Palmaria Island
A tranquil Mediterranean island near Portovenere, offering stunning coastal hikes, secluded beaches, and historic military ruins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Palmaria Island
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil Mediterranean island near Portovenere, offering stunning coastal hikes, secluded beaches, and historic military ruins.
"A great and quieter alternative to Cinque Terre!"
🚢 Ferry to Palmaria
Take a short ferry from Portovenere for an easy island arrival. Cost is around €2.50 each way.
🥾 Hiking Shoes Recommended
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the island's trails and varied terrain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coastal Trails
Island perimeter
Hike scenic paths with breathtaking views of Portovenere and the Ligurian Sea. Spot wild goats along the way!
Secluded Beaches
Various coves
Discover quiet coves and enjoy a refreshing dip in the clear Mediterranean waters.
Historic Military Buildings
Throughout the island
Explore remnants of old military structures scattered amidst the island's natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Schedules are Key
Island Exploration Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry to Palmaria
Take a short ferry from Portovenere for an easy island arrival. Cost is around €2.50 each way.
🥾 Hiking Shoes Recommended
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the island's trails and varied terrain.
Cinque Terre Hike
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially for beach days and hikes.
🐐 Watch for Wild Goats
You might spot wild goats roaming the island; they are generally friendly!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry to Palmaria
Take a short ferry from Portovenere for an easy island arrival. Cost is around €2.50 each way.
🥾 Hiking Shoes Recommended
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the island's trails and varied terrain.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially for beach days and hikes.
🐐 Watch for Wild Goats
You might spot wild goats roaming the island; they are generally friendly!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Palmaria Island is praised for its stunning natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape with breathtaking views of Portovenere and the Ligurian Sea. Visitors love the hiking trails, secluded beaches, and the unique experience of spotting wild goats. Some note that ferry schedules can be limited outside peak season, requiring careful planning.
"Unfortunately didn't get enough time to complete the walk around the island. Being October the ferry times were not as often as it would have been in the summer or spring. Definitely will come back."
Regina Dal Molin-McEvoy
"Beautiful island just in front of Portovenere! It's so easy to reach using a ferry from Portovenere pier which costs 2.50€ each way! On the island there's a few restaurants/refreshment and it's perfect for a beach day or for a hike day (if I'm not wrong you can do the whole island in 2 hours). There are beautiful landscapes and breathtaking view points! On top of that, you can also spot wild goats all around the island ;) highly recommended! A great and quieter alternative to Cinque Terre!"
Vins Prencipe
"I like this island very much. The ferry boat takes people to Terrizzo but the rest of the island is not crowded. Palmaria is quiet and it has got fantastic views on Portovenere and the surrounding sea. The trekking around the island is nice and relaxing. There are goats walking free on the paths..they have horns but don't be scared, they are nice!"
hike&bike Italy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Palmaria Island is by taking a ferry from Portovenere. The journey is short and offers beautiful views.
Ferry schedules can vary, especially outside of peak summer months. It's crucial to check the latest times before your visit, as they can be less frequent in October.
While ferries primarily run from Portovenere, you can also find connections from La Spezia to the nearby Cinque Terre villages, and then take a connecting ferry to Palmaria.
No, Palmaria Island is a car-free zone. Access is exclusively by ferry.
The ferry typically costs around €2.50 each way from Portovenere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to Palmaria Island itself. You only need to pay for the ferry to get there.
Palmaria Island is accessible year-round. The main consideration is the ferry operating hours.
Palmaria Island is a natural park, so visitors are encouraged to respect the environment. There are no major restrictions beyond general park rules.
Ferry tickets are usually purchased directly at the port before departure. Booking in advance is generally not necessary unless you have a very specific group requirement.
Palmaria Island is generally less crowded than the Cinque Terre villages, offering a quieter experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking scenic trails, relaxing on beautiful beaches, exploring old military buildings, and enjoying stunning views of Portovenere.
A hike around the entire island can typically be completed in about 2 hours, depending on your pace and stops.
Yes, there are a few restaurants and refreshment points on the island, particularly near the ferry landing.
Absolutely! Palmaria Island features lovely coves and clear waters perfect for swimming and enjoying a beach day.
Many visitors report seeing wild goats roaming freely on the island, adding a unique element to the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for viewpoints overlooking Portovenere, the rugged coastline, and the clear blue sea. The trails offer numerous picturesque opportunities.
Yes, the dramatic cliffs, Mediterranean vegetation, and expansive sea views make it a fantastic location for landscape photography.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and flattering light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited. The chance to see wild goats can also be a highlight for kids. Consider focusing on a specific beach area or a shorter, well-trodden path to keep the experience enjoyable for everyone.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Bring your best hiking boots and plenty of water. The island's natural beauty, including its unique flora and fauna, makes it a prime spot for nature photography and quiet contemplation away from the hustle and bustle.
🏖️ Beach Goers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Palmaria's Trails
Wear sturdy footwear as some paths can be rocky and uneven. The island is also known for its unique flora and fauna; keep an eye out for wild goats that roam freely, often seen grazing on the slopes. The trails are generally well-marked, but having a map or using a navigation app can be helpful.
Consider dedicating at least half a day to explore the trails thoroughly. The views are particularly spectacular during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, though ferry schedules might limit evening visits.
Palmaria's Beaches and Coves
Some of the more accessible beaches are located near the main ferry landing points. However, for those willing to explore a bit further along the coastal paths, you can discover more hidden gems that offer greater privacy.
Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, towels, and water, as amenities on some of the more remote beaches might be limited. The island's natural beauty makes it a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun.
A Quieter Alternative to Cinque Terre
Its undeveloped nature, combined with accessible hiking trails and beautiful beaches, provides a similar sense of coastal charm without the overwhelming tourist numbers. The island is easily reachable by ferry from Portovenere, making it a convenient day trip or a peaceful retreat.
If you're seeking breathtaking views and outdoor activities in a more tranquil setting, Palmaria Island is an excellent choice. It allows you to experience the beauty of the Italian Riviera at a more relaxed pace.
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