Portofino Travel Guide: the Perfect Italian Summer Experience

Hidden by mountains and surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, Portofino presents a natural Italian beauty like no other. The little Italian village has become so popular and loved worldwide that it is not uncommon to see celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Micheal Douglas walking down its charming, cobbled streets and just enjoying the perfect Italian summer. 

Though small in size, there is plenty to do and experience in a day or even a weekend in Portofino. From its stunning harbour lined with million-euro yachts to hilltop castles with panoramic views and medieval seafront abbeys, this is the only Portofino itinerary you will ever need to create the most memorable holiday in Italy! 

The stunning Portofino port surrounded by colourful buildings 

Start the day by strolling around La Piazzetta  

The heart of the village, the place where everything happens, La Piazzetta is the main square of Portofino. You can find some of the best dining experiences here for a taste of true Ligurian cuisine: From elegant waterfront dining at the famous La Terrazza to family-run trattorias like Trattoria Tripoli with in-house wines.  

The village also has exclusive Michelin-star restaurants like the seafront DaV Mare if you are willing to pay a bit more than usual for top-class gourmet meals. However, for a more budget-friendly and immersive experience, try one of the cooking classes in Portofino where they will teach how to make an authentic Focaccia alla Genovese or Trofie al Pesto, a typical pasta from the area. 

La Piazzetta is also a convenient spot for browsing the high-end local boutiques and international brands like Louis Vuitton and Ferragamo! 

Editor’s tip: Take a quick tour of the 11-C Chiesa di San Martino in La Piazzetta before exploring other parts of Portofino. The entry is free, and the nave of the church is absolutely gorgeous. 

The frescoed nave of the 11th Century Church of Saint Martin (Divo Martino) in Portofino, Italy

Close to La Piazzetta are also the best things to see in Portofino! 

Just a 5-minute walk away is Museo del Parco with Italian-style gardens and some fine examples of the Genovese architecture. If you move a bit further in the direction of the Portofino Marina, it's the imposing Castello Brown you’ll be greeted with. A short hike up the hill and you will reach this well-preserved fortification that has stood in Portofino since the Roman times. Castello Brown also has one of the most expansive views of Portofino that spans the hilltop, the village and azure bay! 

A lovely aerial view in a sunny summer day in Portofino from Castello Brown 

Another place to soak up unreal views is the Lighthouse of Portofino. Perched at the cliff end of the promontory, the views here are truly breathtaking. And since you need to hike to get to the lighthouse, the small bar there serving drinks completes an overall rewarding experience! 

The lighthouse of Portofino at the cliff end of the promontory 

Cool down at the Baia Cannone 

There are actually two places where the clear waters of the sea tempt you to take a dip and enjoy the Mediterranean. The first is Baia Cannone, which is less than a 10-minute walk from La Piazzetta. It is the perfect spot to get away from the main square buzz for a bit and just enjoy nature. 

The turquoise waters of Baia Cannone in Portofino 

Editor’s tip: This is the perfect place to decide: Where to stay in Portofino? 

If you wish to stay close to Baia Cannone, then this sea-view apartment might be ideal but if you want to stay smack dab in the middle of the village, then this Piazzetta Martiri stay is better.

The charming San Fruttuoso Bay with the Abbey and the beach 

Anyway, the other spot to enjoy swimming waters is at the Abbey de San Fruttuoso, one of the main highlights of Portofino. The abbey presents a picture-postcard kind of beauty, but it can be reached only on foot or by boat.  

Two routes lead to the Abbey. Find the best hiking route for you here. 

There is also a little surprise here that many don’t skip while visiting Portofino...  

The underwater statue of Christ of the Abyss in the Bay of San Fruttuoso. Originally placed in the medieval abbey itself, the bronze statue is now immersed in the clear waters and can be admired through snorkelling, diving, kayaking or a glass-floor boat tour. 

Gift yourself an amazing experience to admire the underwater statue of Christ of the Abyss 

Is it possible to have a budget-friendly holiday in Portofino? 

Since the holiday destination caters to a jet-setting crowd, it has become one of the most expensive holiday hot spots. Staying in budget-friendly accommodations in close by destinations is ideal if you do not want to shell out a lot of money.   

Plus, considering its small size, driving around in high season with limited parking space could be very tricky. Portofino’s has easy access from alternative destinations like Santa Margherita di Ligure, Cinque Terre and Genoa, making it worth it for all travellers. 

Here is how you can get to Portofino from each of these destinations 

Santa Margherita to Portofino 

Home of the beautiful Villa Durazzo and the only sandy beach on the Italian Riviera, Baia Paraggi, Santa Margherita di Ligure is the closest option to stay in for visiting Portofino. 

From the village, it is just a 20-minute bus ride or an hour-long hike (if you love hiking, then do not miss out on the opportunity to savour one of the most beautiful routes around). Take bus 782, which runs every 20 minutes, and it will drop you off right in the centre of Portofino. 

A ferry service, which runs from March to October (starting from 6€), also goes from here; it is the perfect way to treat your eyes with one of the most gasp-worthy views of the Portofino harbour.  

Stay in Santa Magherita Ligure. 

Genova to Portofino 

The capital of the Ligurian region, Genova, is a great alternative to enjoy the city vibes and easy access to Portofino.  

From Genova, it is approximately a 45-minute drive to Portofino, or you can take public transport. The regular FS 12337 train goes to Santa Margherita and from there the usual 782 will take you to your destination. 

The old harbour (Porto Antico) is the ancient part of the port of Genoa. In 1982 was redeveloped as area for public access restoring the historical buildings 

Editor’s tip: Do not miss out on one of the largest aquariums in Europe in Genova, with manta rays, whale sharks, seals and more. 

Stay in Genova centre. 

FAQs 

How much time do you need in Portofino? 

Ideally a day. But it also depends on how much you want to explore. If you plan on taking cooking classes or hiking in the Portofino Nature Park, then 2-3 days or a weekend is perfect. 

Is Cinque Terre or Portofino better? 

There is no choice when it comes to either. Rather, Portofino is a good addition to your Cinque Terre itinerary, especially if you are hiking the five beautiful villages. 

Is Portofino worth visiting? 

Portofino is one of those destinations that you should visit at least once in a lifetime. It blends everything Italian in the most scrumptious manner. From iconic Italian luxury to ancient charm, clear waters and lush nature. 

So, what will you choose: A day trip or a weekend in Portofino? 

You will find accommodation for all price ranges in Liguria, from low-budget to high-end retreats!