Best Things To Do in Portofino (Ultimate Travel Guide)

In this Portofino Travel Guide, we're peeling back the curtain on the high-octane drama of Italian escapes. Portofino, in all its audacity, emerges as the undisputed headliner among fishing villages, parading its luminous harbor and pastel-hued homes with the confidence of a seasoned performer on the Riviera stage.

Jump To

• Wanderlust in Portofino on the Italian Riviera:
• History of Portofino
• From Seafarers to High Flyers:
• A Visual Feast:
• A Place of Extravagance:
• Exploration and Beauty:
• Where is Portofino?
• Portofino Italy Map
• How to get to Portofino Italy:
• Best time to visit Portofino:
• Events in Portofino:
• Where to stay in Portofino:
• Best Restaurants in Portofino:
• Portofino Bucket List: 9 Things You Can't Miss Out On
• Portofino in One Day
• FAQs

Wanderlust in Portofino on the Italian Riviera:

Portofino, Italy: I see it as the Wall Street of the Ligurian coast, a luxurious playground where the 1% gather to revel in their own radiance. With only 400 locals, this place comes alive in the summer, becoming a true Woodstock for the global elite. It's the face of Italy's lavish tourism.

History of Portofino

It wasn't always a sanctuary for the wealthy and renowned. There was a time when Portofino was merely Portus Delphini, a relic of Rome with a history as intricate as a political drama. It has changed hands among the Republic of Genoa, Florence, and even the French Empire under Napoleon. The eclectic mix of towers and castles? They are the tangible remnants of centuries of power struggles.

From Seafarers to High Flyers:

Fast forward to the 20th century, and what was once a humble fisherman’s refuge morphed into the European hub for the ultra-rich. The jet-set era, from the 50s to the 90s, was Portofino’s golden age—it was the time of the “paparazzi,” with everyone holding a camera craving a piece of the celebrity-filled spectacle. However, every grand party must end; by the mid-90s, the elite had traded their Italian delights for the French delicacies of Saint-Tropez.

A Visual Feast:

But, let's clarify. Portofino isn't just about the sparkle and glamour. It's a picturesque marvel, with a harbor resembling an artist's vivid imagination and waters so pristine they could outshine a diamond. Located 25 kilometers from Genoa, this place is the true representation of the "Dolce Vita" – Dalida and her 1959 hit can attest to that.

A Place of Extravagance:

If you desire a place to splurge, Portofino is the place, with its upscale restaurants, high-end boutiques, and bars where the bills might necessitate a second mortgage. The harbor is a docking area for yachts, and the Piazza Martiri dell'Olivetta? That's where the enchantment unfolds. Yet, beneath the gloss, the soul of a fishing village persists, providing a moment of peace amid the opulence.

Exploration and Beauty:

For those eager to explore, the trails of Portofino offer vistas that are worth every ounce of effort. What's more, it's a piece of Ligurian paradise, inviting both the affluent and the common folk to enjoy its beauty.

Where is Portofino?

In the corner of Italy's northwest coast, where the Italian Riviera stretches out like a sunbather after a long nap, sits Portofino, nestled in the shadow of Genoa's metropolitan sprawl with buildings that look like they've been painted with the leftover palettes of Van Gogh and Monet.

Portofino Italy Map

How to get to Portofino Italy:

By Air:

Your aerial gateways to this coastal utopia are Cristoforo Colombo Airport in Genoa and Galileo Galilei Airport in Pisa. Once you land, you can either commandeer a car or hail a cab to Portofino.

• Genoa Airport (GOA):
  • By Car: A mere 45-minute jaunt separates Genoa from Portofino.
  • By Public Transit: Board a train to Santa Margherita Ligure and then grab a bus or cab to your final destination.
• Pisa Airport (PSA):
  • By Car: Brace yourself for a 2-hour odyssey from Pisa to Portofino.
  • By Public Transit: Secure a seat on a train to Santa Margherita Ligure, followed by a bus or taxi ride to Portofino.

Riding the Rails:

Santa Margherita Ligure is your railway hub, frequented by trains from the Italian metropolises of Milan, Florence, and Rome. From there, a local bus or taxi will ferry you to Portofino.

Steering the Wheel:

Renting a car empowers you to traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the Italian Riviera at your leisure. But beware, parking in Portofino is a Herculean task, particularly during the tourist inundation in summer. It’s prudent to abandon your vehicle in Santa Margherita Ligure and opt for a bus or taxi.

Sailing the Seas:

Witnessing Portofino from the sea is nothing short of enchanting. Regular ferries from neighboring towns like Rapallo, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Genoa provide a picturesque voyage to Portofino.

