellars where visitors can taste wines and traditional dishes, and hold parades. Thousands attend, so we recommend staying at Hotel Giardino and driving to Capoliveri in 15 minutes to avoid traffic【684516003527255†L223-L229】. |
| 17–19 October | Star Party & Food Fair | San Piero (Campo nell’Elba) | The island’s first star party combines public sky watching, scientific talks about asteroid risks and food stands with live music and a beer‑and‑sausage evening . |
| 19 October | Festa d’Autunno – Settimana della Castagna | Marciana | Week‑long chestnut festival featuring food stands, roasted chestnuts, chestnut flour desserts, music and guided walks through chestnut groves . |
| 26 October | Festa della Castagna | Poggio | An itinerary through the village offers sweet and savoury chestnut dishes, chestnut cakes and chestnut beer; a free shuttle service is provided . |
Besides these summer and autumn events, spring sagras include the Super Frittellata (23 March) dedicated to fritters and festivals celebrating honey and beer in May .
Detailed descriptions
Each of these festivals has its own character. At Rio Marina’s Sagra delle specialità riesi you can sample cacciucco fish soup, boiled octopus and stockfish while bands play in the square . Pesce in festa celebrates the sea with fried fish, stuffed mussels and seafood pasta . The Festa della Birra invites you to discover local craft beers . During the Festa dell’Uva the streets of Capoliveri fill with costumed teams competing for the “Bacchus d’Oro” award【684516003527255†L223-L229】. The Star Party blends stargazing with food and music . Autumn festivals like those in Marciana and Poggio revolve around chestnuts and include tastings, music and guided walks .
Music and cultural festivals
Elba – Island of Music of Europe
The “Elba – Isola Musicale d’Europa” festival is an international festival of classical and jazz music held in late August and early September. In 2025 it will run from 29 August to 13 September, with sixteen concerts in locations such as Portoferraio, Capoliveri, Rio, Marciana and Marciana Marina . The 2025 edition celebrates the 90th birthday of composer Arvo Pärt with a performance of Fratres by Gidon Kremer and includes the return of pianist Martha Argerich, as well as cellist Edgar Moreau and jazz trumpeter Fabrizio Bosso . Concerts take place in historic venues like the Teatro Vigilanti and the Roman amphitheatre, as well as on beaches and in scenic squares .
How can I buy tickets? – Tickets are available online at the festival’s official website and from local ticket offices. We recommend booking early as some concerts sell out . Hotel Giardino assists guests with booking.
How do I reach the concerts from Lacona? – Portoferraio and Capoliveri are about 15 minutes’ drive from the hotel. For concerts in other towns (Marciana, Rio), allow 30–40 minutes. After the performance you can return comfortably to the hotel .
Magnetic Opera Festival
This young festival (founded in 2015) is dedicated to opera, operetta, classical and baroque music. Its distinctive feature is the setting: the ancient Ginevro mines in Capoliveri are transformed into a natural amphitheatre illuminated by specially designed lighting . A shuttle bus runs from Capoliveri to the mines and on special evenings a buffet dinner is provided on site . The festival usually takes place in the second half of July and offers thematic evenings with famous operas, recitals, dance shows and cross‑over concerts . At the time of writing, the 2025 programme has not yet been published .
Is it suitable for children? – Many performances are designed for a broad audience, with operas presented in an accessible way. However, the venue (a mine) may be demanding for very young children; contact the hotel to choose the most suitable event .
Intonazione – Art From Silence & Campo Lo Feno
The “Intonazione – Art From Silence” festival takes place at the hermitage of Santa Caterina in Rio dell’Elba and is dedicated to ancient and contemporary music . Created by photographer and writer Hans Georg Berge, it offers concerts, workshops and meetings with artists and intellectuals in an intimate setting between hills and silence . Another project, Campo Lo Feno on the western coast, presents concerts in a wild setting with views of Corsica . Both festivals appeal to those seeking original musical experiences away from mass tourism.
Other music and cultural festivals
Beyond the major festivals, Elba hosts events such as the Mediterranean Jazz Festival and World Music celebrations showcasing young musicians, and the Children’s Island Festival dedicated to kids . The island thus offers a continuous stage for authorial music, jazz, children’s workshops and theatrical performances.
