Portofino Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Portofino in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Portofino

Nestled in Liguria, Northwest Italy, Portofino is a picturesque town that has become one of the most favored destinations in Italy. This small fishing village with houses painted in pastel colors and lush Mediterranean flora is renowned for its natural beauty, scenic harbor, and affluent atmosphere. Thus, Portofino attracts both local and international travelers who come to enjoy the lavish scenic vistas, rich history, and bustling lifestyle.

List of Places to Visit in Portofino

If you are planning a trip to Portofino, make sure you include these places on your travel itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Castello Brown

For a while, this imposing fortress of Castello Brown served as the watchtower for guarding the harbor of Portofino. In the 16th century, Nicolo Giustiniani transformed it into a luxurious villa that he christened Brown Castle. Today the castle is open to tourists, and visitors come to marvel at its ornate architecture and aesthetic appeal. From the castle’s terraces, catch a refreshing sea breeze and beheld the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Tigullio.

Church of San Martino

Built-in the 12th century, the Church of San Martino edifies the town’s spirituality. Its simplistic stone architecture and classic Romanesque design are what makes it a stand-out point of interest. The church is renowned for its portico and bell tower and, inside, its beautiful frescoes.

Natural Attractions of Portofino: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Paraggi Beach

The gem of the Riviera di Levante, Paraggi Beach, boasts of clear blue water and white pebbles. The beach is nestled deep in between hills and picturesque villas, adding to its unmatched natural beauty. Visitors come for a swim in the crystal-clear water or relax in the sun on the beach shore.

National Park of Portofino

Nature lovers must make their way to the National Park of Portofino. Extending for over 80 square miles, the park is endowed with rolling hills, pristine beaches, and Mediterranean flora. Hikers and trekkers can explore the park through trails that zigzag through the greenery. There are opportunities to try out water activities like swimming, diving, and sailing along the coast.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Portofino

If you love to explore nature, then the town of Portofino has unforgettable bike and hiking trails that can give you the best of both worlds. One of the popular routes is Punta del Capo, which is easy to navigate for first-time hikers.

Best Things to Do in Portofino: Activities and Tours

Boat Tour

A boat trip along the Ligurian coast and the colorful houses that dot along the seaside cliffs is one of Portofino’s remarkable experiences. The boat ride takes you to the splendid San Fruttuoso Abbey or the picturesque fishing village of Camogli, where you can grab some seafood.

Visit Piazzetta

The Piazzetta is a lively harbor square that’s ideal for people watching. There’s a flurry of activity all day within the piazza, with visitors and locals alike admiring the yachts moored in the harbor and the ornate architecture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Portofino

Here’s a sample itinerary to make the most out of your trip to Portofino.

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Portofino, explore Piazzetta, and visit San Martino Church
Day 2 Hike early morning to Punta del Capo, return for lunch, then enjoy some snorkeling at Paraggi Beach
Day 3 Take a boat tour to the San Fruttuoso Abbey or the fishing village of Camogli
Day 4 Take a day trip to Genoa, the birthplace of Christopher Columbus
Day 5 Enjoy a day at the National Park of Portofino and explore the trails and water activities
Day 6 Take a cooking class with a local chef and learn how to prepare the local cuisine
Day 7 Relax at Paraggi Beach and enjoy the scenery or go souvenir shopping in the local stores

Food and Drink Scene of Portofino

The culinary scene in Portofino is among the finest in the country, with a wealth of diverse flavors that owe their richness to the quality of local ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages that you should not miss.

Must-Try Dishes

Pesto Sauce

Pesto sauce is a staple dish in Portofino, made of freshly harvested basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Ligurian olive oil. The sauce can be garnished on every meal- from pasta, pizza, or as a dip.

Focaccia

A variant of flatbread, Focaccia is another popular dish in Portofino, popularly baked in a wood oven. The outcome is a crispy, golden-brown, fragrant pasty to be eaten as a snack or as a complement to other meals.

Local Beverages

Cinzano Vermouth

Cinzano Vermouth is another local beverage that adds to the Portofino flavor. The drink is made from small white grapes soaked in Italian herbs and spices. Enjoy it alone over ice or mix it with soda and a slice of orange.

Limoncello di Portofino

Limoncello is the alcoholic drink of choice in Portofino; a typical liqueur made from lemon peels and sugared water. The drink, served chilled, gives off a wholesome citrus scent and is guaranteed to warm the heart of the locals.

Where to Stay in Portofino: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Accommodation in Portofino is in abundance, offering the best of what the town has to offer. Luxury hotels, cozy bed, and breakfasts, private villas, and first-rate camping sites can all be found in the small town. Some of the highly recommended stays include the Hotel Splendido and the Eight Hotel Paraggi, which offer breathtaking scenery and unmatched comfort.

What to Buy in Portofino: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Portofino has a thriving shopping scene that ranges from glassworks, jewelry, and clothing to the handicrafts made using traditional techniques. Make sure to pick up a bottle of Limoncello, a jar of Pesto, and ceramic plates as souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Portofino

The people of Portofino are strongly tied to their customs and culture. The locals are charismatic and welcoming and are particularly passionate about their food, traditions, and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Portofino

The best time to visit Portofino is during spring or autumn to avoid the bustling crowds and the scorching heat in the summer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Portofino

Do:

  • Dress your best, as Portofino is an affluent area.

  • Speak a little of their native language. A “Ciao!” may suffice.

  • Tip waitresses, hairdressers, and porters.

Don’t:

  • Crouch on private beaches; they are reserved for locals and exclusive club members.

  • Take photos of local’s yachts without permission.

  • Litter or cause noise pollution, as it is greatly frowned upon.

Safety and Health

Safety in Portofino

Portofino is known to be a safe town, but travelers should beware of pick-pockets when in crowded areas. Also, be careful while driving, as the roads are winding and narrow.

Health in Portofino

It is not mandatory to take vaccines while visiting Portofino. However, it is advisable to keep your drinking water clean and be precautious with the seafood as Portofino is predominantly on the coast, and you could get food poisoning if not handled well.

Getting to Portofino: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Portofino

The nearest airport to Portofino is the Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, which receives direct flights from various international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Portofino

The most convenient bus stations are the Genoa bus stations that receive bus services from every major Italian city and some from neighboring countries.

Other Options

Portofino is a small town, and walking is the best way to navigate around the town. You can also get around the town by bus or by hiring a taxi for a short trip.

How to Get Around in Portofino

Walking is the best way to explore the town. Hiking and biking are also popular modes of transportation for more adventurous travelers. In case you need a ride or have a long journey to make, taxis and buses are also available.

Where to Go Next from Portofino: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have a day or two to spare, take a day trip to Genoa to admire the rich architectural heritage or head to Cinque Terre to experience the exquisite blend of culture and nature.

Conclusion

Portofino is filled with natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and plenty of activities to engage in. Make sure to take advantage of all the town has to offer during your stay, from sight-seeing to outdoor adventure.

Portofino's scenic harbour Portofino's scenic harbour