Busing Around:

Local buses are a reliable and economical conduit from Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino, offering a relaxed journey amidst stunning coastal vistas.

Pro Tips for the Intrepid Traveler:

• Peak Season: Portofino is a magnet for crowds in summer. For a more serene experience, consider a spring or fall excursion.
• Lodging: Secure your accommodations early, especially for summer sojourns.
• Exploration: Seize the chance to discover nearby gems like the Cinque Terre and San Fruttuoso.

Best time to visit Portofino:

In my experience, if you’re chasing the sun, April through October are your golden months, with July and August turning up the heat and letting you bask in the glory of the Mediterranean sun. If you prefer the cold, January and February offer crisp air, ideal for an espresso cozy-up.

Let’s talk climate. Portofino is blessed with a warm-summer Mediterranean vibe, with temperatures averaging at a pleasant 65°F annually, peaking at 81°F in August and hitting the lows at 50°F in January. And the rain? Well, it graces this quaint town with about 66.2in annually, with September being the driest and November, the wettest.

January and February? Not the best time, with chilly evenings averaging at 47°F and a generous serving of rainfall. However, with that said, if you're not a fan of crowds and don't mind the cold then this is definitely the best time to visit.

March is wonderful, with lunchtimes at a mild 56°F and moderate rainfall. April sees the climate becoming more favorable for tourists, with temperatures rising to 63°F.

May is splendid, mornings at 61°F and occasional showers, while June to October are magnificent, with an average lunchtime temperature of 67°F and moderate rainfall.

November is manageable, mornings at 54°F and a bit of a rain surge here and there.

December? Well, brace yourself for chilly evenings and ample rainfall (hence, much thinner crowds - if any).

Events in Portofino:

Here’s a sneak peek into the eclectic mix of events you might bump into while you're in or near Portofino:

Yacht Shows & Regattas:

Portofino, the crème de la crème of harbor villages, is the epicenter for all things nautical. It’s the rendezvous point for the yacht-loving crowd, a place to gawk at the floating palaces and get a taste of the high-seas action.

• Yacht Club Costa Smeralda - A renowned yacht club that hosts various sailing events and regattas. While it's primarily based in Costa Smeralda, Sardinia, it's worth checking their event calendar for any activities in Portofino or nearby areas.
• VELE D'EPOCA 2023 - Scheduled for 7-10 September, this event is a gathering of vintage yachts in Imperia, which is not far from Portofino. It's a significant event that attracts many classic yacht enthusiasts.
• Argentario Sailing Week - Another notable sailing event in Italy. While it takes place in Porto Santo Stefano, Tuscany, it's an example of the kind of regattas that might be found in the region.
• Boat Shows & Events | Yachting Pages - This page lists various boat shows and events. It might have specific details about yacht shows or regattas in or around Portofino.

Gourmet Food & Wine Festivals:

Definitely, Italy’s food game is legendary, and Portofino is holding the fort strong so it should come as no surprise that the village is a hotbed for culinary celebrations, a tribute to the local bites, seafood wonders, and the liquid gold that is Italian wine.

Art, Music & Cultural Festivals:

The sheer beauty of Portofino is like a living, breathing masterpiece, the ideal backdrop for artistic and musical expressions and events here are a breath of fresh air, literally, allowing souls to soak in the arts under the open sky.

Why not book your own perfect Portofino party?

Think the Portofino calendar's looking a bit barren on the festival front? Well, who needs 'em when you can DIY your own Italian escapade?

Simply search Viator, an online travel marketplace with a staggering arsenal of over 300,000 experiences, ranging from the blissfully simple tours to heart-pounding adventures.

Where to stay in Portofino:

We Recommend:

The Olives Bay Terrace in Portofino

Nestled a mere 13-minute amble from the serene Spiaggia dell' Olivetta and a short jaunt of 1.2 miles from the illustrious Paraggi Beach, Olives Bay Terrace stands as a sanctuary offering accommodations laced with air-conditioning, a balcony to breathe in the fresh Italian air, and complimentary Wifi to stay connected in this secluded paradise and those who choose to dwell in this holiday abode have the luxury to utilize the outdoor patio too.

This secluded getaway is furnished with a single bedroom and bathroom, adorned with bed linen and towels, and comes with a flat-screen TV equipped with a plethora of streaming services, a dining nook, a kitchen stocked with every necessity, and a terrace that offers a glimpse of the city’s charm.

Guests are accorded the privilege to bask in the solarium at Olives Bay Terrace and have access to barbecue facilities for a delightful grill session under the Italian sun.