Historical re‑enactments and traditional celebrations
The Leggenda dell’Innamorata in Capoliveri
On 14 July, Capoliveri celebrates the “Leggenda dell’Innamorata” (Festival of the Lovers), a re‑enactment of a 16th‑century love story. According to legend, two young lovers, Maria and Lorenzo, are separated by pirates; Maria dives into the sea and disappears. Each year at dusk a procession of costumed figures parades through the village with flag‑bearers, torches, musicians and drummers . Upon reaching the Innamorata beach, four boat crews representing different neighbourhoods race to retrieve the girl’s shawl thrown into the sea; the winning crew chooses the girl who will play Maria the following year . The festival continues with fireworks and music and is not to be missed .
Festa di Santa Chiara in Marciana Marina
On 12 August, Marciana Marina celebrates its patron saint, Santa Chiara. The day begins with a procession accompanied by the local band and ends with a fireworks display on the seafront coordinated with music . It is a moment of faith and community that attracts both residents and tourists.
Are the Leggenda dell’Innamorata and the Magnetic Opera Festival the same?
Many visitors confuse the Leggenda dell’Innamorata with the Magnetic Opera Festival because both take place in Capoliveri. The former is a historical re‑enactment on 14 July, while the Magnetic Opera Festival is an opera festival held in the Ginevro mines. Our reception can explain the differences and book tickets for both .
Sporting events
Capoliveri Legend Cup
The Capoliveri Legend Cup is a mountain‑bike marathon that in 2025 will be held on 10 May as the first stage of the HERO UCI Cross‑country Marathon World Cup. The course runs over Monte Calamita in Capoliveri, alternating technical single track, demanding climbs and thrilling descents with sea views . There are also races for young riders (Legend Junior XCO), and Hotel Giardino, with its bike storage, is an ideal base; the hotel offers discounts to participants .
Elba Challenge Run
This stage race will take place from 30 May to 1 June 2025, with three routes: 10 km along the Marciana Marina promenade, 12 km on a hilly course between Procchio and Marciana, and 12 km in Portoferraio that passes close to historic fortifications . The event includes age categories and prizes. Athletes can train on Lacona beach or the Capo Stella trails directly from the hotel .
Elbaman Triathlon
Elbaman is one of Italy’s toughest triathlons. It takes place in September in the bay of Marina di Campo. The full race covers 3.8 km swimming, 180 km cycling and 42.2 km running; the Elbaman73 version halves the distances . The start is at dawn, the bike course circles the island’s western ring and the run crosses the town and pine forest . There are relay races and a mini‑triathlon for children. Hotel Giardino partners with the event to offer special rates .
Elba Marathon and other sports events
The Island of Elba Marathon will take place on 10 May 2026. It offers various distances (marathon, half marathon, 10 km) with the finish in Marina di Campo; packages include ferry and accommodation . Other events include sailing regattas (Amerigo Vespucci Tournament), the Elba Rowing Race and the Rally of Elba, as well as the spring Walking Festival organised by the National Park, which features free guided hikes .
Annual calendar of major events
To help you plan your holiday, here is a month‑by‑month calendar (descriptions are brief; see the relevant sections for details):
| Month | Major events (brief phrases) |
|---|---|
| March | Super Frittellata (fritters) |
| April | Rally of Elba; Napoleonic May in Portoferraio with historic events |
| May | Walking Festival (guided hikes); Capoliveri Legend Cup |
| June | Start of evening markets; Elba Challenge Run |
| July | Leggenda dell’Innamorata (14 July); Magnetic Opera Festival; jazz and world music concerts |
| August | Santa Chiara festival in Marciana Marina (12 Aug); Pesce in festa (16 Aug); Festa della Birra (21 Aug); Sagra delle specialità riesi (11 Aug); Elba – Isola Musicale d’Europa festival (late August) |
| September | Elbaman Triathlon; continuation of music festival |
| October | Festa dell’Uva (17–19 Oct); Star Party and food fair; Festa d’Autunno (19 Oct); Festa della Castagna in Poggio (26 Oct) |
Places to visit near Hotel Giardino
Hotel Giardino stands in the heart of the Gulf of Lacona. From here you can easily reach numerous beaches, trails and historic villages. The following subsections provide brief descriptions and tables to organise your excursions.
Lacona Beach
Lacona is the island’s second largest beach: a 1 200 m arc of fine golden sand . The dunes behind the beach are a rare ecosystem where the sea lily (Pancratium maritimum) blooms . The water is clear with gently sloping sandy bottoms that remain shallow for tens of metres . Along the beach there are alternating beach clubs and free sections, and behind it stretches a pine wood providing natural shade . Nearby you will find bars, restaurants and rental points for kayaks and stand‑up paddleboards .
| Characteristic | Brief description |
|---|---|
| Length | ~1 200 m (second longest beach on Elba) |
| Sand type | Fine, golden |
| Sea bed | Sandy and gently sloping; shallow water for tens of metres |
| Natural shade | Coastal pine wood along the beach |
| Services | Beach clubs, bars, restaurants, kayak/SUP rental |
| Parking | Paid and free parking nearby; arrive early |
FAQ about Lacona
When is the best time to visit Lacona? – June or September to avoid crowds; in August arrive early in the morning. Northern winds (Tramontana, Grecale, Maestrale) keep the sea calm .
Can I snorkel at Lacona? – Yes. Towards Capo Stella and Capo Fonza the seabed becomes rocky with Posidonia seagrass and offers snorkelling routes; you can also join kayak trips to hidden coves .
Laconella Beach
Located just west of Lacona and reachable on foot in about 20 minutes, Laconella is a 210 m‑long fine‑sand beach nestled between Punta della Contessa and Capo Fonza . The water is crystal clear and remains shallow for a long stretch . The right side has smooth pebbles, while the left side is a paradise for snorkellers thanks to rocky walls . It is less crowded than Lacona and ideal for tranquillity . Nearby are the ruins of an anti‑landing battery from the Second World War . Access is via a path; parking is recommended at Lacona with a shuttle to the campsite followed by a 100 m walk .
Margidore Beach
On the eastern side of the promontory overlooking the Gulf of Stella lies Margidore. The 400 m beach consists of multicoloured pebbles mixed with sand with green and black veins . The western side is sheltered and has a small dock for pleasure boats . A lush pine wood and Mediterranean scrub stretch behind the beach . You can rent inflatables, pedal boats, canoes, windsurf boards and SUPs; sailing and windsurf courses are also available . Margidore is part of the National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago, so it remains protected and scarcely developed; it’s ideal for those seeking tranquillity and exploring the Gulf of Stella .
Felciaio Beach
Felciaio is a small gem south of Lacona, loved by those seeking relaxation and snorkelling. The beach is divided into two parts by a path. The first, with a bar, is often covered by Posidonia seagrass and retains a wild appearance . The second part features a cliff, partly natural and partly man‑made, creating a “swimming pool” with sandy bottom and very clear water . Nearby are small pebble coves reachable by walking along the cliff . Felciaio is completely free (no beach clubs) and offers panoramic views of Capo Stella, Monte Calamita and Montecristo island . Access is via a gravel road with paid parking .
Capo di Stella and trekking
The Capo di Stella promontory separates the Gulf of Lacona from the Gulf of Stella and offers a panoramic hiking trail. During the 2023 Walking Festival there was a guided walk with tastings of local products along a circular route starting from Margidore beach . The 2.5‑hour walk is easy and requires hiking shoes . From the top you enjoy a 360‑degree view of the gulfs, Monte Calamita, Capoliveri and the Gemini islands . The hotel provides maps and advice if you want to hike independently .
| Characteristic | Brief description |
|---|---|
| Route | Circular trail starting from Margidore and crossing the promontory |
| Duration | ~2.5 hours, easy |
| Views | Panoramic views of the gulfs of Lacona and Stella, Capoliveri, Monte Calamita and Gemini islands |
| Tips | Bring hiking shoes, water and sun protection |
Towns and cities to visit
The hotel’s central position makes it easy to visit Elba’s principal towns:
- Capoliveri – A hill town with a medieval centre of vaulted alleys (chiassi), craft shops and restaurants . The area ranges from the plain of Mola to the Calamita promontory with ancient mines; attractions include the Madonna delle Grazie sanctuary and Forte Focardo . Events such as the Festa dell’Uva and Leggenda dell’Innamorata enliven evenings .
- Portoferraio – Elba’s capital and main port, founded in Etruscan‑Roman times and fortified by Cosimo I de’ Medici . Attractions include Forte Stella, Forte Falcone, Villa dei Mulini (Napoleon’s residence), the Teatro dei Vigilanti and the Martello tower . The town hosts cultural events, Napoleonic celebrations and evening markets . Ferries depart from here and boat trips explore the smaller islands .