Couples, especially, seem to be drawn to the location. In fact, they've bestowed it with an impressive 9.8 rating, making it an ideal spot for a romantic escapade for two.

Best Restaurants in Portofino:

In the heart of Portofino, Winterose Wine Bar stands out, not just as a wine bar, but as the wine bar. With a handpicked selection, each wine is a perfect match for their mouth-watering dishes.

Trattoria Concordia is where tradition meets taste, with Italian and seafood dishes that have made it a crowd favorite. And if you're in the mood for some authentic homemade pasta, this is the place to be.

Trattoria Tripoli, with its prime location on Portofino's port, is a haven for those craving pesto lasagna and a taste of Liguria's rich culinary history.

For those looking to kick back and take in the beauty of Portofino, Al Faro di Portofino Lounge Bar offers not just a view but a refreshing Rossini cocktail that's the talk of the town.

Ristorante Stella is where Italian flavors meet the ocean's bounty. Their tuna dish? Let's just say it's been the subject of many a traveler's tales.

Da I Gemelli is a seafood lover's dream, with dishes like seafood tartare and octopus that are paired perfectly with their choice wines.

And for a true taste of Portofino, Taverna del Marinaio is where locals and travelers find common ground, especially when it comes to their unparalleled seafood dishes.

Portofino Bucket List: 9 Things You Can't Miss Out On

Here are some of the best things we recommend doing in Portofino:

1. Visit Castello Brown:

Tucked away on Portofino's heights is Castello Brown: an understated relic with a view that's anything but. Think of it as a visual jackpot at the end of a short, flora-lined climb. In a land where the incline often demands sweat equity, this one's more of a gentle stroll, roughly a 10-minute jaunt from the church. En route, the shade-dappled path doubles as a botanical tour with bursts of flowers accenting the way.

Now, if you're expecting a sprawling castle filled with medieval grandeur, recalibrate those expectations. Castello Brown isn't about the glitz or size; it's all about location. For a mere 5 € entry (at the time of this review)—a veritable bargain in ritzy Portofino—you gain access to some of the Italian Riviera's most spellbinding panoramas. The kind where cerulean waters meet sun-dappled rooftops, and everything feels like it's been meticulously arranged for a postcard shot.

And if after the views, you find your stomach rumbling or thirst beckoning, the castle's bar has got you covered. With an array of snacks and sips, it's the perfect place to lounge and really let the ambiance sink in.

For the explorers, there's a tree-lined footpath offering a detour. But if you're all about ease and avoiding potential ankle-twisters, the broader cobbled road past St. Giorgio church is your best bet.

In a nutshell, Castello Brown is less about the bricks and mortar of history and more about the living, breathing spectacle of Portofino's present. It's a must-do, not for the tick-off-the-list castle visit, but for the kind of views that stick with you long after the trip is over.

2. Explore Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino (Portofino Natural Park):

Tucked in the embrace of the western Mediterranean lies Portofino Park, the crown jewel of northern coastal preserves. This isn't just any park; it's a geological mash-up of conglomerate deposits atop limestone. The result? A cocktail of environments, both in temperature and terrain, that could make anyone wonder if they've stepped into a Nat Geo documentary.

Here's the lowdown: journey through this park, and you're basically time-traveling. You start in cool Apennine woods, feeling like you're in the heart of Europe, then—bam!—you're basking in that classic Mediterranean glow, feeling every bit on the Riviera.

It's a wild mix, swinging from chestnut-heavy spots to olive tree groves, and from remnants of old-world farming to age-old fishing tales.

Let's not forget, this biodiversity goldmine has been playing the protected game since 1935. It's not just about plants, though. The park is a playground for birds, bugs, and folks like us looking for a bit of historical flair.

For the ambitious traveler, a trek from Santa Margherita to San Fruttuoso is the ticket. Green? Check. Woodsy vibes? Double-check. The hint of freshly-cooked food from the Gassetta mill along the path? Now, that's a sensory jackpot.

Of course, this isn't a walk in the park—literally. It's a proper trek. But if you're fit or even just slightly adventurous, it's a visual feast worth every step. And for those not up for the full trek? Just sit back, maybe near that inviting mill, and take in the sights, scents, and the sheer audacity of nature's beauty in Portofino Park.

3. Stroll Piazza Martiri Dell'Olivetta:

Portofino's Piazzetta, the official moniker being Piazza Martiri Dell'Olivetta, is less a typical square and more the pulsating heart of Italian Riviera glam. Tucked in this sea-hugging enclave are multicolored houses, each one vying for attention against the striking blue of the Mediterranean. The port, flaunting an ever-changing lineup of flashy yachts, is where the world's elite seem to play an unspoken game of "Who's Boat Is Bigger?"

Center stage in Portofino, the piazzetta effortlessly fuses old-world charm with the gleam of modern luxury. Beside centuries-old architecture, the world's ritziest brands make a splash. While your wallet might wince at boutique prices, the sheer allure of dining at seafront restaurants, sipping an espresso, or engaging in the age-old art of people-watching – especially as the glitterati disembark from their sea vessels – is priceless.

But this isn't just a hub for glitzy shopping and A-list spotting. Cast your gaze around, and you're treated to postcard-perfect views that scream "Wish you were here." Landmarks like the centuries-old Church of St. Martin, the vigilant Lighthouse, and the historicity of Castello Brown are selfie gold. And when night falls? It's as if the town bathes in stardust, with twinkling lights rendering everything even more magical

4. Visit the Church of San Giorgio:

Perched like an eagle's nest atop Portofino's hills, the Church of San Giorgio offers more than just spiritual solace—it's a window to the town's soul, both past and present. This uphill trek, while not for the faint-hearted, is Portofino's version of a spiritual pilgrimage. As you huff and puff your way up, the unfolding views serve as a tantalizing appetizer, with the glistening bay, the lively piazzetta, and the craggy coastline painting a picture that's worth a thousand postcards.

Against Portofino's kaleidoscope of colors, the church, bathed in a sun-kissed yellow, stands as both a beacon of faith and a sentinel of history. Its unassuming exterior hides centuries of whispered prayers and echoes of hymns sung from the heart.Inside, the serene ambiance invites quiet reflection or lighting a candle.

Tucked beside this spiritual haven is a meticulously kept crematorium, a somber yet peaceful place, reminding us of life's transient nature. For those itching to stretch their legs further, a stone's throw away lies the ancient Castello, waiting to whisper tales of sieges and conquests. Alternatively, a staircase beckons visitors to a garden oasis, perfect for a meditative moment. And for the photo fanatics? The nearby cemetery offers the kind of view that'll make your Instagram followers green with envy.

The Church of San Giorgio is more than just a pitstop—it's an intersection of faith, history, and natural beauty. For those seeking to delve deeper into the essence of Portofino, missing out on this church would be, in the words of locals, "un peccato" – a real sin. It's a spiritual jackpot in the high-stakes game of travel, and undoubtedly, the house always wins here.

5. Explore Marina di Portofino:

Perched on Italy's Ligurian coast, Portofino's harbor is the visual embodiment of a Mediterranean dream. The crystalline blue waters, set against a canvas of candy-colored buildings and the gentle sway of yachts, paints a postcard-perfect picture. Yet, like a siren's song, its allure has a flip side; it's a hotspot for high-rolling tourists and their deep pockets. For an authentic, non-touristy experience of this coastal gem, visit early before luxury coaches arrive.

Portofino may be tiny, but its nooks and crannies are bursting with vibrant life. The beating heart of this picturesque enclave is its Marina. It's a bustling dance floor of boats, punctuated by the staccato clicks of camera shutters and the soft hum of conversations in myriad languages. Hovering protectively over this hive of activity is the stoic Castle, always ready to serve up panoramic views for those willing to trek up its path. Every now and then, the Marina puts on a different hat, morphing into a lively market square, tempting visitors with a tantalizing array of local gastronomic delights.

Perfect for People Watching

Now, if you're someone who enjoys people-watching, the waterfront cafes are your theater, where you can sip on a Negroni while taking in the ebbs and flows of harbor life. For those wanting a low-key vibe, grabbing a sandwich and plonking down on the Marina's benches isn't just economical—it's quintessentially Italian.

But a word to the wise: cars and Portofino don't really mix. With parking spots being rarer than a decently priced espresso here, hopping on a bus or a ferry is a smarter move. If you value the journey, the coastal walk from Santa Margherita offers stunning views.

6. Visit Faro di Portofino:

Perched on Portofino's edge, the Lighthouse stands as a beacon of tranquility, offering sweeping vistas of the Ligurian Sea. This tranquil escape, juxtaposed against the bustling town, becomes a metaphorical journey for visitors who dare the climb. Set out from the town square, preferably armed with a slice of focaccia for the soul, and find your way through the inviting meander leading past San Giorgio and skirting Castello Brown.