- Porto Azzurro – Formerly Longone, this fishing village grew around the Spanish fortress Forte Longone; it changed its name in 1947 . Today it thrives on tourism thanks to beaches such as Barbarossa and Reale, the harbour square and the evening promenade with markets . The mild climate, fish restaurants and summer events make it attractive .
- Marina di Campo / Campo nell’Elba – Marina di Campo has Elba’s longest beach (about 1 400 m), made of golden sand eroded from Monte Capanne granite . The shallow seabed is perfect for children . The town offers bars, restaurants, beach clubs and sports such as diving and windsurfing . The eastern area, La Foce, is wilder with a pine wood and playground . It is also the starting point for the Elbaman triathlon.
FAQs about the towns
How long does it take to visit Capoliveri? – Half a day is enough to stroll through the historic centre, visit shops and enjoy an aperitif. If you want to explore the Calamita mines or hike in the Bike Park, plan a full day .
Can I combine a visit to Portoferraio with a swim? – Yes. Nearby beaches such as Le Ghiaie, Capo Bianco and Sansone allow you to visit the town in the morning and swim in the afternoon .
Does Porto Azzurro offer cultural attractions? – In addition to Forte Longone (visitable on request), there is the Church of Madonna del Carmine and the Sanctuary of Madonna di Monserrato, reached by a 40‑minute walk .
Is it worth visiting Marciana and Marciana Marina? – Yes. Marciana is one of the oldest villages with a medieval castle and the Sanctuary of Madonna del Monte; Marciana Marina boasts a charming seafront, the ancient cotone quarter and the Appiani tower, and hosts the Santa Chiara festival with fireworks in August .
Making the most of events from Hotel Giardino
Thanks to our central position in Lacona, you can organise days that combine events, sea and cultural visits. Here are some suggested itineraries:
“Market and sea” itinerary
- Morning: Walk from the hotel to the Sunday market in Lacona (in summer) to buy fresh fruit and souvenirs .
- Lunch: Return to the hotel to relax in the garden or enjoy a light lunch at our restaurant .
- Afternoon: Spend time on Lacona or Laconella beach for swimming and snorkelling; rent a kayak to explore the coves .
- Evening: Drive 10 minutes to Capoliveri for the evening market and dinner in the square .
“Sagra and history” itinerary
- Morning: Visit Portoferraio to see Forte Stella and Napoleon’s villa .
- Afternoon: Return to the hotel for a rest or, in summer, a swim in the pool or sea .
- Evening: Attend the scheduled sagra (e.g., Festa dell’Uva in Capoliveri). Taste traditional dishes and enjoy the shows .
“Festival and trekking” itinerary
- Morning: Hike to Capo di Stella for views over both gulfs .
- Lunch: Picnic prepared by Hotel Giardino with local products .
- Afternoon: Relax on the beach or visit the Archaeological Museum in Portoferraio .
- Evening: Attend a concert at the Elba – Isola Musicale d’Europa or Magnetic Opera Festival; book transfers through the reception .
General questions and practical tips
How can I get around the island without a car? – Public buses connect main towns and beaches . However, for some sagras and evening events an automobile is more convenient. Hotel Giardino offers free parking and can organise transfers on request .
Do I need to book to attend sagras? – Generally no; sagras are public events. However, for themed dinners or special tastings (e.g., at the Leggenda dell’Innamorata or Magnetic Opera Festival) reservations are recommended . Ask at reception for help.
Can I combine participation in a sports event with a beach holiday? – Yes. Many athletes take part in the Capoliveri Legend Cup, the Elba Marathon or Elbaman and then extend their stay to enjoy the sea and sagras. Hotel Giardino offers packages with discounts and bike storage .
What is the weather like on Elba in summer? – July and August are hot (25–32 °C) with sunshine and sea breezes; June and September are milder and windy. Bring sunscreen, a hat and water on excursions .
Conclusion
The Island of Elba is a microcosm rich in culture, traditions and landscapes. Weekly markets let you discover genuine products and local crafts; food festivals introduce ancient flavours; music festivals offer emotions under the starry sky; historical re‑enactments bring legends and traditions to life; sports events showcase competitive spirit amid breathtaking scenery. All of this is easily accessible from Hotel Giardino, an oasis of tranquillity immersed in greenery a short walk from the sea . We look forward to sharing our island with you and helping you create unforgettable memories.