Though the Lighthouse might play hard to get, occasionally closing its doors, the adjacent lounge extends a warm welcome. Set against a playlist of ambient notes and equipped with bartenders who pour as if they know you, it's a place where time slows down. Imagine sipping on an aperol spritz, while the Mediterranean winks at you. Portofino, with its painter's palette of colors, quaint storefronts, and a dollop of pretentious charm, makes the exertion to the Lighthouse worthwhile, turning the trek into a rite of passage for the discerning traveler.

7. Stroll the Outdoor Sculpture Museum (Museo Del Parco):

Tucked away near Portofino's harbor is an art lover's jackpot, a vibrant juxtaposition of classical Italian setting and avant-garde sculptures: an open-air museum. Shadowed by the ancient walls of San Giorgio Castle (Castelo Brown), it's as if nature and art had a cocktail party here. The grounds, legacy of the Baron of Castelo Brown, are botany's own art gallery, with plants sourced globally, including the exotic Japanese pittosporum.

But amidst this green tapestry, one behemoth steals the show: a massive strapped rhino, lounging with a view of the port, becoming as much a conversation starter as any fancy yacht moored nearby. Pieces by Pierluigi Manciniart sprinkle the landscape, each challenging the traditional confines of Portofino's elegance with modern audacity.

This collision of old-world charm and contemporary artistry might seem like an odd couple to some. Yet, it's this very cocktail of tradition and eccentricity, framed by jaw-dropping harbor views, that makes this place a delightful paradox. For art enthusiasts or the merely curious, this museum delivers a full Italian experience with a twist, all in the space of a delightful hour.

8. Visit Abbazia di San Fruttuoso:

Tucked between the charm of Camogli and the glitz of Portofino, the Abbazia di San Fruttuoso di Capodimonte emerges from a crevice of the jagged Portofino Promontory coastline like an age-old secret. This ancient abbey, with its roots entwined deep in the 10th century, has worn many hats: a peaceful monastic refuge, a fisherman's crash pad, and occasionally, a raucous pirate hideout. Heck, the Doria Princes even claimed it as their own for a good stretch of history.

A visit here is like diving into a layered cake of Italian chronicles. Wander through the hushed corridors of the monastic complex, stand under the timeless arches of the Cloister and Chapter House, and pay your respects at the Doria family tombs. And for a Gothic thrill, don't miss the 13th-century sea structure, standing there like an ancient sentinel.

But if history gets too heavy, there's a picturesque beach nearby, seemingly approved by time-traveling monks and pirates alike. Grab a drink from one of the bars, which, by some miracle, don't charge an arm and a leg. Reaching this treasure? It's a cinch. Board a train from Genoa to Camogli and catch a boat that ferries you straight into the heart of this historic marvel.

9. Explore The Red Carpet:

The fabled "Red Carpet" route from Rapallo to Portofino might've lost its red hues, but it’s still one of Italy's most star-studded walks - minus the actual stars. This 10 km cinematic journey along the Ligurian coast isn’t about paparazzi or premieres; it’s an unspooling reel of the Riviera's best hits: dramatic cliffs, old-school villas, pristine beaches, and views that'll have you reaching for your camera faster than you can say "action."

Dubbed "The Path of Kisses", perhaps from the romance it oozes or the sheer cliff edges that’ll have you puckering up, this trail takes you through a forested patch reminiscent of nature's green room.

But here's the kicker: some stretches are closed, thanks to Mother Nature's occasional wrath. The detours? They're like the director's cut – a tad longer, but offering fresh angles. Mostly separated from the road, this trail's got the kind of peace and exclusivity even celebrities would envy.

Thinking of making a day of it? Try this blockbuster itinerary: a train ride to Rapallo, a scenic ferry to Portofino, then hoofing it back along the coast. It's a triple feature of

Liguria's glittering gems, all without the box-office prices. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or just someone with an appreciation for the finer walks of life, this path is your ticket to one of Italy's best showings.

Portofino in One Day

If you only have one day to spend in Portofino, make the most of your time by focusing on the town's main attractions.

Start your day with a leisurely stroll around the harbor, admiring the colorful boats and luxurious yachts. From there, visit Castello Brown, a historic castle that offers stunning views of the town and coastline.

Next, head to the Piazzetta, the town's main square, and grab a coffee or gelato while people watching. Then, take a short hike up to the Church of San Giorgio for more breathtaking views.

For lunch, treat yourself to a delicious seafood meal at one of Portofino's upscale restaurants. After lunch, spend some time shopping at the high-end boutiques or simply wandering through the charming streets.

In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the coast to see more of Portofino's picturesque landscape. Finally, end your day by sipping on a cocktail at one of the town's stylish bars while enjoying a beautiful sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.